On Tue, 27 Nov 2007 11:04:46 -0800, rodney_morgan wrote:

HI all,

When I last had my tank pumped 2 years ago a small hole was
discovered half way up the side. It is\was the size of a roll of
pennies. Having waited two years to get it fixed I finally started
digging out the tank at the approximate location of the hole. I got
down about two feet when my hole started to get waterlogged. I was able
to dig a trench almost the entire side of the tank about 3 feet down
before it got to messy with all the waste water. I still dont have an
exact location of the leak but should not have a hard time locating it
tomorrow. I have a septic company scheduled to empty my tank tomorrow
morning so I will be able to make the repair. Having talked to a friend
who was employed in the septic/excavation field for many years he
advised me to fill the hole with hydraulic cement and then put an
asphalt shingle on both sides with roofing tar or some other sealant.
Does this sound like the proper approach? Will I be able to get roofing
tar to stick on the wet cement. How would a professional perform this
repair? The reason I waited so long to perform the repair was based on
an estimate of about $1000 to get it professionally fixed. If I am able
to do it myself it will only cost me the price of the cement and a $200
pumping fee. From what I read it sounds like I have a mid seam tank
(1000 gal.) (25 years old) and these leaks at the seam are a notorious
problem for this style. I was also told by a different source that
their were holes used to lift the tank in place which are then plugged.
The reason I say this is that the hole appeared too perfect to be caused
by natural wear on the tank. Any advice would be GREATLY appreciated.

Rod M.




In some states the DNR has a program to help septic owners with repairs.
You might wish to contact the DNR and see what help is available.