Borehole Drilling Somerset West
Professional Borehole Drilling Somerset West
Somerset West is one of the most rewarding places in the Western Cape to drill for water. Nestled between the Helderberg and Hottentots Holland Mountains, the area sits on a geology that makes it naturally rich in groundwater.
At Cape Decking, we’ve completed numerous boreholes in Somerset West and surrounding suburbs – from residential homes and guesthouses to farms and businesses. With the right drilling approach and geological insight, Somerset West offers excellent yields and long-term water reliability.
Why Somerset West Is Ideal for Borehole Drilling
Somerset West’s location is unique: it lies at the foot of the Hottentots Holland Mountains – part of the Cape Fold Belt, a mountain chain made up of folded layers of Table Mountain Group sandstone, Malmesbury shale, and Cape Granite.
These geological layers store and channel water through fractures and joints in the rock, creating underground aquifers that supply consistent, high-quality water. Rainfall and runoff from the surrounding mountains recharge these aquifers throughout the year, which is why Somerset West consistently ranks among the Western Cape’s most successful borehole zones.
What Kind of Drilling Is Used in Somerset West
Because of the area’s hard rock geology, Down-The-Hole (DTH) hammer drilling is the most effective method. This system combines rotary drilling with a pneumatic hammer that breaks through sandstone and granite while removing crushed rock through compressed air.
Drilling Process:
1. Site assessment: identifying the most promising fracture zones using geological data.
2. Pilot drilling: penetrating softer overburden (topsoil and clay) with a tricone bit.
3. Switch to DTH hammer bit: once the drill reaches solid Table Mountain sandstone or granite.
4. Casing and sealing: protecting the borehole walls and preventing contamination.
5. Yield testing: measuring flow rate and water level before installing a pump.
6. Water Purification & Filtration: We offer additional services through our partners. Find out more here.
Typical Layers and Drilling Depth
In Somerset West, drilling generally passes through four main layers:
1. Topsoil & weathered material (0–5 m) – loose surface layer.
2. Clay, gravel, or shale (5–20 m) – transitional material, sometimes slightly moist.
3. Granite or Malmesbury Group rock (20–60 m) – semi-hard formation with minor fractures.
4. Table Mountain Group sandstone (60–200 m+) – the main aquifer zone containing fractured groundwater channels.
Most boreholes reach between 60 m and 200 m before encountering strong groundwater flow. Deeper drilling may be needed to reach high-yield fractures depending on the site’s position relative to the mountain base.
We offer you a quotation with a fixed price to drill up to 60 meters subject to location, thereafter we charge per additional meter.
Why Somerset West Has So Much Groundwater
The Hottentots Holland Mountains act like a natural rain-catching system. As rain falls on the peaks, it seeps into the sandstone and granite fractures, slowly percolating down toward the lower slopes and plains around Somerset West.
These fractured rock systems form part of the Table Mountain Group Aquifer, one of South Africa’s most important and productive groundwater systems. The water that emerges from these layers is naturally filtered, typically clear, and low in mineral content.
Climate and Water Availability
Somerset West enjoys a warmer, more temperate climate than central Cape Town – typically 2–4 °C warmer on average. The Helderberg Mountains shelter the town from the Atlantic’s coastal winds, creating a microclimate with less evaporation and steady groundwater recharge.
This combination of warm weather, elevated terrain, and mountain runoff means boreholes here tend to have stable year-round yields. It’s also why Somerset West is one of the most active drilling areas in the region for both domestic and agricultural supply.
Why Choose Us?
Local Expertise: Our teams have drilled all over the greater Cape Town area. We know the Somerset West geology – where the fractures run and which areas yield best.
Professional Equipment: Our borehole drilling rigs are suited for hard rock and deep aquifer drilling.
Transparent Pricing: No hidden costs – just clear, fair quotes. We charge a fixed rate up to 60 meters.
Full Service: From drilling and casing to testing, pump installation, and filtration if needed as an optional extra as well as the installation of a full water purification system for homes or water purification system for business.
If you live or work in Somerset West, you’re sitting above one of the most productive groundwater zones in the Western Cape. By tapping into the Table Mountain Group Aquifer with the right drilling method, you can secure a long-term, sustainable, and independent water supply for your property. Contact us to get a quotation for our Borehole drilling Somerset West Services.
