Renewable energy is an important element in the fight against climate change and it’s at the forefront to help reach commercial sustainability goals. With so many options available, it’s important to carefully consider each to determine which will be most efficient...
Coastal erosion is a pressing concern in the UK, posing significant threats to property, infrastructure and natural habitats. Geotechnical drilling contractors must intervene to help restore sea defences and carry out engineering works to preserve the future of our...
Prior to carrying out any construction project, you need to determine whether the proposed plan will be feasible by understanding the underlying ground conditions and soil composition. One way to do this is by digging a trial pit. Here at Borehole Solutions, we’ve...
It’s now more important than ever to use clean drilling techniques for site investigations and always carry out an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA). Climate change is one of the major challenges of our time. With huge impacts on our health, environment and our...
Environmental consciousness is now more important than ever to preserve our planet for years to come. More and more people are recycling or switching to renewable energy sources; but sometimes, more extreme interventions are necessary. One such method is environmental...
If you’re planning any kind of construction or remediation project, then chances are that you’ll require a geotechnical site investigation to determine the ground conditions beforehand. What’s more, you’ll also need to use the right tool and drilling technique for the...
Geotechnical site investigations require specialist rigs and techniques dependent on the environment in question. For example, drilling teams can use a huge sonic rig in an open field, whereas a site with limited space may call for a dynamic sampling machine for...
Roads and highways are an indispensable part of our daily routines. From driving to work to transporting goods across the country, our network of roads is crucial for transportation. Hence when highway failures occur, they can be infuriating; but at worst, they can...
When we want to add more space to our homes, we tend to think of building an extension or annexe. However, in cities and urban areas, this may not always be possible. Instead of expanding outwards, why don’t you consider building downwards with basement underpinning?...
Do you want a reliable and affordable way to access your own private water source? Look no further than a home water well service! Here at Borehole Solutions, a leading geotechnical drilling company in the UK, we have provided water well drilling solutions for over...
Here at Borehole Solutions, we’ve offered ground investigation services across the UK for over two decades. Our extensive experience means that we offer a multitude of different geotechnical investigation techniques; including window sampling, sonic drilling, and...
Over recent years, there has been a definite trend within the geotechnical industry: an increasing number of drilling companies are opting for sonic drilling solutions. Why is this technique becoming so popular? Unlike more conventional drilling methods, a sonic rig...
Cable percussion drilling (CPD) is one of the most popular geotechnical drilling techniques available. It’s reliable, cost-effective and the rigs can be easily transported between sites. However, they’re a tad on the large side. In more restricted spaces, such as...
For most people, soil is little more than dirt. The messy stuff that gets on your children’s clothes and your knees when digging out the garden beds. However, it’s important to note that not all soil is the same; this is crucial when it comes to geotechnical...
Soakaways are one of the most efficient drainage systems out there. They’re cost-effective, simple to install and easy to maintain. However, you can’t just go ahead and have one installed in your back garden. There are tests that need to be carried out beforehand,...
The environment is at the forefront of every leading geotechnical drilling company’s values nowadays. As people and businesses alike are under more and more scrutiny, it’s now more important than ever before to invest in clean drilling techniques. In fact, prior to...
Cable percussion boreholes are an intrusive geotechnical site investigation technique used to determine the ground conditions of a site. It’s probably one of the most popular forms of drilling used across the world; and it’s easy to see why! Cable percussion drilling...
Most people wouldn’t have thought that geotechnical drilling companies work in urban environments; but we do! Restricted access drilling is often required in areas with limited space, such as towns and cities. However, this specialist form of drilling is often...
You have a lot of choice when it comes to selecting the best rig for your site investigation needs. Considering this, there are a few questions you need to be asking yourself. How much pushing force will I need? What’s the maximum size and weight possible? Does it...
Regardless of the type of project in question, contamination testing is vital in order to prevent potential issues from arising. This is the case whether you're installing a GSHP, laying water pipes, or even growing vegetables. At Borehole Solutions, we offer an...
