Concrete vs Plastic Leach Field Chambers: Pros and Cons

A septic system is one of the most important parts of your home or property. Having a functioning septic system that provides decades of trouble-free service is what you should expect. A key component of a septic system is the leach field chambers. These chambers receive wastewater flow from a septic tank and transmit it into the soil for final treatment and disposal. GoodFflow Solutions offers versatile septic products that increase land value, reduce system footprint, and enhance property value for both residential and commercial applications. In this article, we’re going to discuss concrete vs. plastic chambers and why choosing the wrong drain field chamber can be a costly mistake.

Concrete vs Plastic Leach Field Chambers Lifespan

There is a difference in the lifespan of concrete and plastic leach field chambers. Concrete chambers simply last longer – they can sometimes last for up to five decades or more. Unlike plastic, the strength of concrete increases over time, and this is one of the reasons why concrete leach field chambers are so much more durable than plastic ones.

With concrete leach field chambers, property owners will save money over the long haul and they will also have less headaches, because having a septic system that isn’t working properly can be quite stressful! Also, there is a huge cost associated with replacing a failed septic system, not only does the system need to be replaced but also landscaping, irrigation systems, etc.

Concrete vs plastic leach Field Chambers cost

A concrete leach chamber system is cost-effective because it has fewer components and typically costs less to install than plastic systems. The GoodFlow concrete chambers are H-20 rated so they can withstand a 16,000 lbs wheel load. Most plastic chambers are not H-20 rated and can be crushed under the backfill and/or heavy equipment. When it comes to cost – the durability, reliability, and overall performance of the concrete chamber must be taken into account.

Actual Cost of the Plastic vs Concrete Chamber

When we think about replacing and installing a leach field chamber, you have to look at the overall cost – installation, maintenance, performance and longevity. A precast chamber type septic system can be installed quickly, with minimal, easy connections and low chances for damage during the back-fill process. Other factors that impact the actual cost include:

  • Labor Cost – Due to its small footprint, installing GoodFlow’s leaching chamber requires less work to install, resulting in a lower cost of labor. The structural integrity of a GoodFlow system, along with the superior functioning, insures a contractor will not be called back for issues pertaining to failures and malfunctions of the system.
  • Less Excavation for GoodFlow Concrete vs Plastic Leaching Chamber – Concrete leach field chambers are perfect for small lots or properties that require the leach field to be H-20 traffic-rated due to its location in a driveway or parking lot. GoodFlow Concrete chambers also qualify for a 40% reduction in some states in leach field size compared to plastic, meaning there will be less excavation.
  • Less Backfill Material for GoodFlow Concrete vs Plastic Leaching Chamber – GoodFlow systems are gravel-less so there is no need for expensive gravel or crushed stone. GoodFlow systems also displace a large amount of select septic sand, greatly cutting down on the amount of sand required to bed and backfill the system – resulting in a large savings.

Things You Didn’t Know You Needed to Consider When Choosing Concrete vs Plastic Draining Field Chamber

GoodFlow Concrete leach field chambers have many advantages due to cost savings, durability, quick and easy installation, and 40% leach field reduction. A conventional pipe and stone system has a larger footprint and requires gravel. The GoodFlow system’s smaller footprint provides cost savings in excavation and uses sand vs gravel again, providing additional cost savings.

Footprint – GoodFlow’s Concrete Drain Fields have Smaller Footprint

The GoodFlow system is designed to maximize the total effective area of a leaching system, meaning that you’ll be able to fit a septic system for private homes or commercial buildings in a smaller area. The smaller footprint from a GoodFlow system increases the value of the property by allowing the owner to build an addition to the house, build a pool, and/or increase the size of the patio, etc. A developer can take advantage of the additional space by adding more condos, offices, or retail space.

Load Bearing – GoodFlow’s Concrete Drain Fields can withstand Heavier Objects without Cracking or Breaking

The GoodFlow system is H-20 rated and has been tested to withstand loads in excess of 16,000 lbs wheel load. The system can be installed under hardtops; driveways, patios, tennis courts, etc. By installing under hardtop, the GoodFlow system increases the value of the property by allowing the homeowner to build an addition or a pool, and/or increase the size of the patio. A developer can take advantage of the additional space by adding more condos, offices, or retail space.

Lower Profile Means Makes Engineers Happy

GoodFlow Concrete leach field chambers have many advantages due to cost savings, durability, quick and easy installation, and 40% leach field reduction. A conventional pipe and stone system has a larger footprint and requires gravel. The GoodFlow system’s smaller footprint provides cost savings in excavation and uses sand vs gravel again, providing additional cost savings.

contact the product Specialists at goodflow

Contact GoodFlow Solutions today for more information on our durable, reliable, innovative septic solutions. We’ve got specs, instructions, and a wealth of knowledge to share, and look forward to speaking with you!

Related Leachfield Chamber Articles:
1. What is a Leach Field Chamber
2. Can Leach Fields Be Repaired?
3. Eljen vs GoodFlow Leachfield Chambers
4. Plastic vs Concrete Leach Field Chambers
5. Leach Field Chamber Case Studies