Key Takeaways
- If a septic tank has collapsed, it is unsafe and should not be used, even if some wastewater drains temporarily. Therefore, detecting septic tank collapse as soon as possible is vital.
- Sinkholes, foul odors, plumbing backups, and unexplained plant growth above the tank may be signs of a septic tank collapse. Nevertheless, you should schedule a professional inspection to confirm this.
- Continuing to use a collapsed tank can lead to issues, such as soil instability that jeopardizes property stability and environmental contamination, including groundwater pollution, that can pose health hazards.
- Usually, collapsed septic tanks cannot be repaired; instead, they require full-scale replacements to restore functionality to your septic system.
The Usability of a Collapsed Septic Tank
Septic systems are integral to many rural and off-grid homes, meaning they can disrupt day-to-day life when inoperative. This encourages many people to use them when they are not functioning correctly and raises the question, “How long can you use a collapsed septic tank?”
Unfortunately, a collapsed septic tank should not be used at all, even if some wastewater still drains. Neglecting septic tank collapse repair or replacement can generate significant health and environmental hazards, making it important to recognize the warning signs of a collapsed septic tank and take immediate action to prevent further damage.
Although this article can help you build your knowledge of collapsed septic tanks and equip you with preventative strategies, routinely scheduling septic tank services, such as pumping and cleaning, is the best way to catch issues before they worsen. Additionally, a qualified specialist can explain how long a septic tank can last after a professional inspection, giving you clarity and facilitating informed decision-making.
What is Septic Tank Collapse?
Septic tank collapse is a type of substantial structural failure that compromises the tank’s ability to manage wastewater. Ultimately, this can lead to other issues, such as sewage backups and environmental contamination, that pose health hazards to inhabitants and demand additional remediation efforts.
Some types of septic tanks are more prone to collapse than others. For example, old steel tanks are susceptible to corrosion, meaning exposure to moisture and specific soil conditions can rust the tank’s frame and increase the risk of sudden failure. Thankfully, steel septic tanks are becoming less common as more people opt for fiberglass, plastic, or concrete alternatives. Still, septic tank collapse can be caused by more than just corrosion, putting all tank types at risk.
Common Causes of Septic Tank Collapse
Some examples of common causes of septic tank collapse include:
- Age – Over time, natural wear and tear can deteriorate a septic tank’s frame to the point of causing structural collapse.
- Soil pressure – Heavy rainfall or shifting ground can cause the pressure underground to build up and put excessive stress on the septic tank’s frame
- Heavy vehicle traffic – Driving or parking cars or heavy equipment on top of the septic tank can cause it to crack or cave in.
- Tree root intrusion – The growth of nearby trees can cause roots to penetrate the tank, leading to structural damage over time.
In addition to the causes listed above, poor maintenance can also contribute to septic tank collapse because, when left undetected, minor structural weaknesses can worsen over time and cause full-blown collapses. Regular inspections allow professionals to catch issues early on and address them before they worsen.
How Long Can You Use a Collapsed Septic Tank?
A collapsed septic tank should not be used under any circumstances. Some people believe that because some wastewater may still be draining, their system is safe to use, but unfortunately, that is not the case. Significant structural failure suggests the system is unsafe and ineffective. Using a compromised septic system can jeopardize the health of inhabitants and the property, making it vital to address the issue immediately.
Risks of Using a Collapsed Septic Tank
Some examples of repercussions that can follow the continued use of a collapsed septic tank are:
- Environmental contamination – Damaged septic tanks can leak wastewater into the surrounding soil. Groundwater pollution can impact local water sources, affecting humans and nearby ecosystems.
- Health hazards – Since a collapsed septic tank can expose inhabitants to untreated wastewater, it can spread harmful bacteria and viruses that generate sewage-related illnesses like Campylobacteriosis and Gastroenteritis.
- Soil instability – Unusually wet soil or a sudden change in a septic tank can cause the land to become unstable, imperiling the home’s framework. If unaddressed, this can lead to property damage and costly structural repairs.
Due to the resulting exacerbated damage, the risks mentioned above are often accompanied by additional repair or remediation costs. For example, suppose an advanced septic tank system leaks disinfection chemicals into the surrounding soil. In that case, the property owner may need to schedule large-scale excavation efforts to keep their land safe.
Signs Your Septic Tank Has Collapsed
Since septic tanks are stored underground and out of sight, it can be challenging to recognize when one is failing or has already caved in. Look for the following warning signs of a collapsed septic tank to prevent damage from intensifying and affecting more significant portions of your property.
