What Is A Perc Test As In Septic Tank? (Correct answer)

Perc tests determine the right and wrong locations for a septic system, and they’re often required by local jurisdictions before a new one can be built or an old one replaced. That’s because septic tanks work by holding wastewater long enough to naturally separate liquids and solids.

• A perc test, or percolation test, is a soil test that is performed before installing a septic system tank. The perc test is extremely important because it measures the level of liquid absorption of the soil where the proposed septic tank will be located. It determines how quickly the material from the septic system will be absorbed into the soil.

How is a perk test done?

A perc test is conducted by drilling or digging a hole in the ground, pouring water into the hole and then observing the rate at which the water is absorbed into the soil.

What happens if you fail a percolation test?

Failing the percolation test If you still fail after that, you’d either have to discharge very well treated water to a watercourse (only an option in NI) or avail of a ‘zero discharge’ system (constructed wetlands that do not require emptying).

What does septic PERC mean?

A percolation test (colloquially called a perc test) is a test to determine the water absorption rate of soil (that is, its capacity for percolation) in preparation for the building of a septic drain field (leach field) or infiltration basin.

What is the purpose of a perk test?

Perc tests determine the right and wrong locations for a septic system, and they’re often required by local jurisdictions before a new one can be built or an old one replaced. That’s because septic tanks work by holding wastewater long enough to naturally separate liquids and solids.

How long are perc tests good for?

Test results are usually good for two to five years, and in some cases can be renewed. However, with all things perc, rules vary greatly from town to town so don’t make any assumptions. Always check with the town health department before proceeding.

What happens if my land doesn’t perk?

Without a successful perc test, there can be no septic permit. Without a septic permit, there can be no septic system. Without a septic system, there can be no dwelling of any kind. If the owner can’t build a dwelling of any kind, the property’s value will diminish substantially.

How do you know if land will perk?

Suitability can be determined through a perc or perk test, formally known as a Percolation Test. This test determines the rate at which water drains through the soil. If the property does not pass the perk test, than a standard septic system cannot by installed. There are alternatives, but they can be very expensive.

Can you do a perk test in the winter?

For the best results, you should perform a perc test in the driest season. During this time, the water table will be at its lowest point, and the dry soil will more readily absorb liquid. However, if the soil is frozen or has recently absorbed a lot of rain or melted snow, the percolation results will be lower.

What does PERC mean in real estate?

Does the land perc? Short for soil percolation rate, what this means is: can the land absorb water from a septic system? You will need to have a perc test done in order to find out. Usually performed by a soil scientist, the perc test analyzes the topography, the types of soil, and their ability to absorb water.

How long does it take to get a perk test back?

A perc test takes anywhere from 1 to 6 hours, depending on the size of the land and soil composition.

How do you make land PERC?

How to do a home soil percolation test:

1. Dig a 6″-12″ deep hole in your future greywater infiltration zone.
2. Place a ruler (or stick marked in inches) in the bottom of the hole.
3. Fill the hole with water several times to saturate the soil.
4. Note the time.

Who does SC perc test?

A perc test involves drilling or digging a hole in the ground, pouring water into it, and observing the rate at which water absorbs into the soil. It’s usually done by an official from the county health department with the owner of the property present and/or a licensed excavator.

Perc Testing and Soil Testing – What You Need to Know

This Article Discusses If you don’t have a perc, you don’t have a house. Test with a Deep Hole Testing with Percs SetbacksClearances Alternatives in the Event of a Site Failure View and post commentsQuestions Septic System Frequently Asked Questions SEPTIC SYSTEM articles can be found here. Traditional septic systems can only function well if the soil in the leach field region is sufficiently porous to allow the liquid effluent flowing into it to be readily absorbed by the soil. A failure to do so will result in untreated wastewater backing up and pooling on the surface.

It is in this soil layer that the majority of the treatment takes place.

This happens less frequently.

Depending on the municipality, particular criteria may differ, however any of these qualities may exclude the installation of a basic gravity-fed septic system.

A percolation test (often referred to as a “perc test” or “perk test”) is necessary to assess if a construction site is appropriate for a septic system installation.

NO PERC, NO HOUSE

A failed perc test on a rural site without municipal sewage services implies that no home may be built, which is why you should make any offer to acquire property contingent on the site passing both the soil and the perc tests before proceeding with the purchase. Percolation or perc tests are becoming increasingly popular in rural areas as prime building sites become increasingly uncommon (or prohibitively costly) in many sections of the country. Rural sites that do not pass the percolation or perc test are becoming increasingly common.

• Soils are often classified as either coarse sand and gravel particles or microscopic silt particles, with minuscule clay particles — the tiniest – making up the majority of their composition.
• Before investing time and money in testing, dig down to the lighter soil beneath the first few inches of topsoil (loam) and get a handful of it to have a good notion of what you’re dealing with.
• It shows that the soil has a high clay content and that it may fail a typical perc test if you are able to construct a ribbon of dirt 2 inches or longer in the ribbon test.
• Testing requirements differ significantly from state to state and frequently from town to town, since most governments let small municipalities to develop their own laws within the framework of state regulations.

a. Though not all of these tests require the services of a certified professional, it’s a good idea to engage a seasoned expert with extensive local knowledge because many of these tests have some wiggle space.

DEEP HOLE TEST

The majority of studies begin with a deep hole test that is excavated by machine to a depth that is considerably below the bottom of the planned leach field – often 7 to 10 feet deep or more. High water tables, as well as the presence of rock ledges or impermeable soil that will prevent water from being absorbed, are sought for by the testers. In certain regions, testers are also looking for drainage features in the soil. It may not be necessary to carry soil samples back to the lab; instead, visual observations of the soil strata may be adequate.

