How to drill a borehole

This article will guide you step by step on how to drill a borehole, discuss drilling methods, and answer the most frequently asked questions on boreholes.

Lets get to it.

1. Methods of borehole drilling in Nigeria

There are two significant methods of drilling a borehole in Nigeria.

1.1 Manual borehole drilling

The manual borehole drilling method is the oldest and cheapest method of drilling. It requires more time because the digging is done manually without any heavy or complicated machinery.

It typically takes about 7-14 days before completion, depending on the number of skilled laborers available to do the digging. The more people, the faster the result. In regions with little to zero access to heavy machines, manual borehole drilling is the standard method deployed.

1.2 Heavy-duty borehole drilling

Heavy-duty borehole drilling is the easiest and fastest drilling method. As a result of the heavy machinery involved, heavy-duty borehole drilling is more efficient, requiring a lesser timeframe and manpower for completion.

It’s often argued that heavy-duty drilling methods produce cleaner water than manual drilling. However, its a more expensive method to implement than manual borehole drilling.

2. How to drill a borehole manually

Drilling a borehole manually is an arduous task but possible. You need a few simple pieces of equipment to get the job out of the way. They include casing pipes, hand augers, drilling rods, well screens, pumps, etc.

After the site and spot selection, insert the hand auger into the ground vertically and continue to rotate it. Occasionally, remove the drill to clean out and continue till you reach the desired depth.

Next, install the casing pipes into the borehole to prevent it from collapsing or contamination.

Use well screen to filter out sediments, then secure the cap to complete the casing and conduct water testing. You can conduct pump tests as well.

3. What are the steps of drilling a borehole?

3.1 Consult with experts

Borehole drilling is a massive project; aside from the time and the finances involved, you should also be concerned about the quality of water extracted. Consult with professional hydrogeologists, artisans, and engineers to confirm what works and what doesnt.

This is the time to discuss the best drilling method to adopt based on your location and budget. Our experts can offer free consultation before the commencement of your project. Reach out to us today.

3.2 Site evaluation

Before engaging in any type of digging, you need hydrogeologists to analyze the geophysical area and confirm the geological condition. There is a need for the hydrogeologist to determine where the water is and the best method to reach it.

This stage is also vital to avoid drilling into existing infrastructure bored into the ground, which can result in hazards.

3.3 Begin drilling

Immediately after the hydrogeologists have confirmed the condition of the site, you can proceed with digging. Heavy-duty methods will take less time and effort, but manual drilling will require more from you.

3.4 Pump/ Aquifer testing

Pump testing allows you to evaluate the volume of water the borehole produces, and the speed involved in the release. Aquifer testing is also conducted to determine the borehole yield.

3.4 Piping and pump installation

This is the final stage when drilling a borehole. Choose a preferred pump based on your specific water supply needs. You can also install a storage tank to store water and avoid constant pumping.

3.5 Water treatment

Water treatment is not compulsory in every case. If the water quality is poor, you may have issues like odor, discoloration, water hardness, pH, etc. You need an expert to walk you through this stage and suggest the best water treatment to adopt.

4. What is the best time to drill a borehole?

A borehole can be bored at any time of the year without any dire consequence.

However, the best time to drill a borehole in Nigeria is during the dry season when there is no constant rainfall, that is, November to March.

These periods of the year make the ground more stable and promising for drilling operations. Yet, consult with your hydrogeologist and engineers to determine what works best for your region.

5. How long does it take for borehole water to clear after drilling?

Typically, a new borehole needs a short time to clear up and becomes safe for consumption after drilling. The necessary time frame depends on a couple of factors, such as the geological condition, the depth of the borehole, the presence of chemical properties or contaminants, etc.

The average time it takes for borehole water to clear after drilling is 2-3 weeks. Any other time outside this duration may call for professional intervention. Seek expert advice if your water still appears to be muddy after a long time and you dont have any form of water treatment.

6. Final words

Borehole drilling is different from those projects you leave to an amateur or choose to do yourself. Invest in professionals like our team at Daibau.ng.

Allow us to handle your borehole installation following the best practices suitable for your home and according to your budget.

Our professionals have worked with clients all over Nigeria and beyond. Get in touch, and we will connect you to the best in the industry. Click the link below.