The cremation process isn’t a subject most people know too much about- until they need to. So you’re probably planning at the moment or need to make some last-minute decisions.
What is Cremation?
The cremation process is fairly straightforward. When a person dies, their body is taken to a funeral home or crematorium. The required paperwork is completed and shortly after, the cremation will begin.
The body is then placed into a cremation chamber and subjected to extreme heat.
The temperature is so intense it vaporizes most of the organic matter and incinerates the bones, which are reduced down to fragments.
After a cooling period, they are ground to a finer consistency using a cremulator. The remains are then collected and presented to the family.
Below we’ll go into more detail about this cremation process.
Cremation process videos
Statistics for Cremation
USA
In the United States, it has grown from around 32% in 2005 compared to 61% for burial.
In 2017, it’s is expected to be close to 51%, with burial at around 42%.
Then in 2020, it’s is predicted to increase to about 55%, which will surpass burial at only around 38%.
UK
According to the Cremation Society of Great Britain, rates have always been quite high in the UK. As far back as 1967, around half of the people opted for cremation. In 2014, it had grown to almost 75%.
Canada
The Cremation Association of North America (CANA) indicates that rates in Canada are about 20% higher than the United States. In 2015 Canada’s rate was around 49% and is predicted to be 74% in 2020.
What is a Crematorium?
A crematorium is a facility where cremations are performed. Occasionally, funeral homes will have their own crematorium. In most cases, it is a separate facility. Within the facility is one or more cremation chambers, also known as retorts.
The chamber is normally fueled by propane or gas. It reaches a temperature of about 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Most crematoriums are modernized and have equipment that is controlled electronically.
How does a Crematorium work?
Within the crematorium, there is typically a room with seating and a window, which has a view of the chamber. If desired, the family is able to watch the cremation process as it is taking place.
In addition, you might see a retail area. This area normally contains different types of containers, such as urns and keepsakes, which you can purchase for the ashes.
The Cremation Process
After the documentation is completed and signed, the cremation process can then proceed. Below are some details of the cremation process.
The Funeral service
A funeral or memorial service does not always take place, such as with a direct cremation.
However, if there is to be a funeral ceremony, it can take place either before the cremation process with the whole body present, or after the cremation process with the ashes present.
Identification of the deceased
When choosing a crematory, ensure that you check on their procedures and how they operate. Every funeral home has slightly variations to their cremation process.
One very important aspect is how they identify the body prior to the cremation process to ensure that you receive the correct cremains.
This is done with a document or tag. It should accompany the body from the time they pick it up until the ashes are given to the family.
Preparing the body
Numerous steps are taken in order to prepare the body for the cremation process. Initially, they remove anything from the exterior of the body that cannot be cremated, such as jewelry.
Pacemakers can be explosive when subjected to high heat. Therefore, it must be removed from the body prior to the cremation process.
Radioactive therapeutic implants contain mercury, which is detrimental to the environment and should be removed prior to the cremation process.
Take a look at our guide on how a body is prepared for cremation.
The deceased is typically placed into some type of container. It may be specifically for the cremation process, also referred to as an alternative casket. This casket is usually constructed of wood or sturdy cardboard.
Since a casket is not required, the body is occasionally wrapped in a lovely shroud instead.
The Cremation
The cremation chamber or retort is preheated to around 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit for the cremation process.
When that temperature is attained, the casket or body typically moves into the chamber automatically. In less modern facilities, this is done manually.
How long does it take to cremate a body?
It takes an average of two hours for the cremation process to complete or until the body is reduced to bones and fragments.
After the cremation process, the cooling process takes place, which normally takes about thirty minutes to an hour.
Collecting the ashes
The ashes are examined and any type of metal is removed, such as pins or screws from surgical procedures. This is done manually or with a magnet.
Afterward, the bone fragments are placed into a type of grinder called a cremulator. This piece of equipment pulverizes the cremated remains into a gritty sand-like consistency.
Subsequently, the ashes are usually placed into a temporary container, which is then given to the family.
