The Basics of Pond Repair

While ponds lose water naturally through evaporation, a pond that has lost more water than normal may have a leak. Ponds may spring a leak for a variety of reasons, from a puncture due to poor construction to invasive animals or tree roots. Pond repair can be a frustrating experience. This guide will help to simplify the process so you can enjoy your water creation once again.

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Find the Leak One of the most difficult items on the list is first – finding the leak. While you may feel like you are searching for a needle in a haystack, there are some tips you can follow to locate a leak in your pond.

Some areas in an otherwise dry pond will display moisture and can be an indication of a leak. You can even use food dye to examine one of these areas. Particularly green vegetation can signal an area of high moisture as well.

Additionally, if the water is at a low level, but stable, it is likely the leak lies just above the water surface. If all fails, you can drain the pond completely to search. You may also consider calling in a pond repair professional.

Prepare the AreaYou should make sure you have enough room to work. Ideally, you should expose the leak at least six inches above the water level.For punctures near the bottom of the pond, you will likely need to drain it.

Thoroughly clean the area around the leak if you plan to patch it. This will make sure your patch will stick when properly applied. Simple dish soap and water will work for your pond repair cleaning solution. Scrub the area and dry completely before beginning.

Your type of pond will help determine the steps you need to follow prior to fixing the leak. If you have a fishpond, you will probably want to remove the fish and move them to a safe holding area. This will keep them out of the way and away from extraneous dangers.

Know Your OptionsIf your pond’s liner is at the root of the problem, you have options available to you. There are pond repair kits for liners available at many hardware stores and through online outfits.

If you have a vinyl liner, you may be able to purchase a replacement piece and apply it to the affected area. Again, for best results make sure to clean the area before applying any adhesive material. When patching a leak in a pond liner, you must keep the area dry so the glue or other adhesive can set. For rubber liners, such as EPDM pond liners, you may need two faced liner tape. Use the tools from your pond repair kit to apply the tape and roll it smooth.

Note that other things can cause leaks as well. For example, if your pond has a fountain or waterfall attached, you may need to check the pipes for your leak.Once the leak has been repaired, reinsert your fish and turn on an additional water features that were shut off during the pond repair. Then sit back and relax.