Borehole Casing Cost Per Meter Kenya
Introduction
Thinking about drilling a borehole in Kenya? Great move — especially if you’re tired of water shortages. But before you start drilling, there’s one critical part of the setup you must understand: the casing. It’s like the skeleton of your borehole, keeping everything intact. But how much does borehole casing cost per meter in Kenya?
Let’s break it all down.
What is Borehole Casing?
Borehole casing is the tube-like structure inserted into the drilled hole to keep it from collapsing. It also prevents surface contaminants from entering the water supply. Simply put, without proper casing, your borehole is toast.
Borehole Casing Cost Per Meter in Kenya
On average, borehole casing in Kenya costs between KES 1,200 and KES 4,000 per meter, depending on the material, diameter, and supplier. Here’s a rough breakdown:
| Material | Cost per Meter (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| PVC (Class B) | KES 1,200 – 1,800 |
| PVC (Class C) | KES 1,800 – 2,500 |
| Steel Casing | KES 2,500 – 4,000 |
| Stainless Steel | KES 3,500 – 5,000+ |
These prices are exclusive of transport and installation.
Common Types of Borehole Casing
PVC Casing
Lightweight, corrosion-resistant
Common for domestic boreholes
Affordable and easy to install
Steel Casing
Heavy-duty and durable
Ideal for commercial and deep boreholes
Prone to rust if not galvanized
Stainless Steel Casing
Top-tier option — long-lasting, corrosion-resistant
Best for high-yield or critical installations
Screened vs. Solid Casing
Screened casings allow water in and filter out sand
Solid casings reinforce boreholes where water entry isn’t required
Factors Influencing Borehole Casing Costs
Borehole Depth
The deeper you go, the more casing you’ll need — and more strength is required, which increases the cost.
Diameter of Casing
Larger diameters cost more but allow higher flow rates. Common sizes are 4″, 6″, and 8″.
Material Quality
High-grade materials (like stainless steel or Class C PVC) cost more but last longer.
Supplier and Location
Costs vary by region and availability. Urban areas might have cheaper casing due to competition.
Cost Comparison of Casing Types
PVC vs. Steel
PVC is cheaper, easier to transport, and doesn’t corrode.
Steel is stronger and better for deep or rocky boreholes.
Long-Term Cost Considerations
A cheaper casing that fails early will cost more in repairs. Investing in durable casing pays off long-term.
Regional Variations in Casing Costs
Nairobi and Central
PVC: KES 1,300–2,000/m
Steel: KES 2,800–3,500/m
Coast
Saline conditions demand better casing (e.g., stainless steel)
Prices slightly higher due to transport
Rift Valley and Western
Prices are moderate, with PVC being widely used
Northern Kenya
Costs may be higher due to transportation logistics
Casing Installation Cost Breakdown
Cost of Labor
KES 300 – 500 per meter, depending on complexity and depth.
Cementing and Gravel Packing
Used to support and protect the casing — adds KES 50,000–100,000 for a standard borehole.
Associated Equipment
Joiners, centralizers, bottom caps — may cost an extra KES 5,000–20,000
Hidden Costs in Borehole Casing
Transportation: Heavier casings (like steel) can cost more to move.
Waste: You’ll need extra casing in case of damage or miscalculation.
Accessories: Fittings, sleeves, and end caps aren’t usually included in basic quotes.
How to Choose the Right Borehole Casing
Based on Use
Domestic: PVC is usually sufficient
Commercial or Industrial: Consider steel or stainless steel
Based on Budget
Tight budget? Go for PVC Class B
Looking for durability? Invest in stainless steel
Based on Water Quality
Salty or acidic water needs corrosion-resistant casings
Importance of Professional Installation
You might be tempted to cut corners — don’t. Poor casing work leads to:
Collapsed boreholes
Contaminated water
Frequent maintenance
Trust professionals to get it right the first time.
Cost Estimates by Casing Depth
Here’s an estimate for a 6″ diameter PVC Class C casing:
50 Meters: KES 90,000 – 125,000
100 Meters: KES 180,000 – 250,000
150 Meters: KES 270,000 – 375,000
Add labor, cementing, and accessories for the full picture.
Maintenance and Replacement Costs
PVC casings can last 15–25 years, while steel lasts around 10–20 years, depending on water chemistry.
Replacement of damaged sections: KES 3,000 – 10,000 per meter
Annual borehole inspection: KES 10,000 – 30,000
Why Choose Protech Water and Solar Equipment
Protech Water and Solar Equipment offers:
High-quality PVC and steel casing options
Competitive pricing
Professional installation and support
Countrywide delivery
Whether you’re drilling a new borehole or replacing casing, Protech ensures your system stands the test of time.
Conclusion
Casing is one of the most important — and expensive — components of a borehole. Prices in Kenya range from KES 1,200 to KES 4,000 per meter depending on material, size, and location. Choosing the right casing isn’t just about the price — it’s about value, durability, and long-term performance. And with trusted suppliers like Protech Water and Solar Equipment, you’re in safe hands.
FAQs
1. What is the cost of PVC casing per meter in Kenya?
PVC casing costs between KES 1,200 and KES 2,500 per meter, depending on class and diameter.
2. Is steel casing better than PVC?
Steel is stronger and suitable for deeper boreholes, but it’s prone to corrosion. PVC is corrosion-resistant and cheaper.
3. How much casing do I need for a 100m borehole?
Typically, around 90–100 meters of casing, depending on the water table and geological survey.
4. Can I mix different casing materials?
Yes, some boreholes use steel in rocky zones and PVC in softer layers, but consult a professional first.
5. Where can I buy affordable borehole casing in Kenya?
Protech Water and Solar Equipment offers durable, affordable casing options with nationwide delivery.