Last updated: Apr 26, 2026
Krum area soils are predominantly clay loam to loamy clay with slow drainage, which limits how quickly effluent can move into native soil. This means a standard drain field can face bottlenecks during wetter seasons when the ground stays damp longer than expected. In practical terms, that slow movement translates to higher risk of surface moisture or shallow groundwater interaction if a traditional absorption area is relied on without adjustments. The clay texture also tends to trap nutrients a bit longer, so correct sizing and distribution become more critical to prevent backups or standing effluent in trenches.
Moderate to high shrink-swell potential in these clay-rich soils can stress trenches and distribution areas as soils expand when wet and contract during hot North Texas dry periods. When the soil swells, trenches may become uneven, reducing the contact between the trench liner and the surrounding soil. In the dry spells, cracks can form and alter wetting patterns, which can push effluent toward limits of the trench or cause inconsistent dosing across the distribution area. The result is a higher likelihood of perched water in shallow zones and uneven effluent dispersion, which undermines long-term system performance. Planning around this behavior means considering designs that maintain reliable drainage even as the soil volume changes seasonally.
Seasonal wetness in Denton County parcels around Krum can make conventional absorption areas less reliable and increase the need for aerobic treatment units, mound systems, or low pressure pipe designs. During wet seasons, the soil's ability to accept effluent drops, and conventional gravity trenches can experience slower percolation or temporary saturation. As the ground dries in late summer, shrinking soils can create gaps and shifting trenches that misalign with distribution media. In practice, this cycle favors systems that can better manage moisture, control effluent dosing, and deliver wastewater away from shallow saturated zones.
For homes where the soil profile shows persistent clay characteristics and noticeable wet-season saturation, a conventional system may not provide the reliability needed for long-term performance. Aerobic treatment units (ATUs) offer improved effluent quality and more controlled dosing, which helps when the native soil's absorption capacity is limited by moisture. A mound system raises the distribution area above the wet season ground water and perched moisture pockets, reducing the risk of effluent mounding and surface concerns. Low pressure pipe (LPP) designs distribute effluent more evenly in trenches with smaller individual outlets, which can mitigate uneven wetting in clay soils and accommodate some swelling and shrinking without creating dry pockets or deep saturation. Each option brings its own considerations for installation depth, monitoring requirements, and maintenance-factors that matter more in this soil context than in looser, better-drained soils.
Begin with a soil evaluation that includes depth to groundwater and a percolation assessment focused on the wet-season behavior of the site. If the evaluation shows persistent saturation within the typical absorption depth or signs of slow drainage that affect dosing uniformity, prioritize a design that provides aerobic treatment, mound, or LPP pathways as the primary absorption mechanism. In a clay-dominated profile, aim for a distribution strategy that minimizes long, straight runs of media and incorporates lateral dispersion to spread effluent across multiple trenches. When considering trench depth, siting should account for seasonal swelling: shallower designs may perform poorly during wet cycles, while deeper installations must guard against perched moisture and potential groundwater interaction.
With clay-heavy soils, proactive maintenance practices help preserve performance across seasons. Schedule regular inspections of distribution lines and risers to catch signs of uneven moisture, surface dampness, or pooling near the absorption area. Monitor effluent appearance and odor indicators; changes can signal restricted percolation or dosing imbalances caused by seasonal soil behavior. In clay-rich environments, routine pump-outs and timely filter maintenance (where applicable) help maintain system efficiency, particularly for ATU or LPP configurations that rely on consistent treatment and distribution. Given the soil dynamics, agree on a monitoring plan that accounts for wet-season fluctuations and allows for adjustments in a timely manner.
Spring rainfall in North Texas can raise groundwater around Krum and saturate already slow-draining clay soils, reducing drain-field performance. When the soil profile is near saturation, even a normally functioning system can struggle to disperse effluent quickly. You may notice damp patches, surface effluent, or gurgling drains as the groundwater presses up against the natural drainage limits. The risk is not distant; it can materialize quickly during prolonged spring showers or when a stubborn cold front stalls the moisture in the soil. Because this area sits on clay loam to loamy clay, the capacity to absorb and filter effluent shrinks dramatically as you move from dry to wet cycles.
