Building a Pond
Are you looking to go through the process of building a pond?
We’ll help with these easy tips on how to go about it.
- Measure and Dig
Dig out your space for your pond.
You should pick a place where the pond will be well situated, but you aren’t susceptible to ground water running in (therefore pay attention to the grading around the pond).
The preformed pond shell should be level with the plant ledges.
- Fill and Settle
Fill your preformed pond with water, and stand in it.
This water will not be the “real” water in the pond – it merely adds weight so that it will properly settle into its space.
By standing in it, you also provide more weight to make sure that it settles, and that it doesn’t rise up while you’re working.
When stepping into the pond, keep in mind that it is still a delicate piece and not build for jumping or quick movement.
Always avoid stepping on the edges of the preformed pond, as this can cause them to crumble and fail.
When building a pond, you always want to ensure that you’re keeping your preformed pond shell in top condition.
- Secure the Shell
At this point, there will be a gap between the shell and the edge of the hole.
Place sand into this gap, adding water to it to ensure that it is properly compacted and that the pond shell is properly placed.
It is helpful to have another person with you for this part, as once you are in the pond, you cannot leave until it is fully settled.
When the gaps around the edges are filled and compacted, you can now get back out of your pond.
You should place bricks onto the lip, about 3-5 inches around the shell. This will help give it stability and secure it.
Take topsoil, and put it around the bricks and lip. Use water to dampen it and firmly pack it down.
- Decorate
I find that flat rocks look great with a pond – and the advantage is that you can hang them over the lip so it doesn’t look like there’s a change from the pond to your backyard.
They also distribute their weight well, and don’t run the risk of altering your pond shell.
The best part of building a pond is that once it’s put together, you can now decorate however you have imagined it.
With the right touches, you’ll have your preformed pond looking great in no time!