1. It requires a trained eye to spot soil mottling, which is a sign of a seasonal high water table – at a depth of about 2 feet here, the water table is around 2 feet deep.
2. Actual observations are utilized to determine the “limiting zone,” which is the area of soil where the soil is unsuitable for sewage treatment.
3. The existence of a seasonal high water table may be visually determined by checking for “mottling,” which are splotches or streaks of color in the soil that indicate the presence of water on occasion.
4. For situations when the limiting zone is too close to the surface to be accommodated by a normal leach field, a mound or other alternate septic system may be necessary.
5. However, while the vast majority of soil specialists think that soil observation may offer sufficient information for the design of a functional septic system, most states now mandate perc testing to directly quantify the rate at which water percolates through the soil (perc testing).
6. The results indicate whether or not a septic system can be implemented in a given community, and the results are used by system designers to calculate the size of the leach field.

SEASONAL HIGH WATER TABLE

In most cases, a deep hole test is performed by machine to a depth considerably beyond the intended leach field’s bottom – typically 7 to 10 feet deep or greater – and then analyzed. High water tables, as well as the presence of rock ledges or impermeable soil that will prevent water from being absorbed, are sought by the testers. Additionally, in some regions, soil testers assess the soil’s drainage qualities. In some cases, visual observations of the soil layers may be adequate in lieu of taking soil samples and submitting them to a laboratory for analysis With a perc test, the soil’s absorption rate may be determined in the field in many jurisdictions.

USDAV (United States Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources).

If the top layer of the water table, or impermeable soil or rock, determines the location of the water table, Looking for “mottling,” splotches or streaks of color in the soil that indicate the presence of water on occasion, might help you identify a high water table during the seasonal dry spell.

The use of a mound or another alternative septic system may be necessary when the restricting zone is too close to the surface to allow for the use of a standard leach field.

However, while the vast majority of soil specialists think that soil observation may offer sufficient information to design a functional septic system, most jurisdictions now require perc testing in order to directly evaluate the rate at which water percolates through soil.

Water drainage into a standard-sized hole in the ground is measured using this procedure. A septic system’s installation is dependent on the findings, which are used by system designers to calculate how large a leach field should be constructed.

PERC TESTING

To conduct a perc test, first consult with a representative from the local health department. Requirements can differ significantly from town to town in terms of who can conduct the test, the minimum number of holes, the depth of the holes, the required absorption rates, and the time period during which the tests can be conducted. In general, tests cannot be performed in frozen or disturbed soil, and some regions only allow tests to be performed during specific months of the year – so prepare ahead of time.

• If the test fails, you may be forced to invest in a more expensive alternative technology, or the site may be deemed unusable.
• A typical perc test consists of two or more holes drilled around 30 to 40 feet apart in the planned drain field region, with the holes being approximately 30 to 40 feet apart (see illustration).
• After that, either you or the technician should fill the bottom of the hole with 2 inches of clean gravel.
• Remove any loose soil from the bottom of the hole with a sharp tool as well.
• Continue to add water until there is approximately 12 inches of water in the hole for at least 4 hours.
• The next day, carefully wipe away any loose dirt that has fallen to the bottom of the holes and gently fill each hole with water to a depth of 6 inches over the level of the gravel in each hole.
• The timings are then meticulously recorded and used to compute the percolation rate, which is the amount of time it takes for one inch of water to descend into the ground.
• When using a normal gravity-flow septic system, a 60-minutes per inch (MPI) rate is commonly used as the cutoff point, indicating that the water dropped one inch in 60 minutes.
• Some municipalities demand extra “hydraulic” soil testing for locations that test higher than 30 minutes per inch in some instances.
• Water absorbs too quickly below that level to be efficiently treated before it reaches the groundwater table.

The hole with the weakest performance is the one that matters. The presence of a town official to witness the test is required in certain communities. Perc test regulations differ significantly from one municipality to the next. The following are some general ranges for soil permeability:

• Consult with the local health department before conducting a perc test because requirements can differ significantly from town to town in terms of who can conduct the test, the minimum number of holes to be dug, the depth of holes to be dug, the required absorption rates, and the time period during which the tests can be conducted. Overall, tests cannot be performed in frozen or disturbed soil, and some regions only allow testing to be performed during specific months of the year – so prepare ahead of time. A normal septic system will only function properly if the soil is adequately permeable to water, which may be assessed by using a “perc” testing procedure. If the test fails, you may be forced to invest in a more expensive alternative solution, or the site may be deemed unbuildable altogether. Procedure to be tested Typically, two or more holes are excavated around 30 to 40 feet apart in the planned drain field region to conduct a perc test (see illustration). A leach field’s absorption trenches are normally 6 to 12 inches in diameter and 2 to 3 feet deep, which corresponds to the typical depth of the holes in a leach field’s absorption trench. Following that, either you or the technician should fill the bottom of the hole with 2 inches of clean gravel. Clean the sidewalls of the hole with a sharp tool (nails hammered through the end of a 12 work well) to dislodge soil that has been compacted during digging. Remove any loose soil from the bottom of the hole using a sharp instrument. In order to imitate the real circumstances seen in a functioning septic system, the soil is “pre-soaked” for many hours in order to completely saturate it before the perc test is performed. For at least 4 hours, keep pouring water to the hole until there is around 12 inches of water remaining. In order to completely saturate clay soils, they need soak for at least 12 hours. Remove any loose dirt that has settled at the bottom of the holes and gently fill each hole with water to a depth of 6 inches above the gravel the following day. In the following 30 minutes, record how much water has dropped (or less for highly permeable soil that drains quickly). It is then necessary to chronicle the timings in order to compute the percolation rate, which is the amount of time it takes for one inch of water to descend. The rate of percolation is commonly represented in minutes per inch of drop in the water column. When using a normal gravity-flow septic system, a 60-minutes per inch (MPI) rate is commonly used as the cutoff point, indicating that the water dropped one inch in 60 minutes. However, the maximum rate can range from 30 to 120 MPI depending on local restrictions. A second “hydraulic” soil test may be required for locations with soil tests more than 30 minutes per inch in some municipalities. When percolation is occurring at an excessively rapid rate, the cutoff is generally 1 to 3 minutes per inch. Water absorbs too quickly below this level to be efficiently treated before it reaches the groundwater table, which is dangerous. What matters is how well a hole does on its worst day. The presence of a town official to observe the test is required in some municipalities. From one municipality to the next, the regulations for a perc test differ significantly. For soil permeability, the following general ranges are used:

