Q. What is the best liner for ponds?

Answer : Whilst there are many types of Pond Liners, the three of most used pond liner materials worldwide are EPDM (rubber) , HDPE (thick plastic), and PVC (thinner plastic). In our 35 years of experience, we believe EPDM (rubber) pond liners are the best. There may be different opinions and views on this matter, but for someone who have handled and used this material, we can vouch for the stretchability, durability, reliability, and quality of EPDM rubber, over any other pond liner material. The Firestone EPDM rubber liners in our range are backed by 20 years of warranty and are rated the best in the world for pond liners.  

Q. What can I use instead of a pond liner?

Answer : Beware of cheaper alternatives as they seldom last long. Remember, the pond is a 100% outdoor aspect, and it is subject to all the harsh conditions, be it sun, wind, rain, water pressure and sinking of land, you need to make sure that the liner is usually the only line of defence between the land and the water. Unlike EPDM rubber, no other liners have the capability to stretch when required. The cheaper non-EPDM varieties just give away either by tearing away or withering away. All it takes is one small tear and all your hard work on your beautiful pond is at jeopardy.

Q. How much does it cost to put a EPDM liner in a pond?

Answer : This depends on the size of the pond you are planning to build. It approximately costs $25 - $30 per square meter. However, this cost will reduce based on the size of the pond. At Rock Around The Block we understand this and make sure that we take every effort to maintain the pricing and pass on the savings our customers. There are instances where even our suppliers increased the price, we held to the old price, so that our customers safe from sudden price rise. So when you are buying Pond Liners from Rock Around The Block you can be sure of the price.

Q. Does Pond liner hold water?

Answer : Absolutely yes, and that’s one of its primary job. Aside water it also will retain the mud and sediments in your pond thus preserving the natural eco system of your pond. This is very critical as the plant and fish will rely on this very eco system for it to thrive in a healthy manner.

Q. Does a pond liner need underlay?

Answer : The answer is usually a yes. Although there are many pond liner that are installed without an underlay, we highly recommend that you do. Primary reason being there are tiny stones, especially the ones that have sharp corners, may be a threat to the integrity of the rubber pond liner over a period of time. The underlay acts as a shock absorber that smoothens the hard surfaces and provides a better and even surface for the pond liner. This enhances the life of the EPDM pond liner by many times. Sometime, depending on your pond structure and surface finish, we also recommend installing a layer of underlay over the pond liner. This will again protect your pond liner from hard surfaces such as your decorative or weight bearing rocks and stones.

Q. How much sand do I need to line a pond?

Answer : The best practice is to spread 2.5 to 3.5cms of fine or soft builders sand, evenly over the rubber liner. Alternatively a layer of underlay can also be installed over the liner. For maximum protection a layer of underlay over the sand layer is considered best. This will allow full protection for the rubber liner from any sharp objects or hard materials from direct contact.

Q. How thick of a pond liner do I need?

Answer : The most popular choice among pond experts are the 1.02mm thick EPDM rubber liner. The thickness is crucial because the liner needs to be flexible and durable at the same time as it needs to be shape itself as per the pond structure. Whilst thicker material possess high durability they may be very difficult when laying large ponds or pond with heavy curves. If the liner is not laid  or aligned fully to the ground it may cause undesirable stress on the liner which may lead to issues with its full performance. Hence choosing the right thickness is very crucial. In or experience, 1.02mm has been excellent in both large and small pond setups.

Q. Can you walk on pond liners?

Answer : It is quite safe to walk on the liner, but beware of sharp objects under the liner. The addition of underlay eliminates any thread of bottom rocks damaging the liner. Be careful not to drag any objects across, as this may damage the liner permanently.

Q. What do you put at the bottom of a pond?

Answer : Rocks, basalt or gravel helps stabilise the liner and also gives a natural look to your pond. However make sure that when you place large rocks, there are no sharp surfaces that could damage the liner. Make sure the stones and fixtures have smooth texture.