Pond Construction - Ponds Gone Wrong - Episode 1 - (Part 1)

[@IanMikrut]

More than a decade and these are still the best resource videos for building ponds. Thank you!

[@sandyl2493]

This is a perfect example of exactly what I would NEVER WANT!!

[@tonightwefly]

Im building a pond right now and from watching this video I have learnt allot, thanks allot and subscribed!

[@ThePondDigger]

We clean up the old waterfall units and sell them as used equipment. Believe it or not contractors buy them from me like this all the time! I have a decent used pond filter you might be interested in. It could be a bit spendy to ship. It's a Little Sister with large filter brushes and filter pads. The filter is approx. 20" x 20" x 36" long. It was on a small 8' x 11' koi pond that we enlarged earlier this year.

[@ThePondDigger]

Yes Dietmar is my good friend for many years! He is brilliant. Glad to hear we are helping you with pond!

[@brianabalutzksr2558]

Hi, this is Aunt Cheryl, we have enjoyed your projects & seeing you & the girl's, you work hard & are doing a great job.

[@ThePondDigger]

@dkj1835 Thanks! Glad you saw us on the program!!!! We had a blast doing it!

[@ThePondDigger]

Lets do this Patrick! We are just finishing up a large project in the Mountains and we'd love to come to Riverside and make the magic happen in your yard!

[@ThePondDigger]

The depth of your pond may very well be determined on what you are looking to get out of your pond. Ponds that are designed for aquatic plants can be as shallow as 18", while high end Koi ponds can be as deep as 8 feet! Three foot is a GREAT DEPTH and four is even better! The Pond Digger

[@albewillbuild]

Researching a pond build for a friend. Was watching a previous video you posted and noticed it said "A D. Quistorf Film". Actually worked with him in college before I graduated from Architecture school. SMALL SMALL WORLD!! haha. Really awesome videos by the way. Gonna be the foundation of our small pond build. Thanks a million!

[@brucemcnally3924]

Excellent method of teaching how to do it right, many thanks!

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks Bruce. Follow up with me on Instagram for more pond pro tips. @theponddigger

[@ThePondDigger]

Yes, i still have it. We are getting settled into the new place so I will get that filter measured and weighed to see what shipping will set you back. Talk at you soon.

[@ThePondDigger]

We are just getting settled into our new place. We still have a pile of unpacking to do so sorry for the delay. Hope to see you this summer. Our new place is gonna be worth the visit!

[@Thedogman11111]

I’m digging a pond that in the area is a gargantuan flat rock at anywhere from 8” to 12” deep I’ve not started yet but wanna know what you think

[@ThePondDigger]

A machine or jack hammer will be helpful to get the pond dug out efficiently and quick. You may need to use extra geotextile fabric under the liner to protect it from the rock

[@bwanaugonjwa2445]

This is awesome. I am working to instal a pond in my backyard and this helped to know what to look out for.

[@ThePondDigger]

@afwoods That's what we do! Our pleasure! Thanks for the post!

[@ThePondDigger]

I couldn't agree with you more mrwaterscaper. A nice blend of different size stone is essential to creating natural looking water feature. Believe it Or NOT, The before pond was installed by a professional pond contractor! On this feature we didn't have great access so the largest stone we got in the backyard was approximately 30".

[@ThePondDigger]

@dkj1835 You will need to wait until the water warms up a bit and then offer them a good quality yummy smelling food (yummy to fish that is!) Then offer them food in the morning and the evening each day at the same times. Sit next to the pond relaxed with a coffee, tea or adult beverage and just chill. Offer the food to the pond one or two pellets at a time and be patient. If you have fast moving water you may need a feeding ring. It usually takes a couple days and then they worship you!

[@tranquilityponds4143]

Great video. You are spot on with everything you said.

[@gallerysanjaya]

Wow this is amazing waterfall I really enjoyed this video

[@CBirds]

My brother my dad and I are digging a pond by ourselves its going good but could you make a tutorial some time on how to install the bottom drain and the pipes and filter IT WOULD BE AN AMAZING HELP I subbed you guys are the best pond diggers out there , Charlie

[@ThePondDigger]

NO QUESTIONS ARE DUMB so keep em' coming! All of the rocks you see in this video were moved with a dolly and lots of man power. Often times we will make a sling out of the fabric underlayment we use under the rubber line and use four guys to move large stones. One guy on each corner. It works like a dream! The Pond Digger

[@ThePondDigger]

That's correct. I'll tell ya as of yet, most cities have NO specifications on ponds. Each city and state is different. We have seen a variety of differences. The bottom line is, the requirements of ponds is very vague. With the growing popularity of ponds I am sure we will see some standards put into place. The Pond Digger

[@ThePondDigger]

Stone is just a material. It is the art of stacking them make the difference between a good looking pond and a pond that you want to run from.

