Concrete vs Poly Septic Tanks
Compare concrete and polyethylene (poly) septic tanks for residential installations — cost, durability, installation ease, longevity, and which material is better suited to different soil conditions and site requirements.
Winner
Everhard Industries
Best overall option once average cost, coverage, and support reputation are weighed together.
Average Gap
$3,493
Difference in average pricing across overlapping septic services.
Market Range
$220 - $18,000
The full low-to-high range across both providers.
Melbourne, VIC · Est. 1926
From
$600
Average
$2,475
Coverage
8 areas
Best for: Licensed plumbers and builders seeking a reliable, widely available Australian-made septic tank for residential and light commercial installations, with parts and accessories easily sourced nationally.
Review Everhard IndustriesBrisbane, QLD · Est. 1972
From
$220
Average
$5,968
Coverage
8 areas
Best for: Homeowners and builders wanting a proven Australian-manufactured septic or AWTS system with long-term parts availability and a large dealer network for ongoing servicing.
Review TaylexSide-by-Side Price Comparison
Compare overlapping service types directly so the right price anchor is clear before you request quotes.
| Service | Everhard Industries | Taylex | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Polyethylene Septic Tank (3,000L) Supply | $3,000 | N/A | - |
| Concrete Septic Tank (4,500L) Supply | $4,200 | N/A | - |
| Pump Well Supply & Install | $1,500 | N/A | - |
| Greywater Diversion System | $1,200 | N/A | - |
| Septic Tank Supply & Install (3,000L) | N/A | $6,000 | - |
| Aerated Treatment System Install | N/A | $13,000 | - |
| Greywater System Install | N/A | $4,500 | - |
| Annual Maintenance Contract | N/A | $370 | - |
Pros & Cons
Everhard Industries
WinnerPros
- ✓Nearly 100 years of Australian manufacturing with proven product durability
- ✓Widest distribution network in Australia — products available through all major plumbing suppliers
- ✓Both poly and concrete tank options to suit different site and soil conditions
Cons
- ✗Tank supply only — installation must be arranged separately through a licensed plumber
- ✗Not a full-service installer — requires coordination between tank supply and installation contractors
Taylex
Pros
- ✓Over 50 years of manufacturing experience in Australian conditions
- ✓Wide product range covering small domestic through to commercial applications
- ✓National dealer and installer network with local support across all major states
Cons
- ✗Products sold through dealers — installation quality varies by local installer
- ✗Premium brand pricing compared to generic tank suppliers
Bottom Line
Verdict
Concrete tanks are heavier, require crane delivery, and cost $2,000–$6,000 to supply. They are extremely durable (40–60+ year lifespan), crack-resistant in stable soils, and are preferred in areas with expansive or reactive soils. Poly tanks are lighter, cheaper to supply ($1,500–$4,500), easier to install without heavy machinery, and resistant to corrosion from acidic soils. Both types carry long structural warranties and perform similarly in most conditions.
Choose a concrete tank if your site has heavy equipment access, stable non-reactive soil, and you prefer maximum longevity with minimal maintenance. Choose a poly tank if site access is limited, the soil is acidic, installation is in a tight space, or you want a lighter unit that is easier to transport and manoeuvre on site. In most residential applications either option performs well — the decision often comes down to local installer preference and site-specific access constraints.
Comparison FAQ
Everhard Industries is cheaper on average in this comparison, but the right answer depends on your specific site conditions, system type, soil percolation rate, council requirements, and ongoing maintenance obligations over the life of the system.
Site conditions (soil type, water table, lot size), council requirements (system type approval, setback rules), ongoing maintenance obligations, upfront cost, and the availability of local service agents usually affect the total cost of ownership more than a blended price average. Always get a site assessment before committing to a system type.
Choose a concrete tank if your site has heavy equipment access, stable non-reactive soil, and you prefer maximum longevity with minimal maintenance. Choose a poly tank if site access is limited, the soil is acidic, installation is in a tight space, or you want a lighter unit that is easier to transport and manoeuvre on site. In most residential applications either option performs well — the decision often comes down to local installer preference and site-specific access constraints.