How To Hide A Vent Pipe
There are various options for vent pipe hiding. Some are very cheap and easy to do, some are more expensive while others require time and patience. After considering all the possibilities, youll need to decide which one is suitable for your yard. The vent pipes near our new outdoor deck so we had to take that into consideration.
Landscaping Tips To Disguise Your Septic System
An aerobic septic system has many advantages. However, having one can present a homeowner with challenging landscaping decisions to make. The candy cane shaped vent pipes sticking up above the grass make wonderful Christmas lawn ornaments in December with a little red ribbon, but leaves the eyesores unadorned for 11 months. With a little imagination and whimsy, a homeowner can use the landscaping and other lawn accouterments to disguise an unattractive, but useful septic system.
Interested In Onsite Systems
Many researchers and onsite professionals have long recognized the benefits of periodically resting all or parts of a drainfield to restore soil infiltration. Intermittent resting lets bacteria mineralize the organic matter to unclog soil and ultimately restore infiltration. However, there are many factors to consider when resting a system.
The main problem with resting is creating a long enough time period necessary for beneficial resting that generates long-term improvement. Depending on homeowners water use, pumping the septic tank followed by two to three days of resting usually wont restore soil infiltration. Within a few days to a week, however, you can expect the system to be right back where it started.
Another factor is determining how long the system needs to rest. The first step is to evaluate soil type and the biomat thickness and resistance.
Generally, finer textured soils will require longer resting periods than sandy soils. You need approximately three feet of unsaturated soil below the infiltrative surface for soils to drain properly after effluent applications cease. For soils with periodic high water tables and particularly finer textured soils, the soils may not drain fast enough to promote biomat breakdown, even if applications are stopped for an extended period.
From pipe vent filters and leaching systems to decorative septic lid covers, we’ve gathered these components for all your drainfield media and design needs:
Recommended Reading: Floor And Decor Concord Mills
Passive Septic System Vent
Septic system vents from Pagoda Vent Company passively ventilate on-site system components. They work in conjunction with the roof vent as air intakes, creating a draft through the system that clears gases and pressure within the system. They preserve concrete component integrity by diminishing microbial induced corrosion. The vents aesthetically blend into the landscape, are lightweight and will not fade or rust. An optional odor control filter cartridge is concealed in the unit. 888/864-1468 www.pagodavent.com.
Growing Vegetables Over A Septic Drain Field
Although the drain field may seem to be the ideal place to have a vegetable garden, it is not recommended. Even though different soil types differ in their ability to filter contaminants out of the effluent, there is no way to be absolutely sure that everything is being filtered out. Therefore it is not recommended to plant vegetables in a septic drain field because of the health risks associated with bacterial contamination. Also, vegetable gardening requires frequent cultivation of the soil, supplemental watering and fertilization. None of these practices are recommended for a drain field. Using a raised bed is also not recommended. The additional soil over the drain field reduces the effectiveness of the system to filter the effluent because it interferes with evaporation of soil moisture.
Recommended Reading: Floor And Decor Greenville Sc
Planting Around The System
Water wise shrubs and tall grasses around the elements provide excellent coverage, too. Low maintenance plantings with fibrous root systems, rather than wide spreading roots, work best around aerobic treatment systems. Azalea, boxwood and rhododendron in addition to native grasses and non-aggressive vegetation, provide colorful camouflage with very little maintenance, water, or fertilization. However, avoid putting topsoil or plants directly above the access point. In winter months, these can freeze over and limit accessibility to the tank when it needs servicing.
Some care should be exercised when planting around an aerobic treatment system. When planning your landscaping, ensure that trees are planted at least 25 feet away from the drain field. In addition, avoid placing gazebos or heavy landscaping ornaments near the tank, and do not plant vegetables or other edibles within the drain field.
Landscaping Over Septic Drain Fields
Factsheet | HGIC 1726 | Mar 7, 2010 |
Many homeowners in South Carolina want to know what can be grown, if anything, over their septic drain field. As an increasing number of people move into rural areas throughout the state, this issue becomes more common. A septic system represents a significant investment, so some understanding of its workings will allow a homeowner to protect and care for his investment properly. Proper care and maintenance of the septic system will save time and money while protecting the environment.
