How to Cement a Fish Pond

Fish ponds can add beauty and value to your landscape.

Fish ponds are a common addition to many backyards. These landscaping features can be as simple or elaborate as you would like, and can be designed to fit your decor and personal style. You can always update your pond by adding more features in the future. Cementing the pond helps promote its longevity and reduces the chance of weeds or roots taking over your water feature.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• Paint or stakes
• Shovel
• Polythene liner
• Utility knife
• Flat stones
• Chicken wire
• Bags of cement
• Trowel or wood

Instructions

1. Measure the area for your pond. You can make your pond any size or shape you would like, however a backyard cement pond that is greater than 16 feet in diameter at its widest point requires special maintenance and cleaning. Mark the perimeter of your pond with paint or stakes.

2. Dig a trench around your marked area. Stay to the outside of your markers and follow the perimeter of your pond. The trench should be about 18 inches wide and level around the entire pond. This will create a shelf at the edge of your pond.

3. Position yourself at the interior edge of the shelf and begin digging your pond towards the center. Create a gradual slope inwards. The recommended depth for the center of your pond in 2.5-feet. The sides do not need to be completely even, but the slopes should be gentle in order for the concrete to adhere properly.

4. Unroll the polythene liner and place it in your pond. Cover the entire area, including the flat shelf, and extend past the edge by 6 inches. In the event you need to use more than one piece of polythene, make sure the seams overlap at least 6 inches. Place a few flat stones along the shelf on top of the liner to hold it in place.

5. Lay chicken wire over the liner taking care not to puncture it. Mix a batch of cement by following the manufacturer's instructions until it has the consistency of pancake batter. Place a small amount of cement in the middle of the pond on top of the chicken wire and smooth it out with a trowel or piece of wood. Continue working outward towards the shelf until the entire pond is covered with 2-inch-thick cement. The cement can also be used to permanently secure decorative stones along the shelf.

6. Allow the cement to fully cure. Curing time will vary depending on weather conditions. Use an extra piece of liner or an old sheet to displace the water as it flows into the pond, especially if you are using a garden hose. This will break up the stream and prevent it from marking the concrete.

Tips & Warnings

• Check with the utility company before you dig to make sure you are not near any power lines or pipes. Let your pond sit for a week then drain and fill your pond several times to help remove chemicals. Test your water with a pH kit before adding your fish to ensure the levels are safe.

References

• Build Eazy: How to Construct a Simple Garden Pond
• Build a Pond: How to Build a Cement Fish Pond