How to Build a Raised Pond With Decking

Building a Raised Pond with Composite Decking

Building a raised pond on a deck has become an increasingly popular practice in gardens across the U.K, allowing homeowners to relax on their
deck whilst enjoying the serenity of their pond. The question is, can you build a raised pond on composite decking?

You can install a raised pond on composite decking; however, it is important to note that this is an intricate and technical process. Not only will you have to create a structurally sound deck, but you’ll also need to account for the additional weight of the water when creating the subframe. Not only this, if the pond is not water-tight this will cause huge implications for the deck, as it will lose strength over time when more and more moisture is absorbed.

For this reason, we recommend hiring a professional if you are unfamiliar with this process or an inexperienced DIYer. If you are an experienced DIYer and feel confident completing this project yourself, below are some important points to take into consideration when creating your pond on your deck.

Materials Required

 

Key Points to Consider:

• It may seem simple, but we recommend sketching a design for your pond and decking, to develop an understanding of the project dimensions. Once you have done this, you can use string and a measuring tape to outline the project area and find the dimensions. – With this information, given that you are satisfied with the proposed layout, then you can calculate the amount of decking that you need using the square metre value. You can calculate this using our online decking calculator or by calling for a quote if you’d like to speak to someone directly. Generally, for 3.6-meter boards, two boards are required for every square meter. Please note, the width of the boards affects this rule, we do not advise using this rule for boards smaller than 130mm in width. Remember to adhere to local regulations and obtain any required permits before building your raised pond.

• We recommend using pressure treated timber or composite material for the subframe as these two materials are more resistant to moisture than an untreated timber subframe material. You will reap the benefits of choosing either of these materials further down the line, as your decking will stay strong for years to come instead of deteriorating due to the exposure to moisture.

• When creating a raised pond on a deck, you will have to add extra support under the pond to account for the additional weight of the water. To do this, you will need to implement more joists and posts in your subframe underneath the proposed area of the pond. The additional posts will need to be taller, to protrude out of the decking, they will act as the four corners of the pond. These posts will need to be connected with joists too, so that the pond walls can be covered with composite decking afterwards.

• You may wish to install composite decking on the interior of the pond structure as well as the exterior, the reason for doubling the walls being to increase the strength of the structure to ensure it can hold the water weight.

• Before lining the pond, you may wish to cover the area with a soft fabric, this will soften the area that you are installing the liner to. This prevents the liner from getting ripped or caught on anything when installed into the pond and filled with water. When lining the interior of your pond with a liner, ensure the liner covers the full interior and extends over the top. Trim any excess liner, leaving a neat edge. Secure the pond liner in place by screwing it to the subframe or securing it using felt nails. When installing the composite decking boards on your pond walls, you may wish to overlap the boards on the pond liner to add that extra layer of security, almost trapping the pond liner between the joists and the boards used for the walls, but ensure the correct gap is left between your composite boards.

Why would you want to build a raised pond with decking?

Aesthetic Appeal: A raised pond can give a garden or outdoor space more visual interest. Homeowners who appreciate natural beauty may seek attractive features, such as a raised pond.

Unique Features: Raised ponds can include things such as cascades water features, waterfalls, and integrated seating. These features can enhance functionality and visual appeal.

Safer Than Other Designs: Depending on the design, some raised ponds have additional safety measures put into place and we would recommend this, such as balustrades on the decking. This will, of course, mitigate the risk of accidental falls into the water, which may be a serious factor for homeowners with children or pets.

Conclusion

Installing a raised pond on composite decking can be done, however, the installation process is complex. Due to this, we highly advise hiring a professional to complete the project if you are inexperienced in this field. This will ensure the safety and stability of your deck and pond for years to come, meaning that you can relax, rest assured that your deck is fit for use.