What to Do If Your Middleburg, VA Septic Tank Collapses

Septic tank collapses usually happen without warning signs and so, they can be extremely dangerous. You cannot overlook the possibility of someone falling into a collapsed septic tank in your yard and getting themselves injured.

Sometimes, if not attended quickly, the person can even die due to inhaling toxic gases present in the tank. Also, remember that it is almost impossible to say if the septic tank in your tank is prone to collapse by merely looking it from outside.

For this reason, you must get your septic tank inspected by professionals at Advantage Septic Service, especially if you have a very old, disconnected or abandoned septic tank in your property. If you are wondering what causes a Middleburg, VA septic tank to collapse, here are some common reasons.

What Causes a Middleburg, VA Septic Tank to Collapse?

There can be many reasons for your septic tank collapse. One of the most obvious ones is the age of the septic tank. As your septic tank gets older, according to the building material used for its construction, it can get damaged. For example, if your septic tank is built using stainless steel, it can get eroded in the long run. So, if you have an old septic system in your yard, make sure to get it inspected by experts at Advantage Septic Service as soon as possible. The same applies to septic tanks which are situated in abandoned lands that are no longer used.

We have also noted the fact that empty septic tanks are more prone to collapse when compared to septic tanks which contain wastewater. This is because empty tanks do not have water inside them to balance the pressure which the surrounding soil applies to it. Also, keep in mind that a septic tank that remains empty for long periods will create high hydrostatic pressure in the nearby land, which can lead to its collapse.

Another main reason for an unexpected septic tank collapse is the incorrect way in which wastewater is distributed in it. If you have a properly designed septic system, it will always spread the water evenly throughout its walls. Not only that, but such a septic system will also make sure that the water absorption process by its walls to the surrounding soil is also done uniformly.

Septic tanks which fail to do this, develop specific pressure points in its walls, where the tank is forced to absorb more water than it can handle. This will weaken the tank structure in the long run and lead to a septic tank collapse. Driving heavy vehicles and equipment over a septic tank can also weaken it and may cause a meltdown. Make sure to call Advantage Septic Service if you need any help regarding your septic tank.