Also Check: Home Decorators Collection Vinyl Plank Flooring Java Hickory
Light House Septic Vent Camouflage By Daveswoodcraft
Media.wcyb.com is an open platform for users to share their favorite wallpapers, By downloading this wallpaper, you agree to our Terms Of Use and Privacy Policy. This image is for personal desktop wallpaper use only, if you are the author and find this image is shared without your permission, DMCA report please Contact Us
Secure The Layers Together
Now that you have two layers, drill two holes using a ½-inch drill bit on the top edge of each board making up the top layer. Each hole should be 3 to 4 inches from the end and 1 ½-inch deep. Alternate the location as you add each layer so you do not hit the same spot as the lower layer.
Once you have the holes bored out, secure the layers together using 12 2 ½-inch screws. Use wood glue between the layers for added support.
Tip: Wrap a piece of painters or masking tape on the drill bit where you should stop drilling as a guide.
Also Check: Floor And Decor Fort Myers Florida
The Dos For Hiding Your Septic Tank
Now that you know the baselines and rules, here are some ideas to get you inspired for hiding your septic system. The biggest advice? Get creative. Find what fits in your yard and climate.
- Plant tall native grasses with fibrous roots around the opening to conceal the tank lid from view.
- Place a light statue, bird bath or potted plant over the septic lid.
Pagoda Vents Are More Than Just A Pretty Face
Pagoda Vents keep your septic system functioning at its best.Pagoda Vents are connected to underground systems that require oxygen. The microbial bugs that are breaking down your wastewater, eating up all the pollutants are aerobic bugs. They need oxygen to survive and thrive! Additionally, the concrete tanks also need an escape route for toxic gases so they dont corrode. Pagoda Vents do more than look good, they help septic systems function at their best, helping them to last longer too.
Pagoda Vents were developed by engineers that have been working in the wastewater industry for decades. They are designers that understand how septic systems function best and are sensitive to the providing the most aesthetic results possible.
Also Check: Hanging Wall Decor Without Nails
Will The Effluent Affect My Growing Conditions
The effluent in the septic drain field does affect growing conditions. Whatever goes down the drain in a particular household influences the composition of the effluent. The vast majority of household chemicals are alkaline and thus raise the pH of the effluent. However, a properly functioning septic system has anaerobic digestion by bacteria in the tank that tends to keep the effluent pH closer to neutral. Bearing this in mind, it is advisable to test the soil pH and to plant species that are largely pH adaptable. Another factor to consider is that salinity levels have the potential to be high, so selecting species with a known tolerance for salt is advisable if a soil test reveals high levels of sodium.
The Donts Of Septic Tank Disguise
Improper decoration and disguises can lead to some problems, including ruptured pipes in the drain field and tank. If you arent sure where your system is located, it is best to call your service technician to understand the lay of the land before beginning decorations. Here are a few basic donts to keep in mind.
- Trees. Keep trees at least 25feet away from the drain field. Trees and some bushes grow long, strong roots that can get tangled in and in some cases, pierce the septic system.
- Grass Covering. While grass is an option over the drain field, nothing permanent should be planted on top of the septic tank cover since regular maintenance and pump-outs are a must to keep your septic system running efficiently.
- Fencing. Use fencing sparingly, carefully, and shallowly. Staking posts too far down can cause serious problems for your drain field.
- Vegetable Gardens. Do not plant vegetable gardens near or around your septic system as contamination is easy.
- Heavy Items. No large lawn ornaments or gazebos above or near the septic system and drain field. All that weight can easily begin to put pressure on your system.
- Driveways. Dont park cars or machinery over a septic system.
- Animals. Keep animals away from the system. The last thing you want is to find your dog has dug down too far and confused PVC for a bone
You May Like: Grey And White Bedroom Decor
How A Septic Drain Field Functions
Understanding how a septic system functions is essential to making sound decisions about how to best landscape over the drain field. A standard septic tank will separate solids from liquids. The liquid effluent, or wastewater, will then flow from the tank into a series of drain lines that allow the effluent to slowly percolate down through the soil in the drain field. Many different soil microbes will act to filter and cleanse the liquid effluent before the harmful bacteria in it has a chance to reach ground water. These soil microbes require oxygen to function optimally, and perform less effectively in compacted and/or saturated soils. This is why it is recommended to keep excessive traffic off the drain field to avoid over-compaction of the soils. It is also recommended to keep excessive moisture from flowing over the drain field. This can be accomplished by diverting runoff from a roof or driveway away from the drain field, and making sure that irrigation systems do not add excessive moisture. It is recommended that sprinkler heads be positioned so that no irrigation water comes within 10 feet of the drain field.
Zosia Lawn.
Howard F. Schwartz, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org
What Exactly Are Vent Pipes
Vent pipes are a part of any sewage system, and they are used to vent out the gases which could otherwise develop within the system. I have a mound septic system instead of a conventional septic system, and I also have vent pipes in my yard.
