How To Make a Concrete Pond Waterproof? [Step by Step]

If you are looking for effective ways to make a concrete pond waterproof, read this article to know more. 

The concrete pond is made of porous material, and it can absorb water that allows seeping through the pond. Hence, it is essential to waterproof your concrete pond to avoid water leaks. 

Also, concrete ponds add a lively look to your backyard, so, you do not want your pond to look unappealing by not following the required waterproofing methods.

The concrete ponds are mostly square and do not have a smooth surface. You can opt for the below-mentioned methods that are feasible for you to achieve the best results.  

Why Do You Need to Make Concrete Pond Waterproof?

The concrete ponds are prone to water leaks since they may have holes and cracks that are present in the raw construction materials. The damage is caused by water and bacteria and also due to natural erosion.

So, it is crucial to monitor for any repairs since it can cause water leakage in ponds. Apart from evaporation, concrete ponds lose more water and lose their water-holding capability over time.

Also, the concrete ponds can lose up to 3 to 4 inches of water in a week when it is not properly waterproofed. You do not want to spoil the look of your pond by subjecting it to water leaks.

If the water from the pond gets seeped away, it can increase the PH of the pond as an adverse effect. It will cause other chemicals to infiltrate the pond and turn toxic for your fish and other aquatic plants.

Hence, treating your pond to any waterproofing methods is way beyond essential. You can follow the mentioned waterproofing techniques for a hassle-free concrete pond.  

How To Make a Concrete Pond Waterproof?

Let’s learn the below three methods to waterproof your concrete pond. You can follow these methods for your newly constructed pond as well as for your existing pond.

1. Pond liner method
2. Pond Shield epoxy paint method
3. Neopond waterproof sealant method

1. How to Make a Concrete Pond Waterproof Using EPDM Pond Liner?

EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) pond liner is a type of rubber flexible pond liner used in a concrete pond and safe to use underwater. 

You can use these pond liners without worrying about the plants or other aquatic species since they are non-toxic. 

The pond liners are extra durable and simple to install and also can handle high temperatures. It can hold water for a long time and is also resistant to UV rays. 

Also, the pond liners are made of waterproof fabric that is designed to prevent water from penetrating through to the ground. 

By using this pond liner, you never have to worry about leaks in the seams since these liners have a thick texture to provide water resistance. 

Required Items

• Pond liner

Procedure [Step by Step]

1. Prepare

• If you are looking to waterproof your existing concrete pond, allow the pool to dry for 12 hours. 
• Remove the dirt, debris from the pool with a vacuum cleaner. 
• You can add vinegar to the water and clean the side areas of the pool for algae and stains. 
• Now, rinse the pool with a garden hose and allow it to dry completely before waterproofing. 
• If you are waterproofing your new concrete pond, you can skip the above steps. And proceed directly with the below instructions. 

2. Pre-installation

• Ensure the liner length by measuring, so it can easily fit into your concrete pond. 
• Unroll the pond liner to the ground so that it gets softened from the sun’s heat by removing the wrinkles. 

3. Installation

• You can start from one side and roll the liner up to the middle. Then follow the same on the other side until the two rolled edges meet at the middle point. 
• Now, place the liner in the pool by covering the concrete pond. 
• Then slowly fill the pond with water to maintain a smooth surface covering the concrete.
• Cover the extra pond liner with rocks and pavers. 

Precautions

• You can also use a Geotextile underlayment on the ground before using the pond liner for puncture resistance. 

Time

The entire waterproofing process takes a minimum time of 30 minutes. 

The total processing time is around 30 minutes.

Cost

The approximate cost of the required items: 

• Pond liners- $149

The overall cost for this method will be around $150.

2. How to make a concrete pond waterproof Pond Shield epoxy paint?

Pond Shield is an epoxy pond liner that helps you to waterproof your concrete pond effortlessly. It looks more natural than the rubber liners with no creases and folds. 

The pond shield offers water-resistant properties and provides more strength and flexibility in the coating. This waterproof formula is suitable for various climatic environments, from hot to cold temperatures. 

