What is directional drilling support?
Horizontal directional drilling is the go to method for running fiber, power, gas, and water under roads and finished surfaces in Tampa Bay. It is also blind. The drill operator relies on knowing exactly where every existing utility sits along the bore path, and the best way to know is to see it.
We support HDD crews in two ways. Before the bore, we pothole each crossing so the operator can plan clearances. During the bore, we vacuum drilling fluid and cuttings from entry and exit pits and from any frac outs, keeping the site clean and the job moving.
When you need it
- Potholing every crossing utility along a planned bore path
- Confirming clearance where the bore parallels an existing line
- Exposing the drill head or reamer to confirm position
- Vacuuming drilling fluid from entry and exit pits
- Cleaning up inadvertent returns before they spread
- Digging bore pits in tight or congested areas
How we do it
Walk the bore path
We review the bore plan and marks with your crew and identify every crossing to verify.
Pothole the crossings
Each crossing is exposed and measured so the bore profile can clear it safely.
Support the bore
During drilling, the truck manages fluid and cuttings at the pits and responds to any returns.
Clean up
Pits are cleaned out and the spent fluid is hauled away.
Tampa Bay conditions
Fiber and power expansion across Hillsborough and Pinellas counties means a lot of boring in rights of way that are already crowded with utilities. Verified crossings protect the crew, the existing lines, and the schedule.
What to include in your quote request
The more of this you can share, the faster and more accurate your quote will be:
- Bore length and the number of known crossings
- Depths of the crossing utilities, if known
- Whether you need potholing, fluid management, or both
- Expected duration of the bore and standby needs
Directional Drilling Support FAQ
How many crossings should be potholed?
Best practice is to expose every utility the bore crosses or comes within its clearance of. Many utility owners and project specs require it.
Can you stay on site during the bore?
Yes. Standby service keeps the vacuum available for pit cleanout and inadvertent returns throughout the drilling.
Do you haul away drilling fluid?
Yes. Spent fluid and cuttings go into the debris tank and are taken for disposal.
Where we provide directional drilling support
We serve contractors and property owners across Hillsborough and Pinellas counties.