Here are some of the key challenges drainlayers face when installing square ribbed underground tanks compared to cylindrical designs:
Square ribbed tanks have flat panels and multiple ribs that create pressure points. Drainlayers must backfill with extreme care, layer by layer, to avoid leaving voids around the ribs. Any gap in compaction can shift later, causing uneven pressure, distortion, or tank failure. This adds time and stress on site.
Because of the irregular ribbed shape, compacting backfill evenly is harder. Poor compaction can lead to tank movement or settlement over time, which can damage connected pipework or compromise the system.
Installing a ribbed tank usually takes longer. Drainlayers spend more time placing and compacting material correctly, which drives up labour costs and extends project timelines — a frustration for both contractors and clients.
Flat walls and sharp corners on ribbed designs don’t handle ground pressure as well as cylindrical tanks. If backfilling isn’t perfect, the tank can bow, twist, or collapse under soil load, especially in poor ground conditions.
Some ribbed designs may require additional training, site supervision, or specialist compaction tools to ensure compliance with manufacturer instructions. This isn’t always practical on busy sites, particularly for drainlayers working under time pressure.
If backfilling isn’t done to exact specifications, the installer can be held responsible if the tank fails. That can mean costly callbacks, digging up the tank, and starting again — a worst-case scenario that every drainlayer wants to avoid.
In summary: Drainlayers face greater risk, complexity, and cost when installing square ribbed tanks. Cylindrical tanks eliminate most of these headaches, making backfilling straightforward, reducing installation time, and giving both installers and clients peace of mind.
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