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Bonzo Excavating offers professional excavation services for perc testing to help homeowners, builders, and engineers prepare properties for septic system approval. A percolation (perc) test determines how well soil absorbs water, and proper excavation is critical for accurate results.
Our experienced team uses precision excavation equipment to dig test pits and trenches according to local health department and engineer specifications. We work closely with septic designers, inspectors, and property owners to ensure the site is properly prepared, safe, and accessible for testing.
Whether you’re planning a new septic system, land development, or property purchase, Bonzo Excavating provides reliable perc test excavation services you can trust.
Bonzo Excavating proudly provides perc test excavation services in Beaver, Butler and Allegheny County. If you need dependable excavation for septic testing, our local team is ready to help.
On the day of the test, a licensed soil evaluator or health department official will arrive to assess the proposed drain field area. The location is chosen based on site plans, setbacks, slope, and environmental features. Heavy equipment or hand tools may be used to dig several test holes in the ground. These holes are placed at the same depth where the septic drain field trenches would be installed.
You can expect some soil disturbance in the test area, but the holes are temporary and will be filled back in once testing is complete.
After the soil has been properly saturated, the actual percolation test begins. The inspector refills each hole with water to a set depth and measures how long it takes for the water level to drop. This process is repeated several times to confirm consistency.
The results are recorded as a percolation rate, usually expressed in minutes per inch. This number indicates how quickly water moves through the soil. Soil that drains too slowly may not disperse wastewater effectively, while soil that drains too quickly may not adequately filter contaminants before they reach groundwater.
In addition to timing water absorption, the evaluator examines the soil itself. They look for distinct soil layers, texture, color, and signs of seasonal groundwater. Gray soil, rust-colored mottling, or standing water in deeper layers can indicate poor drainage or a high water table, which may limit septic system options.
Weather conditions are also taken into account. Recent rainfall, freezing temperatures, or unusually dry conditions can influence test results. For this reason, perc tests are often restricted to specific times of the year.
Once all measurements are taken, the test holes are filled back in, and the results are submitted to the local health department. The perc rate and soil evaluation are used to determine whether the site is suitable for a conventional septic system or if an alternative system design is required.
A passing perc test does not guarantee the future lifespan of a septic system, but it does confirm that the soil can safely absorb and treat wastewater under current conditions. The results directly impact system design, size, and overall project cost.
Once the test holes are dug, the inspector prepares them by roughening the sides and bottom. This prevents digging tools from compacting or smearing the soil, which could affect how water moves through it. A small amount of clean gravel or sand is placed at the bottom of each hole to protect the soil during testing.
Before measurements are taken, the holes are filled with water and allowed to soak for several hours or, in some cases, overnight. This step is critical because dry soil absorbs water faster than saturated soil. Pre-soaking ensures the test reflects real-world conditions similar to how a septic system would operate over time.
You need a percolation (perc) test to verify that soil can safely absorb wastewater before a septic system is approved. It’s required in these situations:
on land without access to public sewer
to determine drain field size and system type
a failed drain field
that increase wastewater flow (adding bedrooms or converting spaces to bedrooms)
to confirm lots are buildable
(often after 2–5 years or if site conditions change)
Perc tests evaluate soil absorption rate, soil type, and seasonal groundwater levels. Poor results may require an alternative system instead of a conventional drain field.
Requirements vary by local health department, and some areas now use soil evaluations instead of traditional perc tests.
A failed test doesn’t always mean the property is unbuildable. Options may include
New home construction without public sewer
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Contact Bonzo Septic Repair and Installation to schedule professional excavation for your perc test. We offer timely service, experienced operators, and competitive pricing.
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