Heavy rainfall events in fall and winter can temporarily slow effluent dispersal in Krum-area systems because the soil profile is already prone to holding water. That means weeks of milky effluent, slower percolation, or occasional surface blooms after a heavy downpour are not unusual in these cycles. The combination of slow drainage and saturated soils increases the probability of backups, especially in older or marginal designs. If you've experienced a wet autumn or an unusually wet winter, anticipate that spring will not magically fix the problem; it can simply keep the pattern going until soils dry out.
The local pattern in this market shows a strong reliance on emergency septic service when wet-weather backups or surfacing effluent appear. That urgent demand signals that, during saturated periods, a standard drain field may no longer be safe or reliable. If you notice surfacing effluent, unusually strong odors, or a consistently damp drain area after rainfall, treat it as a red flag. Do not wait for a prolonged outage to escalate; act quickly to reassess the system design and potential upgrade path.
Start by documenting the timing and duration of wet spells that trigger trouble. Note rainfall totals, groundwater signs in the yard, and any changes in drain performance across the house. This record helps you and your technician judge whether a conventional drain field remains viable or if you need an upgraded approach, such as an aerobic treatment unit, LPP, or mound system suited for saturated soils. Prioritize a professional evaluation during or immediately after a wet spell when symptoms are freshest. An on-site assessment should focus on soil saturation depth, drain-field spacing, and the presence of perched water in the absorption area. If backups occur, minimize use of water-consuming appliances and avoid dumping grease or harsh chemicals that can further stress the system during recovery.
Plan for the inevitable spring rise and fall cycles by considering a system design that accommodates intermittent saturation. If the current setup leans toward a conventional layout, talk with a qualified installer about whether an aerobic, mound, or LPP system provides safer, more reliable performance under wet-season conditions. The goal is to reduce the chance of surfacing effluent during the next saturated spring and to shorten downtime when heavy rains hit. In this market, preparedness and proactive upgrades are the most reliable defenses against repeated backups.
Need a septic pro in a hurry? These have been well reviewed in emergency situations.
Taylor Septic Service
(817) 369-8703 www.taylorsepticpumping.com
Serving Denton County
4.9 from 159 reviews
Integrity Septic Services
(940) 535-4560 www.integritysepticservicestx.com
Serving Denton County
4.6 from 138 reviews
Chenevert's Home Services
(940) 531-3369 www.chenevertsplumbingrepair.com
Serving Denton County
5.0 from 897 reviews
At Chenevert Home Services, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional plumbing solutions crafted to meet the diverse needs of our community. From routine maintenance to emergency repairs and everything in between, our dedicated team is committed to helping you access all the services you need to keep your home plumbing system clean, efficient, and functional. With our deep understanding of the local area and its unique plumbing challenges, we are uniquely equipped to provide tailored solutions you can trust. Contact us for an estimate today! M40655 TACLA00150015C
Kissee Inspection Services
(469) 754-8988 www.kisseeinspections.com
Serving Denton County
4.9 from 885 reviews
Kissee Inspection Services is the leading home inspector in Frisco, TX, & the surrounding areas. Kissee Inspection Services specializes in commercial home inspections, termite inspections, home warranty inspections, & new construction inspections & is your premier home inspector in Frisco, TX. Kissee Inspection Services is a company based on family values – providing decades of experience, dependability, & knowledge to clients in their real estate needs at a fair market rate. Our goal is to be the Leader of a multi-inspection firm. A family-friendly name is known by others for trust & dedication, with an unbiased disclosure of each client's needs. Contact Frisco, TX's premier residential home inspector at Kissee Inspection Services today!
Taylor Septic Service
(817) 369-8703 www.taylorsepticpumping.com
Serving Denton County
4.9 from 159 reviews
Taylor Septic Service, located at 336 Pvt Road 2452, is your trusted partner for all septic system needs. Specializing in septic tank pumping, septic tank cleaning, and comprehensive septic service, we ensure your system operates smoothly. Our experts offer septic tank installation and septic system maintenance to extend the longevity of your investment. We also provide aerobic septic system service, septic tank risers installation, and septic tank lid replacement for enhanced accessibility. Our septic tank locator service is precise, ensuring prompt and efficient service. Choose Taylor Septic Service for top-tier maintenance and installations, expertly serving your local area.
