Ground managers need to plan well ahead of winter to ensure the best care for their storm cleanup needs.

As winter approaches, winter challenges become even more pronounced for managers tasked with securing reliable snow removal services at institutional and commercial levels. Choosing the right snow removal company early can alleviate some of these pressures and ensure smoother operations throughout the season.

Here are six reasons why grounds managers should sign snow contracts early, meaning before October 1 at the latest.

1. The best companies fill up fast

Securing a reputable snow removal company early in the season is crucial. The best companies tend to fill their schedules quickly, leaving latecomers scrambling for less reliable options. Early signing allows property managers ample time to thoroughly vet potential contractors.

• Be sure to:
• Check references
• Verify current and adequate liability insurance
• Assess important aspects such as after-hours communication opportunities
• Once these top companies are fully booked, securing their services becomes impossible, so acting early is essential to get the best.

Early contracts ensure reserving the best personnel and equipment for snow removal needs. Reliable snow removal services are often in high demand, and many companies may over-promise their capabilities. By signing early, managers can secure a commitment that includes consistent and efficient service tailored to the property. This is particularly important for larger properties that require substantial resources. Ensuring that the best equipment and skilled workers means better overall service and reliability.

3. Supplies aren’t infinite

Salt, calcium, brine, and magnesium are not in infinite supply. During peak winter months, these supplies can become scarce. This drives up costs and potentially leaves some properties without adequate coverage. By signing a snow contract early, managers can ensure that their properties will have a guaranteed allocation of these crucial materials, which helps maintain safety and accessibility throughout the winter season.

4. Familiarity with your property

When snow removal workers are unfamiliar with a property, it can lead to inefficiencies and mistakes. Early contracting gives the snow removal company enough time to get a lay of the land. They can map out all service areas, train staff specifically for the property's needs, and familiarize themselves with any unique challenges or requirements. This preparation is vital for ensuring that when the first snow falls, the service is seamless and effective. Knowing the specific areas that need attention, such as hidden walkways or tricky driveways, can make a significant difference in service quality.

5. Better rates and budgeting

Contracting snow removal services in advance often leads to more competitive rates. Contractors are more willing to negotiate and offer better deals during the off-season as they are eager to fill their schedules. This early engagement not only helps secure better pricing but also provides an opportunity to combine snow removal with other seasonal services, such as landscaping, under a single contract. This can simplify budgeting and ensure a comprehensive approach to property maintenance, potentially leading to additional cost savings.

6. Tailored solutions for your property

• Engaging snow removal contractors before the snow season begins allows for a tailored approach to the property’s specific needs. Contractors can visit the site to provide accurate quotes and develop effective snow removal plans. Several factors need to be considered:
• Scope of services: Understanding exactly what services are required ensures that all aspects of snow removal are covered.
• Equipment needs: Identifying the types and numbers of vehicles and equipment necessary for efficient snow clearing.
• Manpower allocation: Determining the appropriate staffing levels to handle the property's snow removal effectively.
• Snow hauling: Assessing whether snow needs to be hauled away and the logistics involved.
• De-icing materials: Deciding on the types and quantities of de-icers needed to keep walkways and parking areas safe.

By working closely with contractors before the snow season, grounds managers can ensure their properties receive the most effective and tailored snow removal services. This proactive approach saves time, money, and reduces the likelihood of service disruptions during critical winter months.

Signing snow contracts early is a strategic move for property managers. It ensures access to the best service providers, guarantees the availability of necessary equipment and supplies, allows for thorough property familiarization, secures better rates, and results in customized snow removal plans.

Taking these proactive steps not only enhances the safety and accessibility of the property but also provides peace of mind throughout the winter season. Don’t wait until the first snowflake falls—start planning now to secure the best possible snow removal services for your property.

For more information contact Morse Engineering and Construction. 

Source: https://www.facilitiesnet.com/

Are you considering hiring a new snow removal company this winter? Before hiring someone, make sure they are a good fit for your property. While many snow removal contractors boast about their capabilities, they do not all deliver when the first big snow hits. For property managers, this creates major problems. When snow plows fail to arrive, property managers can expect a flood of complaints from their residents or tenants.