Once a geotechnical testing investigation has been complete, any exploratory holes you’ve drilled can’t remain open. They must be dealt with correctly and safely due to the risk they pose to humans and animals alike. This doesn’t always mean just filling them in and...
There’s a great chance you’ve heard of a plate bearing test at one point or another. After all, it’s arguably the most common geotechnical investigative technique out there. Plate tests are particularly useful for projects that require temporary supports, such as...
At Borehole Solutions, we’re massive advocates for water wells. After all, why wouldn’t we be? They’re easy to maintain, cost-effective, more environmentally friendly and provide a much fresher source of water compared to traditional water supplies. It’s no wonder why...
When it comes to geotechnical investigations, it’s essential that you choose the right tool for the job. Some projects require a different drilling technique, whereas others vary in the size of the rigs they use. Nevertheless, before you commence any drilling, a...
For most people, the idea of increasing their property’s size tends to centre around luxurious extensions, annexes and conservatories. For those with acres of space and sufficient investment, this may indeed be possible. When it comes to living in urban locations,...
Knowing when your project requires a ground investigation is one thing but understanding which investigative technique to use is another story altogether. At Borehole Solutions, we’ve been specialising in these techniques for the better part of two decades. Through...
Price hikes are universally disliked, and this has been clearly expressed in relation to our bills in recent years. With average annual water bills projected to increase by 7.5% next year, its unsurprising that people are considering alternatives. One such option...
Highways are an indispensable aspect of our daily routines. They enable businesses to run smoothly, connect families, and even help save lives. Therefore, when highway failures occur, they can be especially frustrating. At the very least, a highway failure can be a...
Before you even begin thinking about starting a project, you first must determine whether construction is even possible! This might seem obvious, but you’d be surprised by how many structural failures we’ve seen due to people overlooking this. This requires digging...
Especially with the UK's unpredictable weather patterns, it's important to ensure your home has a reliable drainage system. At Borehole Solutions, we are huge advocates of BRE365 soakaways. After all, we bang on about their benefits all the time; they’re...
The days of primitive drilling machinery is ancient history. Whilst we’re not opposed to an old-fashioned hand drill and shovel, however, today's sonic rigs put these techniques to shame. Naturally, this means they require regular calibration, maintenance and...
As homeowners continue to look for new ways to heat their homes, many are turning their attention towards their gardens. Instinctively, you may think of a log fire or biomass burning, but we’re thinking of something that’s considerably bigger - geothermal borehole...
Regardless of the work you’re carrying out, your first step will always be choosing the right rig for the job. To complete it to the highest possible standard, however, it won’t be the only step. More often than not, you’re also going to need some extras alongside the...
These days, environmentally conscious practices are more important than ever. People and businesses alike are becoming increasingly scrutinised, and the geotechnical drilling industry is no exception. It’s therefore unsurprising that the environment is at the heart of...
Prior to any construction project’s commencement, conducting a preliminary ground investigation is an integral component of due diligence. After all, unforeseen ground conditions often lead to extensive delays and additional costs for developers and occupants alike....
The remediation technique of soil stabilisation has been implemented across the building and construction industry for thousands of years. In fact, early examples date back to the Mesopotamian and ancient Egyptian periods, who were considered leading pioneers of this...
The geotechnical drilling industry demands a lot from those within it. It’s built on the back of hard work, and it encompasses highly experienced drillers who are testament to this. With such a huge selection to choose from, it can be difficult to discern the best...
Waste Acceptance Criteria (WAC) tests are used to determine whether organic material is suitable for disposal in landfills. WAC testing crucially ensures the disposed hazardous material will have a minimal environmental impact. This testing technique was made...
For geotechnical firms, the process of remediating contaminated land consists of four key phases. These are: desktop studies (Phase 1), intrusive site investigation (Phase 2), remediation (Phase 3), and validation/verification (Phase 4). Each of these phases are just...
