Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations Pond Liner

If I have a constant supply of water is it better to use a liner or a chemical liner. Does it matter. Also, what is the cheepest way to go. I am trying to save as much money as I can, without cutting too many corners. I have a dozer free of cost to dig the pond and I am trying to figure other than the fish what other costs there may be.

Thanks for your help

What makes you think you will need a liner of any kind? You can do a core sample to find out what you are going to run into. If you have sand, which is an aquifer, you might want to pick a different spot.

Dear Linerman:

The materials in man-made pond liners has improved dramatically in recent years, to the point the manufacturer is granting 20-year guarantees. Try getting that from your friendly neighborhood divorce lawyer.

But there's a catch . . . Site prep.

I have a bit of experience with liners, and I'm a big-time proponent of their use, especially in rocky or sandy soils (I live on a limestone table here in Kendall County). A liner can SAVE you money, over time.

The substrate must be smooth enough to play marbles and the liner must be covered with a 10-12 inch soil blanket. Are you confident your "free" 'dozer and operator can do this? (Free always spooks me.)

Proper installation is crucial, or you have an expensive mess on your hands.

Mark McDonald
Editor, Pond Boss

Agree on the prep work for Liners I have a 1000 gallon Koi pond in my greenhouse that I used a liner. I used old shingles and the then cotton batting to get a smooth surface. I got my liner from Bend Tarp and Liner it ran about 30 cents a square foot and has a 20 year guarantee and they will make it to the size you want. They have good information on site prep on their website so you might do a search for them and look at the information. Bob

Liners are good choices, where needed. Learn your soils, first. If you have clay, no liner needed. If clay isn't present at the pond site, see if there's clay close by. If all your soils are porous, an artificial liner may be your best option. You have more homework to do.