An above ground pond can be a beautiful addition to any outdoor space. When choosing materials for an above ground pond, there are several options to consider that can work well. The most common materials used for above ground pond construction are:
- Plastic or fiberglass preformed ponds
- Flexible pond liners
- Concrete
- Stone
- Wood
Each material has its own advantages and considerations when it comes to longevity, maintenance, aesthetics, and cost. Carefully weighing the pros and cons of each option will help you select the right materials for your needs and budget.
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Plastic or Fiberglass Preformed Ponds
Preformed plastic or fiberglass ponds are a popular choice for above ground ponds. These ponds come in a variety of shapes and sizes and are designed specifically for pond use. Fiberglass and plastic ponds have several benefits:
- Easy installation – preformed pond shells allow for quicker, simpler installations compared to building a custom pond.
- Durability – fiberglass and plastic shells are designed to be long-lasting and withstand outdoor temperature changes and UV rays.
- Lower maintenance – molded pond materials generally do not need repairs or repainting like other materials.
- Built-in waterproofing – the pond liner is already incorporated into a preformed shell.
- Affordability – smaller preformed ponds can be a budget-friendly option.
- Aesthetics – molded ponds come in natural shapes and finishes to blend into garden environments.
The main downside of preformed ponds is size limitations. Large preformed ponds can be expensive and difficult to maneuver into place. The largest molded ponds are usually no more than 1000 gallons. Preformed ponds also offer less flexibility in shape and depth customization. But for small to mid-size ponds, fiberglass or plastic pre-molded shells can be a convenient and affordable choice.
Plastic Preformed Ponds
Plastic preformed ponds are often made of polyethylene or polypropylene. Polyethylene ponds are more flexible, allowing for easier positioning, while polypropylene ponds are firmer and hold their shape better. Plastic pond shells are typically less expensive than fiberglass but not quite as strong and durable. However, modern plastic compounds have vastly improved in quality. Plastic preformed ponds can last 10-15 years or more with proper maintenance.
Fiberglass Preformed Ponds
Fiberglass offers more rigidity and strength than plastic preformed ponds. Fiberglass ponds are constructed with a mixture of fiberglass cloth and polyester resin. This makes them impact resistant and able to maintain their shape even when empty. Fiberglass ponds have a life expectancy of 15-20 years or more. While fiberglass ponds have a higher upfront cost than plastic, they require less frequent replacement.
Flexible PVC or EPDM Pond Liners
Flexible pond liners made of PVC or EPDM rubber are another common option for above ground ponds. Liners allow you to custom shape your pond and determine the exact size. The liner gets placed into a hole or frame, trimmed to fit, and then the pond gets filled. Key advantages of flexible liners include:
- Customizable sizing – liners allow you to create any pond dimensions desired.
- Shape versatility – liners can accommodate curved, free-form, or geometric pond shapes.
- Any depth – ponds can be dug as deep or shallow as preferred.
- Easy to install – liners come in lightweight rolls for quick installation.
- Affordability – basic PVC liners start at reasonable costs.
The biggest downside of liners is they are prone to punctures and leaks. Extra care must be taken when installing them to remove sharp objects from the pond floor. Some other considerations include:
- Liner appearance – dark rubber liners can detract from natural pond aesthetics.
- Long-term durability – liners last 10-15 years on average and will eventually need replacing.
- Difficulty with complex shapes – intricate pond shapes make liners tricky to size and install without folds and wrinkles.
Careful installation is key to maximizing liner lifespan. But for cost-effective custom shaped ponds, PVC or EPDM liners remain a popular choice.
PVC Liners
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is the least expensive pond liner option. PVC liners are available in a thickness range of 10 to 30 millimeters. Thicker PVC provides more durability but is harder to manipulate into place during installation. PVC liners tend to become brittle and prone to cracking over time. But they offer an affordable liner solution for simple shaped ponds.
EPDM Liners
EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) rubber is a higher quality pond liner material. It is more flexible, allowing for easier positioning, and has greater tensile strength than PVC. EPDM also has better resistance to temperature extremes and UV rays. High-end EPDM liners can have a life expectancy of 20+ years. EPDM is better suited for complex pond shapes. Though costlier than PVC initially, EPDM offers more long-term value.
Concrete
Poured concrete is a durable and low maintenance option for above ground ponds. Concrete ponds can be shaped with curved edges or geometric lines. Concrete provides a smooth, solid pond wall that holds up well to moisture and resists leakage. Key advantages of concrete ponds include:
- Highly durable and long lasting – properly installed concrete will last 20-30 years or longer.
- Customizable shape and size – concrete can be poured and molded into any pond configuration.
- Structural stability – rigid concrete walls resist soil pressures.
- Minimal maintenance – concrete does not need frequent repainting or repair.
- Natural appearance – concrete can be colored and finished to resemble natural stone.
On the downside, concrete ponds have high upfront installation costs, especially if having a contractor pour them. Other potential disadvantages are:
- Professional installation required – proper concrete work requires experience to avoid cracks and leaks.
- Difficult to alter or expand – once poured, concrete shapes are permanent.
- Weight – concrete is very heavy and makes repositioning difficult.
