Septic Tank Repair is not a job for a lay-man. It is one of the most critical maintenance jobs that must be done correctly or it can cost you a lot of money and waste a lot of time and effort. Professional tank cleaning services are not inexpensive. The national average for septic tank repair charges between $ 750 and up, with the individual homeowner typically paying considerably more to have their system cleaned. Repair charges vary greatly depending on the exact problem being addressed and extent of work needed.
One of the more common problems encountered is that of a clogged septic tank. A clogged pipe is the worst-case scenario and often involves a slow leak that has been undetected over several months. While bacteria may cause the odor, they do not actually break down the pipes. Clogged pipes require special tank cleaning and repairs to get the pipes clear. Smaller leaks may require an individual to use a plunger and a long, narrow nozzle to unclog a smaller area.
Roots are another major concern when it comes to septic tanks. Root intrusion will damage the lining and create additional bacteria, while larger roots can cause serious structural damage that can cause pipes to collapse or leak. Many times, the roots will grow upwards out of the tank and as the sewage begins to move through, they will push or dig against the walls of the tank. If these roots are not dealt with quickly, the sewage can cause serious back-ups that can damage your property and cost you a significant amount of money in repairs.
Tree roots can grow sideways into pipes and other structures and create a severe blockage, which can cause a lot of damage. Water from the tank has nowhere else to go and will slowly erode the walls of the tank. This can also lead to sewage back-ups or leaks. There are many companies that provide septic tank repair services and can help prevent future damage by detecting problems and making necessary repairs.
Septic tanks are made out of a variety of materials including copper, plastic, stainless steel, polyethylene, and copper tubing. Plastic liners are relatively inexpensive, but tend to break down after many years. As a result, a new liner must be installed if the old one needs to be replaced. Plastic liners are not strong enough to withstand the pressure of sewage, so in many cases it is best to have new tanks replaced instead.
Another common septic tank issue is sludge. Sluicellar sludge is solid waste material that is flushed down the toilets each time a person flushes a toilet. Over time, this material builds up and can make it into the main drain field. This can clog the pipes and cause a backed up main drain. In this case, it is important to have the sludge removed before the pipes are repaired. Otherwise, the pipes could become too weak to handle the traffic, which could lead to a leak or overflow.
Another problem faced with septic tank maintenance is cracking. Small cracks in the tank can occur as the septic system ages. Small cracks may not cause any harm, and if there is no larger crack in the tank, it is okay to repair. Large cracks, however, should be inspected by a professional for signs of leakage or damage. If there is damage, it is necessary to repair the tank immediately, because it may cause damage to surrounding areas of the property.
Smaller problems, such as small holes in the lining, can often be fixed by patching the area. If the problem is more severe, such as when a crack extends from one pipe to another, or when the drain becomes completely blocked, it is necessary to address the issue with a professional plumbing service. Many times, a plumber can make the necessary repairs to prevent a disaster from happening. Septic tank problems should not be taken lightly, because they can pose a serious threat to the safety and health of your family and place of business.