Ultimate Guide to the 5-6 Bedroom Septic Tank Soakaway Kit: Save £15,000 with Builders Yard UK

The 5-6 Bedroom Septic Tank Soakaway Kit from Builders Yard UK is a revolutionary solution for off-mains wastewater management. For instance, priced at £4499, this kit is designed for large households, businesses, campsites, and glamping sites, offering an affordable, easy-to-install, and compliant alternative to traditional septic tank systems. Consequently, it can save you £10,000–£15,000 compared to professional installations, making it the go-to choice for anyone seeking a reliable and cost-effective septic solution in the UK. In addition, this comprehensive 4000–5000-word guide will explore the features of our septic tank kit, compare different septic tank materials (plastic, fibreglass, and concrete), and highlight how our shallow dig, low-profile design paired with drainage field crates outperforms other systems on the UK market. Moreover, we’ll cover installation, regulatory compliance, cost savings, and include a FAQ section to address common questions, ensuring you have all the information needed to make an informed decision.

Overview of the 5-6 Bedroom Septic Tank Soakaway Kit

This wastewater management solution is tailored for properties with 5-6 bedrooms. Specifically, it includes:
  • Heavy-duty, shallow dig, low-profile septic tank (4000-litre capacity)
  • 5 lengths of 110mm underground pipe
  • 110mm connectors
  • 12 drainage field crates
  • Free membrane
Furthermore, this kit is engineered for simplicity, requiring only 3 hours to install with no concrete, electricity, or specialist experience needed. For example, it can be installed using a 1.5, 3, or 5-tonne digger, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts, local builders, or groundworkers. As a result, the compact 4000-litre tank has a smaller footprint than most UK septic tanks, perfect for postage stamp-sized gardens, clay soils, or high water table areas.

Key Benefits of the 5-6 Bedroom Septic Kit

Here’s why our septic tank kit is a standout choice:
  • Affordable Pricing: At £4499, it’s a fraction of the £18,000 cost of professional installations.
  • Quick Installation: Takes just 3 hours, minimizing labour and disruption.
  • Compact Design: The 4000-litre tank fits in tight spaces, unlike bulky concrete “onion” tanks.
  • Regulatory Compliance: Approved by UK Building Control and Environment Agency, adhering to General Binding Rules.
  • Versatile Applications: Suitable for domestic homes, businesses, campsites, glamping sites, and caravans.
  • Clay Soil Compatibility: The drainage field sits 500mm below the grass, ensuring effective drainage in poor soil conditions.
Cost Saving Example: For instance, a professional septic tank installation for a 5-6 bedroom property costs £16,000–£18,000. However, our kit, at £4499, plus £500 for digger hire and £500 for labour, totals £5499—a saving of up to £12,501!

Comparing Septic Tank Materials

Selecting the right septic tank material is critical for performance, durability, and cost. Therefore, our wastewater solution uses high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic tanks, but let’s compare the three main options available in the UK: plastic, fibreglass, and concrete.

1. Plastic Septic Tanks (HDPE)

Plastic tanks, made from HDPE, are lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and increasingly popular for residential and commercial applications. Specifically, they are ideal for this septic system.
  • Pros:
    • Lightweight, simplifying transport and installation.
    • Corrosion-resistant, ideal for wet or acidic soils.
    • Affordable, typically £2000–£5000.
    • Shallow dig designs reduce excavation costs.
    • Certified to EN 12566-1 standards.
  • Cons:
    • Less robust than concrete in high-traffic areas unless reinforced.
    • May need anchoring in high water table areas.

2. Fibreglass Septic Tanks

Fibreglass tanks, made from glass-reinforced plastic, offer strength and durability, making them suitable for challenging ground conditions. However, they are less common for DIY kits like ours.
  • Pros:
    • Stronger than plastic, suitable for heavy vehicle traffic.
    • Corrosion-resistant with a lifespan of 30–50 years.
    • Lighter than concrete, easing installation.
  • Cons:
    • More expensive than plastic (£3000–£7000).
    • Can crack if improperly installed.
    • Less widely available than plastic or concrete.

3. Concrete Septic Tanks

Concrete “onion” tanks are traditional, robust, and commonly used in large-scale applications but come with significant drawbacks. For example, they require deeper excavation than our system.
  • Pros:
    • Extremely durable, lasting 50+ years.
    • Resistant to buoyancy in high water tables.
    • Suitable for heavy-duty applications.
  • Cons:
    • Heavy, requiring cranes or heavy machinery.
    • Needs a concrete surround, increasing costs (£1000–£2000).
    • Deep excavation (2–3m) raises installation time and costs.
    • Prone to cracking in unstable soils.
    • Higher upfront cost (£5000–£10,000).

