What Type of Septic System Is Best to Install?

While many people have the opportunity to connect their homes to municipal sewage systems, others need to have their own private solutions in place. Septic systems are one way in which household waste can be handled, and they represent an integral part of your home’s health and stability. Choosing the type of system and the technology that you want to rely on is a big step, so it’s important to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each type of septic system installation in Southern Texas before making a decision. Here’s a closer look at some of the variables to take into consideration.

Soil characteristics

One of the first things we consider when starting a septic system installation in Southern Texas is the type of soil we’re going to be working with. This factor can have a big impact on percolation rates. Effluent that runs into the drain field has to be able to pass through the soil at an appropriate rate—otherwise, the entire system can quickly grind to a halt. Even worse, you might find that the runoff can build up and even rise up through the soil, which can create a serious health hazard for your household and the surrounding environment.

On the other hand, it can’t move too quickly—otherwise, the microbes in the soil won’t have the time to break down the organic material in the waste before it arrives at the groundwater, which is another undesirable environmental situation. As a result, soil is one of the first variables we sort out when starting a new septic system installation job.

Poly vs. concrete septic systems

Choice of materials is another thing to consider when looking at a septic system installation in Southern Texas. Septic systems tend to come in concrete or plastic, and both have strengths and weaknesses of their own. Plastic septic systems are cheaper, lighter and likely more durable, but their weight can be a disadvantage. Items can “float” up underground in areas with high water tables, and this has been known to happen with plastic systems. On the other hand, concrete systems are much heavier and extremely durable, and their weight ensures that they won’t float—however, their incredible weight and bulk does make them quite difficult to transport and install.

Other things to consider

There are a number of other factors that your septic system contractor is going to factor into their plans. The amount of sewage that your household produces will impact the choice of system, for example—more people means more sewage, and you don’t want to have to pay for a system that can handle six people when there’s only three of you in your household.

Whether you’re in the market for installing a new system or need maintenance on an existing one, Countryside Construction Inc. is ready to partner with you. We’ve been in business for almost 40 years and are committing to serving every client in a personal and customized way—it’s the only way we know how to do things. Give us a call today to let us help you with your next septic project!