Measuring for a UK style coffin is a crucial step, whether you're a funeral director, a family member making arrangements, or someone in the industry. As a UK style coffin supplier, I understand the importance of accurate measurements to ensure a proper fit and a respectful final resting place. In this blog post, I'll guide you through the process of measuring for a UK style coffin, covering the key aspects and considerations.
Understanding UK Style Coffins
UK style coffins come in a variety of designs, materials, and sizes. They are typically rectangular in shape, with some variations in the head and foot sections. The most common materials used include wood, such as oak, pine, and mahogany, as well as cardboard and plywood for more budget - friendly options.
The standard UK coffin sizes are designed to accommodate the average adult body. However, it's important to note that individual body sizes can vary significantly, so taking accurate measurements is essential.
Tools Required for Measuring
Before you start measuring, gather the following tools:
- A flexible measuring tape: This is the most important tool for taking body measurements. Make sure it's long enough to measure the length and width of the body.
- A flat surface: You'll need a flat, stable surface to lay the body on for accurate measurements. A mortuary table or a clean, flat floor area is ideal.
- Pen and paper: To record the measurements accurately.
Measuring the Body
The first step in measuring for a UK style coffin is to measure the body. Here's how to do it:
Length Measurement
- Lay the body on a flat surface in a straight position, with the arms at the sides.
- Start the measuring tape at the top of the head, where the hairline meets the forehead.
- Extend the tape down the center of the body to the heel of the foot. Make sure the tape is straight and not twisted.
- Record the measurement in centimeters or inches. For UK style coffins, centimeters are the most commonly used unit of measurement.
The average length of an adult UK style coffin is around 203 - 213 cm (80 - 84 inches). However, if the person is taller or shorter than average, you'll need to choose a coffin that matches their body length.
Width Measurement
- Measure the widest part of the body, which is usually across the shoulders or hips.
- Place the measuring tape horizontally across the body at this point.
- Make sure the tape is snug but not too tight, as you want to measure the natural width of the body.
- Record the measurement in centimeters or inches.
The standard width of an adult UK style coffin is around 56 - 61 cm (22 - 24 inches). If the person has a larger build, you may need to choose a wider coffin to ensure a comfortable fit.
Height Measurement
- Measure the height of the body from the back to the front, at the thickest part. This is usually at the chest or abdomen.
- Place the measuring tape vertically across the body at this point.
- Record the measurement in centimeters or inches.
The height of the coffin should be sufficient to accommodate the body comfortably. Most UK style coffins have a standard height, but if the person has a particularly large or bulky build, you may need to consider a coffin with a greater height.
Special Considerations
- Body Position: If the body is in a non - standard position, such as being bent at the knees or elbows, you'll need to take this into account when measuring. Try to straighten the body as much as possible for accurate measurements, or choose a coffin that can accommodate the body's position.
- Medical Equipment: If the person has any medical equipment attached to their body, such as a ventilator or a dialysis machine, you'll need to measure the overall dimensions of the body with the equipment in place. Make sure the coffin is large enough to accommodate both the body and the equipment.
- Embalming and Dressing: Keep in mind that the body may swell slightly after embalming, and the clothing and bedding used can add to the overall dimensions. It's a good idea to add a few extra centimeters to your measurements to account for these factors.
Choosing the Right Coffin Size
Once you have the body measurements, you can choose the right UK style coffin size. As a supplier, I offer a wide range of coffin sizes to meet different needs. Here are some general guidelines:
- Standard Adult Coffin: For an average - sized adult, a standard coffin with a length of 203 - 213 cm, a width of 56 - 61 cm, and a standard height is usually sufficient.
- Extra - Large Coffin: If the person is taller or has a larger build, you may need to choose an extra - large coffin. These coffins are typically longer and wider than standard coffins.
- Child or Infant Coffin: For children and infants, the coffin sizes are much smaller. The measurements are taken in the same way as for adults, but the dimensions are adjusted accordingly.
Our Product Range
As a UK style coffin supplier, we offer a diverse range of products to meet the different needs and preferences of our customers. For example, our Italian Adult Pine Wood Coffin is a popular choice. It is made from high - quality pine wood, with a beautiful Italian design that adds an elegant touch to the final farewell.
In addition to coffins, we also offer a selection of urns. Our Unique Dog Urns are a great way to remember beloved pets. These urns come in unique designs and are made with high - quality materials. And our Frassino Wood Cinerary Casket Urns are perfect for those who prefer a more traditional and elegant option for storing ashes.
Contact Us for Procurement
If you're in the market for UK style coffins or urns, we're here to help. Our team of experts can assist you in choosing the right products based on your specific requirements. Whether you're a funeral home making regular purchases or an individual looking for a one - time solution, we can provide you with high - quality products at competitive prices. Please feel free to reach out to us to start the procurement process and discuss your needs in detail.
References
- "Funeral Industry Handbook", National Funeral Directors Association
- "Coffin Design and Manufacturing Standards", UK Funeral Association
