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Proper site preparation is one of the most important steps in a successful septic tank or cistern installation. Without the right conditions, even a high-quality precast concrete tank cannot be delivered or installed safely.
Planning ahead will save time, prevent delays, and avoid additional costs.
Before your tank is delivered, you need to understand the exact elevation and measurements required for installation. This includes knowing:
Accurate measurements ensure that the tank connects correctly and functions as designed.
Septic tanks are delivered using large trucks and lifting equipment. That means your site must be accessible for heavy-duty vehicles (up to 60,000 lbs).
To ensure a smooth delivery, your site should:
According to site readiness guidelines, a clear path is essential, including:
Simple rule: If a school bus can safely access the area, a picker truck likely can too.
Delivery trucks need enough space not only to reach the site but also to safely unload the tank.
Typical requirements include:
Without enough space, delivery may be delayed or require additional equipment.
Before delivery, the excavation must be fully prepared.
Best practices include:
Improper excavation setup is one of the most common causes of delivery issues.
It’s important to understand that the property owner or contractor is responsible for site conditions.
This includes any damage to:
Additionally:
Many delays and extra costs come from avoidable issues, such as:
Planning ahead helps eliminate these risks.
Before your delivery, make sure:
✔ Pathway is clear and accessible
✔ Minimum 17 ft overhead clearance is available
✔ Minimum 17–20 ft width is available
✔ Excavation is complete and accessible
✔ Truck can back up directly to the hole
Failure to meet these conditions may result in:
If you’re unsure whether your site is ready for delivery, it’s always better to confirm in advance.
Our team can help you:
Contact Tanks-A-Lot today to make sure your project is set up for success.
Typically, you need 17–20 feet of width and enough space for a truck to safely maneuver and deploy outriggers.
Ideally, within 3 feet of the hole, with enough space for safe unloading.
Delivery may be delayed, rescheduled, or incur additional costs.
Standard concrete tanks are not designed for traffic loads unless specifically engineered for that purpose.
Yes — the excavation must be fully prepared and accessible before the truck arrives.
Proper transportation and storage of precast concrete tanks — including septic tanks, holding tanks, and water cisterns — is essential to maintain structural integrity and ensure long-term performance.
If handled incorrectly, even the most durable concrete tank can be damaged before installation. This guide outlines best practices for transporting, lifting, and storing precast tanks in Alberta conditions.
Precast concrete tanks must be secured during transportation using nylon straps.
Nylon straps provide a firm hold without damaging the tank surface. In contrast, using chains, steel cables, or wire ropes directly on the tank is not reccomended, as they can:
Best practice: Always use soft, non-abrasive strapping methods when transporting septic or cistern tanks.
Concrete tanks should always be lifted using:
These lifting points are engineered to safely support the tank’s weight.
Using incorrect lifting methods can:
If required, Tanks-A-Lot can provide approved lifting slings (refundable deposit) to ensure safe handling.
Proper handling of tank components is just as important as the tank itself.
Follow these guidelines:
Incorrect handling may result in:
If your tank is delivered before installation, proper storage is critical.
Tanks should be placed on:
Avoid placing tanks directly on uneven ground, as this can:
Proper storage helps preserve the tank’s condition until installation day.
Precast concrete tanks are designed for durability, but improper handling during transportation or storage can lead to long-term issues.
Following these best practices ensures:
If you’re planning a project and need support with transportation, lifting, or installation of a septic tank or cistern, our team is here to help.
Contact Tanks-A-Lot today to make sure your system is handled properly from start to finish.
The best way to transport a septic tank is by securing it with nylon straps. This prevents damage to the concrete surface. Chains or steel cables should not be used directly on the tank, as they can cause cracks or structural stress.
No, lifting a concrete septic tank with chains is not recommended. Tanks should only be lifted using a crane with approved lifting slings attached to the designated lifting points. Using improper lifting methods can damage the tank and void the warranty.
Lifting slings must be attached only to the engineered lifting points or slots on the tank. These areas are designed to safely handle the weight of the tank during lifting and placement.
Risers should be transported in an upright position, and lids should be placed on a flat, stable surface. Avoid overtightening or stacking improperly, as this can cause damage or warping.
No, septic tanks should not be stored directly on uneven ground. They should be placed on a level surface with timbers or supports underneath to prevent stress and potential damage to the base.
Improper lifting can:
A precast concrete tank can be stored for an extended period if it is placed on a level surface with proper support and protected from improper handling. Proper storage ensures it remains in good condition until installation.
Yes, Tanks-A-Lot can provide approved lifting slings (refundable deposit) and guidance to ensure safe handling and installation of your tank.
