Builders are advised not to take the short route when constructing a concrete pond. Instead of saving money, you will end up spending more in terms of repairs and maintenance due to the poor quality of the finished product. Since good concrete pond construction equates to having one that lasts a lifetime or longer, follow these rules of thumb to get it right ᾢ the first time!
Keep in mind that for suitable concrete pond construction, you need to pour the concrete to a thickness of four to six inches. After deciding on the dimensions and outlining the area, all soil (and rocks!) should then be dug out. Next in the scope of work is the placing of forms and the reinforcing bars (or rebar), again conforming to the plans and specifications.
The tools and implements for excavating and removing earth and rock materials are picks, shovels, crowbars and a wheelbarrow. Also needed would be a carpenter's level, strings, stake, plastic sheets and two-by-four lumber.
Concrete should be poured in one session, and if it is not possible due to the size of the pond, then in sections. Pour cement in the bottom of the pool first, then the sides. Next in the order should be shelves, if there are any. The last part of the structure to be cemented should be the top level and coping.
Newly poured concrete needs a curing period of several days or weeks depending on the mix, and covered by plastic materials for protection from damage. To keep the pH in water within acceptable level when the pond is operational, the cement surface should be treated with muriatic acid. The next phase should be the application of concrete sealants and painting in several layers, allowing the paint to dry after each coating.
Building a concrete pond is an excellent learning opportunity. It's best to start with a smaller pond, then if you meet with success, you can then move on to a larger project. Once you have gained confidence in your capabilities, you can afford to be ambitious and work to find your niche in the business. Just remember that the learning process is always the first step towards bigger things.
Keep in mind that for suitable concrete pond construction, you need to pour the concrete to a thickness of four to six inches. After deciding on the dimensions and outlining the area, all soil (and rocks!) should then be dug out. Next in the scope of work is the placing of forms and the reinforcing bars (or rebar), again conforming to the plans and specifications.
The tools and implements for excavating and removing earth and rock materials are picks, shovels, crowbars and a wheelbarrow. Also needed would be a carpenter's level, strings, stake, plastic sheets and two-by-four lumber.
Concrete should be poured in one session, and if it is not possible due to the size of the pond, then in sections. Pour cement in the bottom of the pool first, then the sides. Next in the order should be shelves, if there are any. The last part of the structure to be cemented should be the top level and coping.
Newly poured concrete needs a curing period of several days or weeks depending on the mix, and covered by plastic materials for protection from damage. To keep the pH in water within acceptable level when the pond is operational, the cement surface should be treated with muriatic acid. The next phase should be the application of concrete sealants and painting in several layers, allowing the paint to dry after each coating.
Building a concrete pond is an excellent learning opportunity. It's best to start with a smaller pond, then if you meet with success, you can then move on to a larger project. Once you have gained confidence in your capabilities, you can afford to be ambitious and work to find your niche in the business. Just remember that the learning process is always the first step towards bigger things.
About the Author:
Discover the path to improving your health with essential nutrients including the facts about l-lysine benefits.
