How to Build a Waterfall - Part 1

[@sirmixalot135678]

I couldn't believe nobody "liked" this video... very educational... I among many appreciate your videos

[@ThePondDigger]

We did install underlayment on the pond walls and floor. On occasion we don't use underlayment on streams but we always use underlayment below and above liner when installing large boulders.

[@romagjack]

Incredible video. Probably the most professional instructional and artistic video on youtube! Can't wait for part 2. Great Quality

[@pastapill]

Thanks so much for posting this video! I had gotten discouraged that I couldn't place the rocks fast enough because I had to change them, look for small filler rocks, etc. But, you've taught me that it's OK - it just takes time. I feel so much better. Looking forward now to the process & finishing. Thanks again.

[@ThePondDigger]

For sure! There are actually preformed waterfalls you can add to your preform. That is likely the easiest solution for you but you could certainly build a waterfall out of liner and natural stone! Sounds like a potential video!!!

[@DianaMB10]

I'm sick of people who say you can't do this type of stuff by yourself or affordably thanks for the great advice !

[@ThePondDigger]

Great to hear we have inspired you! If bears are prevalent in your area and you are backed up to the woods there is a strong possibility you could find a bear bathing under your waterfall. That being said the bears aren't going to be destructive because they want to tear apart the falls! The simple fact that a bear can weigh several hundred pounds is your concern. Be sure your rock work is done well! Once the feature is complete and running smooth you may consider adding some concrete if needed.

[@Arteolike]

True that's true, the costumer is always right! Oh and awesome job on the waterfalls, still like the stacking done inside the pond, Awesome!

[@ThePondDigger]

@pastapill Glad to hear our waterfall construction video made a difference for you. That's what it's all about! Take you time, there's no rush! The waterfall is the major focal point of your water feature so give it a major effort to set it off and make it amazing!

[@ThePondDigger]

@jayb941 There is a seam tape that you can use to connect your pond liner together. Be sure to use the liner tape primer for optimal performance.

[@ThePondDigger]

The black pebble in the bottom of the pond is a great look when complete. The dark color helps the bottom of the pond disappear and gives great contrast to the fish. The rock in the pond takes on a green tone once the eco-system becomes established so the black pebble matches nicely. We don't use slate in all our waterfalls however a large percentage of people prefer the look of slate in their waterfall so that is why we choose to highlight it in this video. No rain in LA, I was reading emails.

[@ThePondDigger]

We always use underlayment on under the pond liner. On small waterfalls and streams in good soil conditions it isn't mandatory. It's the pressure and weight of all the water in the pond that make it so important in the pond to have the underlayment below liner to protect. In many cases we use underlayment under the liner and ON TOP of the liner for added protection. Happy Pondering.

[@ThePondDigger]

Yes it is possible to have a successful pond without underlayment. It really depends on your soil and the surrounding landscape. We use the fabric under the main body of the pond always because of the extreme weight of the water. On waterfalls and streams depending on the size of the materials we are using we occasionally won't use the fabric.

[@peggyzum]

Thank you! thank you! I've finally found what I've been looking for! (and you've only been up a few weeks!) One thing I hope you add/mention is how the water (pump) works with regard to pipe placement.

[@missnichole702]

“ThePondDigger” looks like a good catch ladies. He's hard working, good with his hands and most importantly; comprehends fluid dynamics. Didn't notice a ring but maybe he takes it off while working with “character stones” and such.

[@ThePondDigger]

@alks1123 Yes you can certainly keep koi in aquariums indoors. The thing is koi look best when you are viewing them from above. Another thing to consider is, each koi should have a couple of hundred gallons of water! So plan on a BIG AQUARIUM!

[@blkstone8071]

Love your vids man, thanks to you I've installed my mini oasis the Right way!

[@ThePondDigger]

You're very welcome. Thanks for the feedback!

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks for chiming in mrwaterscaper. This water feature had some extensive filtration, external plumbing and some expensive rock for the flatwork and bridge. This project came in around 23k.

[@adairsr53]

I would like to see what your waterfall box looks like before you've added the liner.Enjoyed your video it's very helpful,thanxs much

[@ThePondDigger]

@thefunme1 Thanks for the feedback Dawn! YOU CAN DO IT!

