A septic drainfield is dependent upon many factors to stay viable. While many homes have had drainfields last for decades, many others have their drainfields fail with a few years or even less. The longevity of a septic drainfield will depend on how and where the field is built, and also upon how it is used and maintained. To get the most use out of a drainfield, the first step is to ensure that the drain field installation is done correctly.
Building A Successful Drainfield
A drainfield has certain requirements that, if not met, will jeopardize the septic system as a whole. The location and installation are critical; without the proper conditions, the field is unlikely to support a septic system that is used on a regular basis. Some of the factors that need to be considered when creating a drainfield include:
- Soil conditions. An area that has seasonal flooding or surface runoffs will be a poor location for a drainfield.
- High water clearance. The drainfield must be installed over the high water clearance to be viable.
- Dimensions. The field must be large enough to handle the amount of usage and take into consideration the soil percolation rate.
- Proper soil, gravel and covering. A drainfield needs the correct combination of gravel, soil and backfill covering to work efficiently.
In the best circumstances, a drainfield may last for up to twenty years. However, many municipalities will insist that when building a drainfield, a second replacement field area is reserved for when the first one eventually fails. The best way to ensure you have an adequate drainfield for your needs is to have a professional septic company build your field, and educate you on the best way to maintain your field once it’s in place.
Posted on behalf of Mike Smith, A-Flo Free Septic
