Plastic Vs. Concrete Septic Tank

Dec 06, 2022

Plastic Vs. Concrete Septic Tank

When you are shopping for a septic tank, you have two main options to choose from: plastic septic tanks and concrete septic tanks. Both of these materials have their advantages and disadvantages. Having a basic knowledge of each one of them will help you choose a septic tank that will meet your needs and your budget.

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Mitch Kranes

Tim Grant of Septic Blue performed our septic system service. He was fantastic. Tank had not been serviced in a…

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Tim P.

Bret Brooks arrived on time, was completely professional and courteous.  I needed my septic tank pumped and a riser installed.…

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Ashley Maylott

We are renovating a home that has a septic tank. We contacted Septic Blue and scheduled an appointment. They came…

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At Septic Blue of Charlotte, we are conversant with the various types of septic tanks. In this article, we will compare plastic septic tanks vs. concrete septic tanks to help you decide which one fits your needs.

Plastic Septic Tanks

Also known as poly septic tanks, plastic septic tanks are a good alternative to concrete septic tanks. These tanks are made of polyethylene plastic and come in an oblong shape with a series of ridges along the exterior walls. Plastic septic tanks are premade and ready to install.

Advantages of Plastic Septic Tanks

Lightweight

Plastic septic tanks are relatively lightweight since they are made of plastic, meaning they are easy to transport and install. You don’t require heavy equipment to install a plastic septic tank and the installation process requires less time, thereby reducing expenses.

Cheaper

Plastic septic tanks are a cheaper alternative to concrete septic tanks. Besides, the lighter weight makes transportation and installation costs more affordable as well.

Corrosion-resistant

Plastic septic tanks are resistant to cracking, water-based corrosion, and rusting, unlike concrete septic tanks. Although concrete septic tanks outperform plastic septic tanks in terms of longevity, plastic tanks can last up to 30 years as long as they are maintained properly.

Cons

  • Plastic tanks are not as sturdy as concrete septic tanks, so they easily get deformed by heavy soils or damaged by heavy surface traffic.
  • These tanks require more maintenance because they are easily affected by environmental changes and soil conditions.
  • They have a lower lifespan compared to their concrete counterparts.
  • They have lower effluent levels due to their lightweight nature.

Concrete Septic Tanks

Concrete septic tanks are either pre-cast and ready to install or can be poured in place on-site.

Advantages of Concrete Septic Tanks

  • These tanks are much more durable than plastic septic tanks. Concrete septic tanks can last up to 40 years.
  • They require minimal maintenance compared to plastic tanks because they are more resilient and have high effluent levels.
  • These tanks are resistant to environmental changes and are not easily affected by soil conditions.

Cons

  • Concrete tanks are more costly to buy and install than plastic septic tanks.
  • They are more prone to cracks under extreme weather conditions.
  • They require more time and heavy equipment like cranes to install.
  • Concrete septic tanks are vulnerable to corrosion, especially if they are not maintained properly.
  • They are more difficult to repair if they crack.

Contact Septic Blue of Charlotte for Septic Tank Pumping

If you’re looking to install a new septic tank or replace a failing one, you need to work with a trusted septic company that provides dependable septic installations. At Septic Blue of Charlotte, we’ve built a reputation for offering reliable septic services, including septic tank installation, septic tank pumping, septic tank repair, and more.