Borehole Related Frequently Asked Questions
Borehole Registration and Permit Requirements – Cape Town
If you’re drilling a borehole for personal, home use, you usually don’t need a permit. However, the City of Cape Town does require you to register the borehole once it’s drilled. If you’re going to use large amounts of water for farming or business, you may need a Water Use Licence from the Department of Water and Sanitation.
Do you need to permit or register a borehole with the City of Cape Town?
Yes – in Cape Town, you must register any borehole or wellpoint after it has been drilled. If you’re planning to drill a new borehole, the City requires that you notify them at least 14 days before the drilling begins. You’ll need to provide information such as the location, erf number, and intended use.
For domestic (home) use, you usually don’t need a national water-use licence. Borehole water used for your home and garden typically qualifies as ‘Schedule 1 use’ under national water regulations.
Where to find the official facts and guidelines
City of Cape Town – Register a borehole or wellpoint:
Apply to sink a borehole or wellpoint:
Cape Town Water By-Law Summary (PDF):
Department of Water and Sanitation (National Guidelines):
What this means for you
– Notify the City of Cape Town 14 days before drilling and submit the required information.
– Once the borehole is drilled, register it as required by the City’s by-laws.
– If your borehole is for home use only, a national licence is usually not needed.
– For larger use (e.g., farming or business), a Water Use Licence from the Department of Water and Sanitation may be necessary.
– Our team at Cape Decking has over 15 years of experience and can help guide you through the process.
When drilling a borehole, we usually go through different layers of soil, clay, rock, and sandstone until we reach a water – bearing layer called an aquifer. Our team has over 15 years of experience in the Cape, so we know what signs to look for – like changes in drill pressure, water traces, or specific rock formations.
Once we hit a layer that produces a steady water yield, we stop drilling and do a yield test to confirm. Every area is different, which is why working with a professional team is important.
Borehole water is a great solution, but like anything, it has a few things to be aware of:
– The water may need to be filtered if it has iron or minerals.
– If the borehole isn’t drilled properly, the water could get contaminated.
– Pumps and systems need a bit of maintenance over time.
That’s why working with a trusted team matters. We’ve been doing this for 15+ years, and we’ll help you avoid the common mistakes and make sure your borehole works properly from day one.
We’ll walk you through what to expect and what’s included. Contact us to get a quotation.
In most areas around Cape Town, Durbanville, or Somerset West, boreholes usually go between 40m and 80m deep – sometimes deeper depending on how far down the water is.
Because we’ve been drilling across the Western Cape for over 15 years, we understand the local soil and groundwater. We’ll guide you on what depth is right for your area.
Get a free quote with expert advice based on your area:
Borehole Drilling Prices:
The cost to drill a borehole depends on how deep we need to go, the ground conditions, and what’s included – but most residential boreholes in Cape Town cost anywhere between R60,000 and R200,000 all – in. Sometimes more depending on the depth of the hole and location, motor & parts.
We’ve been drilling boreholes for over 15 years, so we know how to give you an accurate, all – inclusive quote up to 60 metres – no hidden extras. After 60 meters we charge per meter.
📍 Want a proper quote with everything included? Find out more here and contact us for a quotation.
Before connecting borehole water to your home, business, or swimming pool, you should do a comprehensive water test to check for:
-
- pH levels (to prevent corrosion or scale buildup).
- Bacteria and microbial contaminants (E. coli and coliform bacteria).
- Iron, manganese, and other heavy metals (which cause staining and discoloration).
- Nitrates and pesticides (especially in agricultural areas).
Professional laboratory testing or a borehole water analysis will help determine the right filtration system for safe use.
For expert advice and installation of borehole water filtration systems, contact us for a free consultation and water analysis!
Borehole water can have several issues, including:
-
- High iron and manganese content, leading to brown stains on plumbing and laundry.
- Hard water (high calcium and magnesium levels), causing scale buildup in pipes and appliances.
- Bacteria and contaminants, which can pose health risks.
- Unpleasant odors or taste, often due to sulfur or organic matter.
A proper filtration and purification system is key to resolving these problems.
The filtration system you need depends on the quality of your borehole water. Common treatments include:
-
- Sediment filters to remove sand, dirt, and debris.
- Activated carbon filters to reduce chlorine, bad taste, and odors.
- Iron removal filters to prevent staining of fixtures and appliances.
- Reverse osmosis (RO) systems for drinking water purification.