When it comes to preserving the future of the environment, each person’s individual contribution cannot be understated. Recycling, buying local, or switching to renewable energy to power your home are all certainly heading in the right direction. To truly make a...
From rotary drilling to cable percussion, there is no shortage of drilling methods available across the geotechnical industry. Recently, more and more site investigation companies are making the switch towards sonic drilling solutions. Like most, the drilling industry...
One of the most common geotechnical investigative techniques used today is a plate bearing test. They’re used to determine the ground’s bearing capacity and composition by applying an increasing load via a steel plate. For projects where temporary construction works...
People are becoming more environmentally conscious than ever before, and for good reason. With climate change and sustainable living taking centre stage, the impact of humans on the environment is becoming more scrutinised in recent times. That’s why we carry out an...
In recent years, the popularity of home water well drilling has risen considerably. However, they’re not only found in a domestic setting as many businesses are opting for this sustainable practice too. Whilst Borehole Solutions applaud this eco-friendly adoption, we...
The UK is notorious for its wet and overcast weather forecasts. Although this is mostly manageable, British residents are more commonly facing risks of dangerous flooding. This is where soakaways come in to play! They can make the world of difference when it comes to...
Choosing the right drilling rig for the job is paramount when it comes to borehole drilling services. However, deciding which rig to use may not be as simple as you would initially expect. In recent times, many geotechnical drilling companies are hiring rigs due to...
The skilled team at Borehole Solutions recently undertook a project in Teignmouth, on Devon’s south coastline. From tough working hours to difficult restricted access drilling conditions - it was definitely a job that required strong determination from our engineers....
The huge range of projects that require a geotechnical site investigation is astounding. No matter the construction work - whether that be some form of remediation or structural alteration - a preliminary site investigation will most likely be necessary. The skilled...
Here at Borehole Solutions, a leading sonic drilling company in the UK, health and safety for our staff and the general public is paramount. When working with borehole drilling rigs that weigh in excess of 15,000kg, you can’t afford to not take it seriously! There is...
Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are chemicals that were extensively used across a wide range of industries around the world. Their impressive stability has meant that they can be used for a variety of things, ranging from coolants to hydraulic fluids and caulking...
Throughout Britain, our vast network of roads, from large motorways to winding country lanes, is crucial for transportation. With traffic, however, comes the inevitable wear and tear. At best, highway failures can be annoying, but at worst they can be exceptionally...
The UK government have plans to decarbonise residential heating systems across the country, with aims to replace boilers with new, low-carbon ground source heat pumps through a Boiler Upgrade Scheme. This is with the aim to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions by...
In recent years, there has been an obvious trend within the drilling industry: geotechnical site investigation companies have been steering towards using sonic drilling solutions. Why? Unlike the more conventional drilling techniques, sonic drilling proves to be a...
Prior to any construction work taking place, it must first be determined whether the proposed building is feasible or otherwise! This requires excavating a trial pit to analyse the ground conditions and soil composition. Pit digging is simple, yet cost-effective, and...
Renewable energy has climbed to the spotlight in recent times. With more people taking proactive environmental measures, it is crucial to implement sustainable practices where possible. At Borehole Solutions, we aim to act as environmentally conscious as possible...
The installation of a domestic water well undoubtably has a number of benefits. In fact, we’ve written another blog on the topic, which you can find here! Their self-sufficiency is also beneficial for businesses and commercial properties. However, people don’t tend to...
The days of primitive drilling machinery are long gone. Recently, drilling rigs are state-of-the-art pieces of equipment that require regular maintenance, servicing and calibration. Borehole Solutions, a leading provider of geotechnical drilling services nationwide,...
Ground source heat pumps (GSHP) are a brilliant alternative to conventional methods of heating your home or business facility. Even in the harshest of winters, these innovative pumps will keep your property warm. GSHP are easily installed, cost-effective and...
The simple answer is that boreholes can be drilled at any time of the year. Understandably, there are times of the year when we prefer not to be outside on different sites! We’d rather not be trenching around in thick mud and heavy rain – but at the end of the day,...