In most circumstances, test findings are valid for two to five years, and in some cases they can be extended. However, like with all things perc, rules vary significantly from town to town, so don’t make any assumptions about what to expect. Always check with the local health department before embarking on a project.

OTHER SITE CONDITIONS

Septic system rules vary greatly from municipality to municipality, although the majority of municipalities demand that the leach field satisfy specified specifications in addition to passing the perc test. Some of the most typical stumbling blocks are as follows:

• Slope with a lot of incline. Typically, the maximum permitted slope for a conventional system varies between 20 and 30 percent
• Filled land Most of the time, native soils are necessary, while manufactured fill may be acceptable in rare instances. Wetlands and floodplains are two terms that are used to describe the same thing. This is not suitable for the leach field. Site drainage is important. During rain storms, the leach field should not be in the path of runoff, which might result in system erosion or flooding.

SETBACKSCLEARANCES

It is necessary to maintain a minimum distance between the septic tank and leach field and any structures, property lines, water pipelines, wells, or bodies of open water. In the case of tiny locations, a variance may be necessary in order to provide adequate space. It is possible that you will be required to find adequate area for both the current leach field and a replacement field, which will be used in 20 or 30 years after the original field has been depleted of its capacity. The number of clearances varies from one town to the next.

SEPTIC SYSTEM MIN. CLEARANCES (typ.)
Distance to	Septic Tank	Leach Field
House	10 ft.	10-20 ft.
Property line	10 ft.	10 ft.
Private well	50 ft.	50-100 ft.
Potable water piping	10-25 ft.	25 ft.
Open water(stream,pond, wetland, etc.)	50-100 ft.	100 ft.
Dry gulch/stream bed	10 ft.	25 ft.
Subsoil drains	10 ft.	25 ft.
Note:Always check with local codes

OPTIONS IF SITE FAILS

Even if your site fails a perc or deep-hole test, it is not always doomed to failure. It may be possible to “de-water” the drain-field area on sites with high water tables by strategically constructing gravel-filled trenches and subsurface drain pipes to divert water away from the drain-field region. To complete this project, you’ll need the services of a highly skilled earthwork contractor, as well as the assistance of a civil engineer or geotechnical engineer. Additionally, in recent years, a diverse range of alternative septic systems have been created for use on a variety of different types of sites.

1. In general, these systems are more expensive, and many of them require additional components such as pumps, alarms, and other devices that necessitate more monitoring and maintenance than a normal sewage system.
2. Building lots that were formerly considered unbuildable may become authorized building lots when alternative solutions become more prevalent and broadly recognized.
3. Look for a contractor that has previous expertise installing the precise system you are considering as a second option.
4. A clogged septic system is not a pleasant sight or scent to see.
5. In order to do a perc test, who should I hire?
6. Is It Possible for Septic Systems to Last a Lifetime?

How Much Slope Do You Need for a Septic Line? Performing an Inspection on a Septic System When Is the Best Time to Take a Perc Test? Should I use a Sand Filter with my existing septic system? Examining the condition of the wellSEPTIC SYSTEMView all articles

All About the Percolation Test Required for a New Septic Tank

Septic systems enable you to construct a house or business on even the most distant of lands that are not already served by a sewer system. A septic tank’s suitability for a particular property, on the other hand, requires more than simply the owner’s willingness to spend the money to install one. Prior to granting approval for a permit for the installation of the system, your county will need that you do a percolation test, which is also known as a perc test. Learn everything you can about this test before it is conducted so that you are well prepared for the procedure.

• A percolation test determines how well the earth drains in a specific area of a building’s foundation.
• It may be necessary to conduct a number of percolation tests before determining the best site for a septic tank.
• What is the procedure for testing percolation?
• It is necessary to dig a hole of specific depth and fill it with water before measuring how long it takes for the water to completely drain into the surrounding soil in each test.
• The soil’s water absorption rate will not be reliably measured if the holes are too small.
• Contractors often dig at least two pits at opposing ends of the intended drainage system to ensure that the entire region drains at an appropriate rate during the project.
• The majority of percolation tests are performed prior to the construction of a new septic tank.

In certain situations, relocating a system necessitates the performance of a percolation test as well, as the new location may have different soil drainage characteristics.

If you want to save money and learn more about your property’s drainage system before paying for any expert maintenance, you may dig your own percolation test pit.

