Formerly known as PERC testing, soil testing for Sanitary designates a location for the drainfield component of a septic system.
To designate a drainfield location, a site with original, undisturbed soil is required. At least three soil borings are dug with a mini excavator; a rubber-tracked machine about 6 feet wide. These holes often range from roughly 3 feet deep to more than 8 feet deep. Our soil tester gets into the holes to evaluate site conditions and aspects of the soil, including the soil structure and color. These factors determine the type of system the site can accommodate, typically a conventional (in-ground), at-grade, or mound. After the holes are evaluated, they are backfilled that same day.
Soil testing is weather dependent with most testing happening during the spring, summer and fall months. The best testing conditions are when the soil layers are relatively dry. Snow cover can make it challenging to determine contours and elevations or possible soil disturbance, and frost can adversely affect an accurate evaluation of the soil’s structure and color. Either of these factors can affect the accuracy of a soil evaluation for a proper functioning system.
Site information is needed before testing, and the information required is specific to whether it is for an existing building that needs a replacement system or an entirely new build.
If you’re looking for an estimated cost on the installation of a septic system, please send us a copy of your Soil Evaluation Report, or schedule your soil test with us. This report is also required before a POWTS installer can submit a sanitary permit through the state or county.
Please contact us for further information, or if you have questions about any portion of this process!
(608) 831-8103
meinholzexcavating@gmail.com
7361 Darlin Drive Unit #1, Dane WI 53529