Homes in Salina, KS, often use a septic system for the disposal of waste. A septic lateral drain field disperses waste from the tank into the nearby soil. This is why biological processes will break down the wastewater. Proper installation and routine maintenance can help protect the lifespan of a septic lateral field. Our team at LilyPad Septic is here to help you better understand the factors that impact service life.
Average Lateral Field Life Expectancy
An average lateral field life expectancy is around 15 to 30 years. Achieving a time frame closer to 30 years is achievable with professional installation, maintenance of the drain field, and routine maintenance.
Soil conditions also matter. Soil that drains well allows the lateral field to last for a longer period. Unfortunately, poor soil conditions or lack of maintenance can lead to a lifespan of less than 10 years. Heavy clay or compacted soil holds water easily and leads to early saturation.
Instances that lead to the overloading of your lateral field with excess water can shorten the expected lifespan. This includes having a larger household, having a leaking plumbing fixture, or using high-flow fixtures. Having your septic tank pumped on a regular basis will also help prevent solids from flowing into the lateral field.
Signs Your Lateral Field is Failing
Homeowners should watch for warning signs that their lateral field is starting to fail:
- Slow-moving drains
- Bad odors near the septic area
- Soggy patches on your property
- Unusually luscious green grass over the drain field area
How to Protect the Lateral Field
There are steps homeowners can take to extend the life of a lateral field. Scheduling septic tank pumping every three to five years is essential. Fixing plumbing leaks and using high-efficiency fixtures helps control water load. Spreading out water-heavy tasks like laundry reduces strain on the system.
Avoid driving or parking on the drain field, as this causes soil compaction. Do not plant trees or landscaping over the area to prevent root intrusion. Ensure the property drains water away from the lateral field to prevent saturation.
Addressing Repairs and Replacement
If a lateral field begins to fail, several options exist depending on the severity. Resting the field allows natural recovery in some cases. Installing replacement laterals can restore function. Biological rehabilitation products can help break down the biomat that clogs the soil. In severe cases, an alternative system design may be necessary.
A professional assessment from LilyPad Septic is the best way to determine which path forward is right for your property. Contact us to schedule a septic inspection or service today.
