How Do Septic Systems Work? What All Homeowners Should Know About the Ins & Outs

How Do Septic Systems Work? What All Homeowners Should Know About the Ins & Outs

If your home relies on a septic tank, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with its inner workings. Septic systems that are well-maintained are much less likely to malfunction at the most inopportune time. They also tend to be more efficient at breaking down waste. 

In this article, we explore conventional setups. Read on to gain a thorough understanding of how the average septic system operates.

What Are the Different Components of a Septic System?

Conventional septic systems are comprised of the main drainage pipe, a tank, and a drain field. These configurations can usually accommodate the waste produced by a single-family home or a small business. 

The main drainage pipe runs from the structure to the tank and is responsible for consolidating the waste from all the drains in the building. The tank, which is a watertight container typically made of polyethylene, fiberglass, or concrete, receives this waste. The waste remains in the tank long enough for solids to sink to the bottom and oil and grease to float to the top. Once this separation occurs, the effluent (or liquid wastewater) is piped out of the tank and into the drain field. 

An underground trench that’s lined with stone or gravel, the drain field directs the effluent from the pipes into the underlying soil. As it trickles into the soil, it’s treated with microbes to remove harmful coliform bacteria. The wastewater continues permeating the soil until it eventually reaches the groundwater.  

It’s important to note that this configuration has a fairly large footprint. As such, there are several gravel-free drain field alternatives for smaller properties. The septic system as a whole, though, still operates in the same way. 

What Kind of Maintenance Do Septic Systems Need?

Over time, sludge and scum inevitably accumulate in the septic tank. As such, the tank needs to be pumped out periodically. The precise frequency will depend on a few factors. Examples include the number of people in the home, the amount of wastewater their appliances produce, and the volume of solids that are flushed down the drain. 

The average household calls out a professional to pump their septic tank every three years. It’s also common to pump the tank before selling the property, so the new homeowners can start on their own schedule. And remember: If wastewater backs up into any drains, it’s a telling sign that the tank is long overdue for pumping. 

Since septic systems have several mechanical components, it’s wise to have a tech conduct an annual inspection. Once a year, call out a septic services contractor to assess the state of the equipment, including any switches and pumps. This will allow you to address any minor issues promptly, thereby mitigating major disasters.

Turn to Mountain Contracting for Reliable Septic Services

At Mountain Contracting LLC, we specialize in installing and maintaining septic systems. Serving clients across Boulder and Gilpin counties, our technicians are equipped to handle both residential and commercial projects. We also address plumbing issues that affect performance, and we can complete jobs like sewer line repair and replacement. To discuss your needs and request a quote for the work, fill out the form on our website or call (303) 888-3580. 

7 Signs Your Need To Repair Your Sewer Line

Top 7 Signs You Need To Repair Your Sewer Line

All of the systems in your Boulder, CO, home play their part, keeping your home safe and your family comfortable and secure. One of the most essential is the plumbing system and, more importantly, the sewer line. Connected to all drains and toilets, the sewer line drains away from your home’s wastewater, a critical function indeed. 

One problem, however, is that sewer lines don’t last forever. Eventually, they break down, leak, and eventually cause an ungodly mess. Another problem is that, every so often, someone will flush something down the toilet that wasn’t meant to be flushed. 

Both situations could lead to costly sewer line repairs that could bust your budget wide open. Even worse,  they could cause health problems for your family and cause major damage to your home. To prevent those disasters, below are Mountain Contracting’s Top 7 Signs you Need to Repair your Sewer Line. If avoiding major sewer line problems is your goal, read on. 

Sewer Line Repair

Sign #1- Your Toilets are Making Weird Noises

Have you noticed that your toilets have started making weird noises lately, even when they aren’t being used? If yes, that could be a sign your sewer line is damaged. Here’s the thing; water that’s flushed down your toilet needs to be able to go through the sewer line and into the sewer or septic system. If it can’t, it will come back up and cause the weird, gurgling noises you’re hearing. 

Sign #2- Your Lawn Looks Gorgeous... In Some Spots

One of the reasons people use cow and chicken manure to fertilize their lawns and gardens is because  manure works really well. So does human feces (which, frankly, is more or less the same thing). That’s why,  if you have a sewer line leak, you will often notice parts of your lawn look amazingly green and lush. If they do, it’s a good idea to call a septic system contractor immediately.