- UV sterilization to kill bacteria and viruses.
A water test is essential to determine the right water filtration system.
Borehole water can be used in swimming pools, but it often contains high mineral content, iron, and other impurities that can cause staining, cloudiness, and algae growth. To prevent these issues, it’s recommended to use a pre-filtration system and a water softener before filling your pool. Regular water testing and proper chemical balancing are also necessary.
Yes, borehole water can be used for home or business purposes, but it must be properly treated before being connected to your plumbing system. Borehole water may contain sediment, bacteria, heavy metals, and minerals that need to be filtered out to ensure safe use. A filtration and purification system is essential for making the water safe for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
If you’re searching for borehole drilling near me, Cape Decking offers professional borehole drilling services throughout Cape Town and surrounding areas. Borehole drilling is an essential solution for homeowners, businesses, and farms seeking a reliable and sustainable water source. Whether you’re in the heart of the city or in nearby areas, we can assist with expert borehole drilling services.
Our Borehole Drilling Services Include:
- Comprehensive site assessments and surveys
- Expert drilling with modern equipment
- Professional installation of borehole pumps
- Ongoing maintenance and servicing
Contact us for a quotation.
Looking for a borehole installer near me, do you live in Cape Town, Somerset West, Dubanville? We offer our borehole drilling services in the greater Cape Town region. Contact us to get a free quotation.
If you’re searching for borehole installers near me, you have found the best borehole drilling service near me, and the best prices at Cape Decking. Our team of professional borehole installers provides expert services across Cape Town and surrounding areas. Whether you’re looking to install a borehole for your home, business, or farm, we offer reliable and efficient installation to ensure a steady water supply.
Our Borehole Installation Services Include:
- Site evaluations and feasibility studies
- Professional borehole drilling and installation
- High-quality pumps and water systems installation
- Ongoing maintenance and support
Contact us to get a quotation.
Yes we offer residential borehole drilling services in the greater Cape Town and surrounding region. Contact us to find out more about when we can come to your area and to give you a quotation for borehole drilling pricing.
Several factors can affect borehole drilling prices, including the following.
- Property Location: Geographical area and accessibility of the site. (Where are you, how easy is it to access a site to drill)
- Depth of Drilling: Deeper boreholes require more resources.
- The Geological Conditions: Hard rock formations may necessitate specialized equipment and drill bits, larger rigs, more drill bits.
- Equipment and Technology Used: One can opt for a company to bring in technology, it is not required and just makes the job more expensive. Watch out for those who try to sell you this. Advanced drilling equipment and methods might increase costs.
- Additional Borehole Services: If you need more services such as water quality testing, pump installation, solar power for a solar borehole pump, man hole, pump house, filtration systems, these are all additional costs and not included in the quotation.
It’s recommended to contact us first to obtain a rough estimate, a detailed quote will be provided once we book an appointment with you. Contact us to get a quotation.
Regular maintenance of a borehole is crucial to ensure its longevity and efficiency. Maintenance practices include:
- Routine Inspections:
Regularly check all components, including the pump, pipes, and electrical connections, for signs of wear or damage. - Water Quality Testing:
Periodic testing to detect any changes in water quality. - Cleaning:
Removing any sediment or biofilm buildup that could affect water flow and quality. - Servicing the Pump:
Ensuring the pump operates efficiently and addressing any mechanical issues promptly.
Engaging with professionals for regular maintenance can help in early detection of potential problems and prolong the lifespan of the borehole system.
Contact us to get a quotation and to find out more about borehole maintenance services.
Borehole water can be a reliable source for household use; however, it’s essential to test the water quality before consumption. Groundwater may contain minerals or contaminants that require treatment to meet health standards. Regular testing and appropriate filtration or purification systems can ensure the water is safe for drinking and other household purposes. Contact us to find out more.
Several factors can affect the cost of drilling a borehole, including:
- Location: Geographical area and accessibility of the site.
- Depth of Drilling: Deeper boreholes require more resources.
- Geological Conditions: Hard rock formations may necessitate specialized equipment.
- Equipment and Technology Used: Advanced drilling methods might increase costs but offer better efficiency.
- Additional Services: Such as water quality testing, pump installation, and filtration systems.
It’s recommended to obtain detailed quotes from reputable drilling companies to understand the specific costs for your project. Contact us to get a quotation.