Finding a great snow removal company is a top priority for property managers. There are ways to identify high quality commercial snow removal companies. Here are five questions property managers should ask commercial snow removal companies before hiring them. What type of snow removal equipment do you have? h3

While this question is important for any property, it is very important for properties with unique snow removal needs. This could include needing snow removal from hard to access walkways, top floor parking garages, or rooftops. If a company does not own the right equipment, consider it a red flag. This extends to companies that simply offer to subcontract or rent a piece of equipment.

Property managers should feel comfortable asking equipment specific questions as well. These could include:

• How big is your fleet of plows?
• How old are the vehicles in your fleet?
• Do you own your plows?
• Are your vehicles well maintained and serviced?
• These questions are trying to assess the reliability of the vehicles and snow plows that are showing up to your property during a snowstorm, so make sure you are satisfied with any potential vendor's answer.

How big is your service area?

While the first plowing is important, properly removing snow from a property requires multiple plows. Companies with very large service areas might not return as quickly for a second clearing during heavy snows. This is because they are spending time traveling to other properties. During heavy snowfalls or blizzards, it is the frequent plowing through multiple visits that make the difference.

Conversely, a large service area can also be a positive. This is especially true for property managers with large regional or multi-state portfolios. Either way, property managers must ask about the service area and feel comfortable with the snow removal contractor’s answer.

Do you have guaranteed melting supplies?

When record snowfalls hit, grocery store shelves are not the only things that get cleared out. Salt and other ice melting supplies often disappear just as fast as toilet paper and water. As a result, property managers must ask their snow removal contractor about their ability to access snow and ice melting supplies. If a contractor can’t get the right supplies when they are most needed, they are likely not a reliable option.

How do you communicate during storms?

The answer to this question is a surefire way to separate great snow removal contractors from the rest of the pack. The best snow removal companies will have proven communication systems and processes in place. Additionally, they will be able to example them well.

How do they communicate before, during, and after a storm? For property managers, fast and reliable information is critical to overall property operations during a blizzard or nor’easter.

Do you know local snow removal laws?

Believe it or not, there are snow removal laws in many states. These laws include things such as where and how high plows can push snow mounds. Massachusetts, for example, has numerous snow removal laws. One of the laws allows towns to remove snow from sidewalks, then send the bill to property owners. Property managers should ask snow removal contractors how much they know about local and state laws during the hiring process.

For more information contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: propertymanagerinsider

You are an integral part of the Morse Engineering and Construction Industries family and we are so grateful for your support!

In the spirit of the Thanksgiving season, we want to give thanks to all of you, our exceptional clients who make our growth not just possible, but worthwhile. Our customers are the reason we thrive and the reason we are here. Thank you so much for choosing us time and time again. The economy may be in a struggle right now, but we do know one thing: Without your loyalty, your feedback, and your support, we wouldn’t be where we are today.

May this Thanksgiving be as joyful as you deserve, and the start of a fun and happy holiday season and a successful and healthy new year! In this time of giving thanks, we want to thank you, our customers. Wishing you all the best, and a very happy Thanksgiving.

Septic Tank Installation

If you are building a home on a new lot in a rural area, you will need to hire a specialist to install a brand new septic tank. Alternatively, you might also need a brand new septic tank if your existing one is aged and needs to be replaced entirely.

This project is somewhat of a large undertaking. First, your septic tank specialist will test the soil in the area where you want to install the new tank and submit for a permit. Once approved, they will excavate the ground, drop in your new septic tank and connect the tank to your sewer pipes.

Septic Tank Repair

During your septic tank inspection, the service provider may find issues that need to be fixed, but they require new parts or tools they do not have on hand. You will schedule the septic tank specialist to come out later to complete these repairs. Common repair issues include replacing worn baffles, fixing damage caused by nearby trees or vehicles, patching leaks or replacing connected sewer pipes.

For more information about septic system inspections and repair, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: forbes.com

A frozen septic system can be a nightmare to deal with in the wintertime. Thankfully, with proper preparation you should be able to avoid this major headache. Here's what you need to do to prepare.

During winter months, freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing systems, including your septic system. As the ground freezes, it can affect the pipes and tank of your septic system, potentially leading to backups and costly repairs. Understanding how to prevent your septic system from freezing is crucial for maintaining a functional and healthy home environment throughout the cold season.

In this guide, we’ll explore the factors that contribute to septic system freezing, signs to watch for, and effective prevention methods. We’ll also discuss immediate actions to take if your system does freeze and provide tips for winterizing seasonal homes. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or new to septic system maintenance, this article will equip you with the knowledge to keep your system flowing smoothly all winter long.