[@ThePondDigger]

@notthedevilwoman Yes.....Sorry for the delay. We need to get on this. I promise sooon!

[@petco]

Great instructional video. Very Helpful "ThePondDigger"!

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks!

[@ThePondDigger]

@Frenzy11297 Many ponds are built with concrete. It's not my preferred method of pond construction but done right it can be a long term joy. Building your pond from concrete will take a bit more time to build and you will need to cure the concrete carefully to make the water safe for your fish. Best of luck to you young man!

[@ThePondDigger]

Yes, we are really happy with the rock work in the pond as well. I have a great team of pond builders. The Pond Digger

[@ThePondDigger]

Yes this style swim pond construction is very popular in Europe.

[@pondguru]

Great video again ! One of these days I will have to get round to doing instructional vids of some of the techniques that I use to build ponds, waterfalls, streams etc. Most of my methods are different but utilise the same common principles to achieve the feature. Keep up the great work.

[@iluvpie1223]

I don't think i'm going to be building a water fall anytime soon . but this video is sure entertaining and intersting !! 5/5

[@Castella1000]

man ...you good at this and you serious and pro ...I like all the videos you have...my project is a a bit larger...still under plans....but my outer measure is like 50x90 and a second pond 4 feet abow the main with a waterfall 5 feet up in background and the water spilling down to main pond... ....its a big project ..I got tons of good intel from the videos you posted ...Thanks alot for it ...Love from Sweden

[@ThePondDigger]

@AidanM1990 Thanks for the comment! YOU ROCK!

[@shangreer]

Great video. Sucks Part 2 is not up...finishing up my pond and waterfall next week...would be great to see how you finished this one.

[@ThePondDigger]

There's a lot to consider when building a pond where you'll be swimming. Consider large bog filtration and UV filtration on top of your other plans for filtration. Heavy aeration, easy access via large boulders or dock. No submersible pumps! Use external pumps to remove the electricity from the water. Using low voltage lighting is fine but you don't want a 110 volt pump to short out while swimming.

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks for the comment and the rating! I live for this! The Pond Digger

[@ThePondDigger]

@sirmixalot135678 Sometimes we use one giant piece of liner and other times we will use a second liner just for the waterfall. If liners overlap vertically (like up a set of stairs) by 6" to 12" then you don't have to seam the liners together.

[@NicenEasyuk]

I would happily chillout in that pond. Some sun, beer and a bbq. lylo ^^

[@ThePondDigger]

@fuzzymonkey79 I need more info.... How big is the bottom pond? How big do you want the top pond? And How wide is the waterfall spillway?

[@nbadhorse]

Just watched another video about building a pond with a water fall. It was okay, but when it was finished it looked like exactly what it was; a man made pond and water fall. I like the ones you are doing. It looks much more natural.

[@stretchy1968]

Great videos, thanks a bunch for posting! We're considering constructing a swimming pond in 2014 - other than upsizing our pump and filtration system to accommodate a larger volume of water, is there anything else we should be considering?

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks for checking in on me PondGURU. I'm pleased that you take time out to watch our videos. I'd love the opportunity to build a waterfall with you one day. Especially one of your signature waterfalls with water flowing out of the arched rock work. The Pond Digger

[@adamemon9764]

great job guys looks awesome I'm going to have a bash in my garden hope it turns out OK

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks for watching!

[@ThePondDigger]

@AznAveDaMan We get our stone from local rock yards and rock quarries close by our projects.

[@83yomomma]

Your vids are calming

[@ThePondDigger]

+George Perez I think our koi videos are the most relaxing videos. So glad we are keeping your blood pressure low with our videos! Thanks for watching!

[@smcgregor72]

awesome vid bro,u r a true pro,i learnned loads from this

[@ThePondDigger]

@sirmixalot135678 Thank you for your feedback and support!

[@RonnieMinh]

You guys are awesome, thanks! What kind of foam are you using?

[@toddnaplestileguy]

You work heavy n light with drift Your gifted.

