Pond liners are used in a variety of applications to ensure both the beauty and the proper function of man-made bodies of water. Whether their job is to keep what's in the water from seeping into the ground, or vice-versa, pond liners play a critical role as a barrier between the earth and the water.
Pond liners education and training is important because installing pond liners correctly the first time is imperative. Putting your project on hold or, worse yet, correcting mistakes after your pond is filled with water, costs both time and money. Before jumping in with both feet, you would be wise to do your homework on the subject of pond lining installation:
1. Planning and preparation come first. Pond size, grade of the land, slopes, and even the weather are all key considerations before your pond lining project gets under way.
2. Liner selection is key. The type and size of pond you're building determines what type of liner you will use. It's important to educate yourself on plastic pond liners, as well as other options.
3. Take the plunge. Arm yourself with the tools, supplies, manpower and know-how necessary to complete your pond lining project.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Plan ahead and prepare your job site for pond liner installation
The size and scope of your pond project determines how much must be done before actual pond liner installation. Whether planning to install small plastic pond liners, fish pond liners, farm pond liners or aquaculture pond liners, it's always a good idea to check and recheck your calculations, and consider every angle (windy conditions require additional up-front work, for example) before installing your liner.
I recommend: Consider the must-know information in
Watersaver's pond liner installation preparation guide. The
National Association of Pond Professionals offers a 20-page study guide that contains some excellent educational and reference material on all aspects of becoming a pond professional. If your pond project is more of the smaller, residential type, check out the pond liner "how-to" at
Royal Liner.
Determine what type of pond liner is best for your particular job
Although plastic and rubber pond liners seem to be the most popular types, other materials are available. Preformed clay pond liners are even an option. Your pond's intended purpose and the surface on which it's being created are two factors to consider when selecting a pond liner.
I recommend: Building your pond on a farm? You'll find a lot of great information on farm pond liners in this article from the
University of Nebraska. Read this general article on pond liners from
Aquarticles.com if you're unsure of which type of pond liner to use. There are many pond liner manufacturers online where you can buy pond liners when you're ready.
Line that pond with your newfound pond lining know-how and the right tools for the job
With your tools, supplies and helpers at the ready, it's time to get the job underway. The type of pond liner you're using and the size of your pond are the two primary factors to consider when estimating what it will take to get the job done.
I recommend: Before you get started, watch a decorative plastic pond liner being installed at
Firestone Building Products. For larger pond liner installation projects, check out the step-by-step videos at
GrayStone Creations. Visit
BTL Liners for a selection of slide shows that offer visuals of various pond liners being installed.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- The more you educate yourself upfront, the less backpedaling you'll have to do when installing pond liners. Take time to learn the ins and outs before you start the job, and pay close attention to building codes for external water installations in your area.
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