With summer around the corner, you may be considering adding a deck or patio to enhance your home’s outdoor space. However, if you have a septic tank, you’ll need to make extra considerations about where you build. The leach field area is one area of your property where you really shouldn’t build. Here are the top reasons why septic specialists caution against it.

Why You Shouldn’t Build Over Your Leach Field

Might Cause Clogging or Damage

Septic tanks, like any structure, can only bear a certain amount of weight before they will incur damage. The ground around the tank is also meant to absorb water, so placing anything heavy above can compact the soil and put unnecessary strain on the tank. Additionally, it’s a bad idea to plant anything other than short grass on your leach field, since deeper root systems can compromise the tank as well.

Makes Inspection Difficult

If you ever need a professional to inspect or repair an issue with your tank, or if you merely need septic tank pumping services, you’ll need the area to be accessible. If you construct a deck or any other type of structure over the top of the leach field, it could make the inspection process more difficult or even require disassembly.

Could Lead to Odor

Leach fields are there to absorb sewage water if necessary, so it’s not a particularly ideal place for a deck or patio. If there’s ever an overflow, it could lead to an unpleasant odor that would make your new outdoor entertainment space a lot less inviting.

If you have other questions about your septic tank or leach field, ask the professionals at Zook’s Septic Services, LLC in Middleburg, PA. The septic and sewer cleaning company has been pumping, inspecting, and repairing septic systems to central Pennsylvania residents for more than 30 years. Call (570) 837-1466 or contact the team online to learn more.