[@bambiturner8729]

I love your videos. I never see any videos starting at how much dirt or the construction of under the liner. Is there any way to make a video with that information. I have a waterfall dirt pile I'm working with now but kinda stuck on constructing the steps or layers. I have the large boulders in place to form the wall if you will.

[@myswtsins]

Your videos are great & very helpful! When will we see part 2 & the finished product?

[@gumper5242]

Great Job . You guys do amazing work ! Were you able to move all of those Rocks by hand with just one or two people ? When I do mine I won't have access to any machinery just muscle. I did get a great tip from one of you other videos though. I plan on useing a blanket or underlay to help lift the larger Rocks.

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@GndmMkv]

one person hated ur videos and thats not me ur vids helped me and ya my kois swim happliey

[@ThePondDigger]

@verachion Yeah, I'm feeling lame right now because we have not uploaded Pt. 2 yet! My bad..........I'll take that hit. We deserve it.

[@IKINGHORSE]

Great videos. They all helped a lot. BTW: Pond Digger Drinking Game: Watch all of the videos and every time he says "Character Boulder" or "Character Stone" take a shot.

[@pondguru]

Yeah, that would be great. If I ever come over to the U.S. I promise I'll pay you a visit and hang out on a job with you.

[@ThePondDigger]

@GypsyKing7 Ya we need to take the time to get part2 up. I apologize for the delay. We have been swamped this season.

[@Triggerman2505]

Great video, Not sure if I missed it but what is the black plastic box called at the very inlet (top of the waterfall where water comes out). Is that needed, or can I just have water coming out of plastic pipe under a boulder and down the rocks? My waterfall will fall into a fibreglass swimming pool...thank you very much in advance for any wise suggestions.

[@bagsga9454]

Love this look! We get more rain here than you do in CA. How would you prevent dirt from running down the hill above and getting into the pond?

[@ThePondDigger]

There are retaining walls, yard drains and has been planted well. That was a great question!

[@anjanmajumdar4045]

great ideas learning a lot!!

[@ThePondDigger]

+Anjan Majumdar Thanks for watching!

[@bordens47]

I have 35ft across and 25ft high with a 50 degree hill in my backyard I want to use as a nice pondless waterfall, about what kinda cost in material should I be ready for? I was at least 4500gph pump maybe bigger if needed.

[@binhto8387]

thank for your information. I find your video very interesting. Could you please give my detailed information about the height of your waterfall, the distance between the top point and the falling point? What about the optimal height of a water fall for a small pond (3m x 1.5m)? 1m? Thanks for your help.

[@TheBoaConstrictor95]

@ThePondDigger Well basically, I want to build a turtle pond. It isn't going to be very big, though. I can really explain the design, but basically I just need a good filtration system & a small but nice waterfall. My budget is pretty high. I live in Saudi Arabia so I'll have to order the supplies. What would be the best filtration system to buy?

[@timpytel88]

How did you stabilize the slope under the liner? I have a sloped back yard with a vertical dirt bank that I want to build a waterfall feature but I don't want the soil to erode under the liner.

[@Marinecreature]

My question too. I wonder what this would be like in five, ten years time. I would want to build a solid foundation under that lot.

[@sirmixalot135678]

I'm curious do u lay out a second liner for the waterfall and if so how or is it all just 1 huge liner... my dads is small and the 1 I hope 2 do is going 2 be huge

[@ThePondDigger]

@sirmixalot135678 Thanks for the comment!

[@SterlingScreencasts]

Thanks for the informative video. I don't see you using a liner underlayment? Is that just 45mm EPDM liner on sand and does that mean you think underlayment is not necessary? Thanks!

[@Arteolike]

Awesome! Got some info on how to start building mine, but any information on how to install a stream? P.S. LOVE the way the rock is stacked in the pond looks so good! 5 Stars

[@lembeck4010]

First off I want to say great job on explaining the whole process and taking the time to explain the little tips... you have great insight and communication skills!! Now for my questions: I have a six foot fence that will be behind my waterfall - similar to what you have...Will l still need to build a retaining wall rather than pile dirt up against fence if I have no worries about dirt on my fence? I guess the problem there is I need to get behind waterfall, so how much room should I leave between fence and waterfall? If you wind up with too much liner or underlayment, would you ever want to cut it, or just better to fold under? I live in Minnesota so my waterfall will be 3 seasons.. anything I should consider up front in terms of which equipment I buy etc. etc...? My view from the house faces the fence - should I angle the waterfall slightly which I think is what you suggested to add character, or, should I come straight on? If I am limited by space, is it ok to have waterfall dump into small pool and then have a stream take a "hard right" to a bigger pool? Thanks again, Mike