If you decide to dig your own pit, make sure to slope all of the sides to both prevent the surrounding earth from collapsing and to allow you to escape if you do fall into the pit.

It is safer to slope all four sides of the task while doing it by hand with a shovel rather than using a machine.

If you fail a percolation test, you will be unable to construct a typical septic tank in the region where the test was conducted.

We at Walters Environmental Services invite you to schedule a professional percolation test with us now to determine whether your site is suitable for the installation of a septic system.

What Is A Perc Test? 14 Things You Should Know in 2022

When conducting due diligence before to purchasing a property, a perc test is an essential part of the procedure that must be completed (also known as a percolation test). The soil’s water absorption rate is determined by doing a perc test (or the percolation rate). Understanding whether or not an aseptic system can be implemented is critical to the process. In brief, if a piece of land is located in a rural area and a municipal sewer system is not accessible, a septic system can assist in making the site “livable.” A perc test is required for anybody purchasing land with the intention of constructing a home or living on it.

1. A perc test tests the rate at which water drains through the soil

When conducting due diligence before to purchasing a property, a perc test is an essential part of the process (also known as a percolation test). Using a perc test, you may find out how quickly the soil absorbs water (or the percolation rate). This test is critical in determining whether or not an aseptic system can be implemented. Shortly put, if a property is located in a rural area where a municipal sewage system is not accessible, a septic system can assist in making the property “livable.”.

Continue reading to learn not just how this procedure works, but also whether or not a piece of property you are interested in purchasing will be disqualified as a result of this process.

2. A perc test is only necessary if a property doesn’t have access to a municipal sewer system

A perc test, which allows you to install a septic system on your land if your property does not already have access to a municipal sewage system, is only required if your property does not already have access to one. Keep this in mind while conducting your due diligence since it may obviate the necessity for a perc test entirely. You’ll want to check to see if the unoccupied site is within walking distance of a sewage line that’s already in place. If this is the case, there is no need for a septic system to be installed.

The results of the perc test will be required by the majority of county health authorities in order to decide whether or not the property is fit for the system.

If you want to avoid having to perform a perc test completely, seek for properties that already have sewage hookups while you’re looking for land to purchase.

3. Be sure to check with the county’s health department

To get the phone number of your county’s health department, all you have to do is Google the name of your county and “health department” to obtain their contact information. You’ll want to contact the health department ahead of time to verify that you understand the procedure and requirements and that there are no bumps along the way. Also keep in mind that, regardless of what you learn on the internet, each county has its own set of criteria that might differ from one location to the next.

Make careful you follow the instructions of your local health agency. You will almost always require a health department official to be present for your perc test, so make sure to arrange for this before the excavator comes out to do the job.

4. A failed perc test will complicate your plans to build

Okay, so you already know that a perc test is required in order to establish a septic system, and you also know that most landowners will not install a septic system if a municipal sewage system is available as an alternative. However, what happens if you fail the perc test and are unable to have a septic system installed? Several landowners are confronted with this issue. When looking for property, it is important to remember that if it does not pass the soil and perc tests needed by county health authorities, it will be impossible to construct a home on it.

Even while it may be tempting to acquire the land anyhow and attempt to make anything work, it is necessary to consider the worst-case situation before proceeding.

5. Don’t panic if your land fails a perc test

You make the decision to acquire land that has failed a perc test. You are aware that this indicates that it is not constructible. What are you going to do? Do you intend to put it on the market? Do you just let it go to waste? Is it too late to save the situation? What are you going to do? Don’t panic is the first step to taking action. Just though your property failed a perc test does not rule out the possibility of constructing something on it. If you’re ready to spend additional money on an engineered system or a raised sand bed to assist fix the drainage issue, you may be able to get around this problem.

1. If your perc test fails, here are some alternate paths you might try.
2. Other perc tests may have been performed previously, so check with the health department.
3. While you may have had a perc test performed in one section of the property, it is possible that a former owner performed one in another.
4. In contrast, if you aren’t testing that particular portion, you will continue to fail.
5. The fact that you have one failed perc test does not necessarily imply that you have failed completely, or that the land is a lost cause.
6. People generally consider this to be a long shot, but you’ll never know unless you give it a go.
7. This will bring you closer to knowing if the answer is a definitive “no” or whether you can take certain changes on your land to make it more constructible.

If the water table is low, you have a better chance of passing a perc test, and in many regions, the water table is more likely to be low during particular seasons.

Find out when the failed perc test was done, and if it occurred during a time when the water level in your region would have been high, you may have a second opportunity at success on your hands.

In addition to being fairly priced (depending on your property’s circumstances and local standards), there are ecologically acceptable alternatives to traditional septic systems.

In the case of making an otherwise unbuildable property buildable again, it may be well worth the effort to invest in.

If your property has varied topography, it may make a significant impact in the different types of soil that can be found on your property.

Allow your excavator to test a few different locations on your property to ensure that you are not giving up too soon.

Occasionally, if you wait long enough, municipal water and sewer service will become accessible in your neighborhood. It might be a tedious and time-consuming waiting game, but it may be worth your while in the end. You should just wait it out if it’s the right piece of property for you.

