Are you looking for the cost of a concrete septic tank? The costs vary depending on the shape, materials, and capacity. Of course, a 1000-gallon concrete septic tank must cost more than a 500-gallon tank. Meanwhile, some other considerations may make you spend more money.
They include your house’s condition and whether the general sanitation system has been installed well. Before discussing the cost, it is better to determine how many materials to use for the general concrete septic tank.
The Estimation of Materials Used
Let’s say you want to build a simple septic tank with 2m x 2m sizes. Meanwhile, let’s assume that the septic tank’s dept is also around 2 meters. If you still don’t have any perspective regarding the items and details of how the septic tank is most possibly made, here they are.
The soil excavation is approximately 8 m3. The floor is about 0.2 m3, the cast concrete floor of the septic tank is 0.4 m3, the bricks for the concrete are around 16 m2, and the septic tank’s coverage is 0.8 m3.
As additional information, the septic tank cover width should be around 20 cm, along with the installation of the Metastructure with a diameter of 10 mm and a distance of 20 cm. This is so that the field above the septic tank is still strong and firm enough to be used for other necessities. The area above could be used to store heavy furniture or as a car garage.
The Cost
After estimating the number of materials to use in establishing the septic tank next, you can predict the cost to spend. Sure, the total cost can be different based on the price of each item. As you know, all the materials shops may require different prices to pay along with the additional facilities like the delivery service and more. Assuming all of you may live in the same place, here are the predictions.
For the soil excavation, it is around $10, the cast concrete floor costs around $3, the bricks and materials for the concrete cost about $48, the coverage costs about $55, and the pipes cost about $2.
When you make all of them, the approximate amount to spend is around $118. Sure, it is better to prepare more money since, during the installation process, there are often things or even problems you may not have predicted.
REad also: 500 Gallon Plastic Septic Tank
Given the importance of selecting the right material for your septic tank, it is essential to compare different materials. While concrete is a popular and durable choice, plastic and fiberglass are also viable options.
According to research, the cost of septic tanks can vary significantly based on the material chosen. For instance, a concrete septic tank might cost between $1,000 and $3,000, while plastic septic tanks are typically cheaper, ranging from $700 to $2,500.
Fiberglass tanks offer a balance between cost and durability and can range from $1,400 to $2,000. However, while plastic and fiberglass tanks might be more affordable initially, concrete tanks often offer greater long-term durability.
| Septic Tank Material | Cost Range | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Concrete | $1,000 – $3,000 | Durable, long-lasting, rustproof, strong | Prone to cracking, costly to repair, requires heavy equipment for installation |
| Plastic (Polyethylene) | $700 – $2,500 | Economical, easy to install, rustproof, lightweight | Can float or shift if, near water table, the shape may change under heavy weight |
| Fiberglass | $1,400 – $2,000 | Durable, rustproof, watertight, stronger than plastic | Can float or shift if near water table |
Personal Experience
Having worked on multiple septic tank installation projects, I’ve found that while concrete tanks require more effort and equipment to install, they offer peace of mind with their durability and longevity. In one case, a client opted for a concrete septic tank because their property had heavy equipment operating nearby.
Despite the higher upfront cost, this decision saved them from potential damage that could have occurred with a plastic tank, which might have shifted due to the weight of the equipment.
Other Considerations
Beyond the initial installation costs, other considerations can significantly impact the total expenditure. For example, soil conditions are critical; sandy or clay soils may require larger or more specialized systems, increasing costs. Installation labor also adds to the expense, with complex systems or challenging soil types demanding higher labor fees.
In addition, maintenance should not be overlooked. Regular pumping and inspections are necessary to ensure the longevity of your septic system, with maintenance costs ranging from $150 to $1,000 annually.
