Page 307 - Encyclopedia of Aquarium and Pond Fish, 3rd Edition

BUILDING A POND 305

PREFORMED POND UNITS Take measurements to check The base must be
the depth at several points prepared carefully.
across the hole
Creating a pond using a preformed unit is Ensure sure that
relatively straightforward. For a successful and any sharp debris
lasting result, however, make sure the site is is removed and
the area is level.
well prepared and free from stones or debris
and that the unit is level when installed.
3
1 Mark out the perimeter 1 Stabilize the unit
1
Balance the unit on blocks and place stakes Slowly fill the pond with water, pausing
at regular intervals around it. Use string Use sand to fill the at intervals to check that the unit is still
laid around the stakes to outline the area gap between the level. Backfill around the edges with
2
to be excavated. 1 Excavate the pond area unit and the wall sand until the unit is secure.
Shape the hole to match the of the hole
pond unit as closely as possible,
Stake
including the marginal shelves.
Rake and firm the base then seat
the unit on a layer of sand so that
it fits exactly and is
completely level.
Blocks raise the unit Make sure
from the ground
the unit is not
sloping using a Weight of water
String marks level and a piece causes the unit to
out where settle on the base
to dig of lumber.

Contour liner over Using underlay, Allow an overhang
to conceal the liner
marginal shelf such as carpet,
commercial matting,
or a layer of soft
sand, helps to
prolong the life
of the pond liner.

1 Partially fill the pond
5
As you add the water, creases
in the liner are evened out.
1 Lay the liner Hold the edges of the liner
4
Flexible pond liner should be laid over or secure them with bricks. Weight of
a suitable underlay material (above). water pulls the
liner down
Position the liner so that the overlap Check that each
stone slab is
around the perimeter is even. seated evenly
using a level.
1 Lay the hard edging
6
An informal surround can be created using
Cut back excess stone slabs laid in mortar. Be careful not to
liner around the drop mortar into the pond, however,
perimeter evenly Excess liner can because it is toxic to fish.
using a pair of be trimmed away
sharp scissors. once pond is full

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