When thinking about building a pond in Minnesota, the seemingly indestructible nature of concrete might initially appear as the ideal material choice. After all, concrete forms the backbone of our homes’ foundations, the vast networks of roads and bridges, and even the gleaming edges of swimming pools. It’s natural to assume that a concrete pond would inherit the same everlasting durability. Yet, this assumption doesn’t quite hold water when we delve into the specifics of pond construction and maintenance.
The Downside of Concrete Ponds
Flexibility and Future Changes: Unlike the fluid adaptability of softer materials, concrete’s rigid nature locks you into your initial design. Expanding or modifying a concrete pond post-construction is a Herculean task, filled with challenges and limitations. This inflexibility extends to safety concerns, as the slick surface formed by algae on concrete can be a hazard for pets, children, and wildlife.
Cost Considerations: Though concrete might seem like a durable choice, it demands a significant upfront investment. While all the pond liner needed for a pond is typically in the hundreds of dollars, maybe up to a thousand dollars, a concrete pond basin itself can start in the double $K digits.
Environmental and Aesthetic Factors: Concrete’s alkaline nature can disrupt the delicate balance of pond ecosystems, affecting the health and happiness of fish and plants. The harsh chemicals leached by concrete can elevate water pH levels, creating an inhospitable environment for aquatic life. Additionally, the stark, unyielding appearance of concrete and the need to house plants in containers detract from the natural beauty of a pond.
Impact on Property Value: Contrary to popular belief, the mere presence of a water feature doesn’t automatically enhance property value. The true worth lies in a water feature’s integration with its surroundings, its aesthetic appeal, and its overall condition. Many homes with concrete ponds have been found to reduce property value in the same way that in-ground pools oftentimes reduce property and resale value. If the new homeowner doesn’t want the pond, it costs thousands of dollars to jackhammer everything out and dispose of all the heavy waste. However, natural ecosystem ponds using a flexible EDPM liner have been found to increase property and resale value, as well as being very simple to remove if unwanted by the new homeowners.
Settling Issues: Ultimately, ground movement and settling means that concrete ponds will crack. A small leak, if ignored, can escalate into a major issue, undermining nearby structures through erosion. Repairing a concrete pond isn’t as straightforward as one might hope, often involving expensive, extensive methods like applying liquid rubber liners or, in some cases, complete demolition and reconstruction. If you have ever talked to someone with a concrete pond, you’ll know that crack repair is an ongoing headache.
Choosing the Right Material for Your Pond
For a pond that’s both environmentally friendly and easier to maintain, exploring alternatives to concrete is recommended. The long-term viability, lower maintenance costs, and greater flexibility of flexible rubberized liner ponds make them an attractive option for many homeowners.
In contrast to concrete, ponds crafted with flexible EDPM liners adapt seamlessly to the earth’s natural shifts. Minor leaks can be easily fixed, making liner ponds not only more resilient but also more cost-effective in the long run. High-quality pond liners come with extensive warranties between 20-45 years, offering peace of mind that the strength of concrete simply can’t match.
Whether you’re contemplating a serene koi pond or a lively aquatic water garden, considering all the materials available to you and their long-term implications will lead to a more satisfying and sustainable addition to your Minnesota landscape.