6. The type of soil your property has plays a large role in whether or not it passes

When soil has significant percentages of sand and gravel, it is more likely to pass the perc test. This is due to the fact that sandy soil absorbs water at a far higher rate than clay, silt, or solid rock. When the land is located in a region with a low water table, it also does a better job of absorbing water than when it is not. Generally speaking, soil will fall somewhere in the center of any of the following. The granules of sand and gravel Silt particles of a small size Clay particles of minuscule size (the smallest)

7. You can do a few tests on your own soil to see what you have

A basic notion of the texture of your soil may be obtained without having to invest the time and money in a perc test. Here are a few examples of how you can go about it. Using a shovel, dig down to the lighter soil beneath the first few inches of topsoil, also known as loam. Take a handful of them. Clay texture is present in substantial amounts in soil that is sticky and moist in texture and may be formed into a long, thin ribbon or worm that retains its shape. The ribbon test is used to determine whether or not you are able to construct a ribbon of dirt that is 2 inches or more in length.

You may also use this Home Soil Percolation Test to determine soil percolation.

8. The perc test procedure varies based on the municipality

In the end, the perc test technique differs depending on where you are in the world. A perc test, on the other hand, will almost always be done by a licensed excavator in most countries. In addition to the owner, a representative from the county health department will be present during the test. The excavator will normally dig two deep holes to evaluate the drainage rate of the soil on the job site, and the results will be recorded. Using simple equipment, kids pour water down the hole they dug and measure how long it takes for the water to drain in minutes per inch.

As a result, you must normally have an official present to ensure that the exam is properly observed.

9. A perc test does not last forever

In most cases, perc tests are valid for 2-5 years, while the actual length of time varies depending on the local regulatory authority. As a result, it is critical to know when the most recent perc test was performed. It is necessary to commission a new test if you wish to construct on the lot if the existing test is older than 10 years old.

10. There are some common limiting factors for septic systems beyond a perc test

If you pass the perc test, it is possible that you may not be free of trouble. Is it true that most towns demand that a septic tank drain field (also known as an aleach field) fulfill particular specifications that go above and beyond simply passing a percolation test? We bet you didn’t realize how tough it may be to prepare property for construction! Consider the following points to be aware of even before you get down to the nitty-gritty of septic system rules. Slope with a lot of incline: The highest permissible slope for a typical system is between 20 and 30 percent, depending on the system.

The use of engineered fill may be appropriate in particular situations.

Wetlands and floodplains are two types of floodplains.

It is not permitted to construct a septic tank drain field in wetlands or flood zones. Drainage on the job site: During storms, it is important that your septic tank drain field is not in the route of runoff. This has the potential to produce erosion or floods in the system.

11. There is a minimum distance required for a septic tank

A positive perc test may not mean that you are out of the woods entirely. Is it true that most towns have particular standards for an aleach field (also known as a septic tank drain field), requirements that go above and beyond just passing a perc test? Surely you had no idea how tough it might be to prepare land for construction. Consider the following points to be familiar with even before you get down to the nitty-gritty of septic system regulations: An incline with a lot of traction: The highest permissible slope for a typical system is between 20 and 30 percent, depending on the configuration.

Depending on the situation, engineered fill may be appropriate.

Wetlands and floodplains are two different things.

Drainage on the job site – During storms, it is important that your septic tank drain field is not in the route of the water.

12. A perc test costs between $150 to $1,500

A positive perc test does not necessarily mean you are out of the woods. Did you know that most towns have special standards for an aleach field (also known as a septic tank drain field) that go above and beyond simply passing a perc test? We bet you didn’t realize how tough it might be to prepare property for construction! Listed below are some of the things you should be aware of even before getting into the specifics of septic system rules. Slope that is steep: The highest permissible slope for a typical system is between 20 and 30 percent.

In some instances, engineered fill may be appropriate.

Wetlands and floodplains: You are not permitted to construct a septic tank drain field in wetlands or flood zones.

This might result in system erosion or floods.

13. You can use context clues if you want to avoid a perc test

Even if you pass the perc test, you may not be out of the woods yet. Did you know that most towns demand that an aleach field (also known as a septic tank drain field) satisfy specified specifications in addition to passing a perc test? We bet you didn’t realize that preparing property for construction could be so tough! Here are some of the things you should be aware of even before you get into the nitty-gritty of septic system rules. Slope that is too steep: The highest permissible slope for a typical system is between 20 and 30%.

In some circumstances, engineered fill may be acceptable.

Wetlands or floodplains: It is not permitted to construct a septic tank drain field in marsh or floodplain areas. Drainage on the construction site: During storms, your septic tank drain field should not be in the path of the runoff. This might result in erosion or flooding of the system.

14. There are options for a non-buildable property

That is to say, you failed your perc test and were unsuccessful with any of the other options. Never be concerned! We have some options for those of you who will not be able to establish a septic system on your land due to financial constraints.

• Storage facilities, pole barns, horse stables, grazing areas, crops, orchards, camping, hunting, lumber, mining, and drilling are some of the possibilities.

Even if your perc test did not turn out the way you had hoped, don’t give up on the possibility of putting your property to good use.

Final thoughts

A perc test is a basic test that is done to determine how well water drains on your land and if it is appropriate for a septic system installation. If a property does not already have water or sewer hookups, a septic system might be installed to assist make it habitable. When landowners receive a failed perc exam, they are frequently stressed. If this occurs to you, take a deep breath and regroup. You have two options: either repeat the steps in 5 and attempt to get a different result, or choose one of the alternate uses for your property in 14.

Don’t give up hope!

Additional Resources

If you are seeking for inexpensive land to purchase, you may find it on our Listings page. Before you acquire property, be sure to review the Gokce Land Due Diligence Program to ensure that it meets your needs. If you are wanting to sell land, please see our article on How to Sell Your Land for more information.

