Understanding and Repairing Pond Leaks
A pond can make a beautiful addition to any backyard. Backyard ponds can be an excellent way to display aquatic flora and fishes and also add a serene, peaceful touch to your yard. However, backyards ponds do require regular upkeep in order to maintain healthy water levels and prevent any damage. In particular, it is important to note that backyard ponds can be quite susceptible to leaks. Therefore, it is important to understand what causes leaks in ponds as well as how to prevent them.
How Can You Prevent A Pond Leak?
One of the most common causes of pond leaks is inadequate construction of the pond bottom. Therefore, the most effective way to prevent any kind of pond leaks is to ensure that the pond is properly constructed in the first place. When it comes to proper construction, choosing the right location is key. In order to prevent a pond leak, you want to make sure that you choose an appropriate location for your pond. Ideally, you will want to place the pond in a level area that receives sunlight for at least half of the day.
When choosing a site for your pond, be cognizant of any trees in the vicinity. Keep in mind that tree roots and muskrat holes can also cause the gradual development of a pond leak. Therefore, it is best to construct your pond in an open, unobstructed area. It can be a good idea to remove any trees within close proximity to the pond.
Rips And Tears In Pond Liners
If you have a pond with a liner, any kind of rip or tear in the liner can also cause a leak. Proper maintenance and regular care is crucial to keep the liner healthy and prevent any kind of corrosion, which can cause decay and subsequently tears. Always make sure your pond water is clean, clear, and well filtered as this helps to prevent bacterial build-up that can damage liners.
In the case of a pond leak, if you suspect a tear in the pond liner might be the culprit, you first need to find the leak. Inspect the area surrounding the pond. If you notice any damp patches or the growth of water-loving plants, such as cattails, this can be a good clue to the location of the pond leak. Also pay attention to where water loss tappers (if it does), as water loss tends to stop right below the rip or tear. Once you have located the rip in the liner, you can go about repairing it.
If you are suffering from repeated or recurring leaks it can be a good idea to add another pond liner. The most effective pond liners tend to be made from EPDM, such as a PondPro liner. These liners are incredibly durable and are 100% waterproof immediately upon application. Furthermore they have an incredibly long lifespan— you won’t need to worry about recoating your pond every year. In fact, one coat of EPDM can last up to fifty years and PondPro is guaranteed with an unconditional five-year warranty.