- Harder to install plumbing – plumbing components must be positioned before pouring.
But with proper planning and installation, a concrete pond can be highly durable and decorative for decades to come. Concrete makes a great material for large, formal pond designs.
Stone
Stone provides a gorgeous natural look for above ground ponds. Granite, limestone, and other rock can be used to construct pond walls. The stone pieces are stacked and mortared in place around a rubber liner or concrete shell. Benefits of stone pond walls:
- Visually appealing – natural stone is beautiful and adds ambiance.
- Blends with landscapes – easily incorporates into rock gardens or natural settings.
- Long lasting – quality stonework can endure 30+ years.
- Good insulator – helps maintain stable water temperatures.
- Veneer option – thin natural stone slabs can be mortared onto concrete for aesthetics.
Stone does have some disadvantages that impact cost and construction:
- Requires masonry expertise – stacking and mortaring stone properly takes skill.
- Heavy materials – large equipment is needed to move and lift rock into place.
- Time consuming installation – laying each stone by hand is labor intensive.
- Sealing required – mortar gaps will need periodic resealing.
- Limits shape options – curved forms are very difficult to achieve.
Stone ponds have unique visual charm but typically end up being one of the more expensive options due to installation factors. Solid stone walls are better suited for smaller, above ground ponds rather than in-ground dig outs.
Wood
Wood can make an attractive and eco-friendly choice for pond walls. A variety of woods can be used including cedar, cypress, oak, and redwood. The naturally insulating properties of wood help maintain optimal water temperatures. Key advantages of wood ponds:
- Warm natural appearance
- Relatively lightweight and easy to work with
- Can incorporate curved edges or other custom shapes
- Simple construction with basic carpentry skills
- Low impact and ecologically sustainable
Wood does have some particular considerations:
- Prone to rotting – wood needs preservative sealing and eventual replacement.
- Can leach tannins – some woods will discolor water.
- Less stable walls – bracing required to prevent collapsing.
- Not as durable as stone or concrete – higher maintenance.
- Difficult for larger ponds – better suited for smaller water features.
With proper construction using thick, treated planks, a wood pond can be an attractive option. Using naturally rot-resistant woods like cedar or redwood can also help prolong its lifespan. Though not the most long-lasting choice, wood offers an eco-friendly pond material to consider.
Table Comparing Pond Materials
| Material | Durability | Ease of Installation | Customization | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic Preformed | Good | High | Low | Low |
| Fiberglass Preformed | Excellent | High | Low | Moderate |
| PVC Liner | Fair | Moderate | High | Low |
| EPDM Liner | Good | Moderate | High | Moderate |
| Concrete | Excellent | Low | Moderate | High |
| Stone | Excellent | Low | Low | High |
| Wood | Fair | Moderate | High | Low |
Key Considerations By Material
When evaluating the best pond material for your needs, keep these key factors in mind:
Plastic or Fiberglass Preformed
- Best for small to medium ponds
- Quick, easy installations
- Limited shape and size options
- Affordable prices, especially for smaller ponds
PVC or EPDM Pond Liners
- Choose liner thickness based on pond size
- Allow excess overlap when estimating liner size
- Carefully prepare and pad liner ground surface
- Can customize pond shape and depth
Concrete
- Best for formal designs and geometric shapes
- Reinforce with rebar and proper aggregate mix
- Allow time for full curing before filling pond
- Consider stamped or stained finishes for aesthetics
Stone
- Granite, quartzite, and limestone have longest durability
- Use thick, irregularly cut stones for a natural look
- Allow wide mortar joints to prevent cracking
- Incorporate boulders and ledge stone for visual appeal
Wood
- Use naturally rot-resistant wood like cedar or redwood
- Allow wood to dry after cutting before installation
- Apply wood preservative sealants regularly
- Brace walls with corner posts and supports
Aesthetic Considerations
Beyond structural factors, the visual appeal of your pond materials is also important. Some guidelines for an attractive above ground pond:
- Blend with environment – Choose materials and finishes compatible with the natural or landscaped area around the pond. Curved edges and asymmetric shapes also help the pond look more organic.
- Incorporate plants – Use native plants and flowers around the pond to visually soften the hardscape surfaces.
- Add decorative stones – Pebble stone, cobbles, or boulders along the pond edge complement most materials while hiding imperfections.
- Use accent lighting – Subtle, down-facing lights set behind plants or small uplights along the pond perimeter offer a dramatic nighttime effect.
- Focus on focal points – A striking statue, fountain, large urn, or water feature provides a visual anchor point for the pond design.
Taking aesthetics into account when selecting pond materials and accessories results in the most natural, integrated finished look.
Conclusion
There are many good options to choose from when creating an above ground garden pond. Preformed plastic or fiberglass ponds provide affordable, low maintenance pre-shaped kits. Flexible PVC and EPDM rubber liners allow for maximum customization of pond size and contours. For more permanent installations, materials like concrete, stone, or wood enable you to construct an ornamental pond integrated seamlessly into the landscape design. Prioritize factors like durability, cost, installation effort, and visual appeal when deciding on the best materials for your needs. With the right combination of sound construction and attractive design, an above ground pond can become a cherished landscape feature to enjoy for years to come.