A new bentonite pond liner installation is quite easy in concept. While there are some variables and restrictions that need to be kept in mind during the installation, is an excellent project for do-it-yourselfer around the USA. If you decide to purchase the bentonite powder to line your pond with us, count on our expertise to support you throughout the bentonite pond liner installation on your property.

If you are not a DIY kind of person and prefer a zero worry, fully fulfilling experience, our team is ready to jump in and get the pond lined for you in the blink of an eye. Keep in mind we will need to make a visit to the pond site before providing a quote for bentonite pond liner installation service.

Now, let’s get started on this guide.

Measure your pond

Ponds measurements are rarely exact. The measurements are usually taken using a theodolite, but depending on the size of the pond there are different methods that can be used to take the pond’s measurements. To calculate the area of your pond, you can use our Pond Area Calculator below. Please note the following pond area calculator is intended only for square/rectangle / rectanglish shaped ponds.

Order the required amount of bentonite pond liner from your trusted supplier

How much bentonite pond liner powder do you need per square foot? It will depend on the depth of your pond, the type of your soil and the purpose of the pond.

Drain your pond

Remove all the water from the pond. It is normal for a small amount to remain at the very bottom of the pond, which is fine, some humidity during the application process is needed anyway. If you are using the blanket method to apply the bentonite, now is the time to remove those 4 to 6 inches of soil that we need to remove in order to do the bentonite pond liner installation correctly.

Divide the pond bottom area into smaller squared areas

One of the main goals to keep in mind when applying pond liner is trying to keep the bentonite amount even throughout the whole area of the pond. Dividing the area into smaller squares is a practical way to approximate the even distribution of the bentonite without the use of weighing tools or complicated gadgets. 

Distribute the bentonite into the pond bottom area

Now it’s time to release the bentonite on top of the soil. Remember bentonite for pond liner is powdered bentonite, so try to release the bentonite from its enclosure as close as you can to the ground. The higher the bag is located, the more bentonite will “fly away” in a cloud of dust. Here is where you keep in mind those squares you marked in the previous step. Only a certain amount of bentonite goes in per square area.

Compact the bentonite into the bottom of the pond

If you are using the blanket method, you need to cover the layer of bentonite you just applied with a layer of soil, at least 4-6 inches thick. If you are using the mixed blanket method, here is where you disk, till or rake in the bentonite, at least 6 inches into the ground, trying to ensure the distribution is as homogeneous as possible. 

Now using a compaction tool like a sheepsfoot or a roller, compact the ground. Think about it as encapsulating the bentonite inside the soil particles, so they swell exactly in the place they are right now.

Fill your pond

It ‘s time! After all your hard work, bring a hose to the lowest point of the pond and start filling the pond. Make sure to not disturb the layers of material you have just created! The swelling bentonite particles will start to fill any pores, cracks, crevices or gaps in the soil of the pond, therefore allowing you to enjoy a full pond when you most need it.