Integrity Septic Services
(940) 535-4560 www.integritysepticservicestx.com
Serving Denton County
4.6 from 138 reviews
Integrity Septic Services provides conventional, and aerobic septic system services throughout Texas counties including Denton, Wise, Cooke, Grayson, Parker, and Tarrant. Our professionally TCEQ-licensed company is family-owned and operated and backed by 17 years of experience. We offer same-day and 24/7 emergency response and expert Tank Pumping and Cleaning, Maintenance Contracts, Installations, Repairs, Aerobic, Conventional, and Lift Stations. Count on Integrity Septic Services.
T&L Septic Services
(940) 482-4000 www.tlseptic.com
Serving Denton County
4.0 from 83 reviews
T&L Septic Services, LLC, a leading septic system service, is committed to providing dependable solutions for all septic requirements. Servicing Denton Country, Texas, and surrounding areas. We have a team of experienced professionals ready to assist residential customers with septic installations, repairs, maintenance, pumping, cleaning, and contracts. Our services extend to both aerobic and conventional systems, as well as OSSF installs and maintenance. We prioritize efficient and eco-friendly solutions to ensure your septic system functions seamlessly.
DL3 Enterprises
Serving Denton County
4.9 from 66 reviews
EFFECTIVE WASTE REMOVAL IS ESSENTIAL TO ANY HOME WORK WITH A RENOWNED SEPTIC TANK CONTRACTOR IN PONDER, TX Your septic system is the unsung hero of your home's plumbing. It removes wastewater from your plumbing system, allowing you to maintain a clean and safe house. That's why it's important to take good care of your septic system. DL3 Enterprises, LLC has been providing reliable septic tank services to Ponder, TX and the surrounding areas for over two years. You can depend on us to keep your system running smoothly.
TCS Grease Trap Cleaners
(972) 639-2907 www.tcsdraincleaners.com
Serving Denton County
5.0 from 64 reviews
TCS specialize in liquid waste hauling, such as, cleaning grease traps, sand traps, lint traps, septic tanks, lift stations and small inside facility grease traps.TCS is know for their cleaningness, availability & the great customer service. We provide same date services & are available to our customers 24/7, with our emergency/after hours response team. We care for our customer's needs!
Texas Star Aerobic - Septic System Repair,Septic Inspection & Septic Tank Pumping
(972) 338-5883 www.texasstaraerobic.com
Serving Denton County
4.7 from 63 reviews
Texas Star Aerobic is a family owned and operated business you can trust. We take pride in the workmanship and services we provide to our clients. You'll find our great staff is ready to serve your needs, and address all your questions and concerns about your system. We believe that educating the customer about their Aerobic Septic System is the best maintenance plan a homeowner can have.Our team will be sure to go that extra mile to ensure that your aerobic septic system is working as it should. Texas Star Aerobic provides licensed, knowledgeable and experienced service technicians. When you place your trust in us, we take that responsibility very seriously. We pledge to always tell you up front what the cost will be to complete your job.
Total Septic
(469) 259-4583 totalseptic.net
Serving Denton County
4.9 from 53 reviews
Total Septic is a family-owned, full-service septic company dedicated to providing comprehensive solutions for both residential and commercial clients. Since 2016, we've offered everything from routine pump outs and maintenance to extensive repairs, service contracts, and complete system installations. With offices strategically located on the west and east sides of the North Dallas area, our expert team proudly serves numerous counties and cities, ensuring prompt and reliable service. From minor fixes to new system implementation, Total Septic delivers peace of mind with vetted, full-time employees and full insurance coverage. We love serving customers from Collin, Denton, Dallas, Grayson, Fannin, Hunt, Rockwall, Ellis, Kaufman, & more!
USA Septic & Sewer Cleaning
(972) 762-6487 usasepticandliftstations.com
Serving Denton County
5.0 from 49 reviews
At USA Septic and Sewer Cleaning, we proudly serve Fort Worth, TX and surrounding areas with expert septic and sewage disposal services tailored for both residential and commercial clients. From routine septic tank pumping and inspections to full system installations and repairs, we handle every job with professionalism and precision. Our team specializes in lift station cleaning, pump station services, and grease trap maintenance to ensure your system runs efficiently and remains compliant with local regulations. We’re dedicated to delivering dependable service that protects your property and the environment. Need reliable septic solutions? Contact USA Septic and Sewer Cleaning today for prompt, professional support.