Understanding the Frost Line and Its Impact on Septic Systems

The frost line, also known as the freezing depth, is the depth to which groundwater in soil is expected to freeze. This depth varies depending on your location, with northern regions experiencing deeper frost lines than southern areas. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), frost lines can range from 100 inches deep in northern Minnesota to none in southern Florida, with most of the country falling between 20 and 50 inches.

Understanding your local frost line is important for septic system health. Septic tanks and pipes installed above the frost line are at risk of freezing during prolonged cold spells. Factors such as lack of snow cover (which acts as insulation), infrequent system use, and pipes installed too close to the surface can all contribute to freezing issues. Even septic pipes in uninsulated basements or those connecting the tank to the drain field can freeze, potentially causing backups into your home.

Signs Your Septic System May Be Frozen

• Recognizing the symptoms of a frozen septic system early can help prevent more serious issues. Here are key indicators to watch for:
• Slow or non-draining fixtures: If your toilets, sinks, bathtubs, or washing machines are draining slowly or not at all, it could be a sign of a frozen system.
• Gurgling sounds: Unusual noises coming from drains or pipes may indicate ice blockages.
• Odors: Foul smells inside or outside your home near the septic area can signal a problem.
• Frozen ground: Unusually frozen or frost-heaved ground over septic lines or the tank area may indicate freezing within the system.
• Backing up: In extreme cases, you may experience sewage backing up into your home through low-lying drains.
• If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to act quickly to prevent further damage to your septic system and home.

Immediate Actions for a Frozen Septic System

When faced with a frozen septic system, quick action is essential. Here are some steps you can take to address the issue:

Thawing Methods for Accessible Pipes

• If you can access the frozen pipes, there are several DIY methods you can try:
• Hot water: Pour hot (not boiling) water down drains to help melt ice in partially frozen pipes.
• Space heater: Use an electric space heater to warm the area around accessible pipes, particularly in basements.
• Heat tape: Apply heat tape to pipes, but be cautious of electrical hazards, especially if there’s standing water.
• Hot water hose: If you have access to a hot water hose bib, you can use a hose with a spray nozzle to thaw pipes leading to the septic tank.
• For PVC pipes, avoid using boiling water or extreme heat, as this can cause cracking. Cast iron pipes can withstand higher temperatures and may be thawed using a heat gun, but this method is not recommended for PVC.

Professional Thawing Services

If DIY methods aren’t effective or if you’re uncomfortable attempting them, it’s time to call a professional. Plumbers in cold climates often have specialized equipment for thawing septic systems safely and effectively. They may use steam machines or other professional-grade tools to clear ice blockages without damaging your system.

Preventative Measures to Protect Your Septic System

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to septic system maintenance. Here are some strategies to keep your system from freezing:

Proper Installation and Insulation

• Proper installation and insulation are fundamental to safeguarding your septic system from freezing during cold weather conditions. Here are some important considerations:
• Depth: The tank and pipes should be buried well below the frost line.
• Insulation: Cover pipes and tanks with insulation, typically 2-4 inches of rigid foam, before burial.
• Soil management: Avoid compacting soil above the system, as compacted soil freezes more readily.
• Maintaining an Active System.
• An active septic system is less likely to freeze. Consistent water flow can help prevent freezing. Be sure to repair any leaky faucets or fixtures to prevent small trickles of water that can easily freeze. Spread out water use to maintain a consistent flow. For example, instead of doing all of your laundry in one day, try spacing it out over the course of a week.

Soil Management Techniques

Proper soil management can provide natural insulation. Let the grass over the septic area to grow longer in September, and apply a layer of mulch, hay or leaves at least eight inches deep over the septic area. Use a trap to cover the insulating vegetation to keep it dry and more effective.

Winterizing Your Septic System for Seasonal Homes

• Seasonal homes or cabins require special attention before winter sets in to ensure the septic system stays protected during periods of disuse. Here are some steps to winterize a seasonal septic system:
• Pump the tank: Have your septic tank pumped before leaving to remove liquid that could freeze.
• Turn off water: Shut off the main water supply, and drain all fixtures and pipes.
• Add antifreeze: Use RV antifreeze in toilet bowls and traps to prevent freezing.
• Insulate: Consider adding extra insulation to pipes and the tank if they’re accessible.
• Mark system components: Place markers to indicate the location of your tank and drain field to prevent accidental damage from snow removal equipment.

