If you are someone that has a septic system, and your septic tanks recently sustained some damage that got you thinking about concrete lids, this article is for you.
Nobody wants to deal with the unpleasant content and odors from the septic tank and risk spoilage, and that is one of many reasons your septic tank lid should be made of top material and top quality. Therefore, you should not be cheap when buying your septic tank lid.
Septic tank lids must be protected at all times, and often, a careless play or game in the yard can have financial consequences if your tanks sustain some damage, such as cracking and chipping.
Obviously, we want to avoid that because, in the end, it can damage your septic system or cause some problems, and you probably know they are all very costly; so, in this case, prevention is better than cure.
Do You Need to Replace the Septic Tank Lid?
If you are currently dealing with a broken or damaged septic tank, luckily, there are several types of septic tank lids that you can buy, including those made of concrete.
We suggest you skip the plastic septic tanks because concrete is much more durable as plastic is more vulnerable to climactic changes. So, even though it is a bit expensive, it is a permanent solution lasting up to 40 years.
On the other hand, you will have to pay additional costs for installing concrete tank lids. Plastic septic lids are much easier to install and are good to use as a contingency plan until you acquire money for lodging and purchasing concrete lids.
Concrete septic tanks come in various sizes, so it will be easy for you to find the one that fits. They can be purchased either online or at any well-equipped home improvement store.
Reasons for Replacing Your Septic Tank Lid
1. Is your septic tank lid damaged?
Interestingly, most septic tank lids can easily damage, so people often have to deal with this problem. However, finding a permanent solution will undoubtedly rid you of your headaches, so you do not have to worry whether your tank will get further damaged.
Depending on the location of your septic tank lids, some people often damage it by driving their car over, trying to park it move it into the garage. These lids are not meant to sustain such pressure and weight, which is why they break.
Generally, placing anything heavy over it (statue or concrete pots for flowers) might cause damage and cracks, and we do not suggest you try that. So if only the top of the septic tank is damaged, can you replace it? Again, the answer is yes; you can buy a replacement septic tank lid.
If you are not sure about the size of the lid, use the tape measure to establish the diameter of the opening.
2. Is your septic tank lid worn out?
So, your septic tank lid might not be damaged, but it can wear out if you have been using it for longer. Although septic systems are designed to last, the lids, on the other hand, are not; therefore, you should inspect them every once in a while.
It is generally recommended that you replace them even if they do not show visible damage. Why? Sometimes looks can be deceiving, and if you are not a professional or have not dealt with septic tanks, you might not have the eye to see a potential problem.
Ultimately, you do not want the lid to shatter in the septic tank interior.
3. Is your septic tank ruining your garden’s aesthetics?
Sometimes people want to replace their septic tank lids not because they are torn down or cracked but because they just do not fit with the yard’s aesthetics.
Some people invest a lot of time and money to design their yards, so having an ugly tank sticking out is not something you would want. This is where concrete septic tank lids come into play; they are much easier to hide or cover with something (not heavy or fixed).
What About Septic Tank Risers?
If you are new to the scene and have just heard about septic tank risers, do not worry! A Septic tank riser is a pipe that allows more accessible access to the lid and the septic tank. This pipe can be made of different materials, such as fiberglass, plastic, or concrete.
These risers have numerous benefits. Many are not physically able to dig up their septic tank lids, so a riser is an excellent solution because you will not have to dig anything up. Furthermore, risers have lightweight lids which are easy to remove and access.
Some of the best on the market are Polylok risers and Tuf-Tite risers because they are made of high-quality polyethylene plastic and are lightweight, affordable, sturdy, and durable.
However, if you live in a colder environment, you must always keep the surface smooth outside the riser’s exterior due to the ground freezing.
The Polylok risers have pre-installed handles, facilitating easy removal and lid access. They also come with stainless steel screws to ensure quality and longevity.
Things You Need to Do Before Purchasing Concrete Septic Tank lids
Before you run to a home improvement store to find a concrete lid, first, there are a couple of steps that you need to take. First, you need to know the right size of the lid or cover and the location of your septic tank.
Step 1: Find the Septic Tank Lid
If you are not using septic risers, you will probably have to find and then dig up your septic tank lid. If you have trouble locating it, follow these instructions. Generally, you will have to consult the site plan for your property.
Use a shovel or spade to carefully dig up the tank and dirt around it because you do not want to risk potential damage. Septic tank lids are usually placed 12 to 14 inches below the ground surface.
Step 2: Lift Off The Lid
Lift off the lid of your septic tank using a pry bar. You will need help to do this job, especially if you are currently using a concrete septic tank lid. Then, remove the sealant ž along the brim of the tank if there is any.
Use the pry bar or putty knife to lift one end of the concrete lid and instruct your friend or family member to pull the lid’s handle. Then, with joined forces, put the lid on the side.
Always check the seal on the lid to see whether it is in good condition and functional.
Step 3: Measure The Lid
Before buying a new lid, you will have to measure the old one to determine its width and length. If you cannot buy a new lid now, we suggest you place your old lid on the entrance of the septic tank and cover it with a tarp.
You can also use a replacement sewer cover or septic cover, but it is only a temporary solution because it is not meant to serve as a lid to your septic tank. You can buy these at Home Depot or some other retailers of your choice.
How To Install A Septic Tank Lid?
Suppose you want to install the concrete septic tank lid. In that case, we suggest you hire a professional because it usually involves some special equipment and several people, depending on the type of lid and its location.
However, if your feel confident enough to pull this off follow the previous steps. Before you start digging the tank, you might want to consult with utility companies so you can locate the power and water lines. This way, you can prevent cutting your utility lines.
After you measure and find the suitable septic tank lid, you can lift it with your helper and proceed with the installation process.
You and your friend will have to carefully pick it up one end of the new septic tank lid and then slowly lower it over the septic tank. Make sure that the seal between the tank and the lid is compressed.
FAQ
1. How Much Is A concrete lid?
As mentioned, concrete lids are more expensive than plastic ones, costing around $70. The plastic lid price ranges between $25 and $30. If you are thinking of calling a professional, consider the fee for the installation before calculating your budget.
2. How To Fix A Concrete lid?
If you are already using a concrete lid and it has sustained some minor damages, here is how you can fix it.
You will have to apply new concrete to those areas that are damaged. Purchase the concrete and mix it with water. Be careful when adding water to it because you do not want to dilute it too much; you want a thick consistency.
Then, fill in the cracks with the concrete and wait for it to dry. It should serve you for a long time if you repair it successfully. Note that if your concrete lid is heavily damaged, this will not be of good use.
On the contrary, you can risk your lid falling apart and large chunks of concrete sinking into the tank’s interior.
Conclusion
Today there are various septic tank lids, and luckily for you, you can purchase most of them online or in numerous home improvement stores. However, before you set out to find the right septic tank, weigh out your options and your budget.
You can consult a professional if you are unsure which type of septic tank will work best for you. Do you need to buy concrete lids? As always, feel free to comment and ask questions if you have any doubts about choosing the lid.
How helpful that you mention that it is best to have a professional install the concrete septic tank lid. I am building a new home this year and will need a septic system because I am going to have a well. I will find a reputable septic tank service in the area to help.