Bramlett Septic
(940) 539-1023 www.bramlettseptic.com
Serving Denton County
4.8 from 39 reviews
Bramlett Enterprises, Inc. DBA Bramlett Septic is a licensed/insured septic system installer and maintenance provider serving Decatur, Wise County, and North Texas. We specialize in Residential and Commercial aerobic and conventional system installation for new construction, existing system replacements, diagnostic/troubleshooting, repairs, inspections, site evaluations, and maintenance contracts w/ routine aerobic system inspections to keep systems operating safely and compliant with Texas regulations. We work with homeowners, custom home builders, and realtors throughout North Texas. Locally owned and family operated, Bramlett Septic is committed to reliable service, communication, and quality workmanship for the communities we serve.
All Outdoors TX Septic
(940) 277-8811 www.alloutdoorstx.com
Serving Denton County
4.7 from 13 reviews
All Outdoors TX, owned by Judge Christian, is a reputable company specializing in septic system services across North Texas. Their expertise lies in installing, maintaining, and designing septic systems for both residential and commercial properties. With a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, All Outdoors TX ensures that clients receive reliable and efficient solutions for their septic needs. Whether it’s a new installation, routine maintenance, or a customized design, Judge Christian’s team delivers excellence in every aspect of septic system management. Maintenance contracts available, aerobic septic repair too. We do some backhoe related work as well on occasion. Skid steer too. Just ask, we might do it.
Septic permits for Krum properties are issued through the Denton County Health Department under the OSSF program rather than a city-specific septic office. This means the county office handles the official permit, plan review, and inspection schedule for on-site wastewater systems. Understanding that process helps you align property timelines with regulatory expectations and avoids delays caused by misdirected applications. The OSSF framework emphasizes safety, soil suitability, and appropriate equipment for local conditions, especially given the clay-heavy soils in this area.
Before any installation can proceed on a parcel, a plan review is required. A critical part of this review is the soil evaluation, which assesses drainage, percolation, and seasonal saturation that directly influence the type of system that can be installed. In Krum, where slow drainage and shrink-swell movement are common, a professional soil analysis informs whether a conventional drain field will suffice or if an alternative design-such as an aerobic treatment unit (ATU), mound, or low-pressure pipe (LPP) system-is safer and more reliable. Expect the process to verify trench layouts, dosing requirements, and reserve areas, all aligned with county standards. Timelines for review can vary, so submitting complete information and clear site data helps minimize back-and-forth.
Installations require scheduled inspections during construction and a final inspection to close the permit. Inspections ensure that the system is installed according to the approved plan, that soil separation distances and setback requirements are maintained, and that components such as risers, inlets, and distribution media are correctly placed. Planning for multiple site visits is prudent, especially if soil conditions require a design adjustment after the initial review. The final inspection confirms that all work complies with the approved OSSF plan and local health department codes, allowing the permit to be closed and the system placed into operation.
Because permit processing and inspections are county-managed, it is beneficial to engage early with the Denton County Health Department or an experienced local septic professional who understands county expectations and common review questions. Prepare a complete package that includes a site plan, a detailed soil evaluation, proposed system type, and any required nutrient management or setback documentation. Keep a dedicated project log with submission dates, inspector notes, and any requested plan amendments. In an area with variable moisture and challenging soils, securing timely review and confirming that the chosen design aligns with both soil data and county criteria can prevent late-stage redesigns and keep installation on track.
In Krum, conventional systems typically run about $6,000 to $12,000, gravity systems about $6,500 to $13,000, mound systems about $15,000 to $35,000, ATUs about $12,000 to $25,000, and LPP systems about $10,000 to $22,000. Those figures reflect local market conditions, equipment needs, and the labor intensity of installation in clay-heavy soils. When planning, you should expect that the soil and site constraints may push a project toward the higher end of these ranges, especially if a system needs enhanced field treatment or protective measures for seasonal saturation.
Clay-rich, slow-draining soils in the Krum area can increase costs by requiring larger drain fields or alternative designs when native infiltration is poor. If the soil test shows limited absorption capacity during wet periods, a standard drain field may not perform reliably, triggering options such as mound components or aerobic treatment that, while more expensive upfront, offer greater long-term reliability. Even within conventional options, you may encounter added expenses for field grading, expanded trenching, or soil amendments to reach workable permeability. In short, soil conditions directly translate to equipment size, excavation, and inspection complexity, all of which elevate the project price.