Sign #3- There's a Significant Increase in Mosquitoes, Rats, and Other Pests around Your Home

Mosquitoes love standing water, and rats, unfortunately, are attracted to sewer lines for all of the fantastic stuff (at least for rats) they contain. If you notice a significant increase in mosquitoes, rats, mice, raccoons,  and other critters, there’s a good chance your sewer line is leaking somewhere (and you need sewer line services). 

Sign #4- Your Home Smells Like Poop

One sure sign that your sewer line is in trouble is if your house or yard smells like poop. The thing is, when your sewer line is working correctly and has no issues, you won’t smell anything inside or outside. However,  if it’s damaged or leaking, the unmistakable smell of poop is very possible. If it is, you likely need sewer line repair services.

Sign #5- Your Yard Has Strange Soft Spots And Puddles

Most well-drained lawns will dry out quickly after it rains, usually in a few hours but definitely in a day or two. If you’re feeling soft spots in your lawn, though, or, even worse, seeing puddles of standing water, that’s not good. It usually means that, down under the grass, your sewer line is cracked and leaking. 

Sign #6- Your Toilets are Backing Up

For many people, an overflowing toilet is one of the worst household disasters. (We think you’ll agree, it’s  kind of gross.) If your sewer line is clogged or damaged, your toilets can overflow when flushed (and sometimes even when they aren’t flushed). By the way, if this happens in your Boulder, CO, home, the first thing you should do is turn off the water supply to the toilet. The next is to call a sewer line repair services company, pronto!

Sign #7- The Drains In Your Sinks Aren't Draining

This last sign you need to repair your sewer lines pronto is easy to spot. If your sink (or sinks) in the kitchen or bathroom isn’t draining, it could mean there’s a clog somewhere and, possibly, an even worse problem with the sewer line. If you’ve tried drain cleaner and your sinks still aren’t draining, it’s time to contact a sewer line services company or septic system contractor for help.

Sewer Line Services

These 7 Sewer Line Tips Brought to you by Mountain Contracting,  LLC.

Knowing the signs of a sewer line problem is essential if you’re a homeowner in Boulder and Gilpin County,  Colorado. If one, or more, of the above signs, is affecting your home, that’s when it’s time to contact  Mountain Contracting. With over 10 years of experience serving the good people of Boulder and Gilpin counties, Mountain  Contracting specializes in both sewer line repairs and septic tank repairs. We’re a full-service sewer and water line provider with licensed, insured, and highly experienced technicians in the field. If one or more of the 7 signs above impacts your home, Call Mountain Contracting today!

Boulder Septic Experts Announce Septic Tank Pump Services

Boulder Septic Experts Mountain Contracting LLC Announces Septic Tank Pump Services

Due to overwhelming demand, Boulder septic services experts Mountain Contracting, LLC, will now offer septic tank pump services. For the people in Boulder and Gilpin County.

March 14, 2022 – Boulder, CO – Mountain Contracting, LLC, a well-rated septic services company in  Boulder, CO, announced today they would begin offering septic tank pump services immediately. These valuable services are in high demand in Boulder and Gilpin counties, where the vast majority of homes have their own septic systems. Mountain Contracting has experienced, licensed, and insured septic experts in the field providing superior service to dozens of Colorado homeowners every day. Contact Mountain Contracting, LLC today for more information about their new septic tank services or to schedule a service call. 

Septic Tank Pump
Septic System Professional

In Boulder, Colorado, septic systems are everywhere, even though you don’t see them. Designed to safely and conveniently dispose of wastewater, septic systems are a vital part of every Bouler and Gilpin home’s plumbing system. The problem, however, is that winter in Colorado can be frigid, and the severe cold can wreak havoc on a septic tank. For example, ice can form and, when it does, it causes severe damage to the tank. Compacted soil or snow can also cause freezing of a septic tank, as can a tank that has little or no ground cover (plants, grass, bushes, etc.) before winter begins. All of these situations can cause minor and major problems for your septic tank. It’s when they get out of hand, however, and cause problems for you and your family, that you’ll need septic tank pump services. 

