How to Build a Large Waterfall & Pond

Adding a waterfall and pond to a home's landscape will create an attractive design that you can enjoy for years to come. Waterfalls not only look and sound beautiful, but they can also attract small birds and wildlife. Waterfalls and ponds can also add value to your home. You can install a waterfall and pond in almost any landscape area. While building a pond and waterfall may sound intimidating, anyone with the proper tools can complete the job.

Things You'll Need

• Shovel
• Rocks
• Pond liner
• Pond pump

Instructions

1. Visit your local building inspector to obtain any necessary building permits before beginning the project. Call the local gas and power utilities to learn about any buried lines before you dig. Locate the plumbing and water lines as well to prevent damaging them during installation.

2. Locate an area of your yard to build the pond. Choose an area with a slope if possible for the waterfall effect. Select an area near an electrical outlet if you plan to use an electric water pump for the pond and waterfall.

3. Dig the area to the required depth for your pond using a shovel or backhoe machine. Build a mound for the waterfall using the dirt from the pond by piling it in the desired location. Shape the waterfall mound into sharp descending steps using a shovel. Add more dirt if necessary to the waterfall location to build it to the proper height.

4. Spread a rubber pond liner over the entire pond and waterfall area. Choose a rubber liner large enough so that it exceeds the edges of the pond and waterfall by two or three feet. Use landscaping staples at the edges of the pond liner to keep it secured.

5. Spread small stones and pebbles over the pond liner for a natural look. Choose smooth rocks and pebbles if possible, to avoid damage to the liner.

6. Choose a pond pump specifically designed to create a waterfall effect. Install the pump into the pond area, and cover the base, hose, and electrical cord with small pebbles. Attach the rubber water hose to the pump using the attachments in the pump kit. Route the rubber hose line along the back of the pond to hide it, and cover it with rocks.

7. Stretch the pond pump's hose around the mound of the waterfall, and lay it at the top facing the pond so the water can fall down the mound and gather in the pond. Lay stones and small rocks over the hose to hide it for a more natural appearance.

8. Fill the pond with water, and hook the pump into an electrical outlet to test it. Water should gush down the waterfall area, and gather into the pond. Complete your pond and waterfall by adding flowers, shrubs, and mulch around the area.

Tips & Warnings

• Add fish to the pond to make it appear even more natural.

• Make sure the pump's electrical system is rated for underwater installation.

References

• Reader's Digest: Build a Backyard Waterfall and Stream