Step by Step Guides

Installing a pond liner

1. Once you have marked out the desired shape with rope, sand or hosepipe, dig around the design, making a 15cm deep collar, one spade width wide. Dry concrete mix can then be placed in the trench. Spray with water, and allow the concrete collar to set overnight.




2. Once the concrete has set, start digging the marginal shelving. It is advisable to buy plant baskets first to ensure they fit the shelving. Allow 5cm extra depth above the basket depth to allow for a top level of gravel around the plants’ base. Once dug, the hole can be measured up for the liner. Use the equation below to calculate underlay and liner size. Underlay is essential to protect the liner and ensure validation of the guarantee.
   • Width + (maximum depth x 2) = liner width
   • Length + (maximum depth x 2) = liner length
   • Add 30cm to the overall length and width, in order to allow for overlap.
   • Eg: 3m x 2m pond, with a max depth of 0.5m. Depth x 2 = 1m.
     Liner required is:
     • Length 3 + 1 + 0.3 = 4.3m,
     • Width 2 + 1 + 0.3 = 3.3m

   Or use our Pond Liner Size Calculator.




3. Having checked for, and removed, any stones or sharp objects, lay the underlay in the pond and place the folded liner on top. Carefully open the liner up and lay it on top of the underlay. Ensure there is ample liner around the edge of the pond on which coping stones, decking etc can be positioned. When laying the liner it is advisable to remove shoes to prevent damaging the liner.




4. Once the liner has been installed, any paving or rockwork can be added to the surrounding area. If a rockery and waterfall is desired, remember to save the spoil from the excavation. It is crucial to seal any concrete or slab edgings near the pond with V8 Pondseal. This polyurethane sealant will prevent harmful substances leaching into the pond from concrete.

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Interpet Ltd. Vincent Lane, Dorking, Surrey RH4 3YX, England.