It is no secret that the modern availability of horizontal directional drilling has made the ability to reap more oil in one drill much easier to accomplish. However beneficial directional drilling may be, there are still landowners who prefer not to have this type of drilling performed on their property, opting for traditional, vertical drills instead. The reasoning behind this preference for most is due to common misconceptions about the process and how the ground is affected in the long term. Here are a few of those myths and misconception and the actual facts behind them.

Misconception: The increase of drilling in a concentrated area will release more drilling fluids, which will contaminate the ground.

Fact: Imagine that you are standing directly above several differing layers of rock, trying to push a drill through the varying densities. Now consider how much easier it would be to push that same drill in at an angle instead. Horizontal directional drilling actually makes it easier to get the oil drill through the ground to the desired location. Therefore, there is no concern of more drill fluid than usual contaminating the ground.

Misconception: The cost of horizontal drilling is elevated in comparison to traditional methods.

Fact: It is true that specialized equipment, such as a directional mud hammer, is used during the directional drilling and the costs can be a bit higher. However, the lowered cost of restorative processes usually counteracts the price of varied supplies necessary to complete the job.

Misconception: When horizontal drilling is performed, there is a greater risk of the property becoming unstable.

Fact: Many people look at directional drilling as they would drilling through a solid mass in which there would be actual holes left behind. However, ground drilling does not normally involve removal of great amounts of ground dirt and material. In actuality, the material is being pushed through, but not pulled out of the drilled hole. However, holes can be created in some instances due to lack of density. There are remedies for empty compartments that are created during the drilling process. For example, concrete plugs are a common resolution to prevent ground instability in areas where a tremendous amount of material is moved.

When you take a closer look at all of the benefits of directional drilling for oil, it is easy to see why the benefits far outweigh any risks associated. If you are planning an oil drilling project on your property, it is a good idea to talk to a drilling expert about the options that are available and any concerns you may have.