last updated September 2018
If you’re deciding whether to have a concrete floor or use a preformed pond liner, more often than not it’s a safer option to go with a pond liner. They’re not nearly as expensive as having a concrete floor poured in the pond.
Because making a decision between a concrete floor and a pond liner will be based on several factors, you’ll find the size and shape of the pond you want may narrow the choices you have available.
What you need to know
- If the pond is going to be smaller in size then you only need a pond liner
- Make sure that it’s weatherproof. The liner needs to be durable and puncture resistant
- One of the important factors you’ll need to consider when calculating the total price for a liner is the need to protect the pond liner from what lies underneath. The area where the liner is going to be placed will need preparation which means buying sand and sometimes even carpeting so you properly protect the pond liner. Any sharp objects such as a rocks can puncture the liner
- You don’t have to worry about the liner not matching the environment as most pond liners are made with natural colors. This will provide a natural environment for the fish to swim. During the hottest months, the fish will enjoy settling in at the bottom of the pond where it’s cooler
The only disadvantage of using a pond liner is that they’ll need to be watched. You might have to replace them occasionally and they’ll only have a limited guarantee. However by taking good care of your pond liner and paying attention to good preparation of the site it means it will last much longer. We also recommend using pond underlayment underneath the pond liner for added durability and strength .
Custom Pond Liners
You can have a pond liner custom made, however this is a more costly option.
Using a preformed liner is the cheaper option and comes with quite a few advantages. The only real disadvantage is that you’ll need to build your pond to the same dimensions as the preformed liner.
Flexible Pond Liners
Flexible pond liners are also available. They differ from preformed pond liners as the name suggests ‘more flexible’. They’re used for large ponds. However they are not the same as having a customized pond liner built for you. They are not as sturdy as the preformed type, although they are strong.
Concrete Floor
Best in these 2 situations:
- If you’re planning a large pond that will have some depth, then a concrete floor will be the best choice
- If the pond has an awkward shape and a pond liner will not fit then you might have to choose a concrete floor.
Check out the links below for some recommended pond liners that are flexible to use
Best for small garden ponds
7 x 10ft – suits pond 3 x 6 x 1.5ft
10 x 13ft – suits pond 6 x 9 x 1.5ft
13 x 20 ft – suits pond 9x 16 x 1.5ft
These are 14.5mil thick (.0145 inch or .3683mm)
Firestone 45mil EPDM Rubber Pond Liner 15ft 20ft
- Environmentally and fish friendly
- Strong 45 mil rubber liner
- best pond liner
Firestone Rubber Pre Cut and Boxed Pond Liner, Black, 20-Foot length x 20-Foot Width (45mil thick)
- Flexible for creative designs
- Environmentally and fish friendly
- suits koi and fish ponds
This link will take you to pond liner underlayment at the best prices. It’s well worth the investment of buying underlay for under the liner. It’s adds extra strength, soil stability and protection for garden and fish ponds in the planning and building stages.
