Plan the perfect garden with our interactive tool →

How to Cover Your Dug Well

Jupiterimages/Comstock/Getty Images

Before the use of drill rigs became popular, homeowners often installed dug wells on their property for drinking and irrigation water. Dug wells are large-diameter wells that are typically 10 to 30 feet deep. Some homeowners still install dug wells today. Due to their shallow depth and large diameter, dug wells are particularly susceptible to contamination from outside sources such as runoff or spills. To preserve the quality of the water in a dug well, you must install a properly designed well cover that will redirect rainwater and prevent runoff and spills from entering the well casing.

Purchase a dug well cover. Preferably, the cover should have a lip that hangs over the well by several inches to keep water out of the well. Some states have specific rules regarding the type of cover, so consult your state's environmental department for details.

Install the well cover so that it fits tightly over the well casing. If necessary, install a concrete pad to support and protect the well casing and cover. You can construct a pad by using wood or bricks to create a form that you can fill with concrete. Concrete pads typically extend at least 2 feet beyond the casing.

  • Purchase a dug well cover.
  • If necessary, install a concrete pad to support and protect the well casing and cover.

Place a lock on the well cover to keep pests and other people out of the well. Choose a lock that is weather resistant to prevent damage to the well over time.

Related Articles

Pest Screening for Vegetable Gardens
Pest Screening for Vegetable Gardens
How to Winter Over Sedum Plants
How to Winter Over Sedum Plants
How to Make Homemade Bird Repellent Spray
How to Make Homemade Bird Repellent Spray
How to Protect Tropical Plants From Cold
How to Protect Tropical Plants From Cold
How to Grow Cherry Trees in Ontario
How to Grow Cherry Trees in Ontario
Care for Cast Iron Planters
Care for Cast Iron Planters
How to Protect an Outdoor Picnic Table
How to Protect an Outdoor Picnic Table
Garden Guides
×