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Minnesota mound septic system design

As the owner of J.P. Sitework, I’ve had the privilege of designing and installing a variety of septic systems across Minnesota. One of the most common systems we work with is the mound septic system. In Minnesota, where soil conditions and regulations often require innovative solutions, mound septic systems provide a reliable and efficient way to manage wastewater. Today, I want to share some insights into the Minnesota mound septic system design process and how we at J.P. Sitework ensure each project is executed to the highest standards.

WHO WE ARE

We are a Family-Owned, Operated and Family-First Septic and Excavation company. We have more than 25 years of experience in the industry, and over 1,000 Septic Systems Designed and Installed throughout Minnesota. With our experience, we’re here to get the job done right, with a dedicated team to help you every step of the way.

Minnesota mound septic system design

Understanding Mound Septic Systems

The Minnesota mound septic system is a specialized type of septic system designed to overcome challenges like shallow soil, high water tables, or bedrock close to the surface. Unlike conventional systems that rely on gravity to move effluent through a drain field, mound systems are engineered to elevate the drain field above the natural soil level. This elevation allows for better filtration and treatment of wastewater before it reaches the water table, making it ideal for areas with poor soil conditions.


When approaching a new project, the first step is to evaluate the site thoroughly. Our team of experienced septic installers conducts soil tests, assesses the landscape, and determines the best location for the system. This site evaluation is crucial in the mound septic system design process, as it informs us how to construct the mound and the type of materials needed.


The Septic Design Process

Septic design is a meticulous process that requires careful planning and attention to detail. In designing a mound septic system, we must consider factors such as the size of the property, the number of bedrooms in the home (which affects the amount of wastewater generated), and the soil’s ability to absorb and filter effluent.


After the site evaluation, we create a detailed design plan. This plan outlines the layout of the system, including the septic tank, pump chamber, and the mound itself. The mound is constructed using layers of sand, gravel, and topsoil, with a network of pipes laid within the gravel layer to distribute the effluent evenly. The final layer of topsoil allows for vegetation growth, helping to stabilize the mound and blend it into the surrounding landscape.

GET IN TOUCH

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At J.P. Sitework we are dedicated to providing top quality service to our valued customers.

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Address: 7336 Laine Rd Two Harbors, MN 55616, USA

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Minnesota mound septic system design

Excavation and Installation

Once the design is approved, our team begins the excavation and installation process. Excavation is a key component of septic system installation, and at J.P. Sitework, we have the equipment and expertise to handle any project size. Using our backhoe service and skidsteer service, we carefully excavate the area where the septic tank and mound will be placed. This requires precision and skill to ensure that the system functions correctly and complies with local regulations.


In addition to the mound system, we also install other types of septic systems, including aerobic septic systems, conventional septic systems, chamber septic systems, and gravity septic systems. Each system has its own set of benefits and is chosen based on the specific needs of the property. For example, aerobic systems are ideal for smaller lots or areas with poor soil because they use oxygen to break down waste more efficiently, while conventional systems are simpler and more cost-effective for properties with suitable soil conditions.


Comprehensive Site Services

At J.P. Sitework, we pride ourselves on offering a full range of site services to support septic installation and beyond. Our services include land clearing, site clearing, and foundation excavation. Whether you need land clearing to prepare for a new build, or foundation installation to ensure your project starts on a solid footing, we have the tools and expertise to get the job done right.


For properties requiring additional features, we offer pond installation and rock wall construction services. These additions can enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality of your property. Our team also provides driveway installation (gravel only), ensuring that access to your property is both durable and visually appealing.

OUR SERVICES

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Septic Design & Installation

With 1,000+ systems designed and installed in Minnesota, we have the know-how and experience to pair the new or updated system to your soil, fitted to your house.

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Foundation Excavation

Are you digging a basement, or doing a slab on grade? Allow us to provide you a free consultation and let us help you create a solid foundation.

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Sewer & Water Projects

When it comes to creating your project, utilities are a critical part. Proper design and installation is crucial. We offer the solution. No matter the size of the project.

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Land Clearing

Whether you need trails, pastures, or entire sites cleared, or stumps removed and hauled off site, we have the tools and expertise to help you clear your property with ease.

