Any homeowner with a septic tank is likely familiar with the leach field, the area of rural land where wastewater is distributed after being expelled from the home through drains and pipes. The purpose of the leach field is to give the water a place to settle to avoid pooling which could cause safety hazards at home. One of the most common questions homeowners ask their septic system service is whether they can build atop the field. First Quality Environmental on Oahu answers the question with safety, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in mind. 

What Your Septic System Service Wants You to Know About Building Over a Leach Field

What Causes a Leach Field Not to Work?

The leach field’s main job is to promote drainage and minimize the risk of flooding near your home. Foot traffic, plants, and even small structures can impede water from flowing freely throughout the field, causing small puddles to form. When the leach field has flooded, it can no longer do its job, and you’ll need immediate assistance from your local pumping contractors.

So Can I Build Over My Field?

Building anything over your leach field will cause the area to compact and flood, essentially halting its function. Even adding a natural installation like a garden will clog up the small holes in the pipes that allow water to distribute properly, causing the area to fill up with wastewater. Not only will this be unpleasant to live with, but it is also extremely unsafe. The only material that a septic professional might allow in a leach field is short-cut grass, as the roots are usually too small to reach the pipes below.

If you’re having trouble maintaining your leach field on Oahu, get in touch with First Quality Environmental for reliable septic system service and inspection. The company has served the islands since 1991 and is well versed in septic setups specific to the area. Make an appointment by calling (808) 259-0100, or visit them online to learn more about their services.