With Independence Day right around the corner, it’s a time to celebrate freedom, family, and the comforts of home. At Schaefer Excavating, we understand that one of the most important comforts of your home is a reliable septic system. If you live in Helena, Butte, Great Falls, Bozeman, or the surrounding areas of Montana, and you’re building a new home or replacing an outdated system, now is the perfect time to think about septic system installation.
Why Septic System Installation Matters
A properly installed septic system is essential for any home not connected to a municipal sewer system. It’s responsible for treating wastewater safely and efficiently, protecting your property, your health, and Montana’s pristine natural environment. Faulty or improperly installed systems can lead to significant problems, including backups, groundwater contamination, and costly repairs.
At Schaefer Excavating, we provide expert septic system installation with the precision, care, and local knowledge only a Montana-based company can offer.
Montana’s Unique Terrain Requires Specialized Expertise
Installing a septic system in Montana isn’t like doing it just anywhere. Our region’s diverse terrain—from Helena’s rocky hillsides to the softer soils around Great Falls—requires a contractor who knows how to navigate everything from granite boulders to high water tables.
We take the time to assess your site conditions, soil composition, drainage, and elevation to ensure your system is placed and constructed for optimal performance.
What Sets Schaefer Excavating Apart
As a family-owned business serving Montana for generations, Schaefer Excavating offers:
Local Experience: Deep familiarity with Helena, Butte, Bozeman, and Great Falls terrain and regulations.
Licensed & Insured: We meet all state and county requirements for septic system contractors.
End-to-End Service: From site evaluation and permitting to excavation and final inspection.
Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or surprises.
Long-Term Support: We’re committed to maintaining and servicing your system for years to come.
The Septic Installation Process
Here’s what you can expect when you work with Schaefer Excavating:
Initial Consultation & Site Assessment
We visit your property to assess soil conditions, property layout, and location-specific factors.
We help determine the best type of system for your needs: conventional, pressure dose, mound, or advanced treatment.
Permitting & Design
We coordinate with local health departments and DEQ regulations to secure the necessary permits.
Our team designs a system tailored to your lot size, household occupancy, and site constraints.
Excavation & Installation
Using state-of-the-art equipment, we excavate with precision to avoid overdigging and unnecessary disruption.
We install tanks, piping, drainfields, and all necessary components to exact specifications.
Inspection & Testing
Local officials inspect the system to ensure compliance.
We conduct water-tightness and flow tests to verify that the system is functioning correctly.
Final Grading & Cleanup
We backfill, regrade, and restore the site with care, leaving your property clean and ready for use.
Serving Helena, Butte, Great Falls, and Bozeman
Wherever you are in central or western Montana, we bring our professional service and local expertise directly to you:
Helena, MT: We are familiar with Helena’s rugged terrain and understand the permitting and inspection protocols required in Lewis and Clark County.
Butte, MT: Our rich mining history means we encounter challenging soils and require meticulous excavation planning—our specialty.
Great Falls, MT: We manage high water table challenges and maximize space for drainfields on both large and compact lots.
Bozeman, MT: Rapid growth and strict environmental protections mean homeowners need a team that understands both compliance and aesthetics.
When to Install a New Septic System
You may need septic system installation if:
You’re building a new home on a rural or undeveloped lot
Your current septic system is aging, failing, or undersized
You’re renovating a property and increasing water usage
You’ve purchased land and want to prepare it for future use
If you’re unsure whether your current system needs to be replaced, we can provide an inspection and an honest assessment.
Preparing for a Worry-Free Summer
July 4th is this Friday, and it’s the start of Montana’s busiest season for outdoor gatherings, BBQs, and family get-togethers. The last thing you want to deal with is a septic backup during your holiday weekend.
If you’ve been putting off installing a new system or upgrading an old one, now is the time to take action. We can schedule your consultation before the summer rush and help you enjoy peace of mind throughout the entire season.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does a septic installation take? Most systems are installed in 5–7 business days, depending on permitting and site conditions.
Do I need a permit? Yes, but we handle all permitting and coordinate with the appropriate authorities.
How much does it cost? Costs vary depending on the property’s condition and the type of system. We provide precise, upfront estimates with no surprises.
Do you offer maintenance services? Yes. We provide regular maintenance, inspection, and repair services for all systems we install.
Ready to Get Started?
If you need a new septic system in Helena, Butte, Great Falls, or Bozeman, trust the team that knows Montana best. At Schaefer Excavating, we’re committed to doing the job right the first time, with honesty, precision, and Montana pride.
Contact us today to schedule your free consultation and make this summer a fresh start for your property.