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Road Building & Maintenance

Road installation, maintenance or repair. Access to your property year round is important, and we know in our tough elements what that takes to keep your roads safe.

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Demolition

Whether removing an old foundation to make way for the new or just to remove an unsafe structure, we can help. We can put together a plan that will suit your needs.

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Site Grading

Soil corrections and proper soil and compaction is an important part of the building process to ensure a solid foundation. Whether soil boring is needed, or rock needs to be removed, we can offer a solution that will suit the needs of you and your site.

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General Excavation

We can balance your existing soil or import or export new soil depending on the nature of your project. Do you want to dig a pond or reshape your yard, or get rid of pooling water in your parking lot? We’re here to help make it happen.

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Rock Wall Construction

Rock walls can add both functionality and beauty to your outdoor spaces. Whether you need a retaining wall to prevent soil erosion or a decorative wall to enhance your landscape, we’re here to help.

Minnesota mound septic system design

Maintenance and Repairs

Septic systems require regular maintenance to function effectively. We offer septic repair services to address any issues that may arise, from minor leaks to more significant problems like drain field failure. Routine inspections and maintenance help extend the lifespan of your system and prevent costly repairs down the line.


For those in need of demolition services, whether it’s foundation demolition or general site clearing, we’re equipped to handle the job. Our demolition contractors are experienced and skilled, ensuring that your project is completed safely and efficiently.


The J.P. Sitework Difference

What sets J.P. Sitework apart from other contractors is our commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. From septic design and installation to excavation and site clearing, we take pride in our work and strive to exceed our clients’ expectations on every project.


We understand that each property is unique, and so are its needs. That’s why we take a personalized approach to every project, working closely with our clients to develop solutions that are tailored to their specific requirements. Whether it’s a complex mound septic system design or a simple gravel driveway installation, we bring the same level of dedication and expertise to every job.


In addition to our technical skills, we are also committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. We use best practices in septic system installation and site management to minimize our impact on the environment, ensuring that our projects not only meet current needs but also protect the health and safety of future generations.

OUR REVIEWS

★★★★★

Josh got us a fair bid right away, and stuck to it. He showed up on the day he said and on time and stayed with us until we were completely happy. Now that we have a vision from what what’s been accomplished with our land clearing we will be having JP Sitework come back for the rest of our dirtwork for our new build for sure. Recommend 100%.


-Catherine

★★★★★

Do not hesitate to hire J.P. Siteworks for your next project, Josh is a true professional. He installed a 3 bedroom mound septic system, trenched a water line, and built up a pad for a garage in time and within budget. Josh went above and beyond what we discussed during the planning phase of the project, including installing a driveway on short notice which was not in the original plan.


-Brad Dunn

★★★★★

Josh did a perfect job on my son’s septic system for his new home. Very skilled in his trade. Also Josh is a pleasant person to communicate with.


-Tim Carlson

★★★★★

Great guys to work with... down to earth with common sense personality. Pleasant to talk to... my other acquaintances that are involved have the same opinions as well. Just a great company to work with


-Gary Kestner

★★★★★

Josh installed a new septic system at our place about a year and a half ago. We had a very minor issue with it and he was out same day to take care of it. That’s not customer service you see very often these days! Great company to work with and highly recommended


-taylor hall

★★★★★

JP Site work was absolutely amazing to work with! Josh did amazing work and he showed up when he said he was going to be here!

Recommend 10/10! ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️


-Kacie Coughlin

★★★★★

Josh has been great to work with, and is very professional. Easy to get in touch with returns call asap and keeps us informed of what is going on with the building site work. Also has good ideas on drainage and landscaping. Our new septic mound system looks great.

Don’t hesitate to give him a call.

Thanks again Josh! Doug and Paula


-Doug Bitzan

★★★★★

I found JP Site Work through a Facebook post, and I'm so glad I did. I was in need of a new septic mound and had called about 6 different septic installers. Not one of them called me back. When I contacted Josh, he was out the next day to look over the site and I had an estimate in hand within hours, I couldn't believe it. His pricing was fair, and his work is impeccable. He is without a doubt the nicest excavator I've ever worked with.


Looking forward to doing more business in the future, I'm glad our paths crossed!