[@ThePondDigger]

Michael Lembeck Great questions Michael. I do recommend having some sort of retaining work on the back of the waterfall when ever possible. Since we are in So Cal with smaller properties we are forced to retain. Occasionally we will have a sloping berm behind the waterfall. We just leave enough room for maintenance and plantings. You will be cutting excess liner and underlayment. How much will depend on your edge treatment. Minnesota! I have a great pond building buddy in MN that lives in Faribault. How close are you to Faribault? You want to consider using the best equipment you can afford that allow for ease of maintenance and then do your plumbing accordingly for winterizing!!! You know I'm liking Helix Life Support!! :) You're definitely catching on!!! I would turn the waterfall at a slight angle for sure!! As far as the pool at the base of the waterfall and the hard right turn……Yes I would do it that way here in Southern California. Something to consider in MN is that small pool will certainly freeze solid. Not sure exactly if thats gonna be a problem. I'll have to ask my MN buddy his opinion. Thanks for the great questions!

[@lembeck4010]

Thanks!! I am about 40 miles from Faribault in Bloomington about a mile from the Mall of America. I think it was one of your photos that I want to replicate - from waterfall, it spreads a bit to the left and spreads a lot to the right - would work great for my space.. you know the photo? Should the skimmer always be perpendicular to the waterfall? Or, should it be the farthest away from the waterfall - I have not gotten to the part where you show the how the water gets circulated back to the waterfall. Thanks again! You are the waterfall pond man!! Mike

[@adurpina]

amazing video*such wonderful..

[@fuzzymonkey79]

@ThePondDigger How would i include another pond on top of it that the water go into the waterfall and then in to another pond and if so what pump should i use ?

[@ThePondDigger]

@bordens47 Hey there, You could easily spend 2,500.00 to 4,000.00 on your equipment for this project depending on the quality of components, number of underwater lights, and other accessories. Where are you located? We are hosting a Waterfall Construction Seminar at our place here in California in just a couple weeks.

[@VIDEONEWS100]

Eine seltene Gabe zu sehen - die Natur als hohe Kunst

[@ThePondDigger]

+VIDEONEWS100 Thank you for the wonderful comment.

[@ThePondDigger]

@baykeesie How is the project coming along?

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks!

[@ThePondDigger]

The waterfall in this video is approximately 2 to 2 1/2 feet above water level. I would say 1m is the tallest I would suggest on the pond size you are looking to build. Shorter would make more sense.

[@omarcarranza8973]

Are you in California???? Love your videos

[@ThePondDigger]

I nice size pond to get into will cost you between 8 to 10k for professional installation.

[@yikeebear]

hi there. i would just like to ask, how do you call that black lining you used in this video? does it come in various thickness? thank you

[@ThePondDigger]

@yikeebear The liner we used on the water fall was a bit larger than we normally use. Because of the large elevated planter behind the pond and waterfall area I wanted to keep the soil from seeping into the pond when the planter was waterer. Typically on a smaller waterfall like this we would use a 10' wide liner and long enough to overlap into the pond by 6" to 12". It does come in different thickness but the standard used in the pond world is 45 mil.

[@DeadEyeDave]

Reviews of folded liners always say there are weak spots which leak where the liner was folded for shipping. What liner brand/material/thickness do you recommend?

[@Gojira5400]

It would be awesome to have this in a house.

[@Arteolike]

Do you know were i can get nice angular rocks here in Sacramento Ca for like $75.00/ ton? Like are there any rock yards that you really like?

[@benjaminanthony5201]

Great video

[@Arteolike]

sure will, but i got a question, why use black pebbles in the bottom? Wouldn't a pebble that complements the rocks nicely like a grayish, pink, and white be much more appealing? Oh well your the expert, and i would never think of using slate in the waterfall, i always thought that's why they don't look natural? Oh and you replied quickly, no work? Is it raining in LA, cause it sure in here in Sacramento.