A leaking septic tank is not always obvious — but the consequences can be serious.
From groundwater contamination to drain field failure and costly repairs, even a small leak can quickly turn into a major issue.
So how do you know if your septic tank is leaking?
In this guide, we’ll walk you through:
A septic tank is an underground concrete structure that collects wastewater from your home.
It works by separating:
For this process to work properly, the tank must be completely watertight.
If it’s not:
In climates like Alberta, where freeze-thaw cycles and soil movement are common, maintaining a watertight tank is even more critical.
One of the simplest ways to detect a leak is by checking the water level inside the tank.
This is especially important if:
A consistently low level is one of the strongest indicators of a leak.
Many older concrete septic tanks are built in two sections joined at a mid-seam.
Over time:
This type of failure is common in older installations and can be difficult to repair permanently.
In many cases, replacement is more cost-effective than repeated repairs.
Not all leaks come from the tank itself.
The inlet and outlet pipes are also potential weak points:
Signs include:
The good news: pipe-related leaks are often repairable if caught early.
Sometimes the issue is reversed — instead of leaking out, water is leaking into the tank.
This is more common in:
How to check:
This indicates that groundwater is entering the system, which can overload it and reduce efficiency.
In some cases, you may notice:
These signs suggest that wastewater may be escaping into the surrounding soil.
Understanding the cause helps determine whether you need a repair or full replacement.
Common causes include:
In Alberta, seasonal changes and ground movement can accelerate these issues over time.
This involves applying sealants to the joint where the leak occurs.
Best considered a short-term solution.
If the issue is at the inlet or outlet:
This is typically a cost-effective and reliable repair.
3. Addressing Groundwater Intrusion
This can be more complex and may involve:
In some cases, additional site work may be required.
While repairs can solve certain issues, they’re not always the best long-term solution.
You may want to consider replacement if:
Modern precast concrete tanks are:
In many cases, replacing an aging tank can save money over time.
Link to: Residential page
Anchor: “septic tank options for homeowners”
Don’t Wait — Small Leaks Become Expensive Problems
A leaking septic tank can lead to:
Regular inspection and early action can prevent major issues.
If you notice any of the signs above, it’s best to have your system assessed by a professional.
Common signs include low water levels, wet areas around the tank, unusual odours, and inconsistent system performance.
Yes. It can contaminate groundwater, affect nearby wells, and damage your drain field.
Some issues, like pipe leaks, can be repaired. However, older tanks often require replacement for a long-term solution.
It’s recommended to inspect your system regularly and monitor for changes in performance, especially in older systems.
At Tanks-A-Lot, we supply:
If you suspect a leak or are planning a replacement, our team can help you find the right solution for your property.
View our septic tanks and products
Contact us to discuss your project.
Installing or replacing a septic system is one of the biggest investments for any rural property in Alberta.
But how much does it actually cost — and what are you really paying for?
Short answer:
Let’s separate this clearly — because many homeowners get confused.
Septic tank (product only)
Starting from $3,000+
The final price depends on:
Looking for just the tank? Our septic tanks start from $3,000 — and we can help you choose the right size for your project.
Typically $10,000 – $20,000+
Includes (by installer):
At Tanks-A-Lot, we supply the tank and provide delivery and placement into the prepared excavation. Installation is completed by a certified septic installer.
$30,000 – $60,000+
Includes:
$40,000 – $100,000+
Required when:
Important:
The tank itself is only one part of the total system cost — but choosing the right one is critical for long-term performance.
At Tanks-A-Lot, we focus on supplying high-quality precast concrete products, including:
We also provide delivery and placement of the tank into the prepared excavation using our picker truck.
Please note:
Full septic system installation — including excavation, system design, and connections — is completed by certified septic installers.
If needed, we’re happy to recommend experienced installers in your area.
1. Tank Size (Based on Home Size)
For example, a typical 3-bedroom home requires a minimum ~1200-gallon tank.
2. Soil Conditions (Biggest Cost Driver)
Before installation, contractors test:
This determines:
Poor soil = more complex (and more expensive) system.
3. Type of Septic System
4. Site Access & Location
Costs increase when:
5. Drain Field Design
The drain field is often:
The most expensive part of the system
Typical Cost Breakdown (Alberta Example)
| Component | Estimated Cost CAD |
| Soil testing | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Design & permits | $600 – $2,000 |
| Tank | $3,000 + |
| Installation | $1,000 – $5,000 |
| Drain field | $3,000 – $15,000+ |
| Total | $15,000 – $50,000+ |
Septic Tank Price by Size (Product Only)
| Tank Size | Typical Use | Estimated Price CAD |
| 750 – 1020 imp gal | Cabins / small homes | From $3,000 – $5,000+ |
| 1200 – 1518 imp gal | Standard homes | $5,500 – $7,000+ |
| 2000 – 2300 imp gal | Larger homes | $9,000 – $10,500+ |
| 4000 – 5000 imp gal | High usage | $18,000 – $23,000+ |
Prices vary depending on configuration and accessories.
