What are the disadvantages of a fiberglass septic tank?

27 Nov.,2024

 

2 More Types of Septic Tanks [with Pros & Cons] - Coerco



Out of sight out of mind seems to be most people&#;s motto when it comes to septic tanks. But not familiarising yourself with the different septic tank types and the pros and cons of each before purchase could come at a cost, and a lot of agony.

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We&#;ve first covered the differences between concrete and poly septic tanks in our blog post Poly Septic Tank vs Concrete mainly because many people might automatically assume concrete is the best choice (without knowing it might not be a match for their needs) or assume there aren&#;t any other alternatives out there.

Different Types of Septic Tanks 

Here are 4 types of septic tanks commonly available in Australia:

1. Concrete (See our blog post Poly Septic Tank vs concrete.)

2. Poly

3. Fibreglass

4. Aerobic tanks

 

This post will cover only the last 2 types of septic tanks along with their advantages and disadvantages. 

 

Fibreglass



Disadvantages:


  • Although fibreglass itself doesn&#;t corrode, localised corrosion might occur in other parts that aren&#;t rust-resistant.

  • In relation to the above, fibreglass is not constructed as a one-piece container. It has seams, which are vulnerable areas to these types of tanks.

  • Handcrafted and labour extensive. Implication: more susceptible to human error during production

  • More vulnerable to damage with soil shifts e.g. traffic or heavy vehicles passing over the septic tank

  • Can be more expensive than poly tanks 

  • Can easily crack


Advantages:

    • Being light, fibreglass is easier to install compared to concrete.

    • Resistant to chemicals, just like poly septic tanks.


Right (foreground): 2,200-litre poly septic tank; left: 1,450 litre poly septic tank from Coerco.

Aerobic septic tanks


Disadvantages:

  • Needs electricity to operate

  • More expensive

  • Because it uses oxygen to accelerate effluent decomposition,

    pumping can be less frequent compared to other types of septic tanks.

    However, this doesn&#;t mean it needs less frequent maintenance. In fact, it needs more maintenance.

A complex system such as this increases the likelihood that something can go wrong, which necessitates more frequent maintenance compared to the regular maintenance required for other types of septic tanks.


Advantages: 

  • Doesn&#;t take too much space

  • May require lesser space for the drain field.

 


Now that you know about 3 more different types of septic tanks and their pros and cons,  you might wonder where poly septic tanks fit in all this.

Just why is poly septic tank a better alternative?


The Poly Septic Tank Advantage


In a nutshell:

  • Rotationally moulded poly septic tanks are seamless and strong on all sides. As rotational moulding is an automated process, opportunities for human error at this stage of production are but few.

  • Poly septic tanks are non-porous. No need to worry about roots of plants or trees boring a hole through your poly septic tank.

  • Plastic septic tanks are highly resistant to the chemical processes that happen naturally in a septic system. 


  • No seams/connectors that are vulnerable to corrosion.

     

    Making an informed decision is easier when the alternatives are clear to you. When it comes to septic tanks, a lapse in knowing what&#;s best for you can result in costly repairs in the future and compromise the comfort and functionality of your property.


    Related article: 

    What You Need to Know Before Septic System Installation (A Checklist)

The 4 Types of Septic Tanks - Advantages & Disadvantages

Over 21 million American homes use a septic tank, a solution that is becoming a valid alternative to public sewer lines thanks to its affordability, accessibility, and sustainability. Switching to a septic system can be a great option for those homeowners who wish to live off-grid and increase their property&#;s efficiency. 

Nonetheless, not all septic tanks are created in the same way. And, when looking at the different septic systems you can install in your home, you will realize that you can choose from a wide range of alternatives. 

In fact, septic tanks come in a variety of forms, sizes, and materials. An expert Economy Septic Tank Service installer will help you make the best choice for your home. In the meanwhile, here is an overview of the different types of septic tank systems, their uses, and benefits to help you get started. 

Concrete Septic Tanks

The material used in the construction of your septic system can define its design and functionalities. 

That is why many homeowners opt for concrete septic tanks. These tanks are much bigger than their plastic or steel counterparts and are made to last for longer. Concrete septic tanks can be all-in-one systems or single-structure tanks. 

In any case, they are usually pre-casted for installation and boast a specific gravity of 2.40, which makes them far more efficient than other septic tank systems. 

Pros:

  • Immune to floating thanks to their weight

  • Much longer-lasting than other types of septic tanks

  • They withstand heavy weights

  • Can withstand most weather conditions

  • They can be installed legally in all US states

Cons:

  • Costlier

  • Heavier to transport

  • More difficult to repair

    You will get efficient and thoughtful service from Runlin.

  • They can be susceptible to corrosion

Steel Septic Tanks

Steel is extremely lightweight &#; a property that makes it an appealing choice for septic tank construction. However, the high cost and reduced durability of steel septic tanks have made them a choice for few homeowners. One of the main downsides of steel septic tanks is that they don&#;t withstand corrosion too well and require constant maintenance. 

Pros:

  • Resistant to floating

  • Can

    resist buoyant forces

  • Suitable as a short-term solution

Cons:

  • Steel is prone to corrosion

  • Steel septic tanks aren&#;t durable and don&#;t benefit from a long lifespan.

  • Costly

  • Hard to remove from the grounds

Fiberglass Septic Tanks

Fiberglass is one of the best materials for a long-lasting, efficient tank system. Fiberglass tanks, which are made of fiber-reinforced plastics (FRP), boast a high chemical resistance and great thermal properties. While stronger than plastic tank systems, fiberglass septic tanks are lighter in weight, more durable, and easier to install and handle. 

Pros:

  • Highly durable

  • Withstand rust, water infiltration, and chemicals

  • Stronger than plastic tanks

  • Easier to handle

Cons:

  • They are prone to float

Plastic Septic Tanks

Plastic septic tanks are the most popular models in use in homes around the US. Plastic tanks are often made of polyethylene plastic. This characteristic makes them highly durable, resistant to corrosion, and extremely light in weight. Due to their lightweight and specific gravity of 0.97, they are prone to float. That is why their installation involves installing anchoring systems to prevent the tank from moving or shifting.

Pros:

  • Very economical

  • Long-lasting, durable, and resistant to corrosion

  • Lightweight and easy to handle

  • Rustproof and resistant to chemicals

  • Hard to crack

Cons:

  • It may float

  • Heavy weight can damage the tank&#;s structure

  • Installation may require the installation of an anchoring system

Find A Tailored Solution at Economy Septic Tank Service 

The material used in the construction of your septic tank system can influence its ability to withstand the elements, pass the test of time, and postpone septic repair appointments. When partnering with an expert installer at Economy Septic Tank Service you can find a solution for your unique needs. Get in touch today.

Find the right tank for your property with Economy Septic!

Certain septic tanks provide advantages to certain homeowners. While septic technology is more versatile than ever before, there isn&#;t a one-size-fits-all tank to perfectly match every homeowner&#;s needs. To learn more about what type of tank is ideal for your property, or to arrange for scheduled emptying or septic maintenance, call (256)435- today!

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