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Now is the time to subscribe. I hope you have found this content to be interesting. If you are interested in purchasing or selling land, you should look into the following: Disclaimer: We are not attorneys, accountants, or financial advisors, and the information contained in this article is provided solely for informative reasons. Our own research and experience have informed this post, and while we strive to keep it accurate and up to date, it is possible that some inaccuracies have occurred.

• Erika is a former Director of Affordable Housing for the City of New York who has transitioned into a full-time land investor.
• She graduated with honors from the University of Southern California with a Bachelor of Architecture and with a Master of Urban Policy from Columbia University before establishing Gokce Capital.
• Erika presently resides in the New York Metropolitan area with her husband, daughter, and cat.
• She is originally from Chicago and still considers herself to be a midwesterner at heart, despite her current location.

), Erika has a lot of interests. It is now possible to purchase her new book, Land Investing Mistakes: 11 True Stories You Need To Know Before Buying Land, on Amazon. Erika’s most recent blog entries (see all)

Perc Testing and What to Do If The Site Fails

It is only if the soil in the leach area is sufficiently porous that it can quickly absorb the liquid effluent flowing into it that traditional septic systems will function properly. There must also be at least a few feet of decent soil between the bottom of the leach pipes and the rock or impermeable hardpan below, or between the bottom of the leach pipes and the water table. A site can also fail because the soil is excessively porous, enabling the effluent to reach the groundwater before it has had a chance to be thoroughly treated.

Slopes that are too steep for a typical leach field are likewise inappropriate for them.

In rare instances, an alternate septic system that is more expensive may be permitted.

NO PERC, NO HOUSE

It is only if the soil in the leach area is sufficiently porous that it can quickly absorb the liquid effluent flowing into it that traditional septic systems will function well. There must also be at least a few feet of excellent soil between the bottom of the leach pipes and the rock or impermeable hardpan below, or to the water table, in order for the leach pipes to function properly. A site can also fail because the soil is excessively porous, enabling the effluent to reach the groundwater before it has had a chance to be thoroughly treated.

The use of a typical leach field is likewise not recommended on extremely steep slopes, as previously stated.

It may be possible to install a more expensive alternative septic system in some circumstances.

DEEP HOLE TEST

The majority of studies begin with a deep hole test that is excavated by machine to a depth that is considerably below the bottom of the planned leach field – often 7 to 10 feet deep or more. It may not be necessary to carry soil samples back to the lab; instead, visual observations of the soil strata may be adequate. In order to determine the drainage properties of the soil, the presence of a seasonal high water table, and the depth of the “limiting zone,” which is the area where the soil is unsuitable for sewage treatment, soil tests or observations are conducted.

The higher layer of the water table, as well as impermeable rock or soil, form the limiting zone of a body of water.

Typically, the water table or impermeable soil in the leach field must be at least 3 feet below the bottom of the trenches in order for the leach field to be effective.

The speed at which water drains into a standard-sized hole in the ground is measured by this test. The results indicate whether or not a septic system can be implemented in a given community, and the results are used by system designers to calculate the size of the leach field.

PERC TESTING

To conduct a perc test, first consult with a representative from the local health department. Requirements can differ significantly from town to town in terms of who can conduct the test, the minimum number of holes, the depth of the holes, the required absorption rates, and the time period during which the tests can be conducted. In general, tests cannot be performed in frozen or disturbed soil, and some regions only allow tests to be performed during specific months of the year – so prepare ahead of time.

However, like with all things perc, rules vary significantly from town to town, so don’t make any assumptions about what to expect.

OTHER SITE CONDITIONS

Septic system rules vary greatly from municipality to municipality, although the majority of municipalities demand that the leach field satisfy specified specifications in addition to passing the perc test. Some of the most typical stumbling blocks are as follows:

• Slope with a lot of incline. Typically, the maximum permitted slope for a conventional system varies between 20 and 30 percent
• Filled land Most of the time, native soils are necessary, while manufactured fill may be acceptable in rare instances. Wetlands and floodplains are two terms that are used to describe the same thing. This is not suitable for the leach field. Site drainage is important. During rain storms, the leach field should not be in the path of runoff, which might result in system erosion or flooding.

SETBACKSCLEARANCES

It is necessary to maintain a minimum distance between the septic tank and leach field and any structures, property lines, water pipelines, wells, or bodies of open water. In the case of tiny locations, a variance may be necessary in order to provide adequate space. It is possible that you will be required to find adequate area for both the current leach field and a replacement field, which will be used in 20 or 30 years after the original field has been depleted of its capacity. Clearances differ from one municipality to the next, so always verify with local codes.

OPTIONS IF SITE FAILS

Even if your site fails a perc or deep-hole test, it is not always doomed to failure. It may be possible to “de-water” the leaching region on locations with high water tables by strategically constructing gravel-filled trenches and subsurface drain pipe to direct water away from the leaching area. To complete this project, you’ll need the services of a highly skilled earthwork contractor, as well as the assistance of a civil engineer or geotechnical engineer. A broad variety of alternative septic systems have also been created in recent years for usage on a wide variety of different types of land.

In general, these systems are more expensive, and many of them require additional components such as pumps, alarms, and other devices that necessitate more monitoring and maintenance than a normal septic system.

