What to Know About Concrete Septics and Cisterns
Investing in a septic system or replacing your old well with a cistern can feel like a daunting task. It’s a large purchase that many rural homeowners hope to only do once. With that in mind, we want to help ensure that you make the most educated decision possible. In this blog we’re going to explore the options and benefits of choosing concrete septic tanks and cisterns. We always recommend consulting a licensed professional for your concrete tank installation. They will be able to help you select the correct tank configuration and create a stress-free project.
If you’re also considering choosing poly (plastic) septics or cisterns you can explore some of our existing resources below.
Septic Tank Resources:
Differences Between Concrete and Plastic Tanks
Both concrete and poly septic tanks have advantages and disadvantages. Below you’ll find some of the comparisons that can help make the best decision for your needs.
Durability: Concrete septic tanks tend to be much more durable than poly septic tanks. This is specifically in regard to the weight that they can handle on top of them.
Environmental Resistance: Concrete septic tanks are less susceptible to changing soil conditions, growing tree roots, compaction, or other factors.
Maintenance: Based on the factors above, concrete septic tanks can require less ongoing maintenance than poly septic tanks.
Cost: Concrete septic tanks cost more to purchase and install than poly septic tanks.
Installation: The primary difference in cost comes during installation, where heavy machinery and specialized equipment is required for the delivery. A poly septic tank can be transported in the back of a truck or trailer, and slid into place with light machinery or a few people pushing.
Corrosion: Unlike poly septic tanks, concrete tanks may corrode over time or begin cracking with age. Proper maintenance can help reduce the risk of these issues.
Concrete tanks are great for heavy clay areas because their substantial weight prevents them from “floating” out of the ground in high water tables. This is especially important in Niagara and Southern Ontario where our soil is infamously known as “Haldimand Clay” due to historical glacial activity.
Blueprints, Pricing and Shopping Resources
To help make your shopping process easier, we’ve made blueprints, specs, and pricing available on all of our concrete tanks. You can explore our options and even order online when you’re ready to take the next step. Explore below or click to go to any of the product pages for a full breakdown.
Internal Pump and Plumbing Options
Another option that may be applicable for your project are concrete pump tanks. Concrete pump tanks are a chamber that holds a pump and is used to move wastewater from a septic tank to a distribution box. Concrete pump tanks are used in situations where gravity can’t properly move sewage to a septic tank. Tanks are available from 200 gallons through 1035 gallons.
All pump tanks come with:
- 1 (one) 24″ Polylok access with external splice box
- High level alarm with indoor alarm
- Internal plumbing including pump, check valve, ball valve and easy access disconnect
- Option of 1.5″ (1/3HP) or 2″ (1/2HP) Liberty Pump assembly
Delivery Areas
Our concrete tanks are primarily available for delivery in the areas between London, Guelph, and Niagara. Reducing driving distance and highway usage minimizes cost and safety risk during delivery. On site, the truck needs to get within 10 feet of the hole to safely lift the tank into place using the boom. We recommend at least 12” to 18” of additional excavation on all sides of the tank for ease of installation.
If you have any additional questions or would like to talk to our team about the next steps, you can reach Kyle by phone or email any time.
