Concrete ponds and liner ponds both have their advantages.

Concrete ponds are more permanent than liner ponds. This can be a real advantage if the pond is designed and built properly but a real nightmare if it is not. The inside contour can be built so the pond has smooth flowing walls leading from the top to the bottom drain. Stone around the edge of the pond can also be concreted in. Many professional pond builders work with the pool industry to install the rebar and gunite.

The disadvantage of a concrete pond is that they cost more to build. This added expense may be off set to some extent when you consider the value a well built pond may add to property value. Most bank appraisers consider a concrete pond similar to a concrete swimming pool, whereas, they consider a liner pond similar to a portable pool which has less value. An additional disadvantage of a concrete pond is that for the first three to five years they tend to have a higher than normal ph. A high ph can be detrimental to fish.  This can easily be overcome by letting the concrete cure then coating the pond surface up to the water line with a rubber base paint or epoxy product such as Pond Armor.

A 45 mil rubber liner pond is not as permanent, which can actually be a benefit. If the pond has some design flaws that you need to change or if you need to remove the pond, a rubber liner is much easier to work with.  A liner pond is also less expensive to build and a liner pond tends to maintain a more neutral ph. The rubber liner creates a very soft surface for the Koi but even when a liner pond is installed properly you will have a number of minor folds in the liner surface. As the pond fills with water most of the folds can be smoothed out. Keeping the amount of folds to a minimum will make it easier to keep the bottom of your pond clean. Once the pond is completely filled with water the remaining folds become barely visible.

The problem of cutting a hole in a liner for the bottom drains, jets, etc. is easily overcome with the proper drains and bulkhead fittings. When installed properly a liner pond can easily be leak free for a lifetime of enjoyment.

Call San Diego Ponds today for your free pond design consultation. 760-420-7127