Clay and seasonal saturation patterns often make an aerobic treatment unit, mound, or LPP system a safer choice than a conventional drain field. An ATU or mound system can provide a more predictable path to effluent treatment in wet seasons, while LPP systems can reduce root intrusion and surface saturation risks common in stubborn clay. Although these alternatives carry higher upfront costs, they may prevent recurring field failures and the need for frequent pumpouts or remediations, which adds up over the life of the system.
Permit costs through Denton County and the need for soil evaluation, plan review, and staged inspections add a local compliance layer that directly affects total project pricing. For properties with poor percolation or high seasonal water, the choice between conventional and alternative designs hinges on soil evaluation results, drainage planning, and the anticipated duration of wet spells. A thoughtful sequencing of site work-grading, trenching, and lining-can minimize unforeseen expenses, but soil-driven decisions remain the dominant driver of total cost in this area.
The septic companies have received great reviews for new installations.
Taylor Septic Service
(817) 369-8703 www.taylorsepticpumping.com
Serving Denton County
4.9 from 159 reviews
Integrity Septic Services
(940) 535-4560 www.integritysepticservicestx.com
Serving Denton County
4.6 from 138 reviews
In Krum, a roughly 3-year pumping interval is the baseline recommendation for homeowners. This interval reflects local soil conditions and typical system usage, helping to prevent solids buildup from reaching the drain field and reducing the risk of user-side overload during wet periods. Even if your system seems to be performing fine, sticking to the 3-year cadence keeps the disposal area healthier over time.
Because clay soils in the area drain slowly and springtime can bring saturated disposal beds, scheduling maintenance before peak wet periods is prudent. In practice, plan a service window in late winter to early spring, or just ahead of anticipated heavy rainfall and rising groundwater. Pumping ahead of the wet season reduces the chance of backups or reduced microbial activity in the drain field when moisture is high. Delaying service until after a backup forms often means dealing with more moisture and longer recovery times, which can complicate repairs or extend downtime.
ATU (aerobic treatment unit) and mound systems in the Krum market routinely encounter soil or seasonal wetness that is less forgiving than simple gravity designs. For these systems, more frequent attention is wise. If your household uses more toilets, laundry, or irrigation water during warmer months, you may already be seeing increasing solids loading. In such cases, align the maintenance schedule to avoid stacking peak usage with peak wet periods. A proactive approach helps preserve effluent quality and protects the more complex treatment steps from saturation-related stress.
Between pumpings, perform a quick, practical check: look for slow drainage, gurgling toilets, or damp, sulfur-smelling spots around the drain field. If any of these appear during late winter or early spring, contact a local septic service promptly to assess whether timing needs adjustment. For ATU and mound systems, request a basic system health check during routine service visits, focusing on pump performance, aeration, and embedded media integrity.
Create a simple rotating plan that targets a major service every three years, with an annual or biannual quick-check cadence. Prioritize pre-wet-season service, then align any additional visits to observed performance changes rather than adhering strictly to a calendar-only approach. This keeps the system resilient through the clay-heavy soils and seasonal saturation common in the area, reducing the risk of backups and prolonging the life of the disposal field.
These companies have experience with aerobic systems reviews well by their customers.
Taylor Septic Service
(817) 369-8703 www.taylorsepticpumping.com
Serving Denton County
4.9 from 159 reviews
Integrity Septic Services
(940) 535-4560 www.integritysepticservicestx.com
Serving Denton County
4.6 from 138 reviews
In this market, the appearance of riser installation work is a clear signal that many systems around the neighborhood lack surface-level access. The lack of risers means inspectors and pumpers must dig more often, which increases disruption during wet seasons and raises the risk of unintended soil disturbance. You should view risers not as optional frills but as practical, long-term access that reduces costly digging and speeds up critical service windows when rain saturates the soil.
Tank replacement is a smaller but real service category, pointing to a broader reality: a portion of the septic inventories in the area are aging. When tanks near the end of their life, failures or trouble codes can surface abruptly, especially after heavy wet seasons. Recognize that a difficult-to-access tank or one with compromised lids is not just an inconvenience; it can curtail routine maintenance and emergency response times during critical periods.
