Pond Boss Forums INTRO Questions & Observations My first pond

If your builder does not use professional special compaction equipment to build the dam and side walls correctly expect the pond to have leakage somewhere. Construction of the dam and keyway are critically important. Pushing dirt around is similar to digging a hole. However proper soil compaction techniques are mandatory for creating a well built and well sealed pond. Just because you have inflowing water does not mean poor soil compaction is acceptable. Old tree roots will decay over time in the side walls and form pathways for outward water movement. Seepages and leaks continually enlarge over time due to constant movement of water out of the pond.

A leaky pond is a very common problem question on our forum. If your contractor does not use the proper compaction methods we expect you to return with how to best deal with pond leakage especially when the stream dries up during drought. Know how to determine a pond leak. I highly suggest that you get from the contractor a written definition of what he defines as a pond leak so you know when to call him to return to fix to a leaky pond. Being proactive now is a lot better than being reactive when dealing with a leaky pond problem long term and the costly expenses involved.

The amount of your planning and preparation now determines your pond's future.