Fiberglass Septic Tanks are a crucial component of any septic system. They are large containers, usually underground, that collect and treat household wastewater before it is dispersed into the soil. Septic tanks were traditionally made of concrete, but fiberglass has become an increasingly popular material for septic tank construction in recent decades.
Fiberglass is a reinforced plastic material made of glass fibers embedded in a plastic resin. It offers several advantages over concrete tanks in terms of durability, weight, and ease of installation. Fiberglass septic tanks are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and able to withstand pressure better than plastic tanks. This makes them an ideal solution for many homeowners and contractors looking to install an effective and long-lasting septic system.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview of fiberglass septic tanks, including their pros and cons, ideal installation conditions, maintenance requirements, costs, lifespan, and environmental impact. With the right information, readers can determine if a fiberglass septic tank is the best option for their septic system needs.
Table of Contents
What is a Fiberglass Septic Tank?
A fiberglass septic tank is a type of septic tank made from fiberglass-reinforced plastic (FRP). This material makes the tanks lightweight yet very strong and durable.
Fiberglass is a composite material made by embedding glass fibers in a plastic resin matrix. This combination results in a robust material that is resistant to corrosion and degradation.
Compared to plastic septic tanks, fiberglass tanks are much stronger and longer-lasting. The glass fiber reinforcement provides excellent strength and rigidity. Fiberglass tanks are also lighter weight than concrete septic tanks. This makes them easier to transport and install.
The durability and corrosion resistance of fiberglass makes these septic tanks ideal for long-term use. They can withstand exposure to wastewater, chemicals, oils, and temperature fluctuations without cracking or leaking. Fiberglass tanks will not rust or rot over time like metal tanks.
Overall, fiberglass septic tanks offer an excellent balance of strength, durability, and lightweight. The FRP material resists corrosion while providing structural reinforcement. This makes fiberglass an ideal material for septic tanks in terms of longevity and performance.
Pros of Fiberglass Tanks
Fiberglass septic tanks offer several key advantages over other materials:
- High Durability: Fiberglass is extremely durable and resistant to damage. The glass fibers are set in a plastic resin that creates a strong, rigid material. Fiberglass tanks won’t rust, rot, or corrode over time like metal tanks. They also resist cracking and impact damage better than concrete or plastic tanks.
- Withstand Harsh Conditions: The resin material protects the glass fibers, allowing fiberglass to hold up exceptionally well in wet environments and against exposure to chemicals. Fiberglass tanks aren’t affected by the acids, alkalis, oils, or salts often found in wastewater. This makes them ideal for septic system applications.
- Lighter Weight: At around 300 to 500 pounds, a fiberglass septic tank is significantly lighter than a concrete tank of equal size. The lighter weight allows for easier transport and installation. A single installer with proper equipment can maneuver the tank into place and avoid the need for heavy machinery or a team of workers. This makes installation faster, simpler, and more cost-effective.
- Easy Handling: The combined durability and lightweight nature of fiberglass septic tanks make them easier to handle than concrete or steel tanks. Their molded shape includes built-in access ports and fittings. Fiberglass tanks won’t crack or suffer structural damage as readily as other materials during transport and installation. Their design and material construction suits them well for difficult installations where access or space is limited.
Cons of Fiberglass Tanks
While fiberglass septic tanks have many advantages, they also come with some downsides to consider:
- Can float if not properly anchored: One of the main cons of fiberglass tanks is that they can potentially float out of the ground if not properly anchored. This is because fiberglass is lighter than materials like concrete. All fiberglass tanks should be securely anchored to prevent floating, especially in areas with high groundwater tables. Proper anchoring typically involves strapping the tank to ground anchors or placing the tank on a concrete pad.
- More expensive than plastic tanks: Fiberglass septic tanks tend to cost more than those made of plastic. The material itself is more expensive than plastic. However, the added durability and lifespan of fiberglass tanks compared to plastic often make the extra upfront investment worth it in the long run. Still, budget-conscious homeowners may prefer a plastic tank if looking to save on the initial purchase price.
Ideal Installation Conditions
When installing a fiberglass septic tank, it is important to ensure proper site conditions to maximize performance and longevity. The key factors to consider are:
Proper Soil Drainage
The soil where the septic tank is installed must have adequate drainage capabilities. Wet, compacted, or clay-based soils do not allow for proper absorption of liquid waste. This can lead to backups, leaks, and early system failures. Ideal soils are sandy or loamy, allowing water to filter through. Percolation tests should be conducted to verify drainage rates before installation.
Not in Flood Zones
Fiberglass tanks are at high risk of floating out of place if installed in flood zones or areas with a high water table. Even with anchors, buoyant fiberglass tanks may “pop” out of the ground when flooded. Only install fiberglass septic systems on sites safely above flood elevation levels.
Properly Anchored
Unlike concrete tanks, fiberglass septic tanks must be firmly anchored in place to prevent shifting. This is usually done by bolting the tank to a concrete pad or footing below the frost line. Proper anchors keep the tank secured and prevent it from rising if groundwater levels increase. Anti-buoyancy steps like concrete lids further reduce float risks. Follow your local codes for approved tank anchoring methods.
By carefully selecting proper soil conditions and securely anchoring the fiberglass septic tank, you can ensure optimal performance and avoid preventable installation issues. Consult with experts to verify site suitability before installation.
