When the decision is made to keep and raise koi fish, a lot of people start out by digging a hole in the ground.
But, digging the hole is not the first step in the project to make a koi pond.
It will probably be the most tiring if you are doing it yourself or one of the most stressful if you are hiring a contractor to do it for you.
Digging the hole may be the easy part.
A lot of them are dug using a machine, but some by old-fashioned muscle power.
Either way, the important thing is to have the hole in the right shape and depth before anything else can be done.
The first step is planning the construction of your koi pond.
During the planning phase of this project you should have decided whether to use concrete, fiberglass or a liner in your pond.
Most people will opt for a liner.
Liners are a popular choice because they come in a variety of flexible materials, thickness and warranties.
They also allow you a lot more latitude when your imagination starts working on the shape of the pond.
But, there are some things that should be considered when you choose your liner.
1.
The liner must be safe to use in water.
That is, the material has to be stable and safe when it is exposed to fish and plants over a long period of time in an ornamental pond.
2.
The material has to stay flexible over a wide range of temperatures.
Koi fish can live in a wide range of water temperature and can survive cold weather if the pond is deep enough to keep from freezing solid.
The liner must also be able to survive freezing weather over and extended period of time for many years.
3.
Ease of installation.
If this is a DIY project, the liner must resist tears and punctures and be easy to install without any special tools.
Te dealer you buy the liner from must be available to answer any questions you might have.
4.
Maintenance should be minimal.
If you do have to do a repair, it should be done without removing the fish or draining the pond.
Any repairs should be done with a water resistant patch or tape.
I have also had some success using a two-part epoxy to repair a cracked skimmer housing.
When you decide to make a koi pond with a liner, there will be times when you question your sanity.
But this can be a rewarding project that will add beauty and value to your home for many years.
Anyone who good information, is remotely handy with tools and is not afraid of labor can make a successful and beautiful koi pond.
It does, however, take a good plan and willingness to complete the project.