ON THIS PAGE

What’s the Borehole Drilling Process? From Surveying to Water Flow—Step by Step

What’s the Borehole Drilling Process? From Surveying to Water Flow—Step by Step

If you’ve ever wondered what actually happens when you decide to install a borehole, you’re not alone. Most homeowners imagine huge machinery, deep drilling, and then—magically—water flows. But the real borehole drilling process is a lot more organised, technical, and precise than you might think.

At LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions, our goal is to make this journey simple, transparent, and stress-free. Whether you need a reliable water source for your home, a business, or agricultural land, understanding the steps helps you feel confident in the investment. Here’s how the entire process works, from the first site inspection to that moment you finally turn on your tap.


1. Geo-Surveying: Finding the Best Spot

Before any drilling begins, a professional hydrogeological survey is done to identify the most promising drilling point. This step helps determine underground water channels, expected depth, and the best position to avoid dry holes.
LiquaFlo uses trusted geo-surveying partners to help minimise risk and optimise results.


2. Mobilising the Drilling Team

Once the ideal location is identified, the drilling team arrives with specialised machinery. All borehole drilling is subcontracted to service providers who adhere to SABS SANS 10299-:2003 standards—ensuring safe, compliant and professional work.

The area is cleared, equipment is positioned, and the team prepares the site for drilling.


3. Drilling the Borehole

Professional borehole drilling equipment in operation at residential property in Johannesburg by LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions

Now the real action begins. A large rotary drilling rig bores deep into the ground, passing through soil, clay, and rock until it reaches the targeted aquifer (the natural underground water layer).

The drilling process includes:

  • Initial drilling through top layers
  • Casing installation to keep the borehole stable
  • Deeper drilling until the water-bearing zone is reached

Depth varies depending on the geology—but in Gauteng, depths between 40m–120m are common.


4. Installing the Casing & Screen

Once drilling hits the aquifer, strong PVC or steel casing is fitted inside the hole. This prevents collapse and keeps the water clean by filtering out soil and debris. A screen section is added where water flows into the borehole.

This step is crucial for long-term durability and safe water extraction.


5. Borehole Development & Flushing

borehole flushing

Next, the borehole is flushed, cleaned, and developed using compressed air. This stage removes loose sediment and increases water yield by clearing pathways for groundwater to flow freely.

LiquaFlo also handles flushing, repairs, and maintenance throughout the lifespan of your borehole.


6. Pump Installation & Piping Setup

Complete residential water system with JoJo <a href=tank and dual blue filtration units installed by LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions in Gauteng">

Once the borehole is fully prepared, LiquaFlo installs the submersible pump, cabling, pressure systems, base plates, and all required piping.

Depending on your setup, you may choose:

  • Standard electric pumps
  • Pressure pumps
  • Solar-powered borehole pumps
  • Automatic or manual control systems

All products supplied are SABS approved and backed by manufacturer warranties.


7. Connecting to Storage & Purification

Triple filter borehole water purification system with pump installation by LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions for residential water supply

Many homeowners choose to connect their borehole system to:

  • JoJo tanks
  • Pressure vessels
  • Filtration or purification systems
  • Off-grid water setups

LiquaFlo provides tailor-made purification solutions to ensure safe, clean water for residential, commercial, and agricultural use.


8. Testing, Yield Measurement & First Water Flow

Finally, the borehole is tested for:

  • Flow rate
  • Water yield
  • Pump performance
  • Pressure levels

Once everything passes inspection, your system is ready to run. That first flow of water is always exciting—especially knowing you now have your own reliable water source independent of municipal supply.


Final Thoughts

A well-drilled borehole is a long-term investment that boosts property value, cuts your water bill, and gives you control over your water supply. LiquaFlo Borehole Solutions brings experience, precision, and exceptional workmanship to every step of the drilling and installation process.

If you're ready to secure a dependable water source—LiquaFlo is ready to help.

Borehole Drilling Cost Calculator

Customize Your Borehole

20m 120m
Estimated Total Cost: R0.00

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

What is the borehole drilling process?
It involves surveying, drilling, casing, flushing, pump installation, and testing to create a reliable water source.
How long does borehole drilling take?
Most residential boreholes take 1–3 days depending on depth and ground conditions.
Why is geo-surveying important?
It identifies the best drilling point and reduces the risk of hitting a dry hole.
Do I need a purification system?
Yes, it’s recommended for safe, clean water—especially for household use.
Who installs the pump and filtration system?
LiquaFlo handles pump installation, piping, purification, and full system setup.