Bruce Johnson Construction are Milwaukie Septic Tank Installation Contractors

If you’re looking for a new or replacement septic system in Milwaukie, you’ve come to the right place. Since 1971, our third-generation septic tank installation business has been operating as Milwaukie septic tank installation contractors dedicated to providing our customers with the best products and services around. Bruce Johnson Construction specializes in the installation of traditional septic tanks and drainfields as well as modern advanced treatment technologies. If you are looking to install a septic tank for your property, give us a call today to get an estimate!

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Our septic tank installation team at work

Residential and Commercial Septic Tank Installation

Whether you’re in a residential or commercial context, when you need a new or replacement septic tank for your building, we are equipped to handle your needs. From walking with you through the planning process to installation and follow through, our experience and commitment to quality is what you need to take care of all septic system jobs both large and small.

Who We Are as a Milwaukie Septic Tank Installation Contractors

Since 1971, we are a three-generation family-owned excavation services business. Though we do everything from commercial utilities installation to job site preparation, we are specialists in septic system installation, including advanced treatment technologies.

Fully licensed as a DEQ installer and maintenance provider for septic systems of all kinds, and are trained to do limited electrical work as well. To maintain our licensing, we complete continuing education, and have been active members of Oregon Onsite Wastewater Association since its inception about 25 years ago. This organization has conferences, round tables, and training for its members annually.

Call for get a free quote
for Commercial & Residential Septic Tank Installation Services
503-953-6996
A septic tank installation in progress

Bruce Johnson Construction – 5-Star Reviews

  • “The septic tank was half covered by a concrete sidewalk. Codey sawed out a new exit line, dug a different hole for the new tank, filled the old tank with pea gravel, and kept the aesthetic of the front walkway.”
    Peter B.
  • “He was a pleasure to work with. He delivered on everything he promised. Would recommend this company to anyone!”
    Carl F.
  • “They were prompt, responsive and informative and really knew their [septic tank] product.”
    Angie’s List
A septic tank installation in progress by Bruce Johnson Construction

FAQ About Our Work as Milwaukie Septic Tank Installation Contractors

Septic tank work is a big deal – if you have questions you don’t see here, please get in touch to learn more.

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503-953-6996Request a free quote

What kinds of septic system are there?

There are a few types of standard septic tank that we will encounter, including steel, fiberglass, plastic, and concrete. Each have their own advantages and disadvantages, especially in how they stand up to wear and tear over time. A septic tank uses bacteria already found in waste products to break them down. The liquid waste, called effluent, is then pumped to the drainfield, where they are naturally filtered through the soil. Beyond these traditional systems, there are other options available for our Milwaukie customers. We can help you navigate the differences and install a product that will have you satisfied for years to come.

How much does it cost to install a new septic system?

The primary variables to be considered are the septic system type, the size required for your property, location limitations, and other factors influencing labor. Also, the cost will be very different if this is a replacement system requiring the removal of what’s already in the ground versus an entirely new installation.

What is the lifespan of a septic tank?

How long a septic tank will last primarily depends on the type of material it’s made from. Concrete tanks will generally last the longest, around 40 years. Fiberglass has a similar life expectancy. Steel tanks, which deteriorate over time due to rust and thus are not used by many modern homeowners, last in the neighborhood of 20-30 years. Plastic tanks are in the middle, regularly lasting from 30-40 years. If it’s well-installed, any modern septic tank will last half the lifetime of a homeowner.

Can a homeowner install their own septic system?

It is possible, but there are a few hurdles that can make it difficult for DIYers. For one thing, excavation equipment will need to be used for moving a substantial amount of earth. If there is an old tank to take out, equipment will be required for lifting the tank out, and disposal arrangements made. In addition, proper permits need to be taken out for the project.

Where should a septic system be placed?

Most septic systems do require a bit of space for both the tank to be placed underground without too weight on top of it, as well as for the septic field. An engineer with experience in septic design will work with your Milwaukie septic tank installation contractors to determine ideal placing of the system and ensure everything will be built up to code.

What is a drain field?

Septic drain fields, also called leach fields, receive liquid waste (called effluent) from the septic tank. The pipe of the drainfield trickles the effluent through aggregate material and into the soil below, where it is filtered by the ground before being integrated into the water table.

Can a septic field be repaired?

It is possible, but it may be a time- and labor-intensive process. Sometimes a clog is the issue, and it can be rooted out. Other times, excavation is required so that the soil can recover.

What is the alternative to a septic tank?

One alternative is an aerobic treatment system (ATS), which acts as a small-scale wastewater treatment plant. Though in many ways it looks the same as a septic tank, it uses more air and oxygen to treat the waste before it is pumped into the drain field, meaning that a smaller drain field can be required. If you’re interested in this or another alternative, we can help you navigate which option will be best for your situation.

How big are septic tanks usually?

The size of a septic tank required depends on the size of the house, especially the number of people living in the house. To give an idea, an average three-bedroom house will need perhaps a 1000-gallon tank.

Does my septic tank need a permit?

In the vast majority of cases, a septic system installation will require a permit. When you are working with Bruce Johnson Construction as your Milwaukie septic tank installation contractors, you have someone who will take care of the paperwork for you, so you can know that your work is done above-board.

How far down should a septic tank be buried?

Typically, a septic tank will not be dug too far underground, perhaps up to 4 feet. The deeper it is, the more of a riser will be required to provide access for pumping.

What training do you have to be able to install septic tanks?

We are uniquely trained for all types of septic systems including advanced treatment technologies. We have continuing education requirements to maintain our licensing, and have been active members of Oregon Onsite Wastewater Association since its inception about 25 years ago. This organization has conferences, round tables, and training for members annually.

Bruce Johnson Construction are Milwaukie Septic Tank Installation Contractors