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Septic Installation Contractors

...for over 20 years!

What is a Septic Tank?

Septic tanks are underground wastewater treatment systems that are used in rural and suburban areas which aren't connected to a municipal sewer system.


Septic tanks are used to treat and dispose of household waste water. Wastewater is the water that goes down the drains in your house. It includes water from the toilet, sink, shower, and dishwasher.


Septic tanks come in single and multi-family units, as well as commercial setups. A septic tank for a home usually holds between 1,000 and 2,000 gallons of wastewater. A large septic tank might hold up to 5,000 gallons or more!


A septic tank is designed to hold waste long enough for solids to settle at the bottom and oil and grease to float.


The wastewater then flows out of the tank into a drainfield or leach field. This is a system of trenches or pipes that distribute the wastewater over an area of soil where it can soak in and be treated by bacteria.

  • A yellow excavator is digging a hole in the dirt

D R Excavation Septic Installation

At D R Excavation, our septic installation services are marked by precision and expertise. We offer tailored solutions, from conventional tanks for homes without municipal sewer connections to specialized installations addressing challenges like high water tables or shallow bedrock. Our process involves efficient separation of solids and grease, ensuring effective wastewater treatment. In instances requiring underground excavation, our skilled team executes the process with environmental considerations in mind.


What sets us apart is our commitment to utilizing advanced techniques, such as perforated drain tiles with biofilm, for wastewater purification. This ensures a thorough and environmentally conscious approach, allowing us to deliver reliable and effective septic installations.


Choose D R Excavation for quality, precision, and customized septic solutions that prioritize functionality and environmental responsibility.

Types of Septic Tank Systems

Septic tank systems vary, including traditional, aerobic, gravity, mound, and chamber systems, each tailored for specific property and environmental needs.

  • Anaerobic Septic System

    Anaerobic septic systems are commonly used in rural areas where there is no access to a municipal sewer system. The wastewater from the home enters the tank, where bacteria breaks down the solids.


    The liquid then flows out of the tank and into a leach field, where it is absorbed into the soil. In a dual-tank system, one tank serves as both the primary and secondary treatment tanks.


    The primary tank is smaller and has more bacteria; it is used to reduce solids levels before they enter the secondary tank.


    The secondary tank further reduces solids levels and removes harmful toxins before the wastewater enters the leach field.

  • Aerobic Septic System

    Aerobic septic systems, also called aerobic treatment units (ATUs), utilize two tanks for efficient wastewater processing. The first tank houses anaerobic bacteria to break down organic waste, while the aeration chamber hosts aerobic bacteria, converting soluble waste into non-toxic gases. These systems excel in pollutant removal, safeguarding water quality and supporting healthy watersheds.


    Though increasingly mandated in high-density or challenging soil conditions, the installation and maintenance costs of aerobic septic systems can be high. Therefore, homeowners should carefully assess options before committing to such an advanced treatment method. 


    Prioritizing a reliable and cost-effective solution for household wastewater treatment not only benefits the family's health but also contributes to overall environmental well-being. Careful consideration ensures an informed decision for both the property owner and the surrounding ecosystem.

  • Gravity Septic System

    A gravity septic system operates as a miniature wastewater treatment plant, relying on gravity to facilitate waste movement through its treatment stages. Central to this system is a septic tank with two chambers separated by a partition.


    Incoming wastewater enters the upper chamber, where large debris and solid waste are detained for breakdown by natural tank microbes. The treated wastewater then flows into the lower chamber, where smaller particles undergo further breakdown.


    Upon completion of this process, the treated wastewater exits through an outlet pipe at the tank's bottom. Additional filtration through overland or subsurface drainage ensures harmful organisms and chemicals are kept from reaching waterways and groundwater.


    Installation demands meticulous planning, adhering to local regulations and construction practices. When executed correctly, a gravity septic system becomes a vital and enduring component of residential or commercial properties.

  • Conventional Septic System

    In essence, a conventional septic system consists of a tank and a drainfield. The tank, typically made of concrete, fiberglass, or polyethylene, holds sewage from the home.


    Underground, it connects to the drainfield, where perforated pipes in gravel allow sewage to leach into the soil, treated by bacteria before returning to the groundwater. This system, designed for residential and commercial waste management, includes soil absorption trenches, a drainage field, and a septic tank. 


    While complex, a well-installed conventional septic system effectively manages household wastewater, prioritizing health and environmental protection. 


    Proper installation is crucial for long-term competency, and despite challenges, many homeowners prefer this treatment method for its reliability.

  • Mound Septic System

    A mound septic system, suitable for areas with poor soil quality or bedrock limitations, raises the wastewater treatment facility above the ground on an earth mound. This approach is ideal for properties with limited space, like small lots or dense developments. 


