For years now, horizontal directional drilling (HDD) has been the go-to method for laying conduits underground, and in places that are impossible with vertical drilling. Through directional drilling, it is now possible to install sewage pipes, oil pipes, gas lines, water pipes or communication lines under rivers, creeks, buildings, and roads. Since directional drilling was introduced in the early ’90s, directional drilling contractors have improved the technology and applied it to more areas other than oil and gas drilling.
Directional drilling contractors utilize HDD in three main phases to achieve maximum utility in a given project. For starters, the initial hole is drilled along a marked path that the pipeline is expected to take. The underground hole runs horizontally through the path from the start point of the pipeline, up to the endpoint. After this, the second phase of drilling is done to enlarge the diameter of the hole, so that the pipeline is smoothly installed. Lastly, the pipeline is placed into the hole and pulled from both ends.
The good thing about horizontal directional drilling is that it does not cause inconveniences to third or second parties. HDD is largely silent because the boring happens underground, it does not result in excess dirt left on the ground as the soil remains underground, and other activities like traffic flow on a road can go on while drilling is being done underneath. Directional boring contractors have not only made trenchless drilling for pipe installation easy and fast, but also convenient and eco-friendly.
Securing underground drilling services is simple and quick. Choosing the most suitable directional drilling contractor for your scope of work is the bulky part. Given the rising number of underground boring contractors, it might be confusing and overwhelming trying to pick them apart to settle on the best fit boring contractor for your project.
You might be seeking HDD contractors for major commercial projects such as laying gas lines for your oil company or simpler domestic projects like connecting a water line to your home, from across the road. Regardless of the scope or size of your project, there are some requirements that your directional drilling contractor should meet.
Here are some of the basic attributes your directional drilling contractor should meet before hiring his/her services.
1. Check the Location of the Contractor
Even before you continue with your due diligence, first ensure that the contractors you are checking are licensed to operate in your state of residence. If you are in Texas, for instance, search for Texas directional drilling contractors. Most companies tend to have the name of the state they operate in embedded in their company names or their list of services. Doing this will save you time as one contractor may meet all requirements, only for you to find out that he/she does not operate in your state.
2. Years of Experience Doing Similar Work
It is important to opt for directional drilling contractors with the most experienced in the industry.
Additionally, a drilling contractor who has operated in your state for long may make it easy for you to get inspection permits from the local authorities. At times getting construction permits on your own may be a drag because you might not know how to expedite the process. On the other hand, an old hand in the industry may have city contacts that can help fasten the process.
What’s more, an experienced contractor will advise on the best time to start your project, given that he/she is familiar with the state’s climate and weather conditions. These are all factors that will influence your project substantially and may lead to more costs should they not be properly checked.
3. Check and Read Online Reviews and Ask for Recommendations
Online reviews will give you a more reliable outlook of a directional boring contractor. Most clients will not hesitate to call out a company if they feel seriously aggrieved and dissatisfied.
If you pick the best directional drilling contractor that you can find, you are sure to make your project a success. This way, you’re sure of not getting shortchanged by a contractor who does lousy works.
