How to Seal Pipes for a Pond

Address leaking pond pipes right away to avoid causing additional damage.

Many ponds use pipes to fill, filter or drain the pond. Over time, pond pipes can become damaged which can cause leaks. If your pond pipes start to leak, the area around the pond can become soggy or the pond can become clogged. To avoid these issues, seal the leaking pipes as soon as possible to return the pond back to its original usefulness and cleanliness.

Instructions

1. Dig out the dirt above the pipes to make any necessary repairs. Use a shovel and place the dirt nearby for easy replacement when the task is finished.

2. Send water through the pipes with a garden hose. Note any leaking area. Mark the placement of leaks with colored tape.

3. Unscrew any leaking pipes from the main section of pipe and allow them to dry. Spray a layer of bentonite around the hole in the pipe. Make sure the bentonite surrounds an area of the pipe three times larger than the hole itself. Allow the bentonite to dry for 24 hours.

4. Unscrew each section of pipe. Slide an anti-seep collar onto the end of each pipe section, whether it is currently leaking or note. This will help prevent the pipe from leaking where it joins with other sections of pipe.

5. Replace the pipes and scoop the dirt back on top of the pipes. Stamp down on the dirt to pack it tightly around the pipes. Soak the dirt with a small amount of water to help settle the dirt back over the pipes.

References

• Natural Water Escapes: Pond Leak Repair
• Penn State University: Fixing a Leaking Pond