When it comes to modern building technology, though, it’s important to seek for items and systems that have a proven track record on the job. Morse Engineering and Construction can be contacted for additional information. Source:buildingadvisor.com

Percolation test – Wikipedia

In preparation for the construction of an aseptic drain field (also known as a leach field) or an infiltration basin, apercolation testing (also known as aperc testing) is performed to assess the water absorption rate of soil (that is, its capacity for percolation). An accurate percolation test must be performed in order to construct an appropriate septic system. When put in its simplest terms, percolation testing is just measuring how quickly a known amount of water dissipates into the subsoil of an identified drilling hole with a known surface area.

In general, sandy soil will absorb more water than soil that contains a high percentage of clay or land where the water table is near to the surface of the ground.

Testing method

For a percolation test, the soil of the proposed leach field is prepared by digging one or more holes into it to a specified depth, presoaking the holes by maintaining a high water level in the holes, and finally conducting the test by filling the holes with water to a specific level and timing the drop in level of the water as it percolates into the surrounding soil. Based on the size of the facility, the results of the percolation test, and several other factors, multiple empirical equations may be used to determine the size of the leach field that is necessary.

1. The depths of these should be varied between three and six feet below the surface of the water, in ideal circumstances.
2. The results of the testing of these holes will be expressed as a numerical number in minutes per inch.
3. Testing for horizontal pits normally entails drilling five to eight test holes in a straight line, or following a common contour, from three to ten feet below the surface in order to detect the presence of the pit.
4. Because of their vast size, vertical seepage pits require somewhat different testing procedures than horizontal seepage pits, but the basic testing approach remains the same.
5. In order to design a sustainable septic system, this rate is utilized to determine the size and number of pits that are required.

Once again, the exact depths will be determined by municipal health standards. The use of local groundwater data in the event of a vertical seepage pit is possible, or the pit will be backfilled in accordance with county health code if the drill hole encounters groundwater during the excavation.

Alternatives

Some countries challenge the accuracy of a percolation test to assess the treatment quality of soil and instead rely on soil texture analysis-along with long-term acceptance rates (LTAR)-instead of, or in addition to, a percolation test to determine the treatment quality of soil.

References

Prior to beginning construction on a new piece of property, home builders must do a number of soil tests. The percolation (perc) test is one of the most commonly used assays. In certain cases, percolation tests are mandated by local governments since they reveal vital information about the land on which you’re planning to construct a structure. What exactly is a perc test? We’ll go into the specifics in this section.

What Is a Percolation Test?

A perc test is a soil test that assesses the amount of water that a soil can absorb. As explained by Ray Brosnan of Brosnan Property Solutions, “the tests are necessary in order to correctly construct anadequate septic system for the structure that is being proposed.” The exam is rather straightforward: According to Brosnan, this is accomplished by “digging a hole in the soil of the intended field, presoaking the holes, and then filling the holes to a preset, quantifiable level,” as described above.

The amount of time it takes for the water to be absorbed into the soil is then measured by the experts.

Perc tests are governed by the legislation of each jurisdiction.

Why Are Perc Tests Conducted?

You must first assess the percolation rate of the surrounding area before establishing a septic system. If you don’t, your septic system may overflow and damage nearby groundwater. BM International Builders’ co-founder and project director, Volodymyr Barabakh, explains that septic systems require a percolation rate that is between a certain minimum and maximum. It is customary for this rate to be between 60 minutes per inch as a minimum and 150 minutes per square inch as a maximum. The water level fell one inch in 60 minutes, or one inch in 150 minutes, based on this calculation.

If this is the case, installing a septic system is considered dangerous, and you will not receive clearance from the health department.

While septic systems are the most typical purpose for perc testing, the test can also be used to determine the danger of flooding.

How Are the Results Measured?

The rate of percolation is measured in terms of volume and time, and is commonly expressed in cubic inches per minute. The permeability of the ground is shown by this value. As one might imagine, sandy soils are more permeable than heavy clay soils, while heavy clay soils are less permeable than sandy soils. When a building site fails a perc test, it is almost often because the earth is not permeable enough.

This indicates that the drainfield of the septic system will drain too slowly. As Barabakh explains, “if the soil is very porous, this creates a pollution issue since effluent from the septic tank might be absorbed into the groundwater.” This is a far more uncommon occurrence.

How Much Does a Perc Test Cost? Plus Additional Considerations

According to HomeAdvisor, the cost of perc testing normally ranges between $750 and $1,850. However, this represents only a percentage of the total cost of the tests. Additionally, you may be required to do additional tests prior to construction, such as a deep hole test or a seasonal high water table test, which will increase the overall cost of soil testing. Deep hole testing is done to determine the amount of rainwater that is present in the soil surrounding a planned septic drainfield. “It is accomplished by excavating a hole that is around six to nine feet deep and removing soil at various depths,” Barabakh explains.

When installing a horizontal seepage pit or a leach line system, notes Brosnan, “deep hole tests are conducted to determine the feasibility of the installation.” A seasonal high water table test can be used to determine the depth of the water table in the area surrounding the potential septic system.

What Happens if You Fail a Perc Test?

What happens after a failed perc exam varies depending on where you are in the world. “Failing the perc test might result in you being unable to construct,” explains Brosnan. “If you live in a remote region where there are no municipal sewage systems, you may be out of luck.” Nevertheless, soils with a low percolation rate have more possibilities than soils with a high percolation rate. Barabakh explains that if the soil has a poor percolation rate, it will be necessary to find an alternative method of transferring surplus water away from the land.

This may be expensive, and it may cause a project to exceed your construction budget.

Septic systems are no longer required in some cases because of off-grid waste water management solutions.

They will assist you in determining which solutions are the most viable in your particular situation.

