The Foundation for Success: Proper Pond Liner and Underlayment Installation
When building a pond, one of the most critical elements to get right is the pond underlayment and liner. It’s tempting to cut costs here, but you absolutely should not skimp on the pond liner. We’ve seen many ponds that had to be completely redone because the wrong type of liner was used or it was cut too short. When constructing a new pond, we always use a 40-mil EPDM liner. Here’s a brief overview of the different types of pond liners available:
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC liners are less expensive than 40-mil EPDM liners, but they are much thinner and not as durable. The texture and feel of PVC liners are often compared to that of a trash bag, which makes them less ideal for long-term use.
HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)
HDPE liners are more cost-effective and thicker than PVC or EPDM liners. However, they are rigid and do not fold easily, making it challenging to fit them into the desired pond shape. They are also prone to stress cracks over time and are difficult to seam or patch if needed.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
EPDM liners, which we prefer, are thick yet flexible. This makes them easier to work with and more adaptable to different pond shapes. They can be easily seamed to add new pieces, and they are resistant to oxidation and UV ray damage. However, it’s still best to protect EPDM liners from direct sunlight to extend their lifespan.Pond Underlayment and Liner
Do you need underlayment under pond liner?
Underlayment is crucial when installing a pond liner. It is placed directly under the liner and serves as a protective barrier. The underlayment material is similar in texture to a weed barrier but is much thicker and more durable. Many people regret skipping this step, as the underlayment helps prevent the liner from being punctured by rocky ground or damaged by the weight of rocks placed on top of it.
Edging and Cutting the Liner - Mistakes to avoid
One of the most challenging aspects of building a pond is properly installing the liner and creating a clean, natural-looking edge at the top. The pond liner must be laid carefully. Wrinkles and folds are unavoidable, but how they are done is very important. Large folds can create spaces where debris can accumulate when not properly laid and covered up.
Properly edging a pond is essential to its longevity and appearance. During the edging process, there may be excess liner that needs to be trimmed. One of the most common and costly mistakes is cutting the liner too short. Over time, rocks and soil can settle, causing the edges to shift. If there isn’t enough liner left for adjustments, it becomes very difficult to fix these issues. Always ensure there’s extra liner left at the edges to allow for any necessary re-edging or adjustments in the future.
How about cutting the liner?
When the pond is at the point that the the edging can be done, it is almost a complete project! Edging is no joke! It is essential for both the aesthetic appeal and the functionality of the pond. Fold the edges of the liner the wrong way and you will cause water to escape!
By carefully choosing the right liner and properly installing it with an underlayment, you can create a beautiful, long-lasting pond that requires minimal maintenance and provides endless enjoyment.
Not sure how large a pond you want? Read This!