Recognize the Signs of Septic Tank Damage

If you're putting in a new septic tank, you may have a lot of questions about what to expect. The contractor you're working with can help by explaining the procedure so you'll be ready for all the activity on installation day. Here is some information about residential septic tanks you may find helpful to know.

Concrete Tanks Are Popular

You can buy plastic tanks too, but concrete is a popular choice since it's a heavy material, and that helps hold the tank in place. Some areas even mandate concrete tanks so there won't be problems with plastic tanks popping out of the ground if the water table rises.

Your contractor will probably use a precast tank rather than build a tank at the site. The tank can be delivered on a flatbed truck and moved to the excavation hole by a crane.

Tanks Come In Different Sizes

When you order your tank, you'll need to choose the size you want. The larger the tank, the less often it has to be pumped out, but the more expensive it is. The minimum size for a septic tank is usually determined by local codes according to the number of bedrooms in your home.

Your contractor can help you figure out the best size for your home according to the number of people living in it. They'll also take the use of a garbage disposal into consideration.

Installing A Tank Requires Digging Up Your Yard

The contractor has to do a lot of digging to get a septic tank installed. They need to dig a hole for the tank and trenches leading to and away from the tank. A trench that goes from your house to the tank will contain your sewer line. A trench that goes from the tank to a distribution box that's also buried in a hole will contain a drainpipe.

If you're getting a new drainfield too, there will be drains that lead from the distribution box to the field, and all of these need to be in trenches. Your yard will be dug up, but when the installation is complete, the soil will be returned and you can plant grass seeds or put sod over the area, and the septic system will soon be out of sight.

Regular Inspections Will Probably Be Needed

You know you'll need to have the tank pumped out each time it starts to get full, but you might also need regular inspections for health department records. You'll want to check the requirements of your state concerning residential septic tanks so you know how often this needs to be done to stay compliant with local regulations.

For more information, contact a local company, like A-1 Complete Septic Tank Service.