How to Do a Perk Test for Septic Tanks

The consequences of a failing perc exam vary depending on where you live. In Brosnan’s opinion, a failing perc test might result in the inability to construct. Those living in rural regions without access to municipal sewage systems may be out of luck, according to the author. When compared to too permeable soils, soils with a modest percolation rate provide a greater range of choices. Barabakh explains that if the soil’s percolation rate is too low, you’ll need to find another method of transferring surplus water away from your land.

Depending on the scope of the project, this may be prohibitively expensive and may cause it to exceed your construction budget.

Septic systems are no longer required in some cases because of off-grid waste water management techniques.

After a failed perc test, consulting with local authorities is the most effective approach to choose a course of action. In addition, they will assist you in determining which solutions are the most viable in your particular situation.

The Basic Idea Behind a Soil Percolation Test

The length of time it takes for water to drain is measured by a perk test. Pouring water over the earth would not be sufficient to determine this; thus, holes must be dug to collect the water. The majority of countries need more than one hole, with a minimum amount of space between each one. Keep in mind that the greater the number of holes you dig, the more accurate the test will be. This is especially true if the soil qualities vary greatly over the region of the planned drain field. After the holes have been excavated, scrape the sidewalls of the holes to remove any soil that has been compacted by the digging tool; then, pour gravel into the bottom of the hole to fill it.

Some governments in locations with damp soil demand deeper holes to be dug using a backhoe, which must be done by hand.

If you live in an area where smaller holes are needed, the size and number of holes you dig, how deep you cover the bottom of the hole with gravel, and how long you let the soil to absorb water are all limited by local regulation.

A General Procedure for Conducting a Perk Test

When digging the holes by hand, you’ll need a post-hole digger, a source of water, a timer, and a mechanism for properly measuring the depth of water in each hole starting at the top of each hole. In addition to using a long ruler to measure with, you may also tie a little hollow ball to a rope and use it as a float to be more precise. You may attach the string to a pulley system and move the string up and down the length of a ruler while following a marking on the string.

• When digging the holes by hand, you’ll need a post-hole digger, a source of water, a timer, and a mechanism for properly measuring the depth of water in each hole starting at the top of each hole. In addition to using a long ruler to measure with, you can also tie a little hollow ball to a rope and use it as a float to get more exact measurements of your distance. A pulley system may be used to connect the string to a ruler and allow the string to go up and down the ruler while following a marking on the string.

• Make the test holes in advance– Scrape down the sidewalls of the holes with a knife or other pointed tool to create a natural interface for the water to seep through to the bottoms. Remove any debris from the hole and then fill it with 2 to 6 inches of gravel to form the bottom. If possible, line each hole with mesh to prevent soil from sliding down the edges of the hole and into the bottom of the hole. A perforated drainpipe is recommended by some contractors to be inserted into each hole to prevent dirt from falling through.

• Prepare the soil by filling each hole with water and covering it with a lid, and then keeping it full for four hours. After you have completed this step, you must wait 18 hours before conducting the real test. That means you’ll have to wait until the next day, so make sure you cover the holes overnight.

• Prepare the soil by filling each hole with water and covering it with a lid, and then keeping the holes filled for 4 hours. There are 18 hours between when you complete this and when you do the real examination. In order to avoid having to wait until the following day, make sure to plug the holes at night.

• It is a good idea to keep track of your results in a table with headers for the hole number, the depth of water when you started, and the depth of water when you finished your round. For each row of the table, the reading is represented by a different letter.

Interpreting the Test Results

You’ll need to translate each result to minutes per inch, which you can accomplish by dividing the number of minutes it took for the water level to drop 6 inches by the number of minutes it took for the water level to drop 6 inches. Please keep in mind that if it takes more than 6 hours for the water level to drop by this amount in any hole, the location is not ideal for a septic drain field, and you should terminate the test right then. If you dig less than five test holes, the percolation rate with the slowest percolation is the one you state on the septic permit application, even if you dig more.

Consider the following percolation rates, which you would want to keep track of:

• 24.7 minutes per inch
• 20.5 minutes per inch
• 32.4 minutes per inch
• 31.3 minutes per inch
• 40.5 minutes per inch

There is an average percolation rate of 30 minutes per inch of depth, which is substantially greater than the lowest rate, which would be required to be reported if you just dug two holes. A higher percolation rate may allow for the installation of a bigger septic system.

Is the Site Suitable for a Septic Drain Field?

It is only one of the parameters that determines whether a site is appropriate for a drain field that soil percolation is measured.

It is necessary to consider the height of the site, its placement relative to rivers, and the slope of the ground while calculating the equations.

• Sites that are higher in elevation than the septic tank are typically inappropriate unless there is a significant amount of separation between the site and the tank itself. Choosing such a location will need the installation of a transfer pump in the tank.

• It is not permitted to site drain fields in close proximity to wells, streams, or other waterways, although the exact distance between them is usually decided by the local health inspector.

• In addition to the danger of roots infiltrating the leach field pipes, densely wooded locations are undesirable for this use.

• Rocky terrain, as well as low-lying marshy places, are clearly inappropriate for this purpose.

• Septic fields should not be built on steeply sloping terrain, especially if the area slopes toward a canal or an adjacent property
• Instead, they should be built on flat land.

There are options available if your building site does not have a plot of ground appropriate for use as a septic drain field, including having a drainage system designed. You may also think about installing a sewage lagoon, in which the outflow from the septic tank is held above ground and cycled and aerated by a pump to keep the water clean. The use of this method may be appropriate in a rural, wooded environment with a high concentration of steep gradients and streams.