The Basics of Water Well Drilling
The first step in the construction of a water well is
to become well-informed on the process of water well drilling.
Choosing the right contractor for the job is equally important.
Your goal is to ensure that your water supply is safe and
ample for your needs. Moreover, the well should require
minimum maintenance and last for generations.
Choosing
a Contractor
Water well drilling often appears overwhelming to the average
homeowner, so start by consulting a few contractors who
have worked in your area, and come with trusted referrals.
Make sure they are qualified or certified professionals.
You should be satisfied that they use reliable equipment
and quality material, and that the job will be done by experienced
workers.
Question the prospective drilling contractors about other
wells in the surrounding area, including their yield and
the quality of the water. Try and get an estimation on the
rate of success in locating water on your land.
Understand that site, design and construction of a well
are crucial factors to its ease of use. Discuss various
design and possible sites with the contractors. Be sure
to select an area that is easily accessible for maintenance
and conveniently located on your property.
Beware of contractors who disregard the proper order of
a water well drilling plan. They should follow the normal,
industry procedures and keep you informed every step of
the way. Address all questions and concerns prior to the
start of construction. Not only should you have excellent
communication with the contractor you are hiring, but you
must also feel comfortable with the entire water well drilling
project.
Design and Construction
You should be clear on the type of well your drilling contractor
recommends; if you are not, ask for an explanation or further
clarification. If you have a specific design in mind (perhaps
one based on a friend’s suggestion or past experience)
ask up front whether the contractor is able to accommodate
your plan, or whether he has any reservations about it.
In most cases, the design and construction details are
worked out after a test well has been drilled. Regarding
this procedure, get all of the particulars in writing in
order to avoid getting burned by hidden fees or extras.
Insist that the contractor discuss all aspects of the drilling
project prior to commencement.
Typically, the water well drilling contractor keeps a
log (sometimes called a formation log), containing information
on the on-going process and details of the find. The homeowner
should have access to the data collected in that log.
Completion of the Water Well
All steps of the job must be properly finished before using
the well. This involves clearing away the sediment and any
fluid from the area around the perforations (called well
development). The contractor should disinfect the water
well and conduct a test of the yield. These important points
should be included in your quote or proposal; every step
must be taken into account when undertaking a water well
drilling project.
Acquiring some background knowledge and hiring a competent
contractor are worth the effort. When it comes to your home’s
water supply, do not compromise. If a contractor gives you
a quote that seems incredibly cheaper than the other proposals,
remember the old adage - we usually get what we pay for.
Hire expertise, experience, and get quality results.