Accumulating gases can cause air-blocks or even worse problems. To avoid this, the most important thing to remember is not to close the top of the vent pipes completely. Vent pipes vertically positioned in yards are harder to disguise than drainage pipes that can be covered with some grass and flowers. Some people are lucky and have a roof vent, while others have a yard vent like me.
Since yard vents are not aesthetically pleasing, most homeowners like me search for ways to hide them or make them less visible.
As you can see in the picture above, we have more than vent pipes to worry about. In fact, we have a total of nine objects wed like to conceal. Because of that, our approach may have to be more complex than most. More on that below.
Also Check: Floor And Decor Grand Junction
How To Hide Vent Pipes In Your Yard
Many homeowners, especially those with septic systems like me, have vent pipes in their yards. Those pipes look ugly, but luckily, there are several ways to hide vent pipes in your yard.
Vent pipes can be covered with various yard decorations available in stores made especially for that purpose. Some homeowners build rock formations or place other ornamental items around them to conceal them. Landscaping and planting around the visible septic system objects is another good option.
While hiding vent pipes, certain rules must be followed. Pipes have a purpose, and you must not cover them entirely and obstruct the vent. Here are some hiding ideas you can use as an inspiration for your vent pipe concealment.
Strategies To Reduce The Threat Of Root System Damage
Proper soil preparation can discourage roots from damaging drain lines. The idea is to provide an area for root growth away from the drain lines to prevent roots from seeking out water and nutrients in the drain field. It is recommended to dig as wide a planting hole as possible for the tree or shrub , digging out further on the side of the hole opposite the drain field. The reasoning behind this is to offer the roots a path of least resistance in the soil away from the drain field.
There are also several root barriers to consider using. These can range from rudimentary materials to more expensive geotextiles that are impregnated with herbicides to restrict root growth. In order for the barrier to be effective, it needs to be buried up to a depth of at least 2 feet. Ideally the barrier should run the length of the drain field to prevent tree roots from flanking the barrier and disturbing the drain lines. Keep the root barrier at least 5 feet or more from the drain line, and then at least another 5 feet from the planting hole. Just remember to never create a circle around the root ball of the tree with the barrier, which would create problems for the tree as it grows.
Don’t Miss: This Is Us Metal Wall Decor
How Can I Hide My Septic Tank Pipe
Plant Cover
Similarly, you may ask, how can I hide my septic pipes?
The Do’s and Don’ts of Hiding Your Septic Tank
Also Know, how can I hide my well pipe in my yard? Install a trellis into the ground in front of the exposed pipes if they’re typically visible from just one side, or use three to four panels to hide the pipes from all sides. Dig a 6-inch trench the same length as the bottom trellis panel and place the panel in the trench.
Besides, can I cover my septic tank lid with dirt?
However, a pipe or lid in the middle of a lawn may seem unsightly to some homeowners. A common solution to this problem is to situate the lid of the riser a few inches below the surface of the lawn. This way, grass and a thin layer of soil or another landscaping surface can cover the lid.
What can you put over a septic tank?
Stop Septic Tank Smell The Best Septic Vent Filters:
1.OdorHog Vent Pipe Filter Black ABS w/Mushroom Cap Inch)
OdorHog Vent Pipe Filter is one of the best septic vent filters in eliminating the bad odor from holding tank vents, plumbing vent, or septic drain field. It will effectively filter through the house vents every time a sink, dishwater, shower, or bathtub is drained, or the toilet is flushed.
The carbon filter installs directly on ABS or plastic PVS vent pipes without the need for glue or tools. The carbon is superior and last for several years formulated for the H2S molecule.
This model also features:
2.Odorhog Vent Pipe Filter Black ABS Inch W/ Mushroom Cap
This product from OdorHog is excellent in eliminating offensive odors from your septic vent pipes. The filter contains activated carbon that effectively eliminates the unpleasant odors such as hydrogen sulfide as they come out of the roof vent.
The carbon lasts for years and can prevent leaves and snow from clogging your vent stack as an added advantage. It is relatively cheap and easy to install on existing vents. Most of the homeowners can conveniently attach the filter in place by themselves. However, this OdorHog filter can only remove odors originating at the plumbing vent stack on the roof but not indoor odors.
This model also features:
3.VentGenie 2 Inch Sewer/Septic Vent Pipe Filter
This model also features:
5. VentGenie 3 Inch Sewer/Septic Vent Pipe Filter
This model also features:
Also Check: How To Decorate A Small Office Space At Work
