Why Precast Concrete Septic Tanks are the Best Choice

Precast concrete septic tanks are highly durable, cost-effective and can last for 50 years or more with proper maintenance. They can also be versatile, offering a tailored solution to fit any home or business.

Concrete is made of a paste and aggregates that are fused together through a chemical reaction. The addition of steel reinforcing bar, or rebar, increases the strength and durability.

High Specific Gravity

Precast concrete septic tanks are some of the heaviest materials available. Because of this, they require large and expensive equipment to install. If your septic system’s proposed or current location does not have easy access to heavy machinery, you may need to consider a fiberglass or plastic tank instead.

Regardless of the type of tank you choose, it is crucial to ensure that a proper foundation is prepared for your tank. A good base will help prevent differential settlement, which can be a problem for tanks made from other materials.

A quality septic tank should be constructed with a minimum of 4 inches of thick sand or granular bedding over a firm and uniform base. It should also be reinforced with steel reinforcing bars (rebar) to provide increased strength and stability. These materials will help to prevent the tank from damage due to differential settlement or from damage caused by evaporating water. They will also reduce the risk of cracking and leaking.

Durability

Precast concrete septic tanks are more durable than fiberglass or plastic tanks and are less susceptible to damage caused by vehicles, weather, fire, mildew, and rust. They are also less likely to crack or break during the installation process, saving up-front costs and reducing future repairs.

They are also more resistant to freezing, making them a better choice for colder climates where septic systems may not freeze and thaw as easily. This also saves money by preventing the need for more frequent maintenance and repair due to freezing conditions.

Precast concrete septic tanks are made in a factory setting, which makes them more cost-efficient than constructing the tank on-site. They are also designed to be more versatile, allowing for custom openings and distribution chambers as needed.

Cost-Effectiveness

Precast concrete is manufactured in a factory setting, which allows for efficient production and lower labor costs. This helps to keep the cost of septic tanks affordable.

In addition, precast concrete septic tanks are more durable than plastic and will not bend or crack like plastic can, so they last longer. They are also resistant to cold temperatures, and won’t freeze as easily as a plastic tank can.

Some municipalities have restrictions regarding a septic tank’s material, such as those with groundwater nearby that cannot allow plastic tanks due to the potential for buoyancy. Choosing a concrete tank offers more options and will prevent problems in these situations. They will also not rust or corrode, which can occur with metal and fiberglass tanks. They are also much easier to work with when installing them. This will help to reduce installation costs and avoid a lengthy project time. Precast concrete septic tanks can be designed for traffic-rated loads. These have thicker side walls, bottom and top slabs to withstand the extra weight of vehicles.

Versatility

Precast concrete septic tanks are available in a range of sizes. AJFoss offers single and two-compartment tanks that are both round and rectangular in shape. These tanks have baffle walls and access openings over the inlet and outlet pipes. They also include a distribution chamber with dummy openings or flexible sleeves.

Concrete is stronger and more resilient than plastic, so it resists changes in the environment better. This makes it the ideal material for septic tank construction. For example, soil vibrations can easily break a plastic tank, but they rarely affect a concrete one.

It’s important to remember that even a well-designed, durable septic tank is only as good as the ground on which it sits. Ideally, the tank should be supported on a minimum of 4 inches of sand or granular material overlying a firm and uniform base. This will prevent differential settlement that could bury or damage the tank. In addition, a proper bedding system should provide resistance to buoyant forces that might raise the tank above the site’s water table.

Conclusion

In conclusion, precast concrete septic tanks are a reliable and cost-effective option for homes and businesses. They are highly durable and can last for over 50 years with proper maintenance. While they may require heavy machinery for installation, they offer a strong foundation that is less susceptible to damage from weather, vehicles, and other factors. Additionally, precast concrete septic tanks are more versatile than other materials, allowing for custom openings and distribution chambers. They are also available in a range of sizes and can be designed for traffic-rated loads. Overall, precast concrete septic tanks offer a durable and long-lasting solution for septic system needs.