Borehole depth is one of the most common questions we get. The answer depends on your local geology, the depth of the aquifer, and your daily water demand. Here is a straightforward guide to help you understand what to expect.
The depth of a borehole is not something you choose — it is determined by where the water is. In South Africa, aquifer depths vary significantly by province and geology. In granite-dominated areas like parts of the Highveld, water is typically found in weathered or fractured rock at 30 to 80 metres. In sedimentary areas it can be shallower or much deeper.
Before drilling, a geophysical survey can give you a target depth range and significantly improve the odds of striking a productive aquifer. Without a survey you are drilling blind, which is more likely to result in a dry or low-yield hole — and wasted money. The survey cost is typically recovered many times over in drilling efficiency alone.