[@ThePondDigger]

@floridaliner Thanks for the feedback and the information on the National Electric Code.

[@ThePondDigger]

@MelvinGarshoowitz Thank you for your kind words and feedback on our video!

[@highserenity49]

I didn't understand when you announced where this pond is.......I would like to check out the town location weather/climate norms.....ty

[@ThePondDigger]

There are two very different views on this topic so the answer the question is really dependent on the style of pond you are wanting, you budget for construction and a review of your goals and expectations for the pond. Hard to cover the topic in a short message.

[@ThePondDigger]

@avazook Yes definitely shoot some video of your pond and let me know when you have it uploaded to youtube so I can check it out! Let's do this!

[@ThePondDigger]

@83gamit We would love to come to GA to work on your a dream water feature for you! We have worked in GA a couple times over the years. Once up in Blue Ridge and another time down in Savannah. Thank you for your service. Our construction team wears red EVERY Friday to show support for our troops.

[@ThePondDigger]

@floridaliner Thanks for the info on the National Electric Codes. I'll record that to memory....

[@ThePondDigger]

Are fees are determined by the scope of work on the project. There are many different ways to build a pond which is why the cost of a pond is subjective. This feature was approximately 12k to install. A similar pond with LESS TECHNOLOGY to make maintenance easier may only cost 8500 to install. The Pond Digger

[@cheryltiseo9826]

We neeeeed you!!! This is awesome💗💗💗

[@ThePondDigger]

Hey Charlie we do have plans to shoot a bottom drain video however at this time we are in our busy season so that video won't be ready in time for your pond.

[@pdiz]

Nice vid. I'm in Riverside and need to get a pond since my turtles are getting too big for their tank. You're totally hired. Too many projects for me to mess with it myself.

[@Soper79]

This might be a dumb question but do you have to use machinery to move those rocks? Could a dolly get it? They look like they range from about 200-400 lbs.

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks for the feedback!

[@StoryDrivenFilmmaking]

Great Video. Took a lot of tips from your many videos. Just uploaded our pond less water today. Keep up the good work!

[@reptilefreak72]

I'm a 15 year old kid building a pond on a budget. What would be better a submersible pump to a waterfall or a skimmer to a waterfall?

[@TheOpelkoenjas]

You need both, but the skimmer has nothing to do with the waterfall nor does it need a pump, only gravity. A skimmer filters debris that is mostly on the top of the water (leafs, small sticks, dead bugs etc), while a pump - which goes first to your filter and then to your waterfall - will circulate the water of the pond. Hope that makes sense to you. Cheers.

[@ThePondDigger]

We just shot a video on moving rocks into your pond. You might find it helpful. Keep your eye out for it. We should have it posted up on KZbin in the next week or so.

[@ThePondDigger]

Americansolider, When I met with the homeowner, I was actually feeling completely opposite. Believe it or not some of these contractors have great sales pitches and specialize in closing deals but not delivering a quality project. Some contractors show photographs of beautiful ponds that they DID NOT build to gain the consumer's confidence. I thought to myself "Damn, another homeowner here that got taken!" The homeowner is actually a very sharp and sincere woman. The Pond Digger

[@ThePondDigger]

Hey Shawn! Depending on your koi keeping goals, aesthetic plans for the pond and maintenance expectations will dictate your decision on using gravel on the bottom of your pond or not. It's a heavy topic to address in the comments section of a video but I'm open to answer your questions.

[@ThePondDigger]

Our goal is to continue on with our informational videos to help educate both homeowner and contractors to help limit the bad installations. We want the world filled with sexy pond installations! The Pond Digger

[@ThePondDigger]

@pondconstruction I agree. One of my passions.....

[@pondguru]

The existing pond is utter crap but I've put a video response to this video which I believe tops it. Be prepared for true horror. Great videos by the way. I subbed your channel.

[@AquaLady153]

Pondguru wow 8 years ago lol

[@ThePondDigger]

@tonightwefly Thanks for the SUB and the comment!

[@TheWoodman064]

Wow! Am I late! Most of these comments are years old! Oh well! First, I am a complete novice which is why I have been watching a lot of your videos to get some idea on how to do this! To begin, I once had a pond that was not near as good as yours so my son decided to rip it out and he and his mom have elected me to fix it! I have started by doublling the size but I am at a crossroad as to what to use! You have given me some great ideas but I am thinking of using a kit as I am not familiar with the equipment. Our son is fully against it but is seems far more easier for someone like me! We are in Northern California and I only want to do it once! Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks! Mr. Determined Novice!

