How to Install a Preformed Pond Shell
A rigid, preformed pond shell is made of molded plastic or fiberglass.  They are not as much work as installing a flexible liner, but they do limit your design options.  They are quick to
install and they do resist punctures better than a flexible liner.  Another feature of a preformed pond shell is that if you move, you could conceivably take the  pond with you.

You will need to prepare the ground before installing a preformed pond.  The conditions are not as exact as those for a flexible liner, but the ground where the shell is to be installed must be free of rocks, projecting roots, and other sharp objects.  Most importantly, it must be stable!  When the preformed shell is filled with water, your preformed pond shell could weigh several tons.  It will need to be supported by firm, well-packed earth.  Any air pockets can cause it to crack.  Bumps will also have the same effect causing your preformed shell to crack or buckle.  As I mentioned in an earlier page, my first Koi fish pond was made up of three preformed pond shells.  I installed one in the ground.  Then, on opposite ends, the other two were installed above the ground.  I used a preformed pond stream at either end of each koi pond to connect them together.

If you have a high water table, ground water can erode loose or sandy soil around the shell.  If you live in a cold climate, as I do, then you need to take precautions so that frost heaving does not deform or buckle your preformed pond shell.  If either of these conditions describe your situation, make the hole for your Koi pond about 6 to 8 inches deeper and wider than the preformed shell.  After the excavation is complete, then backfill the hole with 3 to 4 inches of smooth pea gravel.  Top it with 2 inches of sand, or you can use soil that is finely sifted.  Then tap firm. When your pond is finally ready for fish,  Live Aquaria.com is a GREAT place to purchase  koi.  All fish come with a 14 day Arrive Alive, Stay Alive, guarantee!!!  I have been dealing with them for many years and have never been disappointed.    Be sure to check them out. 


The following is a list of tools and materials you will need to begin the construction of a  preformed pond shell.
                        Preformed pond shell
                        Plumb bob or spirit level and stakes
                        Rope, garden hose, or a nontoxic spray paint (for outlining)
                        Shovel and tamper
                        Finely sifted soil or damp sand
iconicon                       Measuring tape
                       Long, straight 2x4
                      Edging material

 You will need to mark the preformed pond shell's outline, dig and prepare the hole, set the shell,. level the shell, and add edging.  On the next pages I will go into more detail on installing and building an easy Koi Pond.   As shown at left new this year is a preformed foldable pond liner system.  If you are looking for an easy way to build a pond this is definitely the way to go.   This will  streamline pond construction as it combines the convenience of a preformed pond and a flexibilty of a PVC liner.  The preformed foldable pond liner system, is also available in many pond designs.  The included underlayment acts as a template for the design of your pond, enabling you to trace the design and dig the hole.  Be sure to check this out!!  After you have finished your pond you can add a waterfall, as well as an aeration system as shown below.