No Donkey Business – Preparations underway for concrete slab and septic sewer line.
In the world of restoration, there is the work people see—the fresh paint and the new doors—and then there is the vital, invisible work that ensures a property remains safe and functional for generations. This week, our focus has shifted entirely to the latter as we begin the complex installation of a new septic system. This is a critical infrastructure upgrade for Rusticana, designed to replace a dated setup with something far more resilient.
Logistically, this phase is a bit of a challenge. To ensure precision and access to specific tools, we are currently fabricating the core components in Cape Town. We are focusing on two essential tasks: constructing the intricate formwork for a reinforced concrete slab and pre-measuring the sewer lines. Once these components are perfected, they will be transported to Brandvlei for final assembly.
The reinforced concrete slab is a non-negotiable safety requirement. Positioned directly over the new septic tank, it provides a high-strength, durable surface that ensures the ground remains stable underfoot. In a rural setting like the Karoo, these safety measures aren't just about building codes; they are often born from hard-learned lessons. Years ago, a local incident underscored this necessity when a neighbour's donkey wandered over an unreinforced septic tank cover and fell through. It took a massive community effort and hours of labour to rescue the animal—a stressful event that served as a stark warning to everyone in the area. By installing a reinforced slab, we are ensuring that no such accident ever occurs on our watch.
Parallel to the concrete work, we are preparing the "arteries" of the system. This involves measuring and cutting 110mm PVC piping for the sewer feeder and vent lines. These pipes will create the primary link between the main house, the outbuilding’s black waste-water lines, and the new tank. Doing the math and the cutting in Cape Town allows us to ensure every joint is airtight before we hit the dusty site.
While we aim to have the concrete slab laid and the infrastructure in place by the end of the year, the new system won't be "commissioned" just yet. It will wait in the wings until our new bathrooms are completed and fully plumbed. Until then, the property will continue to utilise the existing cement tank.
This new system is a significant step forward. It isn't the most glamorous part of the renovation, but it represents our commitment to doing things the right way—prioritising the safety of the community and the long-term efficiency of our Karoo base.