The duration of the borehole drilling process can vary based on factors such as the geological conditions of the site and the required depth to reach a reliable water source. Generally, the drilling itself can be completed within a day or two. However, additional time may be needed for site assessment, obtaining necessary permits, and installing the pump and associated infrastructure. Contact us to find out when you can book us in to drill for you.
In Cape Town, while the National Water Act of 1998 does not require permits for boreholes used for domestic purposes, the City of Cape Town mandates that all boreholes be registered with the municipality. This ensures proper monitoring and sustainable use of groundwater resources. It’s advisable to consult local regulations and obtain any necessary permissions before proceeding with drilling. Contact us to find out more about this process as we have experience and can explain it to you. (read more on this here. resource.capetown.gov.za )
The success rate depends on geological conditions. In some regions, the chances of striking water exceed 90%, while in others, it may be lower. Conducting a professional survey before drilling increases the likelihood of success. Contact us to discuss what our success rates are subject to your geographical location.
A wellpoint is a shallow groundwater extraction system used in areas with a high water table. It consists of a narrow pipe with a filter tip, installed at depths of 3-10 meters, and uses a small pump to draw water to the surface. Wellpoints are ideal for garden irrigation but may not provide enough water for high-demand use.
Contact us to find out if you need a wellpoint or a borehole.
It depends on the water quality. Borehole water may contain minerals, sediments, or bacteria. A water test will determine if filtration or treatment is needed to make it safe for drinking or specific uses. Contact us to find out more.
Water from a borehole is usually stored in a tank, which can be placed on a stand for gravity-fed distribution or connected to a pressure pump for efficient water supply to buildings and irrigation systems. If you only need water to fill up your pool or for irrigation purposes to water your garden, the borehole water does not need to be stored in a tank.
A borehole pump is a specialized pump used to extract water from a borehole. It is typically submersible, meaning it operates underwater, and is powered by electricity or solar energy. The type and size of pump you require is subject to what you need a borehole for, how much water you need to pump per hour, per day. The amount of electricity you need is subject to the above. We can also install a solar solution for your borehole pump so you are completely off the grid and not reliant on Eskom to power your borehole pump.
The depth varies depending on the underground water table. In some areas, water can be found at 20-50 meters, while in others, it may require drilling 100 meters or more. A hydrogeological survey can help determine the best depth for drilling, we will have this discussion with you before coming out to drill or not to drill. Contact us to book an appointment.
To get a borehole, you need to:
- Conduct a hydrogeological survey to assess the likelihood of finding water.
- Hire a professional borehole drilling company.
- Drill to the required depth based on water availability.
- Install casing, piping, and a borehole pump.
- Connect the borehole to a storage tank and filtration system if needed.
Contact us to book a free consultation and to get a free quote.
A borehole is a deep, narrow hole drilled into the ground to access underground water. It is lined with a casing to prevent collapse and is fitted with a pump to extract water for use.
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In this Article
- Professional Borehole Drilling Somerset West
- Borehole Drilling
- Borehole Pumps
- Borehole Prices
- Why Somerset West Is Ideal for Borehole Drilling
- What Kind of Drilling Is Used in Somerset West
- Drilling Process:
- Typical Layers and Drilling Depth
- Why Somerset West Has So Much Groundwater
- Climate and Water Availability
- Why Choose Us?
- Borehole Related Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need a borehole permit or must I register my borehole with the City of Cape Town?
- What layers do we drill through to find water, and how do we know when to stop?
- Are there any disadvantages to using borehole water?
- How deep should a borehole be?
- How much does it cost to drill a borehole?
- How do I test my borehole water before using it?
- What are the common problems with using borehole water?
- What kind of filtration system do I need for borehole water?
- Is borehole water safe to use in my swimming pool?
- Can I connect borehole water to my home or business water supply?
- Borehole Drilling Near Me
- Borehole Installers Near Me
- Do You Offer Residential Borehole Drilling
- Borehole Drilling Prices Explained
- What maintenance does a borehole require?
- Is borehole water safe for household use?
- What factors influence the cost of drilling a borehole?
- How long does the borehole drilling process take?
- What are the legal requirements for drilling a borehole in Cape Town?
- What is the success rate of finding water when drilling?
- What is a wellpoint?
- Does one need a water filter for borehole water?
- Where does one store water?
- What is a borehole pump?
- How deep does one have to drill to find water?
- How does one get a borehole?
- What is a borehole?
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