“Every spring season, we get more and more calls from folks here in Boulder and Gilpin County who need septic tank pump services,” said company founder Matthew Tarpill. Tarpill added that “Winter in our state can be brutal and, if a homeowner is unaware, their septic tank can take a real beating. That’s why we decided to add this valuable service to our other septic service offerings.”

Several situations can cause a septic tank to freeze, deform or experience problems due to freezing temperatures. For example, a new septic tank that was installed in the fall might have very little, or no,  ground cover. Winter’s frost can sink much deeper into the surrounding soil without ground cover, causing the septic tank and its components to freeze. 

A highly-rated septic services company, Mountain Contracting has years of experience dealing with septic systems. They see a wide variety of septic tank problems, including frozen septic tank pumps and septic lines that have burst. Homeowners in Boulder and Gilpin Counties are encouraged to call Mountain Contracting as soon as they believe their septic tank is damaged. If you need septic tank services, you are urged to contact Mountain Contracting LLC as soon as possible. 

About Mountain Contracting, LLC (https://mountaincontractingllc.co/

In Boulder and Gilpin Counties, homeowners rely on the fast, friendly, and affordable sewer and septic  services provided by Mountain Contracting. Mountain Contracting has over 10 years of experience with the  knowledge, skill, and equipment to perform any sewer or septic service, from repairs to maintenance and  new installation. They are sewer line repair experts and provide a range of septic tank services, including  repair, replacement, and cleaning. Today the company offers general excavation services, also. When Gilpin  and Boulder homeowners need expert sewer and septic services, they rely on Mountain Contracting, LLC. Contact us today!

Boulder Septic Tank Expert Announces New General Excavation Services

Boulder Septic Tank Company Announces New General Excavation Services

Boulder septic and sewer contractor Mountain Contracting, LLC, set to offer general excavation services to homeowners in Boulder and  Gilpin counties, CO.

February 21, 2022 – Boulder, CO – Mountain Contracting, LLC, a highly-rated septic and sewer contracting company in Boulder, CO, announced today that they will soon begin offering general excavation to their list of septic tank services. Mountain Contracting has seen a significant surge in requests for general excavation over the past few months. As a sewer and septic tank expert, the firm has years of experience installing sewer lines, water lines, and septic tanks, most of them underground. Their new general excavation services are a perfect extension of these services and, in fact, complement them well. Contact Mountain Contracting, LLC  for more information if you need general excavation services in Boulder or Gilpin Counties, Colorado. 

General Excavation

As the snow begins to melt in Boulder and Gilpin counties, local homeowners start thinking about yard projects once Springtime finally starts. For many, those projects include installing in a pond, swimming pool, or other water feature. Those projects, in most cases, demand general excavation services, including the knowledge of how, where, and when to dig. (Gas mains and underground cables are a constant concern.) 

As Boulder’s local sewer and septic contractor, Mountain Contracting has years of experience installing water lines, septic tanks, and more. These services include general contracting, so it only made sense that Mountain Contracting began offering this as well. The company recently announced that they would start offering general excavation services immediately, as Boulder’s demand surges. 

“We were getting three, four, and even five calls a day for general contracting services,” said company founder Matthew Tarpill. He added that “Since we’re already providing general excavation services on the  majority of our projects, I saw it as a natural extension of our service line.” With over ten years of  experience in the residential and commercial sewer and septic service industry, Tarpill leads a certified, experienced crew of sewer and septic tank professionals.

Boulder and Gilpin County homeowners looking for general excavation services now have a dependable,  responsive local company that can provide for them at an affordable price. Whether a landscaping project, an inground pool, or to grade a yard so that it’s level, Mountain Contracting has the people, equipment, and experience needed to get the job done perfectly, on time, and on budget. No general excavation job is too big or too small, and all are handled with the same professionalism, patience, and eye on perfect results. 

About Mountain Contracting, LLC (https://mountaincontractingllc.co/

In Boulder and Gilpin Counties, homeowners rely on the fast, friendly, and affordable sewer and septic  services provided by Mountain Contracting. Mountain Contracting has over 10 years of experience with the  knowledge, skill, and equipment to perform any sewer or septic service, from repairs to maintenance and  new installation. They are sewer line repair experts and provide a range of septic tank services, including  repair, replacement, and cleaning. Today the company offers general excavation services, also. When Gilpin  and Boulder homeowners need expert sewer and septic services, they rely on Mountain Contracting, LLC. Contact us today!

