Construction is the backbone of a society’s growth; that’s not in question. In the US alone, the sector is worth USD$2 trillion. However, that’s not to say that the sector is without significant challenges. Sometimes, it strains existing systems. One of those adversely affected is the well water system. (1)
As a well water owner, you may wonder what a construction project right in your backyard or near your water system can mean. This guide comes packed with the different well water issues to keep an eye out for. Not only will it shed light on those problems, but it will also explore the various ways you can fix them.
Sediment Contamination
Construction is always a hive of activities. There’s excavation, drilling, heavy machinery movement, and so on. So, while the structure is going up into the sky, the effects can be felt underground. These movements can stir up sediment in the soil, which may lead to a huge amount of silt infiltrating nearby wells. The results would be dirty or cloudy water.
Luckily, this doesn’t have to be the case. Consider having a sediment filter at the point of entry into your plumbing system. This can save you a lot of stress. However, having it in place is not enough. You have to give it a once-over every now and again. If it’s fine, clean it and let it be. If it’s run its course, replace it.
If you’re looking for a more permanent solution, you’re better off backfilling the area around the well. This can prevent loose soil from entering the well.
Increased Demand Straining the System
A study suggests the construction industry consumes nearly 61 billion tons of water annually, accounting for about 15% of the world’s total freshwater consumption. That said, you may feel the strain on your well water table if there’s a project going on right in your backyard or neighborhood. (2) (3)
So, what can you do about these well water issues? You can go for temporary solutions. Installing temporary storage tanks or supplemental water supplies, for instance, can meet peak demands without overtaxing your well.
Another great approach is to consider solutions that have been put in place to optimize water yield from existing storage. Companies like EPP Well Solutions or any others you know are a good place to start.
Here, you’ll find technologies that are meant to improve yield, even when your well is low-producing. This way, you’ll end up with a steady supply of water even when the conditions aren’t entirely conducive.
Decreased Water Flow
Construction and heavy equipment use are synonymous. Often, there’s a lot of vibration from operating these machinery. These tremors can do a number on underground pipes and aquifers. The result could be reduced water flow from the well.
To get ahead of this, have a pro inspect the well and its surrounding area for any physical damage. If there’s any, fix it as soon as possible. If the situation demands it, you can consider deepening the well or adding extra pumps to compensate for reduced yield.
Chemical Pollution
The construction industry has a record of environmental pollution. Apart from being a leader in greenhouse emissions, it also takes a front-row seat in water contamination. Studies show that it accounts for about 40% of drinking water pollution. Keep in mind that about 23 million American households drink from wells. (4) (5)
There are many ways chemical pollution could happen. Some of the most common culprits are construction materials like paints, solvents, or adhesives, leaching into the ground and contaminating your well water. So, what can you do to maintain water quality?
For starters, make sure that the construction team stores their hazardous materials far from your well site. When they are done with their project, ask that they dispose of their waste according to local regulations. If you find them difficult to reason with, consider involving the authorities.
But putting responsibilities on others isn’t enough. Consider having a water treatment system that can remove these contaminants in place, too to avoid these well water issues. Thin activated carbon filters, reverse osmosis units, and UV sterilizers, if needed, can also go a long way. And lastly, make it a habit to regularly test your water for chemical contamination once the construction kicks off.
Bacterial Growth
Construction can build a viable ground for bacterial growth, especially if there’s soil disturbance and organic matter is involved. This can leave you with unsafe drinking water conditions.
That said, it’s recommended to regularly test your well water. You’re specifically looking for coliform bacteria and other pathogens. You can conduct most of these tests using home kits. If you need extra assurance, though, you can send water samples to professional labs.
If you find that indeed there’s contamination, you can shock chlorinate the well. While the EPA provides guidelines for this procedure, consulting with water treatment professionals is strongly recommended.
Meanwhile, if possible, consider putting a buffer between you and the construction site. Minimal soil disturbance could leave your well nice and safe free of well water issues.
Structural Damage to the Well
Construction projects come with some magnitude. There could be vibrations from blasting, pile driving, or heavy machinery. These vibrations can crack the well casing or loosen seals.
Before the construction kicks off, talk to a licensed well contractor. Have them assess the structural condition of the well. Make sure to document the state in case you’ll need the evidence in the future. If the situation demands, ask the contractor to reinforce the casing.
Your job would then be to keep an eye on your well throughout the project duration. Report any changes as soon as you notice them.
Final Thoughts
As a well water owner, protecting your water supply during nearby construction is a responsibility you cannot take lightly. Not only is your health and that of others depending on the well at stake, but you also risk unplanned repairs and other costs you hadn’t budgeted for if well water issues spring up.
By knowing the common issues and taking proactive steps, you can ensure your well remains reliable and safe for years to come. Furthermore, consider consulting a licensed well professional who can guide you through the process and recommend tailored solutions for your specific situation.
Sources
- “Construction industry in the U.S. – statistics & facts”, Source: https://www.statista.com/topics/974/construction
- “Assessing the Consumption-based Water Use of Global Construction Sectors and its Impact to the Local Water Shortage”, Source: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11269-024-03944-3
- “Water, energy, and carbon dioxide footprints of the construction sector: A case study on developed and developing economies”, Source: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0043135421001330
- “Effect of Construction on the Environment”, Source: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/351660964_Effect_of_Construction_on_the_Environment
- “Millions of people across the US use well water, but very few test it often enough to make sure it’s safe” Source: https://theconversation.com/millions-of-people-across-the-us-use-well-water-but-very-few-test-it-often-enough-to-make-sure-its-safe-236930