Cable percussion drilling (CPD) proudly stands as the most common form of geotechnical drilling in the United Kingdom, if not the world! It has proven its worth as an effective drilling method time and time again. Its reliability is one reason why it is a firm...
When living in the UK, there is one thing for certain – rainfall. More often than not, river-adjacent towns or cities have seen the occasional washout or flood. This leads to the question, “What are soakaways? Do I need one?”. If the threat of flooding is consistent...
There are many different drilling methods available, from cable percussion to rotary drilling. In recent years, however, more and more geotechnical drilling companies are using sonic drilling rigs. Why? Well, sonic drilling provides a much more efficient and versatile...
If you are thinking about drilling a borehole to extract water, we are certain that you are curious to know how long your investment will last. You will be pleased to hear that the lifespan of boreholes is a considerably long time! With appropriate maintenance,...
In recent years, an increasing number of people and businesses have looked into installing water wells for their own, self-sufficient, fresh water supply. Whilst we applaud this adoption of sustainable practice, we also believe it is crucial that water well drilling...
In weak soil conditions, piles are drilled into the land to improve the structural strength to act as a foundation. Some types of soil can carry heavy loads without too much difficulty. Other soil types, however, would fail if you were to try to construct on them...
The days when drilling projects revolved around rough estimates and an attitude of “that will do” are finished. Today, the need for accurate and precise measurements is paramount. A method that geotechnical site investigation companies can use, to ensure high quality...
Nowadays, we are more environmentally conscious than ever. Our impact on the environment is becoming more scrutinised than previous as we are learning more about the importance of caring for our world. We want to ensure we act as environmentally friendly as possible,...
At Borehole Solutions, geotechnical drilling health and safety for our team is our top priority. We work with geotechnical drilling machines that weigh in excess of 200 kg, meaning you can’t afford not to take it seriously. There is a considerable level of danger when...
The importance of caring for the environment cannot be understated, and sometimes we need to intervene in more drastic manners, such as through environmental remediation. This is the process of removing contaminants and other harmful materials from the surrounding...
There are numerous reasons for somebody wanting to get a borehole drilled. One of the most common of which is to act as a self-sufficient water source by accessing the groundwater. Businesses and homes alike can extract up to 20,000 litres of water per day without...
Our heavy machinery, as you would expect, can cause disruption to the public as we work on roads during the day. Although we enjoy making noise and getting dirty, we also do not like to be a nuisance! This means our skilled team are capable of performing overnight...
With a huge selection of potential geotechnical drilling contractors on offer, it can be difficult to know who to believe. There are a number of highly experienced drilling teams out there, all of whom are claiming to be the 'best geotechnical drilling company around...
The agricultural industry utilises 70% of commercial water consumption every day. From drinking water for livestock to irrigation and slurry flushing, the agricultural industry uses a huge amount of water for a range of reasons. Fortunately, with a borehole you can...
Waste Acceptance Criteria testing, also known as WAC testing is used to determine whether organic material is suitable to be disposed of in a landfill. The test is crucial prior to disposal to ensure that hazardous material is going to have as minimal impact on the...
When people think of geotechnical drilling services, they do not think of this being taken place in an urban environment. However, we are often required to work in towns and cities with restricted access implications. Anywhere that presents difficulties with access,...
Depending on the geotechnical surveying investigation, different situations call for different approaches. There are drilling rigs available that are huge in scale and their capability is unparalleled, but they have a sizeable footprint. On the other hand, there are...
Prior to the development of a project, it is crucial to utilise contamination testing to resolve any potential issues that may arise. Here at Borehole Solutions, we offer a range of testing services to identify any suspected contamination and suggest advice regarding...
Climate change and the prospects of renewable energy have reached the spotlight in recent times. Every industry is trying to implement more sustainable practices where possible, and the geotechnical sector is no exception. As a result of this, a couple of the...