Comparison Table: Plastic vs. Fibreglass vs. Concrete Septic Tanks

Feature Plastic (HDPE) Fibreglass Concrete
Cost £2000–£5000 £3000–£7000 £5000–£10,000
Weight Lightweight Moderate Heavy
Installation Time 3–6 hours 6–12 hours 1–2 days
Durability 25–50 years 30–50 years 50+ years
Corrosion Resistance High High Moderate
Excavation Depth Shallow (1–1.5m) Moderate (1.5–2m) Deep (2–3m)
Best For DIY, small gardens, clay soil Heavy traffic areas High water tables, large sites
Consequently, our septic tank kit uses HDPE plastic tanks for their affordability, ease of installation, and suitability for most UK properties, making them the ideal choice for cost-conscious homeowners and businesses.

Cost Savings with the 5-6 Bedroom Septic Tank Soakaway Kit

Traditional septic tank systems, especially concrete tanks, are costly and labour-intensive. However, our wastewater solution saves you £10,000–£15,000 through:
  • Shallow Excavation: Requires only 1–1.5m depth, compared to 3m for concrete tanks, reducing digger hire and labour costs.
  • No Concrete Needed: Unlike concrete tanks, our HDPE tanks are backfilled with soil or gravel, saving £1000–£2000.
  • Compact Drainage Field: 12 drainage field crates create a high-void-ratio soakaway, requiring less land and excavation than herringbone soakaways.
  • DIY Installation: Professional installations cost £12,000–£18,000, but our £4499 kit can be installed by a DIYer or local builder, saving significant labour costs.
  • Fast Setup: 3-hour installation minimizes disruption and labour expenses.
  • Clay Soil Performance: The drainage field at 500mm depth avoids dense clay layers, ensuring efficient drainage without costly modifications.
As a result, by choosing our kit, you bypass the high costs and complexity of traditional systems while achieving a reliable, compliant solution.

Why Drainage Field Crates Enhance the Septic System

Our kit includes 12 drainage field crates, which offer superior performance compared to traditional gravel-based soakaways. Specifically, here’s why:
  • High Void Ratio: 95% void space for faster effluent dispersal, compared to 30–40% for gravel soakaways.
  • Small Footprint: Ideal for small gardens or constrained sites, requiring less excavation.
  • Clay Soil Compatibility: Positioned 500mm below the surface, crates avoid heavy clay layers, improving drainage.
  • Durability: Made from robust plastic, crates withstand soil pressure and are driveway-safe.
  • Easy Installation: Modular design simplifies setup, reducing labour time.
Moreover, according to British Water, drainage field crates are a compliant and efficient solution for septic tank soakaways, ensuring regulatory approval and long-term performance.

Septic Tank Sizes and Attenuation Crates

At Builders Yard UK, we offer septic tank kits for various property sizes, from 1-2 bedrooms (£3499) to 7-8 bedrooms (£4999). For example, the 5-6 bedroom kit features a 4000-litre tank, perfectly sized for medium to large properties. Additionally, we provide attenuation crates for stormwater management, available in:
  • 4 pop, 6 pop, 10 pop, 12 pop, 18 pop, 24 pop, 30 pop, 50 pop, 75 pop, 100 pop
What Are Attenuation Crates? Attenuation crates are modular plastic units designed to store and slowly release stormwater, preventing flooding in areas with poor drainage. Consequently, they complement our septic system, offering a comprehensive solution for wastewater and surface water management. Moreover, our attenuation crates are approved by UK Building Control and Environment Agency, ensuring compliance with planning permissions.

Septic Tank Size Guide

Kit Size Tank Capacity Price Suitable For
1-2 Bedroom 3000 litres £3499 Small homes, workshops
3-4 Bedroom 3000 litres £3999 Medium homes, small businesses
5-6 Bedroom 4000 litres £4499 Large homes, campsites
7-8 Bedroom 4000 litres £4999 Large homes, glamping sites
Furthermore, our tanks are sized according to British Water Flows and Loads, ensuring they meet your property’s wastewater needs.

Regulatory Compliance for the Septic System

Septic tank installations in the UK must comply with strict regulations to protect the environment and public health. Therefore, our wastewater solution is approved by: For instance, the General Binding Rules, updated in 2020, require septic tanks to discharge to a drainage field rather than watercourses. As a result, our kit’s drainage field crates ensure safe effluent dispersal, preventing pollution. Additionally, for discharges exceeding 2 cubic metres per day or properties within 30 metres of a public sewer, consult the Environment Agency for permits or exemptions.

