Install A Preformed Pond in 11 Steps

Here I show you how to install a preformed pond in 11 easy steps just to prove that this is an easy project. I installed this in one day, easy!
This type of preformed pond is undoubtedly the simplest and most foolproof of all, as the “precast” or preformed pond shell guarantees instant results. The designs available and materials used to manufacture the preformed pond shell will differ in various areas, but the principles involved in sinking one of these ponds remain the same.
Since most are manufactured in irregular shapes, preformed pond shells are commonly used to create informal ponds. The secret of making them appear natural is to disguise obviously man-made finishes, and to hide the edges.
The precast fiber cement pond featured here has a kidney shape and is approximately 270 mm (10 ½ in) deep, with a flat, level base. The reconstituted stone paving slabs, which look less contrived than most other materials, cover an area of 1.2 m² (13 sq ft).

Step 3 – Level Base

When excavation is complete, make sure that the base of the hole is absolutely level and that there are no stones or undulations which will prevent the shell from sitting firmly on the ground. If the earth is very stony, you can lay a shallow bed of sand (about 20 mm (¾ in) is more than adequate) over the top to cushion the weight of the pond. If this is necessary, you will have to excavate slightly deeper to accommodate the sand.

Placing the pond

Step 4 – Put Shell Into Hole

Place the shell in the hole and use a spirit level to check that it is straight and properly aligned. You may need to remove the shell and add or scrape a little soil away to make it even.

Step 5 – Place Slabs

The surround will sit on the lip of the pond, which should now be a little below the original ground level. Place the slabs around the pond and mark their approximate position. Remove grass and soil to a depth of about 65 mm (2½ in) to accommodate the slabs.

Step 6 – Backfill

Use some of the excavated soil to backfill the gap between the sides of the shell and the hole. Compact this area and the newly dug section around the perimeter of the pond lf the pond has molded shelves for plants, take care to backfill under these areas properly. Do not worry if the interior of the pond is soiled, this is one occasion when you do not want it to look pristine.

Paving the surround

Step 7 – Put Clean Sand Around Edge

Deposit a layer of clean building or river sand around the excavated and compacted edge of the pond. This should be approximately 25 mm (1in) thick once it has been compacted.

Step 8 – Smooth Sand

Smooth the sand with a straight-edged piece of wood. For drainage it is prudent to allow the top of the paved surface to slope very slightly away from the edge of the pond.

Step 9 – Lay Slabs

Lay the paving slabs on the sand without mortar. Press them firmly into place and make use of a spirit level to check that the surface of the edging as a whole is flat.

Step 10 – Fill Gaps

Fill all gaps between the slabs with soil and plant with a ground cover which will thrive in moist conditions. Pebbles pushed between the slabs can also look attractive.

Finishing Off

Step 11 – Fill With Clean Water

Make sure the interior of the pond is clean before filling it with water and stocking with a selection of water lilies, aquatic plants and fish.

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