Our expert drilling team offer many services, one of which is rotary drilling. This commonly used method suits a variety of drilling projects, both small and large. Borehole Solutions decided to investigate the method further considering that it dates back over 3,000...
There is a common saying that “great things come in small packages”. This is certainly true for the Eijkelkamp GeoPoint Compact CPT Rig. The rig delivers a pushing force of 100kN; whilst weighing in at little over 1 tonne and being a compact size of 2.62 x 0.79 x 2.03...
Once an exploratory hole has been drilled and the geotechnical testing is complete, it can’t simply be left open. The Borehole Solutions team have put together this blog to detail how to deal with a borehole properly. There are various processes in which an...
GPR is a non-intrusive and important part of many site investigations. Typically carried out to identify buried services prior to a careful evacuation, ground penetration radar can also be used to find sinkholes and features of karst geology. But how does this...
There are multiple stages to any site investigation, but one of the very first is usually Phase 1 Desk Studies. These will be carried out before property transactions or prior to site development as a form of due diligence This, of course, doesn’t clarify what this...
If you’re not familiar with the term, you’ll certainly be familiar with the structure. In fact, retaining walls are some of the most common structures that can be seen in the UK. Found anywhere from road embankments to landscape gardens, these recurrent walls are...
Before carrying out any geotechnical work, choosing the right rig for the job is a necessity. The drilling rig hire is only the first step, however! To ensure the project is completed to the highest possible standard, you may need to hire some extras alongside the...
Our island nation naturally has a great deal of coastline, which makes coastal engineering particularly important. According to the Ordnance Survey, the UK’s coastline racks up to a staggering 31,368km. Hard, igneous rocks make up some of our coastlines. This type of...
The term soft ground refers to weaker ground; anything from peat and running sands to weak clays and silts - something with a very low SPT (Standard Penetration Test). When it comes to soft ground site investigations, there are certain things that must be considered....
When we think of increasing a property’s space, our mind is likely to wander to a luxurious extension or annexe. Inner-city homes, however, frequently need to go down the route of basement underpinning. In areas, like London, where spaces comes at a premium, building...
If you’ve found yourself on this blog, we’re sure you’re aware of a plate bearing test. But, did you know they’re one of the most common geotechnical techniques used today? For projects in which temporary structures, such as scaffolding, are required, ground...
The importance of looking after the environment can’t be understated, but sometimes recycling simply isn’t enough. Occasionally, our intervention needs to be a little more drastic, often in the form of environmental remediation. This is the process of cleansing the...
We could fill a multitude of blogs with the comprehensive answer to this question! Geotechnical site investigations are required for an astounding amount of projects. Whether you’re planning some form of remediation, construction or structural alterations, a...
Highways are the nervous system of society. They are integral to so many different aspects of life, commerce, trade, and pleasure. Highway failures vary in degrees of severity and, much to our displeasure, annoyance. From the shallow potholes on back roads to...
Cable percussion drilling stands proud as the most popular form of drilling in, not only the United Kingdom, but probably the world! Time and time again, it has proven its worth as a drilling methodology. This is largely due to its sheer reliability; making it a firm...
Living in a country as wet as the UK, river-adjacent towns and cities are no stranger to the occasional washout or flood. For some, this may beg the question, ‘Do I need a soakaway?’. Well, if the threat of flooding is so consistent to the point of being debilitating...
When a construction project is proposed, before anything can begin it must first be determined whether construction is even feasible! This requires scrutiny of the ground conditions and soil composition; often done by excavating a trial pit. Simple, cost-effective and...
It can be difficult to know where to start when looking for assistance with your project from a borehole drilling company. You’ve probably identified a huge selection of potential contractors, all of which claim to be the “best for the job”. Whilst you should be...
The installation of personal, domestic water wells continues to rise in popularity in recent years. This self-sufficiency can be found in many businesses, too. Whilst we at Borehole applaud this adoption of our industry’s sustainable practices, we also believe it to...