Planning to Build an Above Ground Pond

Location
Consider how the water garden will enhance your landscape. It is best to avoid locations directly under trees because falling leaves can create debris that can clog the pump and cause water quality issues. You will want pond visibility from many areas, including a nearby window or living area, which is another factor to weigh when choosing the pond site.

Elevation
Make sure the ground is level before building your above ground pond.

Sunlight
How much sunlight do you need? If you are going to include plants that require moderate to full sunlight, you will need to choose a location with a minimum of 6 hours of direct sunlight. Some shade is important, but keep in mind that trees do lose their leaves.

Integration. The size, scale and layout of your pond should complement the other features of your yard, including your landscaping and terrain.

Build the exterior wall of the pond. This will determine how large the pond will be. You can use bricks, pavers, and wood to build a structure around the pond liner. It can be nearly any shape, curved or angled. When you’re on your second to last layer of pavers, bricks, etc. of your above ground pond, add a flexible pond liner. After the liner is added, you want one more layer of pavers to hold the liner in place securely. You can trim any extra liner that sticks out on the outside.