Pond Shield epoxy can stick to the surface it is applied to and help to reduce the cracking and provides protection. It is also specifically designed for underwater usage, and it is non-toxic for plants. 

By using pond shield epoxy paint, you can provide complete waterproof to your concrete pond that can last up to years. 

This method can help you seal your concrete pond perfectly, and you do not want to worry about water leaks anymore. 

 Required Items

• Pond Shield epoxy paint
• Small container
• Paintbrush

Procedure [Step by Step]

1. Prepare the Pond

• If you are looking to waterproof your existing concrete pond, allow the pool to dry for 12 hours. 
• Remove the dirt, debris from the pool with a vacuum cleaner. 
• You can add vinegar to the water and clean the side areas of the pool for algae and stains. 
• Now, rinse the pool with a garden hose and allow it to dry completely before waterproofing. 
• If you are waterproofing your new concrete pond, you can skip the above steps. And proceed directly with the below instructions. 

2. Apply waterproof paint 

• Now, coat the concrete pond with the non-toxic pond shield epoxy paint covering all areas.
• Let the concrete pond dry for 2-3 hours.
• Then apply the second application of the epoxy paint on the concrete pond.

3. Dry

• Once the paint gets completely dried, you can fill the pond with water and check for leaks up to 24-48 hours.
• Now, your concrete pond is waterproofed and ready for use now. 

Precautions

• It is suggested that you store the paint in a cool and dry place. 
• Also, protect the paint from freezing since properly protected paint will last for a long time and ensure water protection for your concrete pond.  

Time

While the application process takes a minimum time of 2 hours, the overall drying process can take up to 48 – 72 hours. 

The total processing time is around 2 to 3 days.

Cost

The approximate cost of the required items: 

• Pond shield epoxy paint – $39
• Paintbrush – $6

The overall cost for this method will be around $45.

3. Waterproof Concrete Pond using Neopond Waterproof Sealant Method

If you are looking for an ideal waterproofing method, you can use neopond waterproof sealant in your concrete pond. 

Neopond sealant is applied on the surface to provide a seamless waterproof membrane. It is also environmentally friendly as it contains no solvents. 

This sealant prevents water ingress and provides resistance against water, salt and harmful chemicals.  

The neopond sealant is easy to apply and acts as the best waterproofing product. It completely seals the water and is also resistant to UV rays. 

Required Items

• Neopond waterproof sealant 
• Paintbrush

Procedure [Step by Step]

1. Preparation

• If you are looking to waterproof your existing concrete pond, allow the pool to dry for 12 hours. 
• Remove the dirt, debris from the pool with a vacuum cleaner. 
• You can add vinegar to the water and clean the side areas of the pool for algae and stains. 
• Now, rinse the pool with a garden hose and allow it to dry completely before waterproofing. 
• If you are waterproofing your new concrete pond, you can skip the above steps. And proceed directly with the below instructions. 

2. Apply Neopond sealant

• Using a paintbrush, give a thin coating of neopond sealant. 
• Cover all the areas of the pond without an inch. 
• Allow the first layer of sealant to dry, and then apply the second layer. 
• Always allow the pond to dry for 4 to 6 hours for each coating. 
• Then give a final coating on the concrete pond using the neopond sealant. 

3. Dry

• After the final coating, let your concrete pond dry thoroughly for 3 to 5 days. 
• Then you can fill it with water and check for leaks by waiting for 24 hours.

Precautions

• Always wear a mask and rubber gloves while performing this method since the sealant spray may cause health hazards when it comes to contact with your skin. 

Time

While the application process takes a minimum time of 2 hours, the overall drying process can take up to 3 to 5 days.

The total processing time is around 5 days.

Cost

The approximate cost of the required items: 

• Neopond waterproof sealant – $99
• Paintbrush – $6

The overall cost for this method will be around $105.

Final Words:

Since concrete ponds are porous in nature, it is more prone to cracks and leaks. So taking proper waterproofing measures can increase the life up to 10-12 years. 

Also, by performing waterproofing methods, you can protect the aquatic organisms and maintain the look of your pond without trouble.