Be prepared for:
Plan an additional 10–20% budget buffer
Concrete tanks are:
Especially important in Alberta’s freeze-thaw conditions
Consider:
Choosing the wrong tank can lead to costly problems later.
Septic tanks typically start from $3,000+, depending on size and configuration.
Most systems range from $30,000 to $60,000+, depending on site conditions.
No — we supply tanks and accessories, and provide delivery and placement into excavation. Installation is completed by certified installers.
At Tanks-A-Lot, we supply:
Not sure what you need? We’ll help you choose the right tank and connect you with experienced installers in your area. Contact us.
A failing septic tank doesn’t always break overnight — it usually gives warning signs.
Ignoring them can lead to:
Your septic tank may need replacement if you notice:
These signs often indicate structural failure, leaks, or a system that can no longer handle your household demand.
If your sinks, showers, or toilets are draining slowly, it may not be a simple clog. Possible cause: The septic tank is full, damaged, or no longer functioning properly. If multiple fixtures are affected, your septic system is likely the issue — not your plumbing. This is often an early warning sign of a failing tank.
A properly functioning septic system should be odor-free.
If you notice:
…it may mean:
This is a strong sign your system is no longer sealed.
While a greener lawn might look like a good thing — near a septic tank, it’s not.
This usually means:
In Alberta, this can be especially concerning due to soil conditions and groundwater sensitivity.
It’s a clear sign your tank may be leaking or failing.
This is the most serious warning sign.
If sewage backs up into:
…it means your system is overwhelmed or blocked.
This is an emergency and requires immediate attention.
In many cases, this indicates the tank has reached the end of its lifespan.
5. Standing Water Around the Tank
If you see water pooling around your septic tank — especially without recent rain — it’s a major red flag.
Possible causes:
Standing water can lead to:
This usually means replacement is needed.
Not every septic issue requires full replacement — but many do.
You should consider replacement if:
In these cases, replacing the tank is often more cost-effective long-term.
Modern precast concrete tanks offer:
At Tanks-A-Lot, our tanks are:
If you’re exploring replacement, you can view our septic tank options for homeowners to find the right fit for your property.
Septic system failures don’t fix themselves — and waiting can lead to:
If you’re noticing any of these signs, it’s best to act early.
Most septic tanks last 30–50 years, depending on usage, materials, and installation quality.
Some issues can be repaired, but structural damage or aging tanks often require replacement.
Costs vary depending on tank size, site conditions, and installation. It’s best to get a quote based on your specific project.
Precast concrete tanks are widely considered the most durable and long-lasting option.
At Tanks-A-Lot, we supply:
Not sure if your system needs repair or replacement? Contact our team — we’ll help you choose the right solution.
Septic tank options for homeowners
View our septic tanks and products
While planning and designing your dream home, you will be involved in some major decision making. You need to ask the right questions to the right people like engineers, contractors and interior designers. They are professionals who will prepare the most appropriate strategy for you. When it comes to a sewage disposal system, preliminary groundwork can save you a lot of trouble and headaches later. Sewage treatment plants consist of adequate plumbing and underground tanks, where issues can crop up unexpectedly.
At Tanks-A-Lot, we answer some of the frequently asked questions by homebuyers and builders about sewage treatment plants and disposal systems:
What are sewage and wastewater?
Sewage is mostly bodily waste – feces and urine. Wastewater is a term broadly used for sewage as well as water from showers, kitchen, and industries.
What is sewage treatment?
Sewage treatment involves removing toxins and pollutants from it. This ensures when sewage is released; it has the least negative impact on its surroundings.
Why is sewage treatment necessary?
Sewage management is extremely necessary because if sewage mixes with groundwater, it will result in contamination. Wastewater contains pollutants like ammonium, nitrate, nitrogen, and phosphorous. Several disease-carrying pathogens like bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and parasites are also present. Pharmaceutical pollutants are also present in it, resulting from the use of medicines.
Does every building have a sewage disposal system?
A building might be connected to city sewage or an onsite sewage disposal system.
How does sewage disposal system work?
A sewage disposal system will have a septic tank and a dispersal area. A septic tank is an underground tank which receives, treats, and settles human waste. The solids settle to the bottom and lighter materials float to the top. The liquid between the topmost layer and the sludge at the bottom flow into the dispersal area, where it is filtered before entering the groundwater.
