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What Does It Really Take to Drill a Borehole? Time, Tools & Process Explained

What Does It Really Take to Drill a Borehole? Time, Tools & Process Explained

When you think about drilling a borehole, it can seem like a huge project. Heavy machinery, technical processes, time delays—it all sounds a bit overwhelming, right? But here’s the good news: with the right team and tools, it doesn’t have to be.

At LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions, based in the southern region of Johannesburg, we specialize in making water independence simple. Whether you're a homeowner, farmer, or business owner, knowing what to expect during the borehole drilling process helps you make informed decisions and plan ahead. Let’s walk you through what it really takes—step by step.


How Long Does Borehole Drilling Take?

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On average, the full borehole drilling and setup process takes between 3 to 7 working days from start to finish. The actual drilling usually takes 1 to 3 days, depending on the geology of your area and the depth needed. The rest of the timeline includes pump installation, flushing, and connecting your system.

If you’re working with a seasoned team like LiquaFlo, you’ll benefit from an efficient, seamless process—even when conditions aren’t ideal.


Step-by-Step Breakdown of the Borehole Process

Here’s how your borehole comes to life, from planning to pumping clean water into your home or business.

1. Site Assessment and Geo Surveying

We start by evaluating your property’s layout and using advanced surveying tools to find the best drilling spot. This helps avoid underground cables, rocks, and ensures the best water yield.

2. Drilling the Borehole (Subcontracted)

truck drilling a borehole

We work with vetted, SABS-compliant drilling specialists. Using powerful drilling machines, they bore down through soil and rock until they hit a reliable underground water source. Depths can range anywhere from 40m to 100m or more.

3. Borehole Casing and Installation

Technician installing blue PVC borehole pipes for water extraction system by LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions Gauteng.

Once the drilling is done, a PVC or steel casing is inserted into the hole to prevent collapse and contamination. Gravel is added around the casing, and a sanitary seal is used to secure it at the top.

4. Borehole Flushing and Cleaning

borehole flushing

To ensure clean, usable water, the borehole is flushed to remove debris, loose sand, and drilling fluids.

5. Pump & System Installation

Technician installing borehole pump system components with filtration units and pressure pumps for reliable water access

Here’s where LiquaFlo steps in to make the real magic happen. We install a high-quality submersible pump, pressure controller, cabling, valves, and pipework. Whether you want a solar-powered pump or traditional electric, we’ve got you covered.

6. Water Testing and Purification (Optional but Recommended)

We offer purification systems tailored to your needs—perfect for drinking water, irrigation, or industrial use. It’s a smart add-on if you want cleaner, safer water straight from your borehole.

7. Tank & Stand Setup (Optional)

If you're going fully off-grid or want a backup during outages, we can install water storage tanks and steel stands. This helps regulate supply and ensures constant pressure.


Why Choose LiquaFlo?

Efficient turnaround — We complete most borehole installations within a week.
End-to-end service — From drilling coordination to pump installation, purification and repairs.
Top-quality parts — All pumps and fittings are SABS-approved and backed by warranties.
Tailor-made systems — We design solutions that work for your water usage, space, and budget.

At LiquaFlo, you’re not just getting a hole in the ground—you’re getting a reliable, cost-saving water source designed for the long haul.

Borehole Drilling Cost Calculator

Customize Your Borehole

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Cost Breakdown

* Steel casing is calculated at 1/3 of the drilling depth

* Submersible cable is drilling depth + 15 meters

Request This Quotation

A consultant will contact you to discuss your specific requirements

Frequently Asked Questions

How many days does it take to drill a borehole?
Most boreholes are drilled and installed within 3 to 7 working days, depending on depth and site conditions
What are the steps of drilling a borehole?
Steps include site surveying, drilling, casing, flushing, pump installation, and optional purification and tank setup
Can I use borehole water for drinking?
Yes, but we recommend testing and using a purification system tailored to your water quality
Is borehole drilling noisy or disruptive?
Drilling is noisy, but usually only takes 1–3 days. We keep the rest of the installation tidy and low-impact
Do I need municipal approval to drill a borehole?
In most Johannesburg suburbs, it’s not required—but it’s best to check with your local municipality
What type of pump do I need?
We’ll help you choose between submersible, pressure, or solar pumps based on your water needs and usage
Can LiquaFlo help with solar-powered boreholes?
Absolutely. We install solar borehole pumps for fully off-grid water independence