How to Install a Water Feature

Adding a pond and fountain to the yard will introduce the soothing sound of trickling water.

Time
Several Weekends
Price Range
$1,000 - $2,500
Difficulty
Moderate to Hard

In this Project you will:

Dig the Hole
Spread the Underlayment and Liner
Position the Pump
Fill the Pond
Complete the Pond
Test the Fountain

Step 1: Dig the Hole

Purchase the water feature and determine the placement of the pond in the yard. Mark out the outline of the pond with landscape paint. Dig a hole wide and deep enough to accommodate the pump and pond.

Step 2: Spread the Underlayment and Liner

Underlayment protects the rubber liner from tears caused by roots and rocks. Spread out a large piece so it covers the bottom and sides of the hole and extends up and out of the pond. Spread a large piece of pond liner so that it covers the underlayment. Temporarily secure both pieces with large rocks.

Step 3: Position the Pump

Set the pump housing into the pond at correct height. Carefully position rocks around the base of the pump to keep it in place. This is also a good time to add other rocks and decorative features to the inside of the pond.

Step 4: Fill the Pond

Fill the pond with water so that the underlayment and liner settle into place. Continue filling until the appropriate level is reached. Attach the pump to a water source.

Step 5: Complete the Pond

Arrange rocks around the edge of the pond to conceal the underlayment and liner. Trim off any excess. Add water plants and other decorative features to complete the pond.