By Joe.

Understanding 18 Gauge and 20 Gauge Caskets

One of the most common questions families ask when purchasing a casket is:

👉 What is the difference between an 18 gauge casket and a 20 gauge casket?

If you are shopping for:

• 18 gauge caskets
• 20 gauge caskets
• Steel caskets online
• Affordable metal caskets

understanding metal gauge is important.

Many online retailers and funeral homes mention gauge, but few explain what it actually means.

At Casket Emporium, we believe families deserve clear, honest information before making an important decision.

What Does “Gauge” Mean?

Gauge refers to the thickness of the steel used to manufacture a casket.

The lower the gauge number:

👉 The thicker the steel.

Example:

18 Gauge Steel = Thicker Steel

20 Gauge Steel = Thinner Steel

This measurement is determined during manufacturing and cannot be changed afterward.

18 Gauge Caskets Explained

An 18 gauge casket uses thicker steel than a 20 gauge casket.

Benefits of 18 Gauge Caskets

✔ Heavier construction

✔ Thicker steel

✔ Premium appearance

✔ Increased durability

✔ Popular among families seeking a higher-end metal casket

Because of the additional steel used, 18 gauge caskets generally weigh more than 20 gauge models.

20 Gauge Caskets Explained

20 gauge caskets are among the most common metal caskets sold today.

Benefits of 20 Gauge Caskets

✔ More affordable

✔ Attractive appearance

✔ Durable construction

✔ Available in many styles and colors

✔ Excellent value for families

Many beautiful caskets purchased every day are 20 gauge steel models.

18 Gauge vs 20 Gauge — Side-by-Side Comparison

Both options provide a respectful and dignified burial container.

Can a 20 Gauge Casket Be Upgraded to 18 Gauge?

This is one of the biggest misconceptions in the funeral industry.

The Answer Is No.

A 20 gauge casket cannot be upgraded into an 18 gauge casket.

Why?

Because:

✔ Steel thickness is determined at manufacturing

✔ Gauge is part of the actual steel construction

✔ Labels, stickers, or cosmetic changes do not alter metal thickness

If a casket was manufactured as 20 gauge steel, it remains 20 gauge steel.

Are 18 Gauge Caskets Better?

Not necessarily.

The better question is:

👉 Which casket is right for your family?

Some families prefer:

✔ Thicker steel

✔ Premium construction

✔ Heavier feel

In those situations, 18 gauge may be preferred.

Other families focus on:

✔ Affordability

✔ Appearance

✔ Value

For those families, 20 gauge is often an excellent choice.

Do 18 Gauge Caskets Have Different Hardware?

One important detail many families don’t know:

Most modern 18 gauge caskets use swing bar handles rather than traditional stationary bars.

Designs vary by manufacturer, but today’s premium 18 gauge models often feature decorative swing bars and upgraded hardware packages.

Why Understanding Gauge Matters

When comparing caskets online, you should always know:

✔ Metal gauge

✔ Construction details

✔ Interior materials

✔ Dimensions

Understanding these specifications helps families make informed decisions instead of relying on marketing language.

Why Families Choose 18 Gauge Caskets

Families often choose 18 gauge steel caskets because they want:

✔ Premium construction

✔ Greater steel thickness

✔ High-end presentation

✔ Long-standing industry reputation

Why Families Choose 20 Gauge Caskets

Families often choose 20 gauge steel caskets because they want:

✔ Lower cost

✔ Beautiful appearance

✔ Excellent value

✔ Wider selection

Many of today’s most popular caskets are 20 gauge models.

Funeral Home Pricing vs Online Pricing

Funeral Home Pricing

18 Gauge Caskets:
$5,000 – $12,000+

20 Gauge Caskets:
$3,000 – $8,000+

Online Pricing

18 Gauge Caskets:
$1,500 – $4,000

20 Gauge Caskets:
$995 – $2,500

Buying online often saves families thousands of dollars.

The FTC Funeral Rule Protects Your Rights

Many families do not realize:

👉 You can purchase a casket online.

Under the FTC Funeral Rule:

✔ Funeral homes must accept outside caskets

✔ No additional handling fees can be charged

✔ Families are free to shop wherever they choose

Why Families Choose Casket Emporium

Families searching for:

• 18 gauge caskets online
• 20 gauge caskets for sale
• Metal caskets online
• Affordable steel caskets
• NO STICKER THAT SAYS 18 gauge, when its actually a 20 gauge.

choose Casket Emporium because we offer:

✔ One of the largest selections of metal caskets online

✔ Multiple colors and finishes

✔ Transparent gauge specifications

✔ Fast nationwide delivery

✔ Affordable pricing

✔ No pressure sales

We believe families deserve facts—not confusion—when comparing caskets.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 18 gauge stronger than 20 gauge?

Yes. 18 gauge steel is thicker than 20 gauge steel.

Is a 20 gauge casket good quality?

Absolutely. Many 20 gauge caskets offer excellent quality and value.

Can you upgrade a 20 gauge casket to 18 gauge?

No. Gauge is determined during manufacturing and cannot be changed afterward.

Are 18 gauge caskets worth the extra cost?

That depends on your personal preferences, budget, and priorities.

Final Thoughts — 18 Gauge vs 20 Gauge Caskets

If you are searching for:

• 18 gauge vs 20 gauge caskets
• What is the difference between 18 and 20 gauge steel?
• Best steel casket to buy

the most important thing to remember is:

👉 18 gauge is thicker.

👉 20 gauge is more affordable.

👉 Both can provide a beautiful and dignified tribute.

The best choice is the one that fits your family’s needs and budget.

⭐ Why Choose Casket Emporium?

Browse one of the largest selections of 18 gauge and 20 gauge caskets online at Casket Emporium.

Save thousands, compare specifications clearly, and receive fast nationwide delivery from a company families trust when it matters most. Please call 800 618 4642 for any questions.