[mailman4398]

Can you put a septic tank in soil that has a high clay content? Would it be better to replace the clay with sandy soil?

[MommyLeah]

This is what I find on septic tanks.
It sounds like it is not a good idea to put it in clay soil.
Septic systems do not work well in clay soils since these relatively impermeable soils do not allow the supernate to soak in. Instead, if a septic system is installed in a clay soil, the supernate often rises to the surface of the ground, producing an obviously unsanitary situation.
Septic Tank Design and Construction
Septic Tank
Good luck!

[speedball1]

can you put a septic tank in soil that has a high clay content? would it be better to replace the clay with sandy soil?

The tank will be just fine in ground with a high clay content. However, the filter bed's another story. Filter beds need soil that will let the liquid percolate and disperse. Talk to your neighbors and see what they've installed and then get a good septiuc tank company out to estimate the job. Good luck, Tom

[rick4747]

Are you asking septic tank or septic system? A septic tank can be installed in clay soil But I would suggest putting a few inches of sand underneath the tank to help level the landing pad for the tank.The tank has to be level in order to function right. If you get a truckload of sand then I would fill the tank in with the sand which will help eliminate settling around the tank later on. As far as septic systems (fields) go not just any body can put these in.You need to have soil tests (percs) done to determine what system will work in your area. Also you will need State approval on the plans that get drawn up plus an inspection on the installed system. I hope this helps.
Rick