For those who are serious about aquatic wildlife, it makes sense to capture that enthusiasm with your very own piece of nature. What better way to do so than having your own pond? Like any peaceful body of water, this can become a place where you can lose your thoughts. Whilst your imagination is running wild, you have to remember the practical requirements of a pond in order for it to be habitable for wildlife. Your first thought should be a pond liner.
What Is A Pond Liner?
Before building a house you have to dig the foundations in order for the structure to stand and be capable of withstanding the test of time. Imagine a pond liner as the foundation for your pond. A pond liner or equivalent, such as a Pond Shield, should be installed in all ponds as they prevent water from soaking in to the ground. They also act as a barrier for plants and weeds growing around the edges. This should ensure that no greenery breaks through, leaving your pond’s water crystal clear.
Pond Liners For Different Needs
Before installing your pond, you have to consider some very important factors. First of all comes size. Determining the size of your pond will enable you to decide on which form of pond liner to choose; for example, some pond liners are better designed for smaller ponds. Secondly, budget. The budget you have to spend on your pond will ultimately determine everything with regards to size, shape and what sorts of aquatic wildlife you’ll be able to attract.
PVC Pond Liners
Flexible and easy to move, PVC pond liners are sometimes chosen by those with a small to medium sized pond. If your pond is free of flora and fauna, this lining might be suitable for you. However, there are negatives. PVC pond liners have been known to become brittle as time passes. This is a factor you must consider before introducing fish to your pond as you may need to carry out repairs frequently, which would mean disturbing or removing them. PVC liners can also look a little unsophisticated.
Rubber Pond Liners
Rubber pond liners are very durable and can easily adapt to changing temperatures without breaking, making them a superior choice when compared to PVC competitors. They would certainly be a better option if, for instance, you had a wide range of aquatic wildlife situated in and around the pond.
Epoxy Coatings
Non-toxic epoxy is the best way to seal a pond made of a solid constructed surface like concrete, stone or steel for example. Pond Armor products, such as Pond Shield non toxic epoxy, offer all the protection of PVC or rubber liners whilst lending your pond a much more attractive look and minimizing ongoing care.
Pond Essentials
Whether choosing a PVC, rubber or epoxy pond liner, it is essential that you don’t forget to install two crucial elements. Firstly, you should ensure that your pond is fitted with a pond liner underlay. Pond liner underlay and preformed ponds will prevent weeds or roots penetrating the liner. Once your pond is full it can be a tricky task repairing such damage. The underlay also keeps subsoil compressed and stable. Secondly, it’s important to check whether your liner is U.V. stabilized. Over a period of time, exposure to the suns rays can have a detrimental effect on the pond’s liner.
Stephen Adamson is a landscape gardener who enjoys blogging about his passion in his spare time.