Transporting ashes
When the ashes are going to different families, you may need to send the ashes or travel with them. It’s good advice to always travel with a simple container like the one above.
Common questions about the Cremation Process
Do funeral homes have a crematorium?
Some funeral homes have their own crematorium however most contracts with a third-party facility. There may be an extra charge for transporting the body to the crematorium.
Additionally, the charge for the cremation may not be included in the funeral home’s bill. Be sure to ask the funeral director if it will be separate as well.
What are human ashes made of?
The word ashes is actually not an accurate description. The course, sand-like matter that you receive after the cremation is human skeleton remains.
Bone is comprised of calcium phosphates and carbonates, which is what makes the bones strong and not easily broken down by the intense heat of the chamber.
Although all the organic body tissue is eradicated by the heat and the fluids evaporate, some of the bone and bone fragments endure. The ashes you receive are actually bone matter that has been ground by a cremulator.
How much ash REMAINS after cremation?
Many people are surprised at the number of ashes they receive. The remains of an average adult person weigh approximately five pounds.
Our bones naturally become less dense as we age. The age of the person, their size, and their bone density can also determine the number of ashes.
Can you rent a casket?
Yes, caskets are often rented. This most often occurs when a funeral or memorial service will be held before the cremation.
It makes more economic sense than purchasing an extremely costly casket, which would be destroyed during the cremation process.
A rental casket looks the same as a typical one, except it has an inexpensive removable insert, otherwise known as an alternative casket.
The insert, which actually contains the body, is usually constructed of wood or sturdy cardboard.
After the service, the alternative casket with the body is removed and the deceased is cremated in that container.
Since the body never touches the outer casket, the crematorium can rent it out again. For that reason, renting is considerably less than purchasing a casket.
What is direct cremation?
For someone desiring simplicity and low cost, direct cremation is the most straightforward and economical option. Even though a funeral home sometimes makes the arrangements, there is no memorial service, wake, or viewing before the cremation.
In most cases, a funeral home’s sole responsibility other than the necessary paperwork is transporting the body to the crematorium.
After the cremation process, the ashes are given to the family.
Is a burial more expensive than cremation?
In most cases, yes. Choosing cremation or burial is one of the first decisions you’ll have to make when losing a loved one.
Unless extra options are chosen that boost the costs, burial is typically much more expensive.
Cost of a casket
The cost of a casket is the largest expense with burial in most cases. A casket is not necessary with cremation.
Other extras not needed with cremation
If there is no viewing, there is no need for embalming or cosmetic expenses.
In addition, the funeral home and staff are not required, which is commonly another one of the largest expenses.
Unless you intend to bury the cremains, there is no need to buy a plot and purchase a grave marker.
The cost of burial
With a burial, the cost of a casket alone is between $2,500 to $10,000 and more. The total cost for burial is usually a minimum of $10,000.
Do human ashes pose any health hazards?
They pose no health hazards and have a lower carbon footprint, however there are a few stipulations that should be considered regarding the scattering of ashes.
As with fertilizer, ashes that are scattered on the ground in a condensed area can possibly burn the grass and plants. To ensure this doesn’t happen, they should be spread out over a larger area.
In some areas, it is also recommended that cremated remains not to be scattered in an area with a delicate ecosystem, such as mountain peaks. Check with the rules in your specific area.
Many people may choose to store cremation remains. Take a look at our guide on how to store cremated remains properly.
Do all religions permit cremation?
Not all religions permit cremation.
The Catholic view on cremation has continually changed over the years to allow it, due in part to the changing times and financial concerns.
Buddhism, Hindus, Mormon, and Jehovah’s Witnesses also have favorable views towards cremation.
However, a few religions still do not allow it, such as Judaism and Islam.
What does the bible say about cremation?
What the bible says and how God feels about cremation is sometimes a major concern. Because there is no place in the bible that says cremation is prohibited, most religions allow cremation.
Additionally, God does not denounce cremation as he does some other religious practices.