    The mound, constructed with carefully placed excavated soils in the center surrounded by low-porosity materials like clay, efficiently treats wastewater from residential or light commercial buildings. 


    Perforated pipes within the mound allow solids to settle while liquids filter through, effectively removing pollutants before releasing water back into the ground. 


    Mound systems are a practical choice for properties lacking suitable soils for absorption fields or in areas with high groundwater levels or flood risk.

  • Chamber Septic System

    A chamber septic system, utilizing large underground chambers made of concrete or fiberglass, efficiently processes and disposes of waste. 


    Featuring pipes and filters, it breaks down and separates waste types, handling larger volumes than many systems. Wastewater enters the chamber, flowing through pipes for treatment stages, resulting in clean water release. 


    Ideal for commercial or residential use, this system requires more maintenance but is cost-effective to install. As seasoned septic installation contractors, we offer expertise in selecting the optimal design for your needs and budget. 


    For more information or a free quote on installing a chamber septic system, reach out to us!

Types of Materials

When considering septic tanks, the three predominant construction materials are concrete, plastic, and fiberglass, each with distinct advantages and considerations.

  • Concrete

    It is the most common type of septic tank material. A concrete septic tank lasts anywhere from 20 to 40 years, but it can last longer with proper maintenance. Concrete tanks are less likely to develop leaks than plastic tanks, but they are also heavier and more difficult to install.


    Ultimately, concrete is an excellent option for septic tanks since it is both strong and affordable; furthermore, it can be easily obtained from most local building supply stores.


    Other factors that you may want to consider when choosing concrete include its thickness, ability to hold up against corrosion or decay over time, and how well it resists water damage or leaks. Overall, when done right, concrete can make an ideal material for your septic tank.

  • Fiberglass

    Fiberglass is often seen as one of the best options available for septic tank material choice, because it's incredibly strong and durable, meaning that it will be able to withstand a lot of wear and tear. This makes it an ideal choice for areas with high levels of traffic.


    Fiberglass is also resistant to corrosion, so it's perfect for areas with high levels of moisture or humidity. Take note that fiberglass can become scratched or chipped over time, so you'll need to regularly inspect your tank for any damage and make repairs as necessary. Overall, though, fiberglass is an excellent choice for septic tanks.

  • Plastic

    In addition to their lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties, plastic septic tanks are favored for their cost-effectiveness and ease of transportation. 


    Their resistance to rust sets them apart from metal tanks, contributing to longevity. However, the potential for brittleness and cracking requires diligent maintenance, and careful consideration of the plastic's chemical composition is essential to prevent environmental harm. 


    Despite these considerations, the versatility, durability, and adaptability of plastic make it a preferred material for septic tanks, meeting the diverse needs of various installations and environmental conditions.

  • Steel

    Steel is known for its durability and strength, and is able to stand up to the weight and pressure of heavy solids, which can be a major issue in areas with hardwater. Steel is also relatively easy and affordable to work with compared to other materials like concrete or plastic.


    All things considered, these are a couple of the major factors that make steel an excellent choice for septic tanks. However, there are also some minor factors that should be considered as well.


    For example, steel does require some regular maintenance in order to prevent corrosion over time. Additionally, depending on your location and soil quality where you want your tank installed, steel might not be the best choice due to overall soil conditions or environmental regulations in your area.

Septic System Excavation

As septic contractors, we offer diverse wastewater disposal systems. The common septic tank, for homes without municipal sewer connections, separates solids and grease. Effluent flows into a leach field, absorbed by the soil. In challenging areas with high water tables or shallow bedrock, an elevated sand mound replaces soil excavation.


Wastewater purification occurs through a biofilm in perforated drain tiles, slowing and purifying water before returning it to the water table. Our expertise ensures effective and environmentally conscious septic installations tailored to unique needs.

  • a room with a ladder and a bag on the floor

FAQ's About Septic Installation

  • What size septic tank do you need?

    Septic tanks come in a variety of sizes, so it's important to know the size of tank you need before you purchase one. The size of the tank you need will depend on the number of people in your household, the number of bathrooms in your home, and the amount of wastewater you produce.


    Septic tanks come in a variety of sizes, and the size you need depends on the number of bedrooms in your home.


    A general rule of thumb is that the tank should be able to hold between 50 and 100 gallons for each bedroom. So, if you have four bedrooms in your home, you'll need a septic tank that can hold between 200 and 400 gallons.


    The size of the leach field will also depend on the number of bedrooms in your home. The leach field should be at least twice as large as the septic tank. Keep in mind that these are just general guidelines, so it's best to consult with us before making final choices on your septic system. We can help you determine the size and type of tank that will work best for your needs, so give us a call for a free estimate!

