Can I Buy Concrete Septic Tank Lids? (Find Out Now!)

A moment of carelessness on your part can have damaging results. For instance, messing around in your yard can lead to your septic tank sustaining damage. The septic tank’s lid in particular could end up chipping or cracking after getting hit.

So, what can you do if the septic tank’s cover has been badly damaged? Repairing the lid is possible, but that may not be an option if the damage is too severe. You may have to look into replacing the lid at that point.

Replacement lids for septic tanks are available and you can even purchase ones made from concrete. Concrete septic tank lids are available in different sizes so you should be able to find something compatible with your tank. Note that you may have to spend extra to replace a concrete lid due to installation costs.

Damaged septic tank lids must be replaced as soon as possible. Check out the information in this article and learn how to find a suitable replacement lid for your septic tank.

The number one reason why replacing the lid becomes necessary is because the one covering the tank has been damaged. Many homeowners are unaware of how susceptible to damage septic tank lids are.

Driving over the lid as you move your car into your garage can cause cracks to form. Concrete lids are strong, but even they will struggle to support the weight of a car.

The septic tank’s lid may also end up damaged due to how you arranged your yard. Placing a heavy fixture directly on top of the lid is not recommended. Count on the lid cracking eventually if you go with that kind of setup.

You may also accidentally damage the lid while working in your yard. Some septic tank lids are positioned pretty close to the surface. You may hit them accidentally while digging out spots for new additions to your yard.

Septic tanks are built to last for a long time. You can find tanks that will remain in good working condition for 30 or even 40 years assuming proper maintenance.

The tanks may last for multiple generations, but the lids don’t feature that same kind of longevity. Even if the lid shows no visible signs of damage, you may still want to replace it sooner rather than later. You don’t want that lid to shatter and have its remnants fall into the tank interior.

When you have the septic tank pumped, ask the specialists to assess the current condition of the lid. They will be able to tell you if replacing the lid is already necessary.

You may also want to replace the tank’s lid for a reason that has nothing to do with its current condition. Some homeowners put a lot of effort into designing their yard. They bring in special fixtures and plants to beautify that part of their home.

The presence of an unsightly septic tank lid can easily mess up an elaborate landscape design scheme. Concrete septic tank lids are easier to hide. Homeowners may prefer having those concrete covers in their yard instead of the other options.

Replacement lids for septic tanks are now easy to find. Go online and you should be able to find a few retailers that offer them in your area. The professionals who work on septic tanks in your area may also offer their own replacement lids.

You can also choose from a wide selection of replacement lids. Homeowners don’t have to worry about settling for ill-fitting lids. Replacements are offered in different sizes, making it easier for homeowners to find an item that suits their tank properly.

If one of the lids covering your septic tank breaks, you must replace it immediately. You could end up doing more damage to the tank if you wait too long to purchase a replacement lid.

The good news for homeowners is that replacement septic tank lids are pretty affordable. Homeowners who are bargain hunting may be able to find replacement lids sold for around $25 to $30.

Concrete septic tank lids are more expensive. They are usually priced closer to $70. Still, one can argue that the added durability is well worth the additional bucks.

Do note that the prices mentioned above are just for the replacement lids. You’ll have to pay an additional fee to get the lid professionally installed. Concrete lids are also tougher to install so specialists charge extra for them.

You may have to remove the septic tank lid if it’s in really bad shape. Grab a pry bar, a putty knife, and a friend for this job. You and your friend should also wear masks and gloves before trying to remove the lid.

Now that you have the tools and safety gear ready, you can start opening the lid. Start by removing some of the sealant along the brim of the tank using the putty knife. You only need to clear enough space for the pry bar, but you can remove the entire seal if you want.

Next, slide the pry bar between the tank and the lid then push down on it. While doing that, ask your friend to pull on the lid’s handle. Keep going until the lid has been completely removed.

In an emergency situation, you may have to remove the septic tank’s lid before its replacement even arrives. With no lid available just yet, you’ll have to use a sewer cover to temporarily seal the tank. Drop by your local hardware store to find a suitable sewer cover.

Once the replacement lid arrives, you can try to install it yourself or have the pros handle that job for you. Note that installing a concrete lid on your own may not be possible since special equipment is typically required for that.

Related Questions

How Do You Repair a Cracked Concrete Lid?

To repair a concrete septic tank lid, you will need to apply new concrete to the damaged area. The application of new concrete should work to solidify the lid and allow it to provide a secure seal once more.Repairing the lid involves first cleaning up the concrete. That will allow the new concrete to stick better to the lid. You can then start mixing up the concrete. Just be careful not to dilute the mixture by adding too much water. From there, you can go ahead and fill in the cracks with the new concrete. Once the new concrete dries, the lid should be good to use again.

What Are Risers?

Risers are pipes that go from the opening of the tank to the surface of your yard. The riser’s job is to make the lid and the septic tank itself easier to access. Consider getting a riser installed if you want to handle the septic tank inspections on your own.