When remodeling while living on septic, careful planning ensures your home improvements don’t disrupt your system’s functionality. Septic systems are sensitive and require specific precautions during renovations to avoid costly damage or repairs.
Protecting Your Drainfield During Remodeling
Your drainfield is vital to your septic system, and it’s especially vulnerable during remodeling projects. Heavy equipment, debris, and excessive foot traffic can compact the soil or damage underground pipes. Plan your construction layout to avoid placing weight over the drainfield.
If remodeling requires digging, contact a septic professional to map out your system beforehand. This ensures you won’t accidentally disturb critical components like the tank or pipes.
Plan for Increased Water Useage
Home additions, like extra bedrooms or a casita, often mean more people and higher water usage. Septic systems are designed for specific wastewater volumes, so exceeding this limit can cause serious issues. If you’re adding bedrooms, local codes may even require upgrading to a larger tank to handle the increased demand.
To prevent strain on your system, consider installing low-flow fixtures and spreading out water usage during construction. Work with a septic expert to evaluate your current system and determine if tank or drainfield upgrades are necessary to meet new capacity needs.
Work With Septic-Friendly Professionals
Not all contractors understand the intricacies of remodeling on septic. Choose professionals, who are familiar with septic systems and their requirements. They’ll know how to protect your system during construction and ensure your remodel meets local regulations.
Additionally, schedule a septic inspection before starting your remodel. This can help identify any issues that need addressing before your system supports new demands.
Remodeling on Septic: A Smart Approach
With proper precautions, remodeling on septic doesn’t have to be stressful. Protecting your system during construction, planning for increased water use, and partnering with knowledgeable contractors can keep your septic system running smoothly for years to come.
Ready to ensure your septic system is remodel-ready? Priority Pumping is here to help with expert advice and inspections!
