3 Tips For Installing, Maintaining, And Repairing Fiberglass Septic Tanks

Concrete tanks remain the standard for septic installations, but many homeowners choose to install fiberglass tanks instead. These tanks are lightweight and easy to maneuver, making them well-suited to areas that may be challenging to reach with the heavy equipment needed for concrete. Likewise, the easier install means that labor costs for fiberglass are often cheaper.

While fiberglass tanks are long-lasting and generally reliable, they do have a few notable differences compared to traditional concrete tanks. Keep these three tips in mind to ensure that your fiberglass tank provides you with decades of trouble-free service.

1. Recognize the Danger of Floating

Concrete tanks are massive, which means there's little risk of them floating away in heavy rains. Just as you wouldn't expect your foundation to go swimming, you shouldn't expect a concrete tank to do the same. Unfortunately, fiberglass tanks are much lighter, leaving them vulnerable to shifting and floating in very wet conditions. Even a tiny amount of movement can damage the tank or pipes.

You can minimize the risk of this problem with proper installation and maintenance procedures. Avoid installing your new fiberglass tank in areas prone to flooding, and ensure the surrounding property has adequate drainage. To prevent floating when pumping the tank, immediately refill it with clean water and never schedule a pumping when the ground is already heavily saturated.

2. Avoid Placing Excessive Weight on the Tank

Any septic tank is vulnerable to pressure from above. Concrete tanks can crack if you routinely park cars or place heavy objects above them, and fiberglass tanks can suffer the same fate. Since fiberglass isn't as durable as concrete, it can be much easier to cause damage inadvertently. Ensure you're aware of your tank's location, and avoid parking vehicles or constructing structures (such as sheds) above it.

3. Schedule Regular Inspections

You'll usually need to pump your tank every 2-3 years, and you should schedule a thorough inspection at the same time. Although fiberglass tanks shouldn't crack with typical usage, they have several plugs that can sometimes become dislodged. A lost plug can lead to a slow leak, allowing sewage to seep into your property and reduce your septic system's efficiency.

Your contractor will check for correct effluent levels during their inspection and perform a more thorough investigation if they're too low. In most cases, repairing the problem may be as simple as replacing a lost plug. For more severe damage (such as cracks in the tank), you may need to excavate around the tank to patch the problem.

Fiberglass septic tanks can last more than 40 years if properly maintained. These simple precautions and preventative maintenance steps can help you to maximize the lifespan of your home's septic system.

Contact a local septic tank contractor for more tips.

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