Boulder Septic Contractor Announces New Water Line Repair Services

Boulder Septic Contractor Announces Water Line Repair Services

Boulder septic and sewer line contractor announces their new water line services in Boulder and Gilpin Counties, Colorado. Learn more about our new water line repair service.

February 10, 2022 – Boulder, CO – Mountain Contracting, LLC, a highly-rated septic and sewer contractor in Boulder, CO, announced today that they would be adding a new water line service to their lineup. Mountain Contracting is adding this new water line service as, in Boulder and Gilpin county, there’s an increasing demand for emergency water line repairs. One of the most critical types of pipe in any Boulder home, water pipes provide fresh, potable water. If there’s a water line leak or significant water line deterioration, it can cause considerable headaches for all living there, as well as severe damage to your home’s interior. As one of the top septic and sewer line contractors in Boulder, CO, Mountain Contracting will now offer water line services as a natural extension of its service offerings. Please contact Mountain Contracting, LLC, today for more information about their water line services. Also, call to schedule a water line inspection before your home suffers a significant water line disaster.

 

Water Line Repair
Water Line Services

Boulder, Colorado, and the surrounding metro area have seen a recent surge in water line problems, including leaking and burst water lines. Essential pipes that bring water into every Boulder home and business, a leaking water line can cause various issues big and small. No water coming into the house, for example, or water leaking inside your home and causing massive damage to beams, sheetrock, flooring, and more. You should repair a leaking or burst water line immediately to limit the damage. That fact, however, is where the problem starts for many Boulder and Gilpin county homeowners; a lack of dependable water line contractors. 

With years of septic and sewer line experience in the Boulder, CO, metro area, Mountain Contracting is aware of the damage caused by water lines. Invasive tree roots, for example, are a common cause of water line leaks. Poor soil conditions around your Boulder home can corrode water lines more quickly. However, one of the most significant causes of water line leaks is the material used in much older Boulder, CO, homes; Polybutylene. Manufactured for use as piping in home plumbing systems, manufacturers stopped producing polybutylene pipes in 1996 after polybutylene pipes started rupturing all over the place, causing significant property damage.

Company founder Mattew Tarpill says that “Polybutylene pipes used in the 1970s and 1980s are starting to deteriorate badly all over Boulder”, adding that “We saw so many calls for emergency water line repair, adding a water line repair service to our lineup was critical.” If your Boulder or Gilpin County home has older pipes or is an older home, Tarpill recommends getting a water line inspection at the very least. Also, if you have a water line emergency, his team of water line repair and replacement experts is ready, willing, and able to help fast. 

Water LIne

About Mountain Contracting, LLC (https://mountaincontractingllc.co/

With years of experience, Mountain Contracting, LLC is one of the top water line repair, replacement, and installation companies in the Boulder County region. Call Mountain Contracting today if you have a water line emergency or wish to have a water line inspection before an emergency occurs. Call Us Today!

Boulder Septic Tank Contractor Announces New Sewer Line Repair Services

Boulder Sewer Line Company Announces Sewer Line Repair Services

Looking for sewer line repair services? Well, you’re in luck! Mountain Contracting LLC now offers sewer line services. Call now to learn how we can help.

February 7, 2022 – Boulder, CO – Mountain Contracting LLC, one of Colorado’s leading Septic experts, has announced today that they will offer sewer line repair services in Boulder and Gilpin Counties. The firm boasts a dynamic workforce consisting of pure professionals.  

The customers who want help with their sewer lines will benefit from Mountain Contracting LLC. According to the owner Matthew Tarpill, Mountain Contracting LLC’s goal is to provide its clientele with top-notch services, including maintenance and repair. “At Mountain Contracting, we have years of experience working with septic tank repairs and replacements. We specialize in repair, installation, and replacement, and our professionals are ready to help regardless of the size of the problem.” Tarpill goes on to assert, “Hiring sewer line professionals can be challenging, and we at Mountain Contracting LLC recognize this. We offer our sewer line services with very few processes involved. The processes are simple and transparent, and anyone can follow them.” 