Maintenance
Fiberglass septic tanks require some periodic maintenance to keep them functioning properly. Here are some key maintenance tasks:
Periodic Inspections
It’s recommended to periodically inspect your fiberglass septic tank, generally every 3-5 years. Look for any signs of damage, leaks, or issues with the inlet/outlet pipes. Check that the access lids are secure and all components are functioning. This allows you to address any problems early before they become big issues.
Pump as Needed
If the sludge and scum layers build up in the tank, this will reduce its capacity and efficiency. When the tank becomes about 30-50% full, you’ll want to have it professionally pumped. This removes the waste accumulations and helps reset the tank. Pumping frequency depends on the size of the tank and how much use it gets.
Anchor Maintenance
Since fiberglass tanks are prone to floating, especially when empty, they need to be properly anchored. The anchor system requires periodic inspection and adjustment to ensure the tank remains securely in place. Check for any loosening of the straps or movement of the anchors over time. Tighten, reinforce, or replace components as needed. Proper anchoring prevents a fiberglass tank from surfacing.
Cost of Fiberglass Septic Tanks
Fiberglass septic tanks tend to have a higher upfront cost compared to plastic septic tanks. The material and manufacturing process for fiberglass makes it more expensive on initial purchase. However, fiberglass tanks offer long-term savings on maintenance and repairs.
The lightweight fiberglass material allows for easier installation compared to concrete tanks, reducing labor costs. Fiberglass tanks are highly durable and resistant to corrosion, meaning they are less likely to crack, leak or fail over time. This avoids costly repairs or full tank replacements down the road.
With proper maintenance, a fiberglass septic tank can last over 50 years. The long lifespan spreads the initial investment over decades of use, making it more cost-effective in the long run. There are no bolts, gaskets or seals that need replacing like plastic tanks. The structural integrity of fiberglass means the tank itself is unlikely to need repairs.
While plastic tanks have a lower upfront price, they tend to have a shorter lifespan of 20-30 years. The lower durability means seams and joints can begin to leak, requiring repairs. Eventually, the whole plastic tank may need replacing, incurring the full cost all over again.
So while fiberglass septic tanks require greater initial investment, the exceptional durability, low maintenance, and longevity provide significant cost savings in the long term compared to alternatives like plastic. The higher upfront cost is outweighed by decades of reliable, trouble-free use.
Lifespan
Fiberglass septic tanks are built to last. Properly installed fiberglass septic tanks have an exceptionally long lifespan compared to other materials. Fiberglass tanks are not susceptible to rust, rot, or corrosion. They have maintained their structural integrity for decades. This makes fiberglass one of the longest-lasting septic tank options available.
With proper maintenance and barring any catastrophic damage, fiberglass septic tanks can easily last over 50 years. Some sources even estimate a lifespan of 50-100 years for fiberglass septic tanks. The lifespan exceeds that of concrete tanks (which crack over time) and plastic tanks (which become brittle). The durability and longevity of fiberglass tanks make them a sound long-term investment for any home.
Fiberglass tanks show minimal deterioration over time. As long as they are undamaged, the walls maintain their strength. The resins used in fiberglass tanks retain their chemical resistance as well. While concrete or metal tanks may spring leaks over decades of use, fiberglass tanks remain watertight. Their impressive lifespan removes the need to periodically replace the septic tank. For homeowners seeking a “set it and forget it” septic system, fiberglass is an optimal choice.
Environmental Considerations
Fiberglass septic tanks are extremely durable and long-lasting, with a lifespan of over 50 years in many cases. However, fiberglass itself is not a biodegradable material. At the end of a fiberglass tank’s useful life, proper disposal is crucial to avoid environmental contamination.
Unlike concrete tanks which can potentially be buried or recycled, fiberglass tanks must be handled as hazardous waste. The resin and glass materials that makeup fiberglass are non-biodegradable. Dumping old fiberglass tanks in landfills or leaving them to sit on properties can allow hazardous chemicals to eventually leach into groundwater.
When it’s time to replace an old fiberglass septic tank, homeowners should contact their local environmental or waste management authorities for guidance on proper disposal. In most cases, fiberglass tanks need to be transported to a specialty landfill or recycling facility licensed to handle fiberglass and composite waste. Some manufacturers or installers may also take back old tanks for recycling or disposal. Though durable, fiberglass tanks do require careful planning for their eventual replacement and removal to avoid long-term environmental impacts.
Conclusion
Fiberglass septic tanks offer a durable, long-lasting option for homeowners and businesses looking to install a septic system. The fiberglass material provides excellent corrosion resistance and strength compared to plastic tanks. The lightweight nature of fiberglass tanks also makes installation and maintenance easier compared to concrete tanks.
However, fiberglass tanks do have some downsides to consider. Their lightweight material means they can potentially float out of position if not properly anchored. The material is also more expensive than plastic tanks.
Overall, fiberglass presents a great option for most septic tank applications. The exceptional durability and strength of fiberglass make it ideal for areas with high groundwater tables or corrosive soils. The ease of installation is also a major plus, saving time and money compared to heavy concrete tanks.
Fiberglass septic tanks are recommended for:
- Areas with high groundwater tables
- Locations with corrosive or acidic soils
- Sites where ease of installation is a priority
- Applications where the tank may undergo freezing and thawing
- Situations where a lightweight but durable tank is needed
If properly installed and maintained, a fiberglass septic tank can potentially last over 50 years. The fiberglass material resists rust, cracks, impacts, and chemical corrosion better than plastic alternatives. While fiberglass tanks carry a higher upfront cost, their exceptional longevity makes them a smart long-term investment for many homeowners and businesses.
