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Soilworx specializes in septic system design in Alberta (properly known as an OWTS – Onsite Wastewater Treatment System). Most counties and districts within Alberta now require a septic design by a certified professional as part of the permitting process for a new development or for a renovation / addition.  We guarantee permit approval with every septic system design so that you are 100% risk free when working with us! We know and work with local counties and inspectors on a daily basis. All of our work is done to meet current local and provincial regulations.
The septic system design is the first step of the process to ultimately have a system installed. The process, whether its a commercial or residential development, looks much like this:
Each home or development (residential or commercial) is unique. Each design, in turn, is unique. Your septic design will include both the septic tank design, as well as the septic field design, pump sizing, piping specs, elevations, etc to meet all regulations, taking into account the unique properties of your home or development. Factors such as site specific soil conditions along with occupancy expectations and activities are what form the options for the type and size of your septic system.  We always explore all of the options to create the most cost-effective septic system design specific to your property. Â
Our septic system designs are completed by a certified pro. It is a document of around 50-60 pages, and includes:
Are you building a new home? Doing a renovation or addition? Or do you have a failed system and looking to install a new one?
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Finding a qualified certified septic system designer can be a difficult task, unfortunately. To design/install a residential system in Alberta, a person must be certified and carry a valid COC (Certificate of Competency) issued by Alberta Municipal Affairs. The reality is that most contractors with heavy machinery focus more on the installation side of things, with design as a second thought. They might only complete a few septic designs per year. Â
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At Soilworx, our focus is on septic system designs. We have done hundreds of designs in the just the last few years. By using our design services, you are getting a third party, unbiased design which must face the scrutiny of other installers and inspectors; whereas an installer that does his/her own design might not know or use all available options and design only to his/her preferences. Â
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The proper design of your residential system directly affects its performance and longevity. It must take into account and understand the onsite soils and the intended use, as well as the limitations of the site and the system in order to avoid potential hazards or issues. With proper experience, all of the unique factors involved with your home come together to produce a tailored, custom septic system design that will effectively treat your wastewater and protect your surrounding environment. This includes both the septic tank design as well as the septic field design, pumps, piping, and other needed components. Â
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As part of our custom residential design process, we ask for as much information as possible so that we understand your needs. We make the process easy; simply follow the instructions on our online form and submit it to us. We will ask about things like number of bedrooms, bathrooms, sinks, tubs, garburators, and water softeners. We also ask for the address and legal land description, among other information. If you ever have any questions filling out the form, please call and we can fill it out together. Â
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Over the years we have built great relationships with qualified installers in and around Alberta. Once your design is complete, we can then refer you to one of these trusted installers who can supply you with an accurate quote. Â
Commercial establishments also need a solution for their wastewater. Developments such as restaurants, office buildings, RV parks, golf courses, churches, laundromats, motels/hotels, and day cares are just a few examples. Â
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Septic system designs for commercial units require different planning and research than typical residential systems.  Often times the wastewater strength is much higher because of the lack of dilution from showers, dishwashers, and daily laundry activities that are normal in a home. Â
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Projected flows are also calculated differently and many times are based on occupancy limits.Â
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In Alberta, there are limits to wastewater strength and projected flows. For example, if a development (commercial or residential) has a projected flow >1250 Imp gals (~6000L) per day and/or “high strength” wastewater, a competent engineer must produce or review the design.  If projected flows are >2000 Imp gals/day, further hydrogeological testing is required.Â
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Soilworx has excellent experience working with small and large commercial projects such as golf courses, zoo’s, RV parks, churches, and restaurants. We have a full solution for any size project ; if engineers are required for larger projects, we have great partnerships with engineers who know and understand wastewater and can work with us and review our designs. Â
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Like residential septic designs, these documents are required before a certified installer can accurately quote on the pricing for installation. Â
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Over the years we have also built great relationships with qualified installers in and around Alberta. Once your design is complete, we can then refer you to one of these trusted installers who can supply you with an accurate quote. Â
We can complete the required PSTS pre-subdivision testing and reporting required by your local county or MD.
While we focus mainly in the areas of Central and Southern Alberta, we have designed systems all over the province. Â
All of our designs come with a 100% guarantee
of permit approval. Â
It is important for the safety of everyone to locate and identify any buried utilities (gas, electricity, etc) near the area where we might be digging test pits. There is no charge to have any public lines identified through Alberta One Call; however if you have private lines in the area you may need to contact a private locator. We can organize the locates for you, but keep in mind it can take up to 7 days or more for them to complete the locate request.
This is where the fun begins 🙂 Once we have the information on the site and the locates are complete, we will come to your lot with our small excavator and complete the Site Evaluation, which includes :
Normally it takes the lab about a week or so to receive the samples, analyze them, and send back the results. Once we have the results we are happy to discuss all options that are available according to the onsite soils and other factors. Your final design document will be delivered electronically to you. Â
You can now use this septic design document to obtain accurate installation quotes, as well as it will be used to apply for a PSTS permit. Normally the installer of your choice will complete the PSTS application for you. Â
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