Collapsed Ground
As the tank caves in, the soil above it may follow suit. Therefore, a sinkhole or a depressed area of land above the septic system’s general position may suggest structural failure. Even if the tank is temporarily unharmed, the sunken ground can deliver excessive pressure to the tank and eventually lead to collapse, making it essential to have a qualified professional survey the septic system as soon as possible.
Plumbing Issues
Drainage issues throughout your house usually signify a septic system malfunction or failure, such as a collapsed tank. So, if you notice frequent clogs, slow drains, or sewage backups inside your home, contact an environmental specialist to ensure your septic system is processing wastewater correctly.
Foul Odors Around the Tank
Collapsed septic tanks often leak excrement, bacteria, and other wastewater components into the surrounding dirt, ultimately generating a foul odor. If you detect persistent sewage smells near the septic tank’s location on your property, call an experienced professional to guarantee the system properly contains waste.
Unusual Plant Growth Above the Tank
The organic nature of wastewater can give grass and other plants the nutrients they need to thrive. Therefore, if you notice a concentration of unusually lush vegetation near your wastewater treatment system, call a qualified environmental specialist. They can check for issues, such as leaks or septic tank collapses, that can cause wastewater to seep into the soil.
Water Accumulation Above the Tank
A functioning septic system should allow wastewater to be absorbed flawlessly into the drain field. Inversely, pooling water near the septic tank can suggest a breach due to structural failure.
If you recognize any of the warning signs of a collapsed septic tank mentioned above, do not hesitate to contact a well-trained environmental remediation team like Alpha Environmental. We can explore potential problems and implement timely solutions to minimize damages and contamination-related health risks.
What to Do If You Suspect Septic Tank Collapse
If you suspect your septic tank has collapsed, it is crucial to take immediate action by halting all usage of plumbing fixtures—doing so can prevent further strain on the septic system. Next, you should consult an experienced septic professional. Schedule an inspection to uncover the root of the issue and pinpoint optimal next steps. While you wait for the septic professional to address the problem, avoid walking or driving over the area to minimize safety hazards and prevent further structural damage.
Can You Repair a Collapsed Septic Tank?
In most cases, a fully collapsed septic tank cannot be repaired. Instead, you may need a complete replacement. A professional must assess the damage and look for signs you need to replace your septic system to determine if this situation applies to you. Some examples of steps that can follow the diagnosis of a collapsed septic tank include:
- Safely removing the failed tank
- Selecting a replacement system suitable to the property
- Installing the new septic tank
- Doing tests to ensure proper drainage
After the abovementioned steps are performed, the specialist may inspect your property to confirm compliance with local regulations.
How to Prevent Septic Tank Collapse
Thankfully, there are ways to keep your septic system healthy and reduce the risk of collapse, potentially saving you from needing to get an abrupt, unexpected replacement. Some examples of preventative measures you could implement:
- Schedule regular maintenance services – Routine septic tank cleaning and septic tank pumping is a great way to prevent premature deterioration and promote early detection of structural issues.
- Avoid heavy vehicle traffic – By keeping the land clear of cars and machinery, you can reduce pressure on the tank and mitigate the risk of a cave-in.
- Manage tree root growth – Avoid planting large plants like trees near the tank to prevent root intrusion, which can occur as the plant grows.
- Use water efficiently – Limiting toilet flushes and other forms of water drainage can ensure you do not overload the system, which would otherwise deliver undue stress on the tank.
Using your septic system responsibly and relying on preventative maintenance from a dependable company like Alpha Environmental is essential to extend its lifespan and avoid costly failures.
Secure Expert Septic Tank Services Through Alpha Environmental
Using a collapsed septic tank is unsafe and can generate complications like health hazards and soil instability. So, if you detect signs of a collapsed septic tank, such as plumbing issues or foul odors coming from where the tank is buried, be sure to contact a qualified professional. Although septic tank collapse repair is not usually an option, environmental specialists can remedy the issue with a full-scale replacement. Then, they can perform routine maintenance to extend how long a septic tank can last.
Alpha Environmental provides expert septic tank inspections, repairs, and replacements to ensure your system functions as well as possible. Our team of highly qualified environmental specialists has substantial experience working with septic tanks and other wastewater treatment methods. If you live in the greater Portland area, we can provide tailored guidance to help you extend the life of your septic tank and mitigate the risk of collapse.
Schedule a consultation with Alpha Environmental today to safeguard your property against septic system failures.
