Alexei Volkov
Replacing concrete risers with plastic ones can be a great way to improve access to your septic tank for pumping and maintenance. Concrete septic tanks are typically installed with heavy concrete lids that can be cumbersome to move and may require digging to access. By contrast, plastic risers and lids are lightweight, durable, and easy to remove, providing ground-level access to your septic tank. Before making the switch, it's important to locate your tank and measure the distance between the tank and the ground, as well as the diameter of the lids and any tank inlet or outlet covers. You may need to remove soil and inspect the tank for damage, cracks, or a sagging top. Once you've prepared the area, you can remove the concrete lids, trim the riser if necessary, and install the plastic risers and lids according to the manufacturer's instructions.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Why replace concrete risers with plastic | Concrete lids are heavy and require digging up the yard for septic tank servicing or pumping. Plastic lids are lightweight, easy to remove, and provide ground-level access. |
| Safety precautions | Wear safety gear, including gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask or respirator to avoid breathing in fumes and silicates in the dry mix. Keep children and pets away from the area. |
| Locating the tank | Dead grass may indicate the tank's location. Use a metal detector to locate the rebar in concrete tanks, then probe to find the edges. Tanks are usually 1-3 feet below the surface and up to 25 feet from the house. |
| Tank inspection | Check for cracks or a sagging top, which may indicate the need for repairs or replacement. Measure the diameter of the lids and any tank inlet or baffle outlet covers. |
| Adapter requirements | If the larger "manhole" lid is more than 24 inches in diameter, an adapter may be needed before fitting the lid riser. Adapters are available from lid riser manufacturers. |
| Removing concrete lids | Use a backhoe to remove the heavy concrete lids. Measure the distance between the tank and the ground. |
| Trimming the riser | Drill a hole at the appropriate height and trim excess length with a jigsaw. Some manufacturers offer adjustable risers. Sand the bases of the risers with 40-60 grit sandpaper and wipe with a tack cloth. |
| Riser placement | Place the risers over manholes and intake/outlet holes. Use a quick-drying, high-strength, flexible concrete patch mix. |
| Riser maintenance | Do not drive over the risers and lids. |
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What You'll Learn
- Prepare the area: clear space, secure pets, wear safety gear and locate the tank and lids
- Remove the concrete lids and set them aside
- Measure the distance between the tank and the ground
- Trim the riser if necessary, or add a riser to lift the new lid to ground level
- Sand around the bases of the risers, wipe with a cloth, then place the risers over the holes
Prepare the area: clear space, secure pets, wear safety gear and locate the tank and lids
Before replacing concrete risers with plastic, it is important to prepare the area thoroughly to ensure a smooth and safe process. Here are the steps to prepare the area effectively:
Clear the space: Remove any items that might obstruct your work area, such as furniture, potted plants, yard décor, or other objects. It is crucial to have a clear and spacious area to manoeuvre and perform the necessary tasks.
Secure pets and ensure human safety: Keep pets and animals away from the work area to prevent any accidents or distractions. Similarly, ensure that children and other individuals do not have access to the area during the replacement process. This step is vital for maintaining a safe work environment.
Wear safety gear: Don appropriate safety gear, including gloves and safety goggles, to protect yourself from any potential hazards. Always wear a dust mask or respirator when working with concrete to safeguard your lungs from inhaling silicates in the dry mix. Safety gear is essential to protect your health and well-being.
Locate the tank and lids: Determine the exact location of the septic tank and its lids. Dead grass or shallow soil could indicate the tank's position. Utilise a metal detector to locate the rebar in concrete tanks, and then probe to find the edges. Measure the diameter of the lids and any tank inlet or baffle outlet covers. Inspect the tank for any damage, such as cracks or a sagging top, which may require repairs or replacement.
By following these steps, you can effectively prepare the area, ensuring a safe and efficient process when replacing concrete risers with plastic alternatives.
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Remove the concrete lids and set them aside
Removing the concrete lids is the first step in replacing concrete risers with plastic ones. Concrete septic tank lids are often extremely heavy, so removing them may require the use of a backhoe. It is important to take the necessary safety precautions when removing the lids, such as wearing a protective mask or respirator to avoid breathing in any harmful fumes that may be rising from the septic tank.
Once the concrete lids have been removed, they should be set aside in a safe and secure location. It is important to ensure that the lids are properly supported and will not accidentally tip or fall, as they could cause serious injury or damage. It is also recommended to clear the area of any furniture, potted plants, yard décor, and other items that could obstruct the work area or pose a safety hazard.
Additionally, it is crucial to take measurements of the septic tank at this stage. Measure the distance between the tank and the ground, as well as the diameter of the lids and any tank inlet or baffle outlet covers. These measurements will be necessary for the next steps in the process of replacing the concrete risers with plastic ones.
After removing and setting aside the concrete lids, the next step is to inspect the septic tank for any damage. Look for signs such as cracks or a sagging top, which could indicate that repairs or replacement of the tank may be necessary. It is important to address any issues with the tank before proceeding with the installation of the plastic risers and lids.
By following these steps and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can effectively remove the concrete lids and prepare for the installation of plastic risers and lids, which will provide better access for future inspections, repairs, and septic tank pumping.