DIY vs. Professional Septic Maintenance

While there are many steps homeowners can take to maintain their septic systems, it’s important to know when to call in the professionals.

When to Call a Professional

• You should contact a septic professional if:
• You’re unsure about your system’s layout or condition.
• You experience repeated freezing issues despite preventative measures.
• There are signs of system failure, such as sewage backups or foul odors.
• You need your tank pumped or inspected.

For more information about septic system inspections, contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: thisoldhouse.com

Seasonal homes or cabins require special attention before winter sets in to ensure the septic system stays protected during periods of disuse. Here are some steps to winterize a seasonal septic system:

• Pump the tank: Have your septic tank pumped before leaving to remove liquid that could freeze.
• Turn off water: Shut off the main water supply, and drain all fixtures and pipes.
• Add antifreeze: Use RV antifreeze in toilet bowls and traps to prevent freezing.
• Insulate: Consider adding extra insulation to pipes and the tank if they’re accessible.
• Mark system components: Place markers to indicate the location of your tank and drain field to prevent accidental damage from snow removal equipment.

Source: thisoldhouse.com

Finding time in your busy schedule to set up a septic tank inspection may seem like a chore—but in the long run, it can set you up for septic success for many happy, odor-free years ahead. Here’s how.

Avoid Maintenance Emergencies

Few words strike fear into the heart of homeowners as quickly as “septic emergency.” By getting regular inspections, you can potentially avoid a major mess before it starts—and even save money on costly emergency maintenance services. Getting your septic tank regularly inspected is a whole lot cheaper than needing to have it replaced before it's time!

Enhances Septic Performance

A well-working septic tank is out of sight, out of mind, but if performance starts to slip, you’d better believe you’re going to know about it. Backed-up drains, hard-to-flush toilets, and unpleasant odors can creep into your life fast and make you, understandably, furious. Regular septic tank inspections keep your system working at its best, so you can keep it out of mind.

Increase in Home Value

Having a well-maintained septic system can increase your home’s overall value, which can put money in your pocket in the form of equity—and, if you should ever decide to move, a potentially higher sale price.

For more information about septic system inspections contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: www.angi.com

Arranging for the Inspection

The property owner or operator is responsible for arranging the inspection. The buyer and seller may change the responsibility for arranging the inspection prior to title transfer, provided that this change is put in writing and that the inspection still occurs within the specified timeframes.

The purpose of the inspection is to determine if the system in its current condition can protect public health and the environment. The inspection does not guarantee that the system will continue to function adequately, or that the system will not fail at a later date. This is particularly important if you plan to increase the flow to the system.

The inspection includes determining the location and condition of cesspools, septic tanks and distribution boxes. Often, this will not require extensive excavation.

Only MassDEP-approved individuals can conduct system inspections. The New England Interstate Water Pollution Control Commission maintains lists of approved system inspectors (see below). System inspections conducted by any other individual are not valid for compliance with Title 5.

A System Inspector may not act as an agent of the Board of Health and also represent the system owner.

Reporting the Inspection Results

The System Inspector must use the MassDEP-approved inspection form, provided below. MassDEP and the local board of health will not accept reports in other formats as valid.

The inspection report must be submitted within 30 days of the inspection.

For most systems, the System Inspector is responsible for submitting the inspection report directly to the Board of Health. The buyer must also receive a copy from the seller of the property.

In some cases, inspection reports must be submitted to authorities other than the Board of Health:

• Inspection forms for State and Federal facilities must be submitted to MassDEP instead of the local Board of Health.
• Reports for large systems and shared systems must be submitted to both the local Board of Health and MassDEP.

The buyer or other person acquiring title to the property served by the system must receive a copy of the inspection report.

Inspections in connection with a property sale generally are good for 2 years. If a property is sold more than once in the 2-year period, the single inspection is valid for all property transfers.

If a system is pumped annually and the pumping records are available, an inspection is valid for 3 years.

Incomplete or Delayed Inspections

If weather conditions prevent an inspection before a sale, Title 5 allows the inspection to be done up to 6 months afterwards, provided that the seller notifies the buyer in writing of the need to complete the inspection.

