4 Signs that Your Septic System Is Failing and Needs to Be Replaced

Southern Civils • June 2, 2025
A large dirt field with trees in the background on a sunny day.

A properly functioning septic system is essential for managing wastewater in homes that aren't connected to a municipal sewer system. When a septic system starts to fail, it can create health hazards, unpleasant odors, and costly damage. At Southern Civils, we provide expert septic system replacement in the greater Tucson area. Recognizing the warning signs early can help you determine if it's time to consider a full replacement.


Slow Drains Throughout the House

If you're noticing that sinks, bathtubs, and toilets are draining more slowly than usual, and plunging or snaking doesn’t resolve the issue, it could point to a problem with your septic system. While occasional clogs in a single fixture are normal, slow drainage throughout the entire home may indicate that your septic tank is full or the drain field is no longer absorbing water properly. This is often one of the earliest warning signs of a failing system.


Foul Odors Indoors or Outside

Persistent sewage smells inside your home or near the septic tank or drain field can be a sign that the system is no longer functioning as it should. These odors may be caused by wastewater backing up or by untreated sewage surfacing in the yard. A healthy septic system contains and processes waste without releasing unpleasant smells. When these odors become noticeable, especially in multiple areas, it could be a sign of failure.


Sewage Backups in the Home

When wastewater begins to back up into your toilets, sinks, or tubs, it’s a red flag that your septic system is failing. Backups commonly start on the lowest level of the house and can cause major health hazards and property damage. If pumping the tank doesn’t fix the issue or backups continue to happen regularly, a full system replacement might be necessary.


Lush, Green Patches of Grass Over the Drain Field

Unusually green and thick patches of grass over your drain field can be an indication that untreated wastewater is seeping into the soil and acting as a fertilizer. While it might seem harmless at first, this can suggest that the system is leaking or failing underground. 


Septic System Replacement in Tucson, AZ

When you need septic system replacement in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Southern Civils at 520-337-4018. Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

4 Important Things to Consider When Planning to Install a New Septic System

By Southern Civils • April 28, 2025
Installing a new septic system is a significant investment that requires careful planning and consideration. Whether you're building a new home or replacing an old system, the success and longevity of your septic system depend on a variety of factors. From local regulations to soil quality, understanding what to expect can help you avoid costly mistakes and ensure a smooth installation process. At Southern Civils, our team would be happy to answer any of your questions about septic system installation. Here are four important things to keep in mind when planning to install a new septic system. Local Regulations and Permits Before any digging begins, it's crucial to check with local health/environmental rules about septic system installation in your particular area. Permits, site evaluations, and inspections are all typically required throughout the process. These rules are in place to protect public health and the environment, so complying with them is not optional. Failure to do so can lead to delays, fines, or being required to redo the work. Soil and Site Evaluation The type of soil on your property plays a major role in determining what kind of septic system you can install. A percolation test, often called a “perc test,” is used to evaluate how well the soil absorbs water. Sandy or loamy soils tend to drain well, while clay-heavy soils can cause problems with absorption. A site evaluation will also consider the slope of your land, distance to water sources, and space available for the system. This assessment will guide your system design and ensure it functions properly for years to come. System Size and Household Needs Your septic system must be sized appropriately for your household’s daily wastewater output. Factors such as the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and water-using appliances are taken into account when determining tank and drain field size. Installing a system that is too small can lead to frequent backups and maintenance problems. On the other hand, an oversized system may be unnecessarily expensive. Your contractor can help you determine the right size based on your current and future needs, as well as the particular type of system, whether gravity-fed or otherwise. Long-Term Maintenance Planning Even the best-designed septic system requires regular maintenance to function properly. When planning your installation, consider how you’ll access the tank for future pumping and inspections. Discuss a long-term maintenance plan with your installer, including how often the system should be serviced. Staying proactive with maintenance will help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your septic system. Septic System Installation & Replacement in Tucson, AZ For expert septic system services in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Southern Civils at  520-337-4018  . Feel free to give us a call to request an estimate!

4 Reasons to to Invest in Expert Land Grading for Your Construction Project

By Southern Civils • April 1, 2025
Proper land grading is a crucial step in any construction project. Whether you are building a home or a commercial property, expert land grading promotes stability, drainage, and longevity. Skipping this essential process or attempting to grade land without professional expertise can lead to costly issues down the line. At Southern Civils, we provide top-quality land grading in the greater Tucson area. Here are four reasons why investing in expert land grading is a smart decision for your project. Proper Drainage One of the primary purposes of land grading is to establish a proper drainage system. Without adequate grading, water can pool in unwanted areas, leading to erosion, flooding, and structural damage. Professional land grading ensures that water flows away from buildings and other critical areas, preventing water-related issues that could compromise the integrity of your project. Prevents Soil Erosion Soil erosion can be a significant problem on construction sites, especially those with uneven terrain. If the land is not properly graded, rainwater and wind can wash away the topsoil, making it difficult to establish a stable foundation. Professional grading techniques help stabilize the soil, reducing the risk of erosion. Helps Create a Strong Foundation A properly graded site is essential for laying a strong foundation. If the land is not leveled correctly, it can lead to uneven settling and other structural issues. Professional land grading ensures that the ground is correctly leveled and ready to support the weight of the construction. This step is critical for avoiding costly repairs and ensuring the longevity of the structure. Improves Site Accessibility During construction, accessibility for heavy machinery and workers is crucial. Uneven terrain can make it difficult to transport materials and operate equipment safely. Expert land grading creates a stable and level surface, making the site more accessible and reducing the risk of accidents. This improves efficiency and helps keep workers safe throughout the construction process. Land Grading in Tucson, AZ When you need expert land grading in Tucson and the surrounding area, contact Southern Civils at  520-337-4018  . Feel free to give us a call to ask for an estimate for construction prep in Tucson!