-Chad Behling

★★★★★

Most professional crew I have ever worked with. And it is so hard to find an honest contractor that has the customers come first.


-john Erickson

★★★★★

This guy has integrity! We’ve had Josh do a number of projects at our place including a new mound system. He does great work and really works with you to make sure you get what you want. Very fair and honest. I can’t recommend him enough!


-James Wright

★★★★★

Josh from JP Sitework was great to deal with. He showed up on the day he said he would be there and finished our septic in just few days. Very good quality work and great to deal with.

Will definitely will use again for our next project.


-Paul Sutherland

★★★★★

Josh with J.P. Sitework removed my old, noncomplaint septic system and designed and installed a new septic system, work that included the cutting of trees to make room for the new system. The placement of the new system was challenging based of the configuration of my lot, but he made it all work.


The work was done quickly and professionally, and I thoroughly enjoyed working with Josh. I highly recommend him if you need septic work done.


-Jim Foster

★★★★★

Josh and crew are great to work with. Josh is a clear communicator and shows up when you need him.

Would highly recommend this business for your site work needs.


-J Soderberg

★★★★★

Josh did a fantastic job transforming our rural property! Putting in a road and septic system last year and following up yesterday with filling in where ground settled around the tanks over the winter. Definitely recommending J.P. Sitework 👏👏👏👍👍👍 Thank you! …


-A Lampela

★★★★★

I have had a hell of a time trying to get people to come out and even return my calls for service, I found JP Sitework on the net and gave them a call and he immediately responded and kept correspondence with me until he showed up on a thursday. Great guy to talk to with a lot of knowledge and showed me what I need to do to get my extra cabin up and running. I will use him for all my septic services. Thanks for coming out!!!


-stephen kelley

★★★★★

Josh put a lot of extra effort to get through our complicated situation. Work was done correctly, fast and efficiently. They are professional and we are very pleased with the outcome.


-Kent Starkey

★★★★★

It was great working with Josh. Looking forward to the next steps.


-Mark Siekmeier

★★★★★

Fast responses to inquiries and exceptional communication. I had all my questions answered. The information was directed to my specific needs and not a blanket quote, and they were willing to work on placement if the site wasn’t quite were I wanted. The quote for the system was very reasonable. I would definitely do business again!


-Lisa Curtis

★★★★★

Josh was efficient, at the site in a timely manner, knowledgable, and did a good job on our project!


-Bill Ortman

★★★★★

J.P. leveled out the ground for our pool when another contractor couldn't. The installers were extremely impressed! Trusted business and highly skilled.


-justin mechtel

★★★★★

Josh had good recommendations and took the time to tell me about my septic installation.


-wyatt hegge

★★★★★

JP siteworks is great! Efficient, professional, and great quality work!


-Lauren Howard

★★★★★

Josh at J.P Site Works has great operating experience & skills!



-Town & Country Flooring

★★★★★

Very knowledgeable, fast replies and great work!



-Corey Sandretsky

★★★★★

Josh did a great job on the site work for my upcoming slab foundation. The work was done well ahead of when I expected. Josh ALWAYS calls back and responds to messages. He did what he said he would do, which is really important since I live hours away from the job site. I’m super happy! Thanks Josh!



-Jacob Eichinger

★★★★★

Josh got us a fair bid right away, and stuck to it. He showed up on the day he said and on time and stayed with us until we were completely happy. Now that we have a vision from what what’s been accomplished with our land clearing we will be having JP Sitework come back for the rest of our dirtwork for our new build for sure. Recommend 100%.


-Catherine

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FAQ: Minnesota mound septic system design

  • What is a mound septic system, and why is it used in Minnesota?

    A mound septic system is an alternative to traditional septic systems designed to work in areas where the soil is not deep enough or well-draining enough to accommodate a standard drain field. In Minnesota, where high water tables, shallow bedrock, and clay soils are common, mound septic systems are often the best solution. These systems elevate the drain field above the natural soil level, providing better filtration and treatment of wastewater before it reaches the groundwater.

  • How does a mound septic system differ from a conventional septic system?

