So, your pond has started leaking, or you think it is. You are standing there watching the water level drop, and you have got that sick feeling because ponds are supposed to hold water, and yours is not doing. And now what? I have been here three times, actually. The first time. I panicked and threw a patch kit at it. The second time, I got angry and ripped everything out. The third time, I actually stopped and thought about it like a grown-up. Took me long enough.
Find the Actual Leak First
Before doing anything, you have to find where it is going. Sounds obvious, but you would be amazed. Fill it right up and then wait and watch. The water will settle somewhere. That somewhere is your problem. Could be a tear. Could be a seam split. Could be the pipework, and honestly, that is a whole different nightmare. I spent two weeks once patching a liner only to realise the leak was in the pump hose. Wanted to cry and almost did.
If you are in East Anglia and this all feels like too much, I am aware that a company called That Pond Guy, which does a lot of Suffolk pond fibreglassing. They handle liners too, but honestly, they specialise in the glass stuff. Might be worth a just call to talk it through. They will not pressure you. At least I do not think they will ever do that, as they are too busy.
Small Tears? Maybe Repair
If it is a small tear, like a few inches, and the liner itself is not completely knackered, then you can just patch it. Get a kit and follow the instructions. Clean the area properly. Like really properly. If there is any slime, the patch may not stick.
Some things to think about:
- How old is the liner? Ten years plus and going brittle? A patch is just delaying things
- Where is the tear? Bottom under gravel? Good luck getting a seal there
- One tear or multiple? One is bad luck. Multiple is the liner telling you it is done
Big Problems? Then Replace
If it is cracking all over, or UV has turned it into stiff plastic that snaps, then in such a case, you must replace it. I know it is a big job. You will swear, and you will hurt your back. You will also question everything. But sometimes you just have to accept it is all over.
The Fibreglass Thought
If you are replacing anyway, maybe think about fibreglass instead of another liner. Costs more upfront. But I did this eight years ago and have not thought about leaks since. Not once. The peace of mind alone is worth it, honestly.
Bottom Line
If it is a small fix, then patch it. But in case your whole liner fails, then replace it. But think about what with. Future you will thank you. Or curse you. Depends what you choose. Good luck. You will need it. We all do.
