Adding a waterfall to a backyard pond can take the water feature from simple to spectacular. The sight and sound of cascading water transforms a basic pond into an oasis for relaxation. With some planning and elbow grease, you can create a beautiful pond waterfall right in your own yard.
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Benefits of a Backyard Pond Waterfall
There are many reasons to add a waterfall to your backyard pond:
- Aesthetic appeal – The sight and sound of moving water is relaxing and soothing. A waterfall adds visual interest and can become a gorgeous focal point in your landscape.
- Oxygenation – As water tumbles down rocks and flows over ledges, it picks up oxygen from the air. This helps keep pond water clean and healthy for fish and plants.
- Circulation – Waterfalls help move water around the pond, preventing stagnation and evenly distributing nutrients.
- Natural filtration – As water flows over rocks and gravel, debris and particles get trapped, helping filter the water.
- Attracts wildlife – The sights and sounds of moving water will draw birds, butterflies, frogs and other wildlife to your backyard.
- Increases property value – Waterfalls and backyard ponds add to your home’s aesthetics and can increase property value.
Choosing a Waterfall Type
When planning your backyard pond waterfall, first decide what type you would like:
Sheet Waterfall
This simple waterfall flows down a flat surface. It works well on vertical walls and is easy to install. The water flows thinly and evenly across the surface.
Cascade Waterfall
In a cascade waterfall, the water steps down natural rock ledges or built-in boards. Small pools form at each drop. This creates a mellow, cascading effect.
Spillway Waterfall
A spillway waterfall flows steadily over a lip or straight edge, like a bucket spilling over. The flow can be wide or narrow.
Multi-Tiered Waterfall
For a more dramatic effect, create a waterfall with multiple cascades and drops. This allows the water to flow down in stages.
Sizing and Positioning the Waterfall
Determine where to position the waterfall and how big it should be in proportion to the pond size. Some key factors:
- Pond shape – Consider the pond’s shape and dimensions when deciding where to put the waterfall.
- Viewpoints – Position the waterfall where it will be most visible, often opposite viewing areas like patios.
- Sun exposure – Avoid hot afternoon sun beating directly on the waterfall, which can promote algae growth.
- Electricity – If using a pump, locate the waterfall near an outlet to power the pump.
- Existing landscaping – Use existing slopes and rock formations to create a natural-looking waterfall.
For pond size, a good rule of thumb is the waterfall width should be one-third to one-half the pond diameter. The vertical drop height can vary based on preference, from a few inches for a gentle cascade up to several feet for a more dramatic waterfall.
Selecting the Right Materials
You’ll need the proper materials to build your waterfall and make it waterproof. Recommended materials include:
Pond Liner
Use 45 mil or thicker EPDM rubber or PVC pond liner. The liner must be large enough to line the waterfall and extend into the pond.
Underlayment
Install an underlayment like carpet padding to protect the liner from sharp rocks.
Rocks and Gravel
Use a mix of aesthetic rocks to construct the waterfall structure. Medium river rock and pea gravel help cover the liner and build up falls.
Mortar or Foam
Use mortar or expanding pond foam to secure rocks in the structure and seal leaks. Avoid concrete, which can raise the water pH.
Pump and Plumbing
Choose the right pump size to power the waterfall height and flow rate desired. Use flexible tubing rated for ponds to connect the pump to the waterfall.
| Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Pond liner | Waterproofs waterfall and contains water |
| Underlayment | Protects liner from punctures |
| Rocks and gravel | Constructs waterfall structure and hides liner |
| Mortar or foam | Secures rocks and seals leaks |
| Pump and tubing | Powers waterfall water flow |
Constructing the Waterfall
Follow these key steps to build your waterfall:
Step 1: Plan and Dig
Outline the waterfall area with spray paint or stakes. Dig down at least 1 foot where the waterfall will be positioned. Slope the ground downward to help water flow.
Step 2: Install Underlayment and Liner
Line the waterfall area with underlayment to cushion and protect the pond liner. Drape the liner over the area, allowing plenty of extra length to extend into the pond.
Step 3: Build Up the Foundation
Pile rocks and gravel to create the base layers of the waterfall structure. Start at the bottom and work upwards. Use larger rocks on the bottom for stability.
Step 4: Layer on Details
Add rock ledges, shelves, spillways and other details that give your waterfall character using a mix of rock sizes and shapes.
Step 5: Seal With Mortar or Foam
Use mortar, expanding foam or silicone to seal gaps and secure rocks in the waterfall structure. This prevents leaks. Let dry completely.
Step 6: Test Waterflow and Make Adjustments
Connect the pump and plumbing to the top of the waterfall. Fill the pond and test the waterfall water flow. Make any adjustments to improve coverage and flow.
Step 7: Finish Edging and Conceal Liner
Trim excess liner around the edges. Hide the liner on flat areas using gravel and stones. Add final decorative touches like plants.
Troubleshooting Waterfall Problems
Leaks
Leaks usually stem from gaps between rocks, punctures, or loose liner. Identify the source, drain the pond, and use sealant or patches to fix leaks and test again.
Low Flow
If the waterfall flow is too low, check for clogged plumbing. Also verify the pump size is adequate to power the waterfall height and width desired.
High Flow
Excessive waterfall flow can cause splashing and flooding. Adjust the flow control valve on the pump to reduce flow rate.
Green or Cloudy Water
This is often caused by excessive nutrients and not enough filtration. Improve circulation, clean the filter regularly, and reduce fish feeding to clear up water.
Loud Noise
The splashing and gurgling from waterfalls can get noisy. Use larger rocks, add baffles, or direct water to flow down angled rocks to help diffuse and muffle the sound.
Maintenance Tips
Clean Filters Frequently
Debris will collect in pond filters from the waterfall circulation. Check and rinse filters regularly to maximize water quality.
Clear Algae and Debris
Remove fallen leaves, clear out accumulated debris, and scrub algae off rocks around the waterfall to maintain cleanliness and optimal water flow.
Check for Damage
Inspect the waterfall after storms or freeze/thaw cycles for shifted or cracked rocks. Repair right away to prevent liner damage or leaks.
Trim Nearby Plants
Prune back overgrown plants around the waterfall to prevent leaves and debris from accumulating and clogging the water flow.
Conclusion
Adding a waterfall to your backyard pond takes some planning and hard work, but creates a beautiful focal point to enjoy for years to come. With a little creativity and effort, you can build a cascading waterfall oasis right in your own yard. Pay attention to positioning, sizing, materials, construction steps, and maintenance, and your waterfall will provide the sights and sounds of natural relaxation for your backyard.
