Which materials are commonly used to make a vault?

• A. Concrete or metal.
• B. Wood.
• C. Glass.
• D. Plastic.

Answer: (A)

Vaults are designed to be durable shells that protect a casket from earth pressure, moisture, and time. Concrete and metal fit this goal well: concrete provides a strong, impermeable enclosure that resists compression and groundwater, while metal (like steel) offers high strength and long-term protection. Together, these materials meet the cemetery’s need for a sturdy, lasting vault.

Wood isn’t ideal because it can rot, warp, and be attacked by moisture and insects, reducing its ability to withstand soil pressure over many years. Glass and plastic generally lack the long-term durability and structural integrity required for burial vaults, making them unsuitable choices in most practice settings.

So, the common and appropriate materials are concrete or metal due to their durability and protective performance.