If you have just moved to a new home or have lived on your property for a long time, you may need to install a new septic system. Granted, many homeowners don't like having to store, treat, and dispose of liquid waste; however, having a functional septic tank is crucial to ensuring that your home's septic system works as it should, which partly depends on the material of your septic tank. Many homeowners tend to prefer concrete over other materials, such as plastic, and this guide explores three reasons why this is the case.
Concrete Tanks Are Compliant With Most Building Regulations
In many states, the local authorities require property owners to design their septic tanks using concrete. This is because the material doesn't pose an environmental threat. However, there are instances where you may be required to use plastic tanks, e.g. if your installation area is close to groundwater. These instances are exceptions because you would likely contaminate the groundwater if you used concrete. Given that concrete tanks comply with most building regulations, seeking permits for their installation is often more advisable.
They're Durable Even Against Different Weather Conditions
Concrete septic tanks are heavy, which may seem like a disadvantage at first glance. However, this quality makes them sturdy and safeguards against failure down the road. On the flip side, light plastic septic tanks may be pushed by the soil when it freezes in winter. Your pipes will likely break and cause water to back up in your home if this happens. Fortunately, since concrete tanks are heavy, they're resistant to such forces. Moreover, you don't need to anchor them as you would with plastics, making their installation more straightforward.
You Don't Have to Worry About Pumping Problems
Regardless of the septic tank material you're using, you'll need to pump it out at some point. The downside of using the plastic concrete tank is that they're prone to collapse when pumped out. Once this happens, you may have to replace the tank. However, concrete tanks are strong and less likely to collapse even after being pumped several times.
When it comes to septic tank installation, one of the crucial things you should never overlook is the material used in the construction. There are plenty of septic tanks available, but most people consider the plastic and concrete options. If you're torn between selecting one of these materials, this guide should help ease your decision-making.
Contact a local septic service, such as Autry's Backhoe & Septic Service, for more information.
Share13 June 2022
As you read the articles on this website, you will notice two things. First, they are all about septic services in some ways. Second, some go deep — and others are full of more surface-level facts. This is kind of like your septic system itself! The tank is buried deep, but the drain field is more superficial. You don't have to be an expert on septic systems, but as someone who owns one, you should at least know how to tell when something is wrong with yours so you can call for service. You'll get that level of understanding from this blog — and probably more!