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Measure the distance between the tank and the ground
When replacing concrete risers with plastic, it is important to measure the distance between the tank and the ground accurately. This measurement will ensure that the new plastic riser and lid are installed correctly and function properly. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Firstly, locate the septic tank and its lids. Clear the area of any items, secure pets, and ensure that children and unauthorized individuals are not present. Put on the necessary safety gear, including gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask or respirator to protect yourself from any fumes and debris.
Now, let's determine the distance between the tank and the ground. This measurement is crucial for selecting or adjusting the riser height appropriately. You can use a variety of tools for this step, depending on your preferences and the specific conditions of your tank:
- Laser Distance Meter: This tool allows you to measure the distance between the manhole and the tank walls. However, it requires someone to enter the manhole to hold the device against the wall.
- Ultrasonic or Laser Measurement: These methods can be used to measure the distance from the manhole to the walls, provided there is some airspace at the top of the tank.
- Metal Detector: If you are having trouble locating the tank, a metal detector can help find the rebar in concrete tanks.
Once you have the distance measurement, you can proceed to select or adjust your riser accordingly. Remember that the goal is to bring the new plastic lid to ground level for easier access during pumping and maintenance.
Keep in mind that some manufacturers offer adjustable risers, eliminating the need for trimming. However, if trimming is required, follow the manufacturer's directions for drilling a hole and using a jigsaw to trim the excess length. Sanding the bases of the risers with grit sandpaper will also help create a smooth finish.
By carefully measuring the distance between the tank and the ground, you can ensure a precise installation of your new plastic riser and lid, making maintenance and pumping more accessible and efficient.
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Trim the riser if necessary, or add a riser to lift the new lid to ground level
Replacing concrete risers with plastic ones can be a great way to improve access to your septic tank for pumping and maintenance. The process involves several steps, one of which is trimming the riser or adding a riser to lift the new lid to ground level.
First, measure the distance between the tank and the ground. If your septic tank is installed below ground level, you may need to add a riser to bring the lid to ground level. This provides easy access to the tank without having to dig up your yard each time it needs servicing. There are several options for adding a riser. You can choose from various materials, including stainless steel, plastic, or fiberglass. Some manufacturers offer adjustable risers that can be stacked to achieve the desired height without trimming.
If your tank is already at ground level or you prefer not to use an adjustable riser, trimming the riser may be necessary. Follow the manufacturer's directions for trimming, as the process may vary depending on the riser type and material. In general, you will need to drill a hole at the appropriate height and then use a jigsaw to trim off the excess length of the riser. Sand the base of the riser with 40- to 60-grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface.
It is important to note that some riser systems, like the Polylok riser, cannot be cut down to size. Cutting these risers may cause the lid to not secure properly. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure you do not void any warranties or compromise the integrity of the riser system.
Additionally, consider the type of lid you will be using. If you have a heavy-duty lid, it may require a specific adapter ring for proper fitting. The size of the opening will determine if an adapter is needed. For example, the Polylok 24'' Heavy-Duty Lid requires an opening of at least 24'' in diameter to fit directly onto the adapter ring.
By following these steps and instructions, you can ensure that your new plastic lid is easily accessible and properly fitted, providing better access for pumping and maintaining your septic tank.
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Sand around the bases of the risers, wipe with a cloth, then place the risers over the holes
When replacing concrete risers with plastic, it is important to take the necessary safety precautions and follow the correct procedures. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide for the process, focusing on the task of sanding around the bases of the risers, wiping them, and placing them over the holes:
First, ensure you are wearing the appropriate safety gear, including gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask or respirator to protect yourself from concrete dust and fumes. Now, let's begin the process of preparing the risers:
Sand around the bases of the risers using 40- to 60-grit sandpaper. This step is crucial for creating a smooth and even surface, ensuring a proper fit for the risers. Take your time and work carefully to achieve the desired smoothness. Once you are satisfied with the sanding, it's time to wipe the surface clean.
Use a tack cloth to wipe away any dust or debris that may have been generated during the sanding process. This step is important for two reasons: firstly, it helps to create a cleaner surface for the next steps, and secondly, it can help you inspect your work and ensure that the sanding has been thorough and effective. Now, carefully place the risers over the holes:
Position the risers over the manholes and the intake and outlet holes. Ensure they are properly aligned and level. You may need to make adjustments to the height of the risers by trimming them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Some manufacturers offer adjustable risers, so trimming may not be necessary. Check that the risers are secure and stable, following any provided instructions for fastening or adhesive use.
By following these steps, you will have effectively replaced concrete risers with plastic ones, improving access for future inspections, cleaning, and maintenance. Remember to always refer to the manufacturer's instructions and safety guidelines throughout the process.
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Frequently asked questions
Concrete risers can be heavy and cumbersome, and they may need to be dug up for servicing. Plastic risers are lightweight and durable, and they provide ground-level access, making maintenance easier.
Removing concrete risers may require the use of a backhoe as they are extremely heavy. Make sure to wear safety gear, including gloves, safety goggles, and a dust mask or respirator to avoid breathing in any fumes or concrete silicates.
Measure the distance between the tank and the ground. Trim the new riser if necessary, and sand around its base with 40-60 grit sandpaper. Wipe it with a tack cloth, then place it over the manhole and holes. Mix a concrete patch in a bucket, following the manufacturer's instructions.