    Unlike conventional septic systems that rely on gravity to distribute effluent through a drain field, mound systems use a pump to move effluent to an elevated drain field built on a mound of sand and gravel. This design allows for the effective treatment of wastewater in areas where the soil conditions are not suitable for a conventional system. The mound system is particularly beneficial in regions with poor soil permeability or high water tables, which are prevalent in many parts of Minnesota.

  • What are the key components of a mound septic system?

    A mound septic system consists of several key components: the septic tank, pump chamber, distribution pipes, and the mound itself. The septic tank collects and partially treats the wastewater before it moves to the pump chamber, which then pumps the effluent up to the mound. The mound is constructed with layers of sand, gravel, and topsoil, and contains distribution pipes that evenly disperse the effluent for final treatment and absorption.

  • What factors are considered in the design of a mound septic system?

    When designing a mound septic system, several factors are taken into account, including soil type, site slope, property size, and the amount of wastewater generated by the household. A thorough site evaluation, including soil testing, is critical to determine the system’s specifications. The design must also comply with local health department regulations to ensure that the system operates safely and effectively.

  • What maintenance is required for a mound septic system?

    Mound septic systems require regular maintenance to ensure they function properly. This includes routine inspections, pumping of the septic tank every 2-3 years, and monitoring the mound for signs of erosion or vegetation growth that could affect its performance. Regular maintenance helps prevent system failures and extends the life of the system, saving homeowners from costly repairs down the line.

  • Can a mound septic system be used on a small property?

    Yes, a mound septic system can be designed for smaller properties, although the size and layout of the mound may need to be adjusted. The system must still comply with local setback requirements and have enough space for the mound to be constructed safely. A professional septic installer like J.P. Sitework can evaluate your property and design a system that fits within your space constraints while meeting regulatory requirements.

  • What are the costs associated with installing a mound septic system?

    The cost of installing a mound septic system can vary based on factors like site conditions, the size of the system, and the complexity of the design. Mound systems are typically more expensive than conventional systems due to the additional materials and labor required to build the mound. However, at J.P. Sitework, we provide detailed cost estimates and work with homeowners to find solutions that fit their budget while meeting all necessary specifications.

  • How do I know if a mound septic system is right for my property?

    To determine if a mound septic system is right for your property, a professional septic installer should conduct a site evaluation, including soil testing and an assessment of the water table. If the soil is too shallow, poorly draining, or if the groundwater is too close to the surface, a mound system may be the best option. At J.P. Sitework, we help homeowners navigate this process and provide expert recommendations based on the specific needs of their property.

  • What additional services does J.P. Sitework provide alongside mound septic system installation?

    In addition to mound septic system installation, J.P. Sitework offers a range of site preparation and excavation services. These include land clearing, foundation excavation, gravel driveway installation, pond installation, and demolition services. Our comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of your project are handled professionally, from site grading to the final installation, providing you with a seamless and efficient service experience.

J.P. SITEWORK IN ACTION

We utilize state of the art equipment sized and configured to your specific project to finish your job on time as well as on budget.

WHO WE SERVE

While we provide all of our services, including our Septic Design and Installation Services, throughout Minnesota, our services are based out of Two Harbors, MN. Read our list below to see just some of the cities we’ve served!

  • Duluth MN
  • Cloquet MN
  • Two Harbors MN
  • Hibbing MN
  • North Branch MN
  • Brainerd MN
  • Forest Lake MN
  • East Bethel MN
  • Ham Lake MN
  • Hugo MN
  • Lino Lakes MN
  • Arnold MN
  • Silver Bay MN
  • Hermantown MN
  • Proctor MN
  • Esko MN
  • Hoyt Lakes MN
  • Carlton MN
  • Aurora MN
  • Babbitt MN
  • Gilber MN
  • Eveleth MN

“ALONE WE CAN DO SO LITTLE, TOGETHER WE CAN DO SO MUCH”

Helen Keller, American Author, Political Activist, and Lecturer


We believe that, above all else, the power of teamwork and collaboration is the key to success. At J.P. SITEWORK, we understand the importance of working together to achieve remarkable results in the construction industry. Our motto, “Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much” is often attributed to Helen Keller, an American author, political activist, and lecturer who was the first deaf-blind person to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree. This quote encapsulates the idea that when people come together and work collaboratively, they can achieve much more than they could individually.



Joshua Hegge

Founder & CEO