Pond Liner Tips

We let these secrets leak so your liner doesn't

Do-it-yourselfers love the free-form possibilities of laying their own liner. We dig into the details to keep your ambitions from going down the drain.

Can you dig it?

First, check out our Pond Kit Installation Tips before you dig to avoid power lines, sewers and such. This is also a great time to chicken out and hire a professional landscaper. They know the ropes and will secure any needed permits.

Liner notes

We recommend using EPDM plastic liners at least 45 mil thick for your garden pond liner. EPDM stays flexible in a wide range of temperature extremes, conforms easily around rocks and roots, and won't become brittle over time. This is no place to skimp. If your fish pond liner fails, you have to do the whole project over.

Did you sleep through geometry class? Then the easiest way to calculate how much liner you'll need is to use an online pond liner calculator. (http://www.geocheminc.com/pondlinercalc.htm) Select your pond shape, then enter the size and depth. Add a few inches for the edges. Play it safe and add 20% to the result. Liners are like haircuts: you can always cut more off, but you can't stick it back on if you run short.

Shape shifting

A coping shelf holds the edge of the pond liner with rocks, plants and decorations. Use a square spade to dig a flat shelf 2 inches deep, 18 inches wide around the edge of your backyard pond.

Inside that, dig a bog shelf for plants, 9 to 12 inches deep. Then plunge into the rest of the hole to your heart's content, or until your back gives out. The deeper areas of your garden pond should slope about 20 degrees from vertical.

Although it isn't required, a pond underlayment smoothes the hole and protect your garden pond liner. It doesn't have to be one piece, but tape the pieces together so they stay put.

Laying the liner

Once the liner is in place you can start filling with water. Stop occasionally to smooth the liner as you go. The water will press the liner into place. Don't cut off any extra until the pool is full and has had time to settle.

Your edging materials will keep the liner from working loose, while adding a natural look. Suddenly your hole in the ground looks like a garden pond, ready for a waterfall, pond fountain, plants and whatever else floats your boat.