Installing an EPDM Pond Liner
If you are looking to create a pond on your property, you should consider an EPDM rubber liner. The high quality and flexibility make EPDM pond liners a great choice when installing a pond.
The Basics of EPDM Pond Liners
EPDM stands for Ethylene PropyleneDiene Monomer, and is a material made from synthetic rubber. Originally, this material was used to waterproof the roofs of flat-topped buildings. An EPDM rubber liner may are made of a mixture of ingredients, which can vary for each EPDM compound. Because of this, certain compounds may be toxic.
Despite possible toxicity, EPDM has become a very popular material used for pond liners. Before planning to place fish or aquatic animals in your pond, make sure the EPDM compound is safe for fish.Typically, EPDM pond liners are specifically formulated for ponds, and are therefore fish-safe. They come in sheets or as a roll, in a variety of colors, sizes and thicknesses. Most often, EPDM rubber liners will be black, or other colors that will appear natural under the pond water.
The Benefits of EPDM Rubber Liners
An EPDM pond liner is more flexible and of a higher quality than a cheaper PVC or vinyl plastic pond liner. This comes in handy when installing a pond in a rocky area or in where the liner may be exposed to sharp rocks or plant roots. The earth underneath the pond may also shift and affect the form of the liner, putting it in harm’s way. An EPDM rubber liner is made to stretch to fit such movement.
The climate and temperature of a pond area will affect the flexibility as well. EPDM rubber liners often keep their flexibility through a wide range of temperatures, as low as -40 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 175 degrees. This also means they are more weather resistant than most low-priced pond liners, which should result in less overall maintenance.
Because of that flexibility, they are usually relatively easy to work with for installation purposes. They can also be used more generously in free-form designs. A preformed pond liner only allows so much creativity. Generally, EPDM rubber liners are stronger and more durable as well. An EPDM rubber liner will be less likely to puncture or tear than PVC or vinyl pond liners.
Some Specifications for Installation
The size of your pond will determine the thickness you require. Larger ponds will need a thicker grade EPDM. Once you have determined the size, shape and Because EPDM pond liners often come in sheets, you will need an adhesive tape.
While EPDM pond liners are durable, they are not perfect. As previously mentioned, it is important to make sure your EPDM liner is fish-safe if you plan to allow aquatic life in your pond. There is also still a possibility you will spring a leak.Should your liner suffer a leak, patch kits and tools are available. Many manufacturers and sellers will offer a warranty on EPDM rubber liners of up to twenty years. This should provide peace of mind that an EPDM pond liner is the right choice.