[@ThePondDigger]

Shoot me an email [e-mail] of your details and I will do my best to accomodate. I am speaking at koi club meeting later this year in central/northern califoria later this year. Might me something you want to attend. hit me up in the DM on instagram if you are interested in details. @theponddigger

[@ThePondDigger]

@Bflo23 Thanks for the comment. Pond remodels are on the rise......

[@ThePondDigger]

I have insider there is potentially a pond show up and coming!

[@Arteolike]

I got a question, See the waterfall filter here, you changer it, what do you do with the old one's?

[@THE9LOL7ABLE]

Heya , is it worth getting some substrate on the bottom of the pond? Like small gravel? The fish i have like to dwell on the bottom but will it be better to have gravel or not? Ive heard that something food gets trapped inbetween the gravel and rots and that creates problems for the water quality. So should i or dont i?

[@diablowilliams4932]

I love your info, Eric! One question: why black tubing? Could I use the clear tubing with the synthetic string-type webbing that I an find in the plumbing isle at Home Depot or should I just get the overpriced black tubing?

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks!

[@ThePondDigger]

@JaCK2TeN Thanks for the feedback!

[@hanspeterdyke5635]

So I’m young and building a foot deep pond should I make it deeper?

[@Arteolike]

Ok! Well Right me a message how much will the filter be with the shipping? I don't live out of the state anyway so it shouldn't be too pricey =) Hope i can see you when i go on vacation to San Diego in the summer!?! Just kidn

[@mar8r]

Love your work fella ..uk

[@111scone]

Well, if you ever build one in SC let me know would enjoy meeting you.

[@ThePondDigger]

Where are you located Charles? Our calendar is jam packed but we could arrange to get you some assistance through our network of Authorized Helix Life Support Pond Contractors. Let me know!

[@ThePondDigger]

Yeah those ponds looked like they need rescuing! I'm looking forward to you using The Helix Product line on one of your Pond's Gone Wild Rebuilds one of these days!

[@yolandacoronel5775]

como se maneja el tema de la lluvia , que pone exceso de agua al pond y la temperatura para los peces en invierno.

[@JoynalAbedin-hx1hq]

this idea so nice.

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks for watching!

[@Bobweiser19]

I'm taking a shot at building my own backyard pond right now. I really want to do it myself but was wondering if you guys do any kind of consulting online where I could share pictures and ask about materials, steps, etc. as I progress... let me know otherwise i'll just use these online tutorials and do the best I can. -thanks

[@iatkinson00]

I wish there was a pong show that went around and re-did a few ponds like they do with landscaping. My pond is soooo green from the sun and I can't control it.

[@TeamGopher]

Hi Eric, I just found your videos. Great job! 5 Stars!

[@afwoods]

Thanks for the tips!

[@Arteolike]

There is no more summer this year =( But next year is a go. Were is the address of your knew location anyway. is it in Los Angeles still?

[@BRadShorts]

awesome video, very informative! keep up the great work!

[@ramslak]

I always like it when people know what the hell they are talking about. Screw ups, especially when it costs a lot of money are such a disgrace! Mostly because it's the customer who is the victim.

[@MelvinGarshoowitz]

I look up to you guys!

[@Slice0fKimb0]

thumbs up! I want to build a permaculture backyard forrest. I left a reply thing and my cell phone on your web site. I just talked with a patient of mine who says he knew a Rick who used to work for pond diggers :-).

[@robertfarquhar3449]

Love the way you explain everything matter of factly but when you say look at this several times the camera man never zooms in. I'm subscribing anyway because you really seem to know what you're talking about. We just bought a house and I'm installing a pond myself this summer so keep the videos coming.

[@Arteolike]

Thanks so much. I really like i have a reliable pond supplier now...

[@jasminemae9267]

If I get a pond id love for you to construct it but that'll be in a long time from now

[@Veezeeh]

What maximum deepens would you recommend for a goldfish pond?

[@shawnrush7872]

Any 1 have any idea wetther it is a good idea to to use gravle on the bottom of your pond or just leave it be.

[@javiakasku11one]

so how much do u charge to do this kind of work?

[@ThePondDigger]

@Arteolike We do sell used equipment but we are out at this time.

[@shireenabduljaleel3925]

I hope they make more videos

[@ThePondDigger]

We can definitely help. We would love the opportunity. Talk to you this week.

[@whitedragon9745]

so nice

[@ThePondDigger]

I typically have work boots on 60 hours a week but on occasion you can catch me in sports shoes, flip flops or barefoot!

[@djmederos1]

Do you needed permits?

[@Homeschoolmeful]

This may be a stupid question but how do you protect the fish in winter?