What happens to the sludge in the septic tank?
Sludge along with lighter materials that settle on top need to be pumped out every 2-3 years by a septic system pump-out contractor.
Where are treatment-plants situated?
Treatment plants are mostly attached to the septic tank. It handles the waste by breaking it down through aeration. It makes the liquid waste cleaner before it enters the dispersal area.
What are the distinctive features of a septic tank?
Septic tanks are exclusively designed to suit the waste treatment process. The tank contains an anaerobic bacterium which doesn’t need oxygen to help break down solid waste.
How to install a sewage disposal system?
Employ the services of a registered onsite wastewater practitioner (ROWP) to plan, install and maintain your system, based on your needs.
What to do after the system is installed?
Failing underground tanks will contaminate the groundwater. They need servicing every 2 to 5 years, depending on use. The following is important:
What are the problems that can be expected with an installed Sewage Treatment Plant?
Sewage plants will develop a problem if:
To learn more about septic tank maintenance or any other kind of maintenance, head over to our blog!
Have peace of mind and contact Tanks-A-Lot at Sherwood Park. We will listen to all your needs and custom make your sewage treatment plant for you. We are a manufacturer and distributor of Modulair® Wastewater Treatment Plants, scalable systems capable of treating up to 300,000 gallons per day. We custom-make precast concrete tanks – the preferred choice for underground septic tanks at residential sites.
The construction industry is a major factor in determining the well being of a nation’s economy and they represent 6% of the global GDP. The industry is currently on an upswing in Canada and is showing no signs of stopping in some of the country’s largest urban hubs. There are great changes underway and the importance of precast concrete tanks is also going up.
One of the questions that is currently echoing in the industry is – “Are we undergoing the golden age of underground infrastructure?”
Options for Homes with No Access to Municipal Services
Any home that is not connected to a municipal or city sewage system often needs an alternative solution for sewage disposal. Septic tanks or holding tanks are buried underground with about 4’of soil cover to help avoid frost in the ground from heaving the tank and damaging it or its connections. These on-site sewage solutions are cost effective and provide a reliable means of handling and treating your sewage.
Precast Concrete in Underground Applications
Unlike normal concrete, precast concrete is not poured into its mould on site. Precast concrete is manufactured in a controlled factory environment by making use of state-of-the-art manufacturing procedures.
Moulds for precast concrete are adjustable, reinforceable and reusable. Once poured, the technicians vibrate and cure the concrete before undergoing any final finishes, such as coring for openings or mechanical component fastening, before transporting the product to the site.
Precast concrete can be used in a number of different industries as it comes in various sizes and shapes. A huge number of finished architectural designs, shapes and colours can be used to make precast concrete fit any environment.
The added benefit of precast concrete products being manufactured in quality-controlled environments for on-time delivery and easy installation should also be taken into account.
Precast Concrete Tanks for Your Underground Residential Applications
The main uses for underground tanks in residential applications are:
There are many options available when you are choosing a tank for underground residential applications. Before anything else, you want to choose a tank that has the right capacity. After that, you should ensure the selected tank will provide years of reliable service. You should be mindful of the factors to consider before buying a tank.
The best choice for an underground tank is precast concrete as it holds many advantages over steel, plastic or fibreglass tanks.
Tanks a Lot Precast Concrete Products
Since 1982, Tanks-A-Lot Ltd has been manufacturing and supplying precast concrete in Alberta and British Columbia. Our residential, commercial, civil, and industrial tanks are environmentally friendly, watertight, and strong. These precast tanks are made to meet your requirements and can be easily installed as well.
Call us today for your precast concrete tanks or drop by our new office in Sherwood Park.
A sewage treatment plant is a system designed to remove contaminants from wastewater until it is safe to be discharged into the environment. The water is treated using a combination of physical and biological processes that work to reduce organic compounds. At Tanks-A-Lot Ltd., we supply wastewater treatment plants in Alberta for homes and commercial developments made of durable precast concrete. Let’s take a look at how treatment plants work.
The Sewage Treatment Process
There are a number of steps involved in sewage treatment. Specifics can vary depending on system size and treatment requirements, but the main processes involved remain the same. Wastewater that enters a precast concrete sewage treatment plant in Alberta undergoes the five following stages as it moves through the treatment plant’s chambers.
Wastewater leaves a building and is transported to the first chamber of the treatment plant via an inlet pipe. The wastewater remains in this chamber for preconditioning – there is no need for a separate holding chamber. This helps to cut down on the size of the plant, saving you space on your property.