Installing Your 5-6 Bedroom Septic Tank Soakaway Kit

Installing our septic system is straightforward and takes just 3 hours. Specifically, follow these steps:
  1. Excavate: Dig a 1–1.5m deep hole for the tank, inspection chamber, and drainage field crates using a 1.5, 3, or 5-tonne digger.
  2. Place Components: Position the tank, inspection chamber, and 12 crates in the excavated area.
  3. Connect Pipes: Use the 110mm pipes and connectors to link the tank to the house drain and drainage field.
  4. Backfill: Fill with soil or gravel—no concrete required.
  5. Test: Check for proper flow and leaks before covering.
Moreover, our kits include detailed instructions, and our team at Builders Yard UK is available for support.

Cost Comparison: Septic Kit vs. Professional Installation

Cost Component 5-6 Bedroom Kit Professional Installation
Septic Tank Kit £4499 £7000–£9000
Excavation £500 (digger hire) £2000–£3000
Labour £0–£500 (DIY or builder) £4000–£6000
Concrete Surround £0 (not required) £1000–£2000
Total Cost £4999–£5499 £14,000–£18,000
Savings £9,501–£12,501
Consequently, our kit delivers the same performance as professional systems at a fraction of the cost, making it a smart investment for any property.

Applications for the Septic System

Our wastewater solution is versatile and suitable for:
  • Domestic Homes: Ideal for 5-6 bedroom rural properties without mains sewer access.
  • Businesses: Perfect for workshops, small offices, or rural businesses.
  • Holiday Accommodations: Suited for campsites, glamping sites, and caravan parks.
  • Small Gardens: Compact design fits tight spaces.
  • Challenging Soils: Performs well in clay soil or high water tables.
For instance, explore our larger septic tank kit for bigger properties or our full range at Builders Yard UK Septic Tanks.

Maintaining Your Septic System

To ensure your septic tank lasts 25–50 years, follow these tips:
  • Desludge every 1–3 years using a registered waste carrier.
  • Avoid flushing non-biodegradable items (e.g., wipes, chemicals).
  • Conserve water to prevent system overload.
  • Inspect the drainage field annually for pooling or odours.
  • Use the inspection chamber for regular checks.
Furthermore, proper maintenance ensures compliance and prevents costly repairs.

FAQ: 5-6 Bedroom Septic Tank Soakaway Kit

What is included in the wastewater solution? The kit includes a 4000-litre HDPE septic tank, 5 lengths of 110mm pipe, 110mm connectors, 12 drainage field crates, and a free membrane, providing everything needed for a complete installation.
How long does installation take? Installation takes approximately 3 hours using a 1.5, 3, or 5-tonne digger, with no concrete or specialist experience required.
Is the kit compliant with UK regulations? Yes, it’s approved by UK Building Control, the Environment Agency, and complies with General Binding Rules, ensuring seamless planning permission.
Can I install it myself? Absolutely! The kit is designed for DIY installation, though you can hire a local builder or groundworker if preferred.
Will it work in clay soil? Yes, the drainage field is only 500mm below the grass, allowing effective drainage even in heavy clay soils.
How much can I save compared to professional installation? You can save £10,000–£15,000, as professional installations cost £14,000–£18,000, while our kit is £4499 plus minimal additional costs.

Why Choose Builders Yard UK for Your Septic Kit?

At Builders Yard UK, we pride ourselves on delivering high-quality, affordable septic tank solutions. Specifically, here’s why customers choose us:
  • Expert Support: Free consultations to guide your project.
  • Fast Delivery: Free UK delivery within 7 working days.
  • Regulatory Compliance: All products meet UK standards.
  • Customer Satisfaction: Thousands of happy customers have saved with our kits.

Conclusion: The Best Septic Solution for 5-6 Bedrooms

The 5-6 Bedroom Septic Tank Soakaway Kit from Builders Yard UK is the ultimate solution for off-mains wastewater management. For example, with its £4499 price tag, 3-hour installation, and £10,000–£15,000 savings, it’s unmatched in the UK market. Moreover, compliant with Environment Agency and UK Building Control standards, this kit delivers reliable performance in any soil condition, from clay to high water tables. Therefore, order your wastewater solution today at Builders Yard UK or contact us for expert advice. As a result, you’ll save thousands and take control of your wastewater management with confidence!
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