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PERC TESTING IN ALABAMA
What is Perc Testing and When is it Important?
A perc test (short for percolation test) is a soil test, often performed by engineers, land surveyors, and soil scientists. This test determines the permeability of a property’s soil (how quickly the soil will absorb liquid.) In most jurisdictions around Auburn and in many others, the perc test is used to evaluate whether a septic system is viable for a plot of land and can provide useful information about what kind of septic system is best suited for a property.
Typically, the test will begin with a hole being drilled or dug. This hole is then filled with water. If a site fails the test, more often than not, this will be due to the soil not being permeable enough. However, occasionally soil may also fail a perc test by being excessively permeable. Soil that drains too quickly can lead to fears of groundwater contamination. Finally, land which is too steep may also fail a perc test.
Why is Perc Testing Important?
The importance of a perc test is fully realized for land that lacks a connection to a municipal sewage system. Land that isn’t connected to a sewage system will require a septic system to be installed before any house can be built. But before that can happen, most health departments in counties around Auburn and around the US for that matter, will require landowners to perform a perc test to determine whether such a system is viable. For this reason, such tests are much more common in rural areas. If a property that isn’t connected to a public sewage system fails its perc test, a septic system may not be feasible. Without a septic system or connection to a sewer line, no home can be built.
How do Septic Systems Work in Alabama?
If a site is deemed suitable, a septic system can be established. In most jurisdictions (Montgomery, Alabama included), septic systems are considerably regulated, so care will need to be taken to meet legal requirements. Alabama has numerous regulations for both percolation testing and septic system construction.
A standard septic system is comprised of three primary parts. A septic tank, drain field (sometimes referred to as a leach field), and pipes. Wastewater which enters the septic system is ultimately deposited in the drain field. The drain field is the component of the septic system related to perc testing. Usually comprised of ditches filled with gravel, the drain field’s purpose is to allow any discharge to percolate through the soil, where it can be absorbed into the subgrade. Knowing this, it’s pretty obvious why soil that’s insufficiently permeable, or too permeable can be a problem. Ground which doesn’t absorb enough liquid can lead to pools of untreated sewage and ground which absorbs liquid too quickly can lead to contamination issues.
What Happens if Land Fails a Perc Test?
In a worst-case scenario, a failed perc test can leave land fully incapable of supporting any dwelling. However, depending on the circumstances, all hope may not be lost. In recent years, sophisticated alternative septic systems, known as engineered systems, have been developed. These systems are capable of working in a wider range of soil conditions than a conventional septic system and drain field. Such advanced systems tend to be pricey and require special care, but may still be worth considering. Alternatively, if an existing public sewer system exists nearby the property, sometimes a sewer hookup can be established.
Is A Percolation Test Necessary for Your Alabama Home?
Ultimately, if the site you’re interested in having tested lacks a connection to a municipal sewage line or existing septic system, a perc test is can be an invaluable tool for evaluating the viability of land. Here at ACAI Construction, our team offers high-quality percolation tests in Alabama. If you’re interested in working with us, or are interested in learning more, feel free to contact us.