In the preconditioning stage, microorganisms begin cleaning the wastewater while gravity draws solids to the bottom of the chamber. The flow rate of the water is equalized to prevent it from overloading the rest of the system during heavy use periods. Proper flow equalization throughout the system ensures that all wastewater entering a plant is fully treated and remains in each chamber as long as necessary.
The wastewater enters another chamber where diffusers provide the oxygen needed by microorganisms to treat the water, a process known as biological oxidation. The microorganisms form a biofilm that converts any contaminants in the water into stable substances. Carbon compounds and sulphate are degraded and ammonium is converted into nitrate, which is further reduced into oxygen and nitrogen.
The wastewater moves on to the clarification chamber, where any remaining particles from the cleaning stage settle on the bottom of the chamber and wastewater is completely converted into clarified liquids. Settled solids are sent back to the first chamber for further cleaning.
The clarified water is now safe to be discharged into the environment and exits through the outlet pipe into a disposal bed. The discharged liquid is clear and odourless and the disposal bed is smaller than a traditional septic drain field.
Residential and Commercial Sewage Treatment in Alberta
Tanks-A-Lot Ltd. provides reliable and cost-effective wastewater treatment solutions in Alberta that can be tailored to your unique needs. Our precast concrete sewage treatment plants range in capacity from 1,500 to 500,000 gallons per day and are suitable for a variety of applications, including residential, commercial, industrial, and municipal. We can enlarge or modify systems as-needed. Each plant is completely self-regulating and does not require any routine maintenance.
To learn more about whether a precast concrete treatment plant in Alberta is the right choice for your property, just contact Tanks-A-Lot Ltd. today.
Many of today’s residential communities and shopping centres are located near busy roadways that give rise to vehicle traffic and noise. At Tanks-A-Lot Ltd., we supply and install precast concrete noise barriers in Alberta that can make living and working in these areas more enjoyable. Noise barriers have a variety of benefits for residential, subdivision, commercial, and municipal applications.
Benefits of Noise barriers
Compared to other types of fencing, such as wood or vinyl, precast concrete comes with many distinct advantages. Contractors, developers, project managers, owners, and designers across Alberta choose noise barriers because they offer:
Excellent Sound Attenuation
The main reason why noise barriers are installed is to reduce noise pollution, typically from a highway or a busy road. The concrete is thick enough and the barriers are tall enough to keep the noise from travelling in a straight line from the source, significantly lowering the sound by several decibels. Noise barriers make it much more comfortable to live, work, and shop near high-traffic roads.
Enhanced Privacy and Security
Another advantage to using noise barriers in Alberta is that they provide fantastic privacy and security. The solid construction and height of the concrete fence prevent anyone from seeing through or over it. The walls are also non-scalable, preventing anyone from climbing over and accessing your property from anywhere but through a main entrance.
Superior Aesthetic Appeal
Noise barriers may be made of concrete, but they can mimic the look of a range of different stone textures. The realistic, natural stone designs are aesthetically pleasing and can enhance other surrounding features and accents. It couldn’t be easier to choose a design and a texture that will aesthetically integrate into the neighbourhood.
Greater Durability
Finally, precast concrete noise barriers are among the sturdiest and longest lasting type of fencing you could choose. Other materials can easily become damaged or wear down over time. Precast concrete can withstand harsh Alberta weather conditions, extreme temperatures, and physical impacts, all with minimal maintenance on your part.
Noise Barrier Applications
It is common to see precast concrete noise barriers in Alberta in just about any situation where noise attenuation, privacy, and security are important priorities. Some typical examples of noise barrier applications are:
Find Out More About Noise Barriers in Alberta
Does a noise barrier sound like the right fit for your project? Tanks-A-Lot Ltd. carries a variety of affordable Verti-Crete® precast concrete fence products for all applications. We have installed noise barriers throughout Alberta and British Columbia for smaller residential and larger municipal projects. Our experts can help you choose from a range of sizes and textures to ensure an attractive and effective solution for your needs.
To learn more about how noise barriers may benefit you and about pricing for noise barriers in Alberta, don’t hesitate to contact Tanks-A-Lot Ltd. today.
Proper septic tank maintenance is crucial for the system to work properly; it is easy to do and should be done every 6 to 12 months. Having a well maintained tank will also help with the longevity of your pumps and dispersal field. Never go inside the tank without the proper equipment and training.
Step 1: Visual/smell assessment
.
Step 2: Remove lid to compartment 1 (working side)
Step 3: Remove lid to compartment 2 (pump chamber)
If any of the above items are not functioning properly make sure to call your supplier or your installer. If you regularly do these checks, your system should last at least 50 years. Please contact Tanks-a-Lot if you need a reference on a professional service provider.