What to Know When Shopping For a Pond Liner

When looking to spruce your yard and garden, a water pond is a nice feature. When installing a pond, one of the most important decisions you will make will be choosing the right pond liner. Here are some things to consider as you shop.

Before You Begin

Chances are if you are looking to install a pond on your property, you fancy yourself as a “do-it-yourselfer.” However, it is important to utilize the proper tools for the job. Instead of using an old liner from a swimming pool or plastic sheeting made for other purposes, you should opt for a quality pond liner.

Pond liners are specifically designed to make the process of building a water feature efficient and safe. Using products designed for other purposes can fail over time. If they are not made from the right materials, they may be easily damaged and subject to holes and breaks. Simply put, pond liners are the best all-around way to build your pond.

Pond Liner Options

When shopping for a pond liner, you will have many options and much to consider. There are liners of all sizes and price points, allowing you to find the one that fits both your style and your budget.

If you already have a custom design in mind for your pond, a flexible liner will fit your needs. Flexible pond liners may be customized to fit any shape. They are also a great option for ponds that are larger than average. As a bonus,they are usually less expensive than other types.

Ordinarily, flexible pond liners are made from rubber or flexible plastic. Choices include EPDM, PVC and butyl liners, which are usually available in rolls or sheets that are premeasured and come in a variety of colors and textures. Most often, they will be designed to mimic the look of an actual pond.

Another possibility is a preformed liner. Preformed liners are usually made of fiberglass or a very strong plastic andcome in a predetermined size and shape. On average, installation of a preformed liner takes longer than a flexible liner.This is because you must dig a hole to specific measurements to fit the preset shape.

While the size and shape of a flexible liner is limitless, preformed liners generally measure fewer than 12 feet in diameter and are usually less than two feet deep. Because of the smaller shape, preformed liners may be more likely to freeze in wintery conditions. This should be taken into consideration for the health of any fish or aquatic animals you hope to inhabit the pond.

It should be noted that you could order a preformed liner from a custom designer to meet your size and shape standards. Just be prepared to pay more for it.

Concrete liners are also available. Typically more expensive and labor intensive than other options, concrete liners frequently hold up over time better than other options. Concrete liners are built with a support structure inside to provide a sturdier frame. That being said, they are still subject to cracks. When choosing a concrete liner, you should contact a professional.

When shopping for a pond liner, it is important to do your homework. Analyze your needs and desires for your new water feature to find the perfect fit.