[@nbrelics7192]

I don't think it snows there

[@_SimpleSam]

Going to necro this question: If the pond is deep enough, certain types of fish can weather under the ice. The other fish are weathered inside in an aquarium.

[@lindasewell5624]

research a bit for the area you live. There are DNR sites available for every state. You can find out how deep your pond should be so the fish can "winter" there safely. In my neck of the woods (in the midwest) it stated 3.5 feet depth was necessary for fish to survive . My pond is 4 ft deep in one part. The fish hang out there all winter. I leave my pump running all year. If Ice does seal the pond up I make sure to break it to allow oxygen to flow better. After 15 years I have never lost a fish to winter... only to heron and sandhill cranes.

[@johnathannguyen6086]

thanks for all good video that you share with us how to build pond. some how can you show us how to build an aquaponics systems from more than 1000 gls koi pond. thanks

[@ThePondDigger]

This is something we are plotting in the future. Stay tuned!

[@ThePondDigger]

Did you build your new pond yet? Often times you can find a contractor to come in and just build the waterfall. Tell us if you have your project done yet.

[@ThePondDigger]

Thanks for the comment!

[@TheWoodman064]

This is just a repeat of what I posted on your video! First, I am a complete novice which is why I have been watching a lot of your videos to get some idea on how to do this! To begin, I once had a pond that was not near as good as yours so my son decided to rip it out and he and his mom have elected me to fix it! I have started by doublling the size but I am at a crossroad as to what to use! You have given me some great ideas but I am thinking of using a kit as I am not familiar with the equipment. Our son is fully against it but is seems far more easier for someone like me! We are in Northern California and I only want to do it once! Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thanks! Mr. Determined Novice!

[@crishnipeiris80]

hi thank you for all the information you share with us. just wondering where can i buy those rock spray foam?tried on ebay but couldn't find it. is there a specific name for it? thank you again

[@ThePondDigger]

+Crishni Peiris Your Welcome! Thanks for watching! Here is a link to our site where you can purchase the waterfall foam - theponddigger.com/product/easypro-black-waterfall-foam-20oz/

[@michellejaneday8100]

The style of the pond doesn't really go with the style of the rest of the yard. An easy fix would be to paint the fence a brick red or a rich color to match the nomb style pond. Otherwise I would have gone with a wishing well style pond of course without the wishing well top on it and put a bird bath fountain in the center to create a rain-fall effect for the fish in the bottom. It's a beautiful lawn though. I suggest getting a commercial size bucket of dry NO NO powder to put around the pond to keep the raccoon out. Sometimes it has to be reapplied after heavy rains.

[@ThePondDigger]

+Michelle Jane “Wildflower” Lorraine-Day-Ra I Thank you for your feedback. I like the wishing well idea.

[@michellejaneday8100]

Sometimes it's neat to put rock mortar into a huge cake icing bag and squeeze it between the rocks and smooth it out to give a built in look too. It just depends on the taste and style of the customer.

[@trixie9246]

Tripper

[@Arteolike]

Do you still have it?

[@ThePondDigger]

@blownable That raccoon hates The Pond Digger!

[@tonyromano8733]

hey eric how can you locate a good local rock co. for the pond?

[@Bellislawns]

Raccoons eating the fish should be an upsell...nature in your backyard!

[@romanbarr]

hi watched all your vids and I need some help, in digging my new pond when I got about 3 feet down water started seeping from the side wall on one side what can I do about this and it is very slow. can i still put the liner in and will the pressure stop the leaking, please help.

[@lindasewell5624]

sounds like you are experiencing a ground water issue. Area water tables vary I experienced this issue when building my pond. I installed a release drain in the bottom of my pond thru the liner. It allows the ground water to enter the pond if it builds too much pressure and equalizes itself out. At least that is how it works for me. I am renovating my 15 year old pond and uncovered the drain. IT is still operating like it should after all these years.

[@Slice0fKimb0]

I just bought a house in redland. I have a 11k sq foot lot. It is next to prospect park. I need to hire someone to build a swim pond. Can you help me? thx!

[@twistedfallout2974]

Haha PowerJoke...just kidding good vid

[@ThePondDigger]

Twisted Fallout PowerJoke sounds cool!

[@ThePondDigger]

36"

[@78tag]

I don't need a walk thru of the landscape - I just want to know about the pond thank you.

[@ThePondDigger]

Hey Robert - we definitely have a DIY support service for you. Call our Headquarters and ask for me or Leslie the Pond Gal (My Wife). Mention you talked to me on youtube and we will get you all lined out. 800-522-5043 At that point we can exchange emails and get you started off on the right track.

[@JulieWallis1963]

That ‘waterfall’ is what my dear dad would call “a dogs grave”. Absolutely no feature apart from a pile that looks like a gravemarker.