[@Arteolike]

Hooray for HD! The one good thing You-Tube has done since.... We actually its the only good upgrade.

[@melissadaniels6365]

I love your videos and would love to take on a waterfall project in my backyard. I don't have a lot of money for the rock and I have found the large character boulders are outrageously expensive at local landscaping businesses. I would like to scavenge for some of those bigger pieces but I live in Illinois where the land is pretty flat and construction sites really don't have anything I can scavenge. Do you have any suggestions on where to find large boulderlike stones?

[@ThePondDigger]

I don't know the area in IL very well, although I have put in some pond construction hours in your area. Where there is a will, there is a way. Keep pushing and find some local resources.

[@ThePondDigger]

Thank you!!!

[@jmbouma1]

hi, beautiful pond project. how important is it to use the black plastic reservoir at the start or top of the waterfall. Can one use the pipe from the pump or does this not work as well? thanks!

[@ThePondDigger]

The plastic reservoirs provide quick & easy maintenance as well as a large biofilter in a compact spot. We are uploading a Frog Pond Video this week with NO filter or pumps! It may give you some new perspective. Stay tuned and thanks for watching!

[@jmbouma1]

ThePondDigger does that mean the only filter is in the plastic waterfall reservoir? THere is not one in the bottom of the pond? Is there an intake? If so, is there a filter/pump in there? I have a 500 gal pond and used a pond master submersible pump, I also have/had a waterfall, but it all looks bad. I want to redo it after looking at yours! My pump broke so am looking to buy the proper new one! thanks so much…your work is amazing!!

[@ThePondDigger]

You are correct. The skimmer in the pond is the intake where the pump is installed and the reservoir at the top is the filter.

[@ThePondDigger]

THANK YOU!! I hope you're learning from our videos too! That is our goal!

[@petergeanacopulos5327]

I wish I had watched your videos when we first put my parents koi pond together. Trying to rebuild right now using existing pond. But it's still attached to the filters so i can't pull up the whole liner making it a bit difficult. These videos are great, wish i had the money to hire a company to come in and do this right. It doesn't look super professional but good enough for homemade

[@ogspykid]

would love some help on that ..a video good Idea

[@ThePondDigger]

THankS!!!

[@bichin57]

We have a waterfall that causes lots of problem to keep it clean. What would be the best idea to get reed of algae that builds up in side the pond .Thankyou.

[@ThePondDigger]

+Ilia B Filtration is your best long term success plan.

[@ronbieser2356]

I dug my pond hole last year but was unable to complete because of the weather. The problem I am facing is the soil is very loose and difficult to make shelves that are solid.Any suggestions?

[@adrienneflorence6033]

What about overflow how do you or did you handle that?

[@ThePondDigger]

Adrienne Florence We didn't cover overflow in this video but it can be easily established in the skimmer box

[@sirmixalot135678]

Thx for the info

[@ethanlim6999]

Do you use anything to keep the rocks together in and outside of the pond?

[@ThePondDigger]

We use expanding waterfall foam to pond together our dry stack rock work.

[@Webuildwaterfalls]

we use a secret waterproof mortar! Take a look at some expanding foam after a few years. Steve...www.waterfallfantasies.com

[@petegeanacopulos9730]

do u work out of New England by chance? Need help building my parents waterfall. Had it done in 2014, Guy that did it originally, did a shitty job and we ended up with a 4 inch waterwall. Any advice???

[@TrinidadSupercars]

thanks it relly help full

[@ThePondDigger]

@TheBoaConstrictor95 I'd love to help you with the life support design for your pond. I will need to understand your goals and expectations of the pond and your budget in order to guide you along the way.

[@ThePondDigger]

@sirmixalot135678 There must have been a glitch with KZbin on the like counter. Wish I could control a hundred likes overnight. :) We just work hard to put out content that pond lovers will genuinely like and then we sit back and wait. Thanks for your support.

[@benjaminmassie2978]

what type of fom do you use between rocks?

[@ThePondDigger]

It is an expanding landscape foam. Look for it called Waterfall Foam at your local pond shop.