Perc Testing in Cowlitz County
hen it comes to septic system designs, it’s important to conduct a percolation test, or a perc test for short. As a service provided by McNair Septic, the test involves digging a hole and saturating it with water. It’s then timed to see how long it takes for said water to drain away.
The test helps to indicate the suitability for safely dispersing wastewater before a septic system is installed. The data helps to determine the correct size and type of drainage field required.
If you’re looking for Perc Testing in Cowlitz County, then you’ve got a great service available from McNair Septic.
The importance of Perc Testing
There are many reasons why Perc Testing is important, and it is a process that’s important to conduct before moving forward with any septic systems that you install on your property.
Septic system suitability
The main reason that perc testing is conducted is to determine whether the property’s soil is suitable for installing or replacing an existing septic tank and its associated soakaway. It can ensure that the relevant data and feedback from the testing help to make the appropriate decision needed.
Correct sizing
The test helps to calculate the size of the drainage field or soakway, as it’s otherwise called, which is needed to handle wastewater efficiently. Without the test, the size of the drainage field may be calculated incorrectly and causing problems with wastewater.
Environmental protection
It’s important to ensure that wastewater is properly treated and that it’s dispersed by the soil in order to prevent pollution.
Environmental protection is something many are concerned about, and septic systems need to be installed with the environment in mind.
Regulatory compliance
For many areas, like Cowlitz County, a perc test is a legal and engineering requirement before installing any septic systems.
How is a perc test conducted?
What can you expect from a perc test? Here’s a step-by-step guide on what you’d expect to happen.
1. Excavation of test holes
Two holes at least will be dug, typically around 300mm square. The holes need to be at least 300mm deeper than the planned depth of the infiltration pipe.
2. Debris is removed, and soil is saturated
The hole should then be filled with water and left to seep into the soil overnight. This helps to ensure the soil surrounding the section becomes fully saturated.
3. Refill and measure
The next day, the test section should be refilled with water again, and the time should be recorded on how long it takes for the water to drop from 75% full to 25% full. So from 300mm to 150mm.
4. Calculate the percolation rate and repeat tests
Dividing the time recorded in seconds by 150mm will give you the average time in seconds for the water to drop to 1mm. This is defined as the percolation rate (Vp). The test should be repeated so that an average Vp figure is found.
What makes McNair Septic the preferred choice for Perc Testing in Cowlitz County
McNair Septic is a preferred choice for those residents in Cowlitz County. There are several reasons why we’re the preferred choice.
Three Generations of Septic Design Expertise
The family behind McNair Septic has been designing septic systems in Washington since the 1970s. That’s legacy and a half!
As such, the company has decades of hands-on experience that is unmatched in comparison to newer companies. The knowledge that the company holds is relevant to the tests conducted prior to the design, and ensuring that data from the test is built into the design of the septic system so that it lasts.
Licensed & Insured for Your Protection
As a company, we hold the Washington State On-Site Septic Designer license. Along with this and the full insurance coverage, you can rest assured that your project is being handled by the best. Not only that, but it’s handled by qualified professionals who meet all state requirements necessary.
4.9-Star Reputation Backed by Hundreds of Happy Customers
When you’re looking to use a company for anything nowadays, you may often find yourself checking out the reviews. That can often be an indicator of how good or bad the company is.
Homeowners in Cowlitz County choose us because we’ve got reviews that reflect a consistent track record. With a 4.9-star reputation, we’re a company and septic design service that’s backed by hundreds of happy customers.
Choose McNair Septic for your Perc Testing needs
Perc testing is a crucial part of the process when installing or replacing a septic system. Therefore, it’s good to use someone you can trust, like McNair Septic. Get in touch today to find out more about how we can help with your septic system needs.