For more information about septic system inspections contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: mass.gov

Your septic system performs a vital job, and regular septic inspections are the best way to make sure it keeps running properly. A septic inspection from a vetted professional will ensure your system is free of leaks, blockages, and other malfunctions that could cause a smelly situation. During an inspection, a pro will also determine the fullness level of your septic tank and suggest a pumping timeline based on your usage. Here’s what you need to know about septic inspections, including what they entail and how often you need one.

Common Checks Performed During a Septic Inspection

When you call your local septic tank company for an inspection, they’ll show up with a laundry list of checks to perform. For starters, they’ll need to locate your septic tank and drain field. The location may be obvious, particularly if the system was installed more recently, but in older homes, searching for the components of your system may take some more detective work.

Once they’ve gotten the lay of the land, the septic inspectors will make several assessments. The specifics will depend on whether it’s a visual or full septic inspection. If you’re buying or selling a house, a basic visual inspection is required. However, a comprehensive septic tank inspection, or Title 5 inspection, is a more in-depth, regular part of septic tank maintenance that should be carried out every two to five years.

Visual Septic Tank Inspections

During a visual septic tank inspection, the inspector will ask several questions about the system, including when it was last inspected, how old the house is, and how often the septic tank is pumped out. Your pro will also run water in all the available sites inside your home (sinks, showers, and toilets) in order to assess the water pressure. They’ll also go outside to check the drainage field for pooling, odors, sogginess, or excessive plant growth over the top of the field—all of which can indicate a failure in the system.

Comprehensive Title V Septic Tank Inspections

During a comprehensive septic tank inspection, all components of the system are evaluated, including the septic tank, leach field, drains, pipes, and pumps that move wastewater between them. The inspector will also come inside your home to perform water tests, just like with a visual inspection.

Here are some more items commonly listed on Title V inspection forms that your pro may talk about or check:

• Existence or condition of sink garbage disposal
• Recent water meter readings (sometimes going back two years)
• Sludge depth
• Scum thickness
• Date of most recent pumping
• Liquid level in distribution box
• Alarms
• Slope of land at installation site

The Leach Field

The septic inspector will look at your yard for common leach field problems like standing water, puddles, and other signs that could indicate it’s not working properly. The inspector may also introduce a special dye to your water system that will visually mark its journey through the system (and, ideally, evenly out into your leach field). However, this may not happen until they come into your home—more on that in just a moment.

The Septic Tank

The inspector will also remove the cover of your septic tank to check the water level inside since too much water could indicate a drainage problem. (Septic tanks should always have some water in them, but it should be 8 to 12 inches below the tank’s surface.)

The inspector may use a tool known as a “sludge judge,” which is essentially a hollowed-out tube, to determine how much sludge and scum are present in the tank. This can help them figure out how soon you’ll need to call a septic pro for pumping. If your tank does need to be pumped as part of the inspection, the inspector will use a flashlight to check the tank for leaks that could cause harmful wastewater to leach out into the surrounding environment.

Other Components

During a septic inspection, the pro will also look at the components of the system that connect the septic tank to the leach field—namely, the distribution box, which helps ensure wastewater is evenly distributed across the drain field. The pipes that connect the septic tank to the distribution box and those that connect the distribution box to the leach field are also subject to inspection.

Again, the inspector will step inside to try out your water sources and ensure there’s proper pressure and drainage. If they do choose to use a dye, they’ll introduce it to the system from inside your home, flushing it through a drain. The dye will be green. If, after a while, your yard looks like the Chicago River on St. Paddy’s Day, it means your system has failed inspection. A complete dye inspection takes between two and four hours on average.

For more information about septic system inspections contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

angi.com

You should get an in-depth septic inspection once every two to five years. Fortunately, that’s how often septic tanks need to be pumped, anyway, which means you can get both done at the same time.

A well-maintained and regularly pumped septic system can last as long as 20 to 30 years. Although they may seem daunting, regular septic inspections are the key to keeping your system in proper, working order for as long as possible. Your pro will do everything they can to ensure a pain-free inspection process that doesn't interfere with your daily activities too much.

How Much Does a Septic Inspection Cost?

Full septic tank inspections cost $550 on average, so add this regular expense to your budget. Although it may seem pricey, it’s an investment that can help you avoid repairs, which can be far more damaging to your budget. The average cost to repair a septic tank is over $1,800.

Visual septic inspections may be done as part of the overall home inspection process during the purchase or sale of a home, and the cost should be built into the overall inspection quote.

For more information about septic system inspections contact Morse Engineering and Construction.

Source: angi.com