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Concrete Fish Ponds

Concrete Fish Ponds: Should I or Shouldn't I?

Corrine Dolezal

When you decide to build fish pond in your backyard, one of the options that will probably come to mind for construction materials is concrete. After all, we're used to swimming pools and wading pools being made of concrete, so why not a concrete fish pond? In theory it may seem like a good idea, but is the expense of pouring a concrete pond really necessary? What are other options? Is the best environment for fish a concrete pond? These are all good questions that need to be answered prior to making any decisions about building a water garden.

Experts will tell you that concrete should only be used for large ponds or in formal settings. For a small pool in your yard, there are other options, such as plastic pond liners, that will be less expensive and suffice just as well. As a warning, never consider turning your old swimming pool into a fish pond. It is far too deep for you to be able to keep it clean the way you'll need to. Besides, there is no drain in the bottom of your pool, and all concrete fish ponds need to have bottom drains in order to drain away the small debris.

On the other side of the concrete argument, though, is the fact that nothing you build will be as durable as concrete, especially in warmer climates where the ground doesn't freeze. However, if you live farther north, you can still use concrete provided that you make the walls thick enough. Take care to build your pond deep enough so that scavengers aren't tempted to try and eat your fish. You should also take care to coat the inside of a concrete pond with a sealant so that none of the alkali from it can get into the water and kill your fish.

Concrete fish ponds can be built in all shapes and sizes, but you need to have some expertise before you attempt to pour the concrete yourself. It must be poured using some kind of reinforcement so that the walls don't cave in before they have a chance to dry. The concrete also needs to be mixed correctly. It is a versatile material, however, that can conform to any shape you desire if you have the know-how or hire someone who knows how to make it happen.