Our article about cremation and the bible goes into more depth with verses, references, and whether God is against it.
Can the family witness the cremation?
In most crematoriums, the family is allowed to witness the procedure. A separate viewing room with a window into the chamber area is normally present. In some locations, there may be a charge, but it is usually minimal.
More questions?
If you still need answers, be sure check out this FAQ’s about cremation, which goes through the 15 most common questions about cremation
Water Cremation
Did you know that you can have a flameless cremation? Water cremation, also known as alkaline hydrolysis and resomation, uses water to mimic the decomposition of a body buried underground.
It is thought to have a number of benefits in comparison to traditional cremation, this cremation process is the most eco-friendly.
Advantages & Disadvantages of Cremation
Advantages:
- It usually costs far less than burial.
- It’s considered to be more environmentally friendly.
- You can have the memorial service after the cremation. This can give the family more time to make arrangements during their time of grief.
- Cemeteries are seriously overcrowded with burials
- If you store or display the ashes, you can take them with you should you move away.
- Much easier and quicker to arrange.
- You can share and send the cremains with other family members.
- You can have jewelry and other memorial objects made with the ashes in order to have a visual reminder of your loved one every day.
Disadvantages:
- It’s permanent. Once the cremation takes place, it can’t be exhumed as with a burial.
- It may be forbidden if it’s against their religion.
- When there is not a body to mourn, some people have a problem with closure.
- Some family members may not believe in it, which could cause tension.
- There is the possibility the ashes could get lost or spilled.
The Cost of Cremation
A direct cremation is the least expensive package, typically around the $500 to $2,000.
Picking up the body is usually included within a certain driving distance and they typically take care of the paperwork.
Below are average costs for some of the extras you may add:
- Transporting the body to the crematorium. – $300
- The actual cost of the cremation may also be added. – $250 to $400.
- A memorial service before the cremation will necessitate embalming and preparing the body cosmetically. – $700
- Funeral service – $900
- Casket – $2,000 minimum
- Rental casket – $600
- The plot, digging the grave, opening and closing fee, and a headstone or marker – $400 to $1,000
If you need some more detail, take a look at our cremation prices section.
What to do with ashes
Some people forget that cremation is not the end. They forget there is still the decision of a final resting place. What should you do with the ashes?
Below are a few examples, but if you’re looking for some more inspiration, check out our ideas for ashes guide which lists great ideas.
Interment Of Ashes
With cremation, you can still have a burial and a graveside service.
Many cemeteries have a specific area for the burial of cremains. The plots are smaller therefore they normally cost less than one for a whole body.
You can also choose a columbarium, which is a free-standing structure or a wall that contains niches. They are normally large enough for the urn and a few small articles belonging to the deceased.
Scattering Ashes
Most of the time, ashes are scattered in an area that was familiar to your loved one. Some examples would be a fisherman’s favorite fishing hole or woods that they frequented.
Some out of the ordinary places might be to scatter from an airplane or while skydiving if those were interests of the deceased. There have even been a few people who have sent their ashes into space.
If you need a few ideas, take a look at our scattering ashes guide and scattering at sea guide.
Cremation Urns or Jewelry
You may want to display your loved one’s ashes in a place that reminds you of them every day. Placing them in a lovely urn or box and setting it on a mantel is a common choice. Depending on your needs, there are a number of different types of cremation urns:
- Companion Urns: These are urns for two people or a very large person.
- Biodegradable Urns: For those who are environmentally conscious, a tree urn or urn for water could be a perfect option.
Otherwise, there is a multitude of ideas, some quite unusual such as having a painting done containing ashes of the deceased.
Cremation art is a popular choice among creative-minded people. Artists are able to create pieces such as ornaments, decorations, and jewelry, ornaments using the cremains. For instance, a necklace made with the ashes the hangs close to your heart.
Small keepsakes come in a multitude of choices. They are normally small and contain a small amount of the ashes. Cremation diamonds are also a fitting way to memorialize a loved one.