  • How much does a septic tank installation cost?

    Septic tank installation cost can vary greatly depending on the size and type of tank, the distance from the house to the tank, and the type of soil.


    The cost of a septic tank installation varies depending on the size and location of your property. Costs can also increase if there is an extensive amount of excavation needed or if the site conditions are not ideal.


    Before installing a septic tank, it's important to have percolation testing done to make sure the soil can adequately absorb wastewater. This test helps identify any potential problems with the piping system that could affect how well the septic tank works.


    If you're in need of a septic tank installation, give us a call for a free estimate. We'll be able to help you determine the size and type of tank that will work best for your home.

  • How do you build a septic drain field?

    Septic drain fields are built by excavating a trench and then installing a perforated pipe. The trench is then filled with a layer of gravel and topped with a filter fabric. The soil is then backfilled, and the process is repeated until the trench is full.


    There are many ways to build a septic drain field, and the amount of liquid required varies depending on the size of the drainage tank and its location relative to your home.


    The first step is to have your soil tested. This will help you determine how deep the drain field should be buried and how wide it should be. Once you have that information, we can start digging! The trenches for the drain field should be at least 18 inches wide and 6-8 inches deep.


    We line the bottom of each trench with a layer of crushed stone, then we place the perforated pipe on top. We cover the pipe with another layer of crushed stone, then backfill with soil.


    We repeat this process until all of the trenches have been dug and filled in. We may need to use more than one type of pipe, based on your soil conditions. Give us a call and we can give you a free estimate with all the details you'll need.

  • How do we calculate the size of my septic drain field when you install a septic system?

    The drain field is responsible for filtering out harmful bacteria and contaminants from the septic tank effluent before it is released into the environment.


    The size of the drain field will determine how effectively it can perform this vital function. As septic installation contractors, we use a variety of methods to calculate the size of a drain field, including soil testing, percolation testing, and site evaluation.


    Once your contractor has determined the size of the drain field, they will excavate a trench that is wide enough and deep enough to accommodate the necessary pipe work. The drain field should be large enough to allow adequate infiltration and water storage, but not so large that it unnecessarily increases the costs of installation.


    There is no definitive answer to this question, as the size of the drain field will vary depending on a number of factors, including the size of your home, the amount of wastewater produced, the soil type, and the climate. As professional septic installers, we can help you determine the size of the drain field you will need. Give us a call to schedule a free quote today.

  • How deep should a leach field trench be for a septic system installation?

    In general, trench depth needs to be at least between 18 and 24 inches deep, below the surface of the ground, in order to ensure proper drainage and filtration. This is especially important in areas with heavy clay soils that are prone to being water logged.


    However, there may be some circumstances where deeper trenches may be required, such as when an on-site sewage disposal system must be installed on rocky terrain or if a higher degree of soil permeability is required.


    Ultimately, trench depth will depend on the local site conditions, as well as the soil composition and geological makeup of the surrounding area.


    But no matter what, it is always best to consult with a qualified septic installer for guidance when planning an installation project. After all, ensuring good waste management practices is essential for protecting the health and safety of our communities.

  • Why is my leach field not draining?

    There are a number of different reasons why a leach field may fail to drain properly. One common issue is that the surrounding soil simply isn't well-suited for this type of system, meaning that the leach field isn't able to effectively disperse water into the ground.


    Additionally, heavy and prolonged rainfall can saturate the leach field and create a backflow in the pipes, preventing adequate drainage. Moreover, if one of the lines becomes damaged or clogged, it can also cause problems with draining. And finally, improper maintenance and care of the septic system can lead to clogging or blockage, further impacting the ability of the leach field to drain properly.


    Overall, there are many factors that can contribute to leach field failure, making it important to routinely inspect any septic installation and take steps to address potential issues before they become bigger problems.


    If you're noticing that your leach field is not draining properly, it's important to take action as soon as possible. This is often an indication that the system is overloaded and needs to be repaired.


    Failing to address the issue can lead to a number of serious problems, including sewage backups in toilets and sinks. Leach fields don't drain well if they're overloaded, so it's important to make sure that you're not putting too much strain on the system.


    Be sure to only use the amount of water recommended by your septic installer, and avoid pouring grease or other waste down the drains. If these measures don't help improve drainage, you may need to have the leach field replaced. This can be an expensive process, but it's necessary in order to ensure that your system is functioning properly. Contact us for more information if you think this is what you need.

Contact Us Today For A Free Quote

Our company has years of experience in excavating all sorts of land, from small residential properties to large commercial ones. We have the equipment and manpower to get the job done quickly and efficiently. Contact us today to get started on your project!