Sand Mound Design Alternatives - Hide the Hump

When properly designed, constructed and maintained, a sand mound septic system will provide years of service. We all know there are always pros and cons. One of the biggest drawbacks to a sand mound is that unsightly hump in the middle of your yard.

Sometimes we designers fall into the rut of combing through the regulations and looking up a few values on the tables, applying some formulas and spitting out a design. Although this will still produce a system that works, it may waste material, space and your money.

A better design approach would consider the context of the finished product. How will it fit on the site topography? Are there alternatives to reduce the overall height? Can we save money in construction? How can we best hide that hump?

The best time to consider this is before the land is subdivided, or before laying out your building site. But sometimes soil conditions or other factors dictate a limited area for septic disposal. This can be especially true for septic repairs that require a new site on the same land as a failed site.

There still are alternatives that may be worth considering. Some alternatives can reduce the size of the sand mound. These can include just a “good ole” design that uses accurate survey and design equipment and techniques to make the best use of the septic site. Or a peat tank or similar technology may be considered to eliminate 12” or more of the sand from the mound. This will greatly reduce it’s height

Some alternatives may eliminate the mound altogether by using a different type of system. Alternative systems are available, but come with added expense. Your designer should be able to tell you about your options and what the expected costs should be.

If you are concerned about hiding the hump in your yard, then find a reputable designer who can offer you accurate design with survey equipment at a reasonable price. You want someone who can offer you some alternatives, not someone who will just crank out a generic design without even visiting your site.

Search the internet and ask around to find someone in your area to find a designer who is concerned as you are about your sand mound septic design.