One of the best ways to prevent muck and debris from clogging your septic tank is by getting a filter – the right filter. Some homeowners can get by without a filtration system, but most others can’t live without one.

Today’s post will cover a few frequently asked questions concerning septic tank filters.

Everything You Need to Know About Leach Field Fabric

There are many critical parts in a septic system. One is the leach field. Also called a drain field, it serves as the final stage of residential wastewater treatment.

The purpose of the drain field is to evenly spread out the wastewater flowing from a septic system. Pipes connected to the septic tank push effluent into the soil, where it drains slowly, allowing the soil to naturally break down harmful bacteria. In order to function properly, leach fields must be able to “breathe.”

That’s where leach field fabric comes in. Similar to landscape fabric but lighter in weight, it is installed between soil and rock to prevent soil particles from clogging the field’s filtering abilities. Leach field fabric is an essential part of the system, and it helps to understand its features and benefits.

Do I Need Leach Field Fabric?

When it comes to your septic system, failure is not a fun option! To set yourself up for success, trust professionals who know all about septic system installation and repair.

Building a leach field is not an easy project for contractors…and it is especially difficult for do-it-yourselfers. There are many vital steps, including knowing how and where to add leach field fabric. But before choosing your drain field fabric, it’s important to know what you’re getting.

If you’re just getting started with your drain field and have questions, or if you’re halfway done and realize you need help, contact the pros at Missouri Septic Services.

Landscape Fabric vs. Leach Field Fabric

Landscape fabric and leach field fabric are similar but have different uses. They are both part of a group of textiles categorized as “geofabrics” or “geotextiles.” Simply put, woven landscape fabric is heavier for greater durability, while non-woven leach field fabric is lighter and more permeable.

As you may guess from the name, landscape fabric is most often used in gardens and yards for landscaping projects. Usually laid over soil, landscape fabric can be covered with mulch, decorative rock, and more. This solid sheet woven from polyester fibers is perforated so air, light, and water can pass through. Landscaping fabric prevents most weeds from growing and helps keep soil in place on slopes.

Leach field material is lightweight yet still durable, with one square yard weighing under one ounce. Designed for commercial applications, it’s intended to help with filtration, drainage, and separating layers of soil. (It can also be used for reinforcement and stabilization.) In a drain field, this permeable fabric allows water and very fine soil particles to pass through.

Signs your Leach Field is Failing

When your drain field is working efficiently, you’ll probably forget it is even there. But when there’s a problem with the way it’s working, the signs are relatively easy to spot. Watch for:

Gurgling Pipes – Noisy, burbling pipes could indicate that either your septic tank is full or the effluent is not making its way efficiently into the leach field because of a blockage.
Slow Drainage – If your drain field won’t drain and you see wet, soggy areas with bright green grass, it could mean your leach field is clogged.
Backed-Up Toilets & Slow-Running Drains – Toilets that bubble and “back up,” drains that won’t drain—these are signs that something is clogged, and it’s time to call in a professional to examine your septic tank and leach field.
Standing Water—If you notice puddles in your leach field, it could mean cracks in your pipes are letting out too much water for the field to handle.
Soft Soil – When the soil on your leach field is noticeably softer than surrounding soils, you may have a drainage issue.
Sewage Odors – Easy to smell, hard to fix! When sewage odors permeate your residence, it’s a telltale sign you need help from the pros!

Contact Missouri Septic Services, Your Southwest Missouri Septic Systems Experts

Are you seeing these signs or other problems not listed above? Any time you spot or smell something “off” about your septic system, it’s a good idea to have it inspected ASAP. The longer a septic or leach field issue persists, the more expansive—and expensive—it will become.

For a detailed analysis of the problem and how to fix it, contact your Southwest Missouri septic systems experts at Missouri Septic Services. Skilled in identifying potential problems, experienced in handling all kinds of septic issues, and trained to use specialized equipment, you’re sure to feel a sense of relief when you call in the pros who know!