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How to build a fish pond
Fish Pond Construction
Building your own garden fish pond?
If you are wondering how to build a pond, it is definitely something that can be done yourself if you don’t mind rolling up your sleeves!
How to build a pond, what materials should i use?
The first decision you need to make is what type of pond you would like to have, a natural look or a more formal-looking fish pond.
Natural VS Formal Fish Ponds
Ponds can be made of any material such as EPDM rubber liner, concrete or pre fabricated ponds.
Natural Fish Ponds
Liner and pre-fab koi ponds are definitely the easiest method for any DIY person to install. It’s simply a case of digging a hole to shape, putting the pond in and doing some rock work around the edging/within to create a seamless look. If one of our rigid fish ponds are the right size for you, this is the cheapest method. You can see these HERE.
But if you need something a bit bigger or a different shape, then you may need to construct the fish pond out of EPDM liner. Never use PVC plastic liner as it will break down quickly causing you headaches in the long run.
Alternatively you can use concrete and fiberglass. This requires a bit more trade knowledge, we are happy to put you in contact with some of our trusted contactors if this is your preffered method.
The video below is a great example of how to build a natural-looking backyard fish pond.
Formal Fish Ponds
Formal fish ponds and water features are usually some type of geometric shape, such as a square, rectangle or circle. We have a large range of prefabricated ponds to suit this look. Alternatively, you can form the pond by pouring a 100mm slab and building up the walls in your desired shape. Concrete will also require proper sealing.
If you are using a prefabricated koi pond you will need to have the sides of the pond fully supported, whether that be in the ground or built up with walls.
In most cases, it would be better to get a professional in to build a fish pond like this for you. Formal fish ponds are less forgiving in terms of construction mistakes, we would be happy to put you in touch with one of our experienced contractors in order to help you with this.
The Fish Works
Pond Design and Construction
Being in operation for over 20 years The Fish Works proffesional staff have seen it all in terms of pond design and construction. Be it a modern raised water feature or a naturalistic ecosystem pond we are available for any of your build related questions. We understand it can be hard to know where to start, if you’re unsure please click the link below and use our contact form so we can help to make your vision a reality!
Here at The Fish Works we offer competitive prices on fish pond construction materials to both landscapers and the do-it-yourself garden renovator. We have everything you need to make your own fish pond. From pond liners, pond pumps, pond filters and plumbing supplies. Our goal is to act as a one stop shop for all of your pond requirements to make fish pond ownership simple and accessible!
Please see below for our pond construction basics.
Fish Pond Liner
We only stock the thickest EPDM rubber liner, supplying trades all over Sydney due to its quality. EPDM rubber liner is more expensive than PVC plastic alternatives, but will last for decades (as opposed to a few years) and, unlike plastic, is able to be patch repaired meaning you will not have to rip up the entire pond in the case of a small scratch or leak. PVC plastic liner cannot be patched. EPDM rubber liner s UV stablised meaning that it will not break down in sunlight. All other fish pond liners do, meaning that in 3 – 4 years down the track your pond WILL leak.
EPDM liner is guaranteed for 20 years, thats why we sell it and nothing else…
Firestone EPDM liner is 1.02mm thick and comes in widths of 3m, 4.88m and 6m. We can get it at any length up to 30m. If you require more than this please let us know and we can give you a quote.
Plastic Pre-fabricated Fish Ponds
Pre-formed rigid fish ponds are an easy way to build your own fish pond in your backyard. All you need to do is dig the hole, level it out and slot in the preformed pond! They are strong and do not crack easily like fiberglass fish tubs can.
People often ask us which ponds are better, fiberglass or high-density polyethylene plastic ponds. For us, the choice is clear. If you drop a rock or brick into a fiberglass pond, it will crack. This will not happen with plastic fish ponds. We have small and large outdoor fish tubs for sale at our Sydney store. We are the importer of these ponds, so are able to sell them cheaper than other pond shops.
Check out our selection of pre-formed fish ponds and call us if you need delivery and we can see what we can do. All ponds are listed as ‘pick up only’ as couriers won’t take them. But if you live within a few hours drive of our shop in Sydney we can always get you a quote for deliveries.
How to build a pond? Let us help you!
If you are building, designing or thinking about having a fish pond and need some help in the process, please get in touch with us! We can guide you on where pipes should be located, what equipement you will need and how to best achieve your vision. If required we can also mediate conversations between builders/other professionals.
The Fish Works has worked with many builders, landscapers and architects. Guiding them on how to build their own fish pond or water feature. We can organise site visits or virtual site visits if you are outside of Sydney, in order to ensure that you are building the pond correctly and that the correct provisions are made for the filtration system, overflows, electrical conduits and good water circulation.
The best time to consult us is during the design phase, not after pouring the concrete! (this happens)
If you would like to have an obligation-free chat about your fish pond build please dont hesitate to give us a call or use the contact form linked above!
