How to Care Your Septic System During a Home Remodel

Jul 27, 2024

How to Care Your Septic System During a Home Remodel

Home remodeling projects such as deck installation, kitchen remodels, and landscaping can affect your septic system in various ways. For instance, driving heavy machinery over the septic tank or drain field area when undertaking a landscaping project can cause costly damage. Similarly, adding hardscaping over the drain field can interfere with the process of wastewater elimination, leading to backups and costly repairs.

Reviews
Mitch Kranes

Tim Grant of Septic Blue performed our septic system service. He was fantastic. Tank had not been serviced in a…

double
Tim P.

Bret Brooks arrived on time, was completely professional and courteous.  I needed my septic tank pumped and a riser installed.…

double
Ashley Maylott

We are renovating a home that has a septic tank. We contacted Septic Blue and scheduled an appointment. They came…

double
Eric Lehtinen

Bret was professional and courteous.  Bret walked me through his process and explained everything to me.  When it came to…

double

In this article, Septic Blue of Charlotte provides you with tips to keep your septic system in good shape during a home remodel. Whether you’re adding a new bathroom or building a patio to extend your living space, these tips from our skilled septic technicians will help you protect and maintain your septic system during the remodeling process. Also, remember that Septic Blue of Charlotte is the name you can trust for all of your septic system needs, including septic tank installation and repair.

Identify the Location of the Septic System and Keep It Well-Marked

The first step is to locate your septic tank and drain field. You can check your property deeds, septic tank installation permits, or as-built drawings for the location. If this information is unavailable, consult your local municipality or a septic company that can help identify the system's placement. In some cases, there might be visible signs of the septic system on your property. Look for cleanout access points for septic tank pumping or raised mounds over the drain field.

Keep Heavy Machinery and Vehicles off The Drain Field

Once you've identified the location of the drain field, mark it clearly with flags, stakes, or fencing. This will alert workers and prevent heavy machinery or vehicles from driving over the area. Compacting the soil in the drain field can hinder its ability to absorb wastewater effectively. Inform your contractor and workers about the location of the septic system and the importance of avoiding the drain field entirely.

Limit Excessive Water Use

Major renovations often involve increased water usage for tasks like cleaning and mixing concrete. Encourage water conservation practices by installing low-flow fixtures on temporary faucets and reminding workers to be mindful of water use.

Schedule a Pre-Model Inspection

Schedule a septic system inspection with a trusted septic company before the remodel begins. This will establish a baseline health record for your system. The inspector can identify any potential issues that might be exacerbated by the increased water usage or construction activity. Addressing any existing problems before the remodel can prevent them from worsening during construction and potentially causing more expensive repairs later.

Proper Disposal of Construction Debris

Set up a designated area for construction waste and debris. This will help prevent accidental disposal of harmful materials like paint and solvents down the drains, which can damage your septic system. Ensure proper disposal of all construction waste according to local regulations. Some materials, like paint or concrete residue, require specific disposal methods to avoid contaminating the environment or harming your septic system.

By taking these precautionary measures before remodeling, you can save a significant amount of money. Ensuring that your septic system is well-maintained and protected during construction can prevent costly septic tank repair and potential system failures.

Call Septic Blue of Charlotte for Help

Septic Blue of Charlotte is a licensed and insured septic company offering top-tier septic services. Whether you’re in need of routine septic tank cleaning to maintain a healthy system or an inspection to determine the condition of your septic tank, we are here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.