Pre-formed and Flexible Pond Liners
The two different types of pond liners are the flexible liners and pre-formed liners. Keeping your budget in mind will also help in deciding on which
type of liner you would like to start with.
The term pre-formed liner is self explanatory because the mold and shape is all ready to be placed in the
ground. So if you want to start simple, then a pre-formed liner might be better for you. The pre-formed liner shapes usually include built in shelving
which will provide a great spot to hold lattice potted plants.
Whether above ground or below the surface, always make sure that your pre-formed liner has a suitable cushion of
soil and sand underneath the pond bed. Underlayment is highly important in protecting and leveling your
liner. Make sure to test that your
pre-formed pond liner is still level after placing your underlayment. You can do this easily by adding about 6
inches of water to your pre-formed pond liner and then checking to see how the
level has stabilized. If your
pre-formed pond liner starts to settle, then simply add more underlayment to
level it.
Flexible liners take a little more work for set up but give you the choice of size and shape that you desire. The
thicker the liner is the better. You will need some type of cushion underneath your liner to protect it from slits
and punctures. Sand is an economical way to go. You can get more of it for
less. The flexible liners range in all different prices depending on what
quality and thickness that you choose. Just remember that if your liner does acquire a puncture or small tear,
it is repairable. But to avoid the effort of having to drain your pond to fix the tear, make sure that your liner
area is free of possible tree roots and sharp gravel.
In your quest for the perfect liner, you should consider the differences of what type of liner you choose. A polyethylene liner is an inexpensive
choice and is acceptably durable, but in the winter time a high density
polyethylene filter can become hard. A PVC liner is a little more durable than the polyethylene and usually
comes with a 10 year warranty. PVC liner, if exposed to too much sunlight, over time can degrade and develop
leaks. The best quality in flexible liners seems to be the EPDM (ethylene-propylene-diene-monomer) liner. It will cost a little more than the PVC or
polyethylene liner, but is well worth your time and money. It is a very durable flexible pond liner and
most often comes with a 20 year warranty. It is more cold resistant, which keeps it flexible and is UV light
resistant causing less damage. It is available in 45 mil thickness and stretches with earth and climate variations.
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