How to fix a leaking pond

Learning how to fix a leaking pond is important if you’re keen to avoid any habitat loss or degradation – especially if your pond houses aquatic life. But what causes the issue in the first place, and how do you prevent or resolve the leaks?

This how-to guide has everything you need to know to about how to fix a leaking pond, but please note, if the problem is too big and beyond your DIY knowledge, we strongly recommend hiring a professional to avoid costly repairs further down the line. To give it a go and find out more, read on for our expert guidance.

How to stop a pond from leaking

A drop in water level is a common issue for ponds, and there are several reasons it might be happening. As with all things, prevention is better than cure. That’s why ensuring the right precautions are taken before installing your pond is imperative.

Types of pond leaks

Plumbing issues

Although this is a rare cause of water loss, it’s worth checking your pipes, pumps and filters for any wear and tear first. Check the fastenings and joints for any holes and repair them asap to avoid further water loss.

Rips or tears in the liner

If your pond liner is split, ripped or cracked, you’ll need to repair this by letting your pond water level drop far enough to locate the issue. Try not to let it go too low, especially if you’ve got fish, as the oxygen levels won’t be able to sustain them.

Low pond edges

Low pond edges are a common reason for water loss. They’re usually caused by poor levelling of the pond during construction and installation, meaning the water escapes at its lowest point. The liner needs to be positioned correctly to avoid this issue.

Why not hire one of our professionals to ensure an expert finish?

Evaporation

Evaporation is another common cause of water loss. Naturally, you’ll see more loss during hotter weather. Rainfall will top up the reservoir, but you can also sprinkle some water from your hosepipe as long as it’s little and often. Too much at once will contaminate your pond with chlorine.

Pond plants

Rather obviously, plants need water to live! So, when your pond is full of verdant, leafy life, they’ll consume the water so they can grow. Even terrestrial plants, such as willows, will take advantage of your pond’s resources, so make sure you stay on top of your perennial maintenance!

Splashes

If you have a waterfall or fountain feature, you need to ensure it’s positioned correctly so the water lands back in the pond and not outside of it. A few splashes will build up over time, resulting in less and less water in your pond.

Wildlife

Nature gets thirsty, and your pond is a perfect watering hole. Birds, foxes, hedgehogs and other creatures will take advantage of this resource, so just be aware of this fact and top up the water little and often to maintain its biodiversity.

How to fix a leaking pond

Now you know the various reasons your pond might be leaking, let’s take a look at how to fix some of the more common issues.

How to repair a pond liner

Step one: Locate the source of the leak

Pinhole punctures are common in pond liners, so you’re going to need to let your pond drain a little to find it. Use a torch and your fingertips to find the hole, tear or puncture, and mark it with chalk or white pencil when you do. Note: this might take some time.

Step two: Repair the tear

There are several ways to fix your pond liner. Depending on the extent of the damage, you can use the following:

• A pond liner repair patch
• Pond liner joining tape and adhesive
• Repair sealant and a patch

When it comes to deciding which method to use, note that pond liner repair patches are sticky sided patches that you simply cut up and place over the tear/hole/puncture, whilst joining tape and adhesive is more economic but designed for sticking two pieces of liner together. Alternatively, pond sealant and repair patches work for repairing patches underwater without the need to drain your pond first.

How to repair a concrete pond leak

Learning how to seal a leaking concrete pond isn’t as difficult as it seems. As there are so many products that cure underwater, finding one to repair your crack or leak is simple. We recommend a liquid rubber waterproof sealant for your concrete pond. It’s safe for the fish and your aquatic environment, as well as being free from any solvent or VOCs (volatile organic compounds).

Why not hire one of our professional pond experts to ensure a clean and robust finish?

Summary

• Identify the cause of your pond’s water loss.
• Check your pipes, filters and pumps first.
• Use an underwater sealant if the crack/hole/puncture is easy to identify.
• Let your pond drain a little but not too much if the leak site isn’t obvious.
• When you find the issue, mark it with white chalk and seal it up ASAP.
• Refill your pond slowly and with dechlorinated water to avoid poisoning your aquatic life.
• If you’re at all unsure at any point, then get in a professional. Attempting a botched DIY job could prove costly in the future.