Checklist
Now that you have some idea as to what is involved in building a pond here's a short summary of the things to consider;
- Budget
- Available space
- Raised, ground or split level
- More than just Koi? Wildlife?
- Shape; square, rectangular, kidney, circular…
- Minimum area
- Surface area of at least 3.5m2 (40ft2) to allow good oxygen transfer
- Minimum depth – colder climate requires deeper water
- Koi need at least 1.2m (4ft)
- Other pond fish only need 0.6m (2ft)
- Main structural material
- Block built
- Preformed
- Wood
- Waterproofing
- Fibreglass
- Lined
- Render/pond paint
- Viewing window(s)
- Four sides
- Three sides (not available for ponds using a liner)
- Size
- Cascades/waterfalls/fountains
- Preformed
- Stone
- Metal
- Coping and cladding
- Stone
- Wood
- Filtration System
- Easy to clean
- Hidden from view
- Easy access to power
- Gravity or pump fed
- Pump
- Heater - do your fish need one?
- Skimmer - collects leaves and waste food
- Aerate the water
- Aerated bottom drain
- Venturi
- Shower unit
- Air stones/disks
- Illumination
- Underwater lighting
- Above ground
- Distribute power safely
- RCD
- Trip switches
- Armoured cable
- Landscaping
- Roof
- Pergola
- Paths
- Patio/decking
- Plants/shrubs