How to Plan a Garden Pond
There's nothing quite like reflecting upon the tranquil surface of a garden pond to ease away the day's tensions. To get the most from your pond, consider a number of important factors before installation and you will enjoy its beauty for many years. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Contact your local building code enforcer. Before you get started, you may need to show your design to the regulation board and get a permit. There may also be restrictions of depth and distance from the property line.
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Put safety first. The biggest concern is the welfare of small children who can drown in even shallow water very quickly. Plan to put your garden pond in a fenced area or enclosed courtyard. Consider designing it to allow for a shelf within the pond, at least a foot high to help assist with an easy exit.
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Select a level site for your pond that has the most direct route to electrical access. Plan to install your wiring in buried conduit to prevent shock hazards from running an above ground wire. A depth of 6 inches should be enough.
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Allow a distance between your proposed pond and overhanging trees to reduce leaf accumulation. Call your utility servers to mark the ground where gas lines, cables or sewer pipes run. Choose a clear spot to dig.
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Select the materials to construct your pond. There are numerous options, ranging from pre-formed pond kits, requiring only installation, to selecting raw materials, stones, pumps or masonry and making it a do-it-yourself project. Check with pool retailers and lumberyards to find the best option for you. Make sure you understand the process if you plan to make it a weekend project.
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Light up the night with accent lighting that will allow you to enjoy the beauty of your pond after dark. You can choose above ground lighting that reflects off the pond's surface or you can choose underwater lights to create a sparkling effect.
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Add in all the elements when determining your price. Take into consideration the excavation costs, site preparation, wiring needs, lighting, mechanical items and surrounding landscaping plans.
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