Sewer Line Repair

We recognize the crucial role that sewer lines play in the boulder community, and as such, they are here to help. Their services will mainly focus on sewer line repair and will give a laser focus on the primary lines. The liness’ essential function is directing sewage and waste away from structures and into the sewer system. 

Apart from providing care for sewer line systems, Mountain LLC also provides septic tank services. The  Firm repairs broken tanks, cleans clogged-up tanks, and builds new ones as well. It has certified personnel and technicians that can take care of any septic tank-related service regardless of the size. 

Several approaches can be used in the repair and maintenance of sewer lines. The company has rolled out powerful and effective approaches towards sewer cleaning in Boulder County, and they ensure clogged-up pipes are not a nuisance anymore.

The company says it is here to create a difference in sewer line repair. It has a professional workforce that  will tend to all your needs with utter professionalism and top-notch service delivery. The professionals at  Mountain Contracting LLC are dedicated to ensuring the smooth running of your home, institution, or office. 

Sewer Line Services

About Mountain Contracting, LLC (https://mountaincontractingllc.co/

Mountain Contracting LLC is a contracting company specializing in septic tanks and sewer lines that cares about customer safety and satisfaction. We have over ten years of experience and offer services in Boulder and Gilpin County. We rely on quality services. Call us today and learn why we are the trusted provider of sewer line services.

Boulder Septic Tank Contractor Announces New Septic Tank and System Services

Boulder Septic Tank Contractor Announces New Septic Tank and System Services

Mountain Contracting a septic tank contractor with 10+ years of experience serving Boulder and Gilpin County in Colorado now offers new septic tank and septic systems services.

January 18, 2022 – Boulder, CO – Mountain Contractors, LLC, one of Boulder’s highest-rated septic system contractors, announced today that they’re adding valuable septic tank and septic system services to their already packed lineup of top-quality sewer, water, and general excavation services. Mountain Contractors saw the need to add septic tank services and septic tank repair to their lineup after a year where they saw many severe septic tank problems in the area. With over ten years of experience serving Boulder and Gilpin county, Mountain Contractors, LLC is one of the top septic experts around, with highly-trained and experienced technicians in the field. Please contact Mountain Contractors, LLC today to inquire about their new septic tank services, sewer services, and septic tank repair services.

Septic Tank Professional
Septic Tank Services

In Boulder, CO, one of the essential systems in most homes is the septic system, including the septic tank and all the lines that go to and from your house carrying water and waste. Unfortunately, many septic systems and septic tanks have hidden problems that can cause untold damage to your home, land, and property values. That’s why, when it comes to septic tanks, the best thing you can do is have them checked at least every three years. That way, the professional septic technicians from Mountain Contractors, LLC, can stop any minor problems or situations before they become overwhelming and costly.

As one of the top water, sewer, and septic tank experts in Boulder, CO, Mountain Contractors, LLC has many years of experience checking, maintaining, and repairing sewer lines, water lines, and more or less everything connected to water and waste going into and out of the average Boulder home. Their field technicians are well-trained and have years of experience in the septic and sewer industry.

Matthew Tarpill, the founder of Mountain Contractors, LLC, will tell you that many homeowners are surprised by what his field technicians find when they provide septic tank services to Boulder and Gilpin Homes; hidden problems. “My team and I have encountered severe septic problems in Boulder homes where the homeowner was completely unaware there was something wrong,” says Tarpill, adding that “some septic tanks were close to failing when we found them.”

Septic Systems

Boulder homeowners are encouraged to call Mountain Contractors, LLC today to inquire about their new septic tank services and septic tank repair services. It’s also recommended that you check the sewer lines,  water lines, and septic tank pumps. That way, your Boulder home’s septic system won’t come close to a total disaster also or become one in the future. Contact Us Today!

About Mountain Contractors, LLC (https://mountaincontractingllc.co/

In business for over 10 years, Mountain Contractors, LLC has deep experience in the septic and sewer industry. They’ve successfully and professionally provided sewer and septic services to Boulder and Gilpin  Counties and have excellent online feedback and reviews. For help with all your home sewer, water, and septic tank needs, call Mountain Contracting LLC today.