Easy-access risers matter more in this area because wet-season service conditions slow digging and complicate pumping or inspections. In practice, a system without accessible risers forces crews to work in deeper, muddier trenches, delaying service and increasing the chance of storm-related delays. If a homeowner anticipates ongoing use of the property, prioritizing riser retrofit can shorten response times to clogs, backups, or alarms when the soil is most saturated.
When evaluating a retrofit, start with an access assessment: are the tank tops visible and reachable without heavy digging? If not, plan for riser installation or partial lid replacements first. Consider labeling and maintaining clear yard access to support any future service needs, because quick, safe access consistently proves its value when a sudden pumping or inspection is required.
Need someone for a riser installation? Reviewers noted these companies' experience.
Taylor Septic Service
(817) 369-8703 www.taylorsepticpumping.com
Serving Denton County
4.9 from 159 reviews
Krum operates with clay-heavy soils and seasonal saturation risk, which means a standard drain field may struggle during wet periods. Even without a sale-triggered requirement, real-estate septic inspections are still an active local service category, showing buyers and sellers commonly order them voluntarily. A pre-sale check helps establish whether the current system is dispersing effluent adequately under typical wet-season conditions and whether any nearby drainage or soil issues could affect performance after closing.
In this market, a thorough pre-sale inspection looks beyond the visible condition of the tank or lid. The inspector will verify the drain field's recent performance indicators, such as signs of surface dampness, gurgling fixtures, or slow drainage during peak rainfall. Particular attention is paid to areas with clay-heavy soils, where slow drainage and shrink-swell movement can mask emerging failures. The goal is to identify whether the system is operating within its safe dispersal envelope during wet seasons and to flag components that may be reaching the end of their service life.
If the inspection notes wet-weather limitations or partial field failure, you gain actionable knowledge about whether a conventional design is still viable or if a safer alternative-such as an aerobic treatment unit, mound, or low pressure pipe layout-might be advisable for continued performance. In Krum's soils, performance during rain months often dictates long-term reliability more than dry-season observations. Buyers can use the findings to negotiate repairs, replacements, or system upgrades before closing.
For buyers, a voluntary pre-sale septic check offers clarity on the true condition of the system and helps forecast potential near-term maintenance needs. For sellers, carrying out the inspection before listing can streamline negotiations by providing documented evidence of system health or clearly outlined remediation steps. In either case, align expectations with the clay-loam soil dynamics and the known wet-season saturation risk, so decisions consider how the ground behaves across the year, not just under dry conditions.
These companies have been well reviewed their work doing septic inspections for home sales.
Texas Star Aerobic - Septic System Repair,Septic Inspection & Septic Tank Pumping
(972) 338-5883 www.texasstaraerobic.com
Serving Denton County
4.7 from 63 reviews
The clay-heavy soils and seasonal saturation common here slow drainage and promote wet-weather backups. Providers in this market emphasize quick response and same-day service, a feature that aligns with the urgency homeowners face when storms push wastewater toward the drain. When evaluating options, anticipate a detailed explanation of why a problem exists, not just a quick fix. A contractor that explains soil-driven limits and projectable timelines earns trust here. That context shapes every repair choice.
Family-owned and residential-focused operators are common, with a meaningful commercial presence for grease traps and broader wastewater work. Prioritize a company that offers straightforward diagnoses, clear written recommendations, and a plan you can follow. Look for daily communication during a job and a driver toward practical, affordable solutions rather than upselling a more expensive system. Local reviews that highlight responsiveness and reasonable pricing are a strong signal. Consistency matters as soil cycles.
Backups during wet seasons can escalate quickly, so choose a crew that can be on-site promptly, diagnose with simple tests, and outline whether a standard drain field will suffice or an adaptive system is safer. Time on the clock matters, and a crew that can mobilize fast helps prevent further damage. Ask about typical call-back times after a service visit and preferred methods of contact. Having a clear warranty helps you feel confident in the plan.
Request recent customer references and confirm they can handle residential drainage issues and clay soils. Obtain a written assessment that states the problem, recommended approach, and a rough sequence of work. Check that the crew will provide on-site explanations of soil conditions and proposed remedies, and that you feel comfortable with the plan before work begins. Ensure they can coordinate pumping if needed and follow up with maintenance reminders. Keep a simple, written checklist to compare options side by side.