If your new property has a well you won’t use, sealing up the opening with a water well service protects you and the community. Scheduling abandonment with licensed contractors is also required by the law. Here is all you need to know about the process to prepare for it.

A Brief Guide to Well Abandonment

Why should I have an unused well sealed?

Abandoned wells that aren’t sealed allow runoff and contaminants to enter groundwater. Surface water doesn’t receive any natural filtration from bedrock, so it can contain harmful chemicals that pose health risks, such as herbicides. 

An abandoned well is also a safety hazard. If left alone and unmarked, it could lead to serious injuries from falls. You could also face a lawsuit if someone gets hurt on your property. 

What’s the difference between abandoned and capped wells?

Capped wells are unused, with plates or caps sealing off their openings, and no filling materials inside. An abandoned well could refer to either a properly sealed and filled well, or one that hasn’t been covered at all but is no longer in use.

If a previous owner merely capped the well on your property, it’s your responsibility to have it professionally abandoned.

What materials are used to seal wells?

Water well service contractors use a few different materials, often in combination. Sand and gravel mixtures work well because they fill the space without much settling. Technicians then top these particles off with a less permeable element, like native clay. 

Bentonite is a type of clay that expands when it gets wet. A technician may pour processed bentonite chips to seal the well and fill any openings. They may also use cement grout, as it forms a strong seal once it hardens.

How does the well get sealed?

The technician first measures the well depth, diameter, and water levels to determine how much material they need to fill it up. They then remove any obstructions within the system, including old pipes.

Afterward, they use bleach to disinfect the well and prevent microorganisms from reaching the groundwater. After removing the well casing, they fill the hole with the chosen materials and top it off with topsoil, which they shape into a mound to prevent water pooling.

If you need to deal with an old well on your property, reach out to Fogle Pump & Supply in Airway Heights, Colville, Deer Park, Colville and Republic WA. They have over 39 years of experience providing water well services to residences in the Inland N.W., area. Their well drillers are licensed to perform well abandonment to ensure you meet state regulations. Call (888) 343-9355 to schedule an appointment, or visit them online to learn more about sealing water wells.