When it comes to home improvement projects, most people think of new roofs, landscaping, or adding a deck—but few consider one of the most critical systems hidden beneath their property: the septic system. As an excavation contractor serving Lapeer County, I can tell you from experience—summer is the ideal time for septic system installation and repairs.
Whether you're building a new home, replacing an aging system, or dealing with frustrating backups, June through August offers the perfect window to tackle septic-related projects efficiently and cost-effectively.
Why Summer Is the Right Season
Michigan’s weather isn’t exactly known for being cooperative year-round. Spring brings heavy rains and soggy soil. Fall means unpredictable cold snaps. And winter? Forget it—frozen ground can halt excavation altogether.
But summer? That’s when the ground is dry, daylight is long, and our schedules open up for bigger, more complex work.
Here’s why summer stands out:
Dry Soil = Easier Digging: Dry, stable soil helps our machines operate efficiently, reduces the risk of cave-ins, and speeds up the overall job.
Faster Inspections: Health departments in Lapeer and surrounding counties are easier to schedule in summer. With many homeowners starting projects, they’re expecting applications and inspections and often process permits faster.
Time to Settle: A new or repaired system installed in summer has time to “settle in” before the freezing and thawing of winter.
Signs Your Septic System Needs Attention
If you're unsure whether your septic system needs repair or replacement, here are a few red flags to watch for:
Slow Drains or Frequent Backups: If your sinks and toilets are slow to drain—even after snaking—your septic tank or drain field may be the issue.
Standing Water or Soggy Soil in the Yard: This often means your drain field isn’t absorbing waste properly.
Unpleasant Odors Outdoors: If you catch a whiff of sewage in your yard, it’s time to investigate.
Unusually Lush Grass Over the Drain Field: It may look pretty, but excessive green growth often signals a failing system leaking nutrients.
If you’re noticing any of these signs, don’t wait. Septic issues rarely resolve themselves—and delaying can lead to costly environmental damage or total system failure.
New Builds? Plan Ahead for Septic
Building a home in rural Lapeer County? You’ll likely need a private septic system. That means you’ll need:
A soil evaluation (perc test) to determine what kind of system your land can support.
A permit from the Lapeer County Health Department.
A licensed contractor to design and install the system.
Doing this during summer avoids scheduling bottlenecks and keeps your build on track.
Repairs vs. Replacement: What to Expect
Not all septic problems require a full system replacement. In many cases, we can repair a broken line, clear a blockage, or replace a failing pump without disturbing the entire setup. However, if your tank is more than 25–30 years old, or your drain field has become saturated, replacement might be the most cost-effective long-term solution.
Every project starts with a site inspection and honest conversation. Our goal is to fix the problem right the first time—and help you understand what’s happening beneath your lawn.
Local Expertise Matters
Septic codes vary by county, and soil conditions can differ dramatically just a few miles apart. We’ve worked with clay-heavy sites in Imlay City, sandy soils near Attica, and everything in between. We also know what the Lapeer County Health Department looks for and how to navigate the permitting process smoothly. In short, we’re not just operating heavy machinery—we’re helping neighbors protect their homes, health, and the environment.
Let’s Dig In—Before the Snow Does
Summer’s the season to tackle septic work without delays, surprises, or mud up to your knees. Whether you need a full system installed, a tank replaced, or just want peace of mind that everything is functioning properly, now’s the time to act.
Give us a call for a free consultation at 810-969-7887. Let’s make sure your septic system is ready to handle whatever Michigan throws its way—rain, snow, or summer BBQs.