Which pond liner material will you choose?

14/11/2022

When it comes to lining a pond, there are a variety of materials to choose from. So whether you're just starting to think about lining your pond or you've already dug the hole and started shopping around, be sure to read on for some helpful information! In this post, we'll look at some of the most popular pond lining materials and explore the benefits and drawbacks of each one.

1. What to consider when choosing pond lining materials
2. The pros and cons of PVC pond liners
3. The pros and cons of EPDM pond liners
4. The pros and cons of Butyl rubber pond liners
5. The pros and cons of fibreglass pond liners

What to consider when choosing pond lining materials

When it comes to pond liners, there are a variety of materials to choose from. So before you start shopping around, it's crucial to consider what factors are most important to you. For example, what are your priorities when it comes to pond liners? Are you looking for a pond liner that is durable and long-lasting? Or maybe you're more interested in a pond liner that offers the best value in terms of price or is easy to install and requires minimal maintenance.

No matter your priorities, before you make your final decision, be sure to weigh the pros and cons of each pond lining material and make sure it's the right fit for your needs.

The pros and cons of PVC pond liners

PVC pond liners are a popular pond lining material predominately due to price. They're affordable and easy to install. However, they also have some drawbacks; for example, some PVC pond liners can be toxic to fish and plants and can leach chemicals into the water. Additionally, they aren't as long-lasting and shouldn't be used in cold weather climates, as they can become brittle in cold temperatures. 

The pros and cons of EPDM pond liners

The pros of EPDM pond liners include that they are durable and can last up to 25 years. They have reasonable puncture resistance and are flexible, so they can conform to complex and uneven surfaces, making them a good choice for ponds with fish or other wildlife. 

One drawback to EPDM pond liners is that they are susceptible to tearing. Care needs to be taken during installation, and a high-quality puncture-resistant underlay should always be used. Some EPDM materials can be toxic to fish due to leaching effects – ensure that the manufacturer is reputable and experienced, and try to avoid purchasing from wholesalers, who may have imported cheap materials where the quality cannot be assured.

Overall, EPDM pond liners are a good choice for a durable and long-lasting pond liner if selected from a reputable manufacturer.

The pros and cons of Butyl rubber pond liners

Butyl rubber pond liners are generally the preferred choice amongst high-quality pond installers and are a popular option among pond owners because they offer several benefits. Firstly, they're durable and can last a lifetime without requiring replacement. They also offer great resistance to tears, punctures and UV degradation, making them ideal for ponds with fish or other wildlife. Butyl rubber pond liners are relatively easy to install and are available in stocked sizes for fast delivery. 

There are a few drawbacks to butyl rubber pond liners, however. One is that they can be heavy, making installation more difficult. Finally, Butyl rubber pond liners can be expensive, although this will vary depending on the size and thickness of the liner.

Butyl rubber is an excellent option if you're looking for a durable and long-lasting pond liner. Due to the enhanced lifespan of Butyl pond liners, the additional cost can usually be justified to ensure that you have a long-lasting and trouble-free pond liner. 

The pros and cons of pre-formed fibreglass pond liners

Fibreglass pond liners are a popular pond-lining material. They come in various shapes and sizes, making them a versatile option for ponds of all shapes and sizes. Due to their rigidity, Fibreglass pond liners look neat upon installation and don't have folds which are common when using a flexible material.

However, there are some drawbacks to using fibreglass pond liners. For starters, they can be fragile and prone to cracking. Due to their pre-formed nature, it is also important that the ground is excavated to suit the profile of the liner, which can often be difficult, especially in topsoil or made-up ground. Also, fibreglass pond liners can be pretty expensive and difficult to manoeuvre, making them difficult to install. Finally, if you intend to stock your pond with high-quality fish, then it is best to avoid pre-formed Fibreglass liners as these are often shallow – Koi Carp, for example, should be kept in ponds which are a minimum of 3ft deep. 

Summary

Pond liners come in various materials, each with its own pros and cons. In this post, we looked at four popular pond lining materials - PVC, EPDM, Butyl Rubber and Fibreglass - and explored the benefits and drawbacks of each one. So which pond liner is right for you? That depends on your needs and budget. PVC is a good choice if you're on a tight budget, while EPDM may be the best option if you need a pond liner that's easy to install. Butyl rubber is an excellent option if you're looking for a durable pond liner that will last many years. And finally, fibreglass pond liners may be suitable for your project if you only require a shallow pond and the ground is suitable.

If you are unsure which pond liner material will work best for you, why not give us a call on 01277 653 281, send us a message or click on Live chat and a member of our team will be happy to help!