Septic tanks, which are typically located underground, collect sewage and treat it through bacterial decomposition. A good septic tank is essential for a better septic system, and its construction material is important. Septic tanks are constructed of many materials, including reinforced concrete, fiberglass, or metal. The tank may contain up to three compartments. 

Most important is that the septic tank must be watertight to prevent leakage of untreated sewage that might pollute groundwater and to prevent leakage of groundwater into the tank that could overload the absorption field. (1) To choose a good septic tank, one must understand the various types of septic tank materials, their benefits, and their drawbacks, which are briefly explained below.

Concrete

Concrete septic tanks are massive structures that are typically pre-cast for simple installation. These pre-cast concrete tanks have a specific gravity of about 2.40, making them strong enough to withstand resilient forces when installed in the ground. Their strength grows gradually over time as well. Concrete septic tanks are classified as single-structure or all-in-one systems based on their structural configuration. 

Each chamber (such as an aeration chamber, clarifier, trash tank, etc.) in a single structure tank is pre-cast separately, whereas, in an all-in-one system, all such chambers are provided in a single large tank. Ensure a septic tank installation Chattanooga, TN; professional installs your concrete tank so it can last for many years. The following are some of the benefits and drawbacks of pre-cast concrete septic tanks.

Merits

• Because concrete septic tanks are heavy, they will not float if the water table is near the tank level.
• Concrete septic tanks have a very long lifespan and can last for decades.
• They are sufficiently strong and are not easily damaged by heavy machinery.
• They are corrosion-resistant.
• Concrete septic tanks have a natural water tightness that reduces the risk of leaks.
• Since concrete septic tanks comply with all building regulations, the permit application for a new or replacement tank is easy.

Demerits

• When compared to other septic tank materials, it is expensive.
• When it is damaged, it is difficult to repair.
• Transporting and installing pre-cast concrete septic tanks requires large equipment, making installation more difficult.
• The use of a low-quality concrete mix causes cracks through which effluent can leak.
  

Plastic

Because plastic septic tanks are made of polyethylene plastic, they are also known as poly septic tanks. Because they are lighter in weight and rustproof, they are good alternatives to concrete and steel septic tanks. The lighter weight makes plastic septic tanks easier to handle and install. Plastic septic tanks have a specific gravity of around 0.97, which is lower than the specific gravity of water, causing the tank to float when the water table is close to it. 

As a result, before installing a plastic septic tank, one should examine the water table of that specific area or provide anchoring to the tank to prevent the tank from floating or shifting. Ensure the septic tank is installed and examined by a professional septic service Chattanooga TN. The following are the advantages and drawbacks of plastic septic tanks.

Merits

• Plastic septic tanks are less expensive than other types of septic tank materials.
• They are simple to use and install.
• They are chemically resistant.
• They are resistant to rustproof.
• Plastic septic tanks are watertight and resistant to corrosion caused by water.
• Because plastic is more flexible than other materials, it is less prone to cracking. As a result, a plastic septic tank does not crack as much as other septic tanks.

Demerits

• When the water table is next to the tank bottom, the tank may be pushed upwards, and plastic septic tanks may float due to their weight.
• They are vulnerable to damage under extreme conditions.
• Heavy weights should not be placed or moved over the plastic septic tank because they will deflect and change its shape, potentially leading to the tank exploding due to high pressure.
  

Fiberglass

Steel

Steel tanks are manufactured with steel and are currently the least popular due to their high cost and short lifespan. The main issue with steel septic tanks is that they deteriorate quickly when compared to other materials. If the top slab of the steel septic tank becomes corroded, it will be unable to support any weights placed on top of it and may collapse unexpectedly at any time. As a result, caution should be exercised when inspecting steel septic tanks. 

Only an experienced Chattanooga septic service should inspect your steel tank. These septic tanks are no longer recommended.

Advantages

• Steel septic tanks are heavy and will not float when the water table is close to the tank.
• They have a high resistance to buoyant forces.

Disadvantages

• Steel corrodes easily, reducing the life span of steel tanks when compared to other septic tank materials.
• High cost and short lifespan.
• Corroded steel septic tanks are difficult to remove from the ground. Their poor condition may put them in danger.
  

Endnote

If you’re searching for a new septic tank, you should go through the merits and demerits of each septic tank. This will help you make the right choice because you can purchase a septic tank that will serve your needs for years. Another way to ensure your septic tank lasts for years is septic pumping. Septic pumping is the removal of liquid, floating solids, and sludge from a septic tank by a professional septic tank pumping Chattanooga company. 

Septic pumping helps prevent water contamination, drain backup, and unnecessary expenses. Furthermore, septic pumping prevents foul odors, slows toilet flushing, and protects the surrounding environment from sewage escapes.

For more information on Flush Fellas Septic & Excavating and our services, feel free to reach us via phone today: (423) 498-9839.