I am planning to install a pond in my yard, and have been researching liner materials. I have been told that EDPM rubber is good, but is too thick/heavy to use on smaller ponds (mine will be about 8' x 12'). 40mil PVC has been recommended as a good material. What about 20mil or 30 mil PVC. Does anyone have any input/suggestions? Also, is this material available commercially without being sold as "fish-safe" or "pond liner" at a more reasonable price? The cost from pond supply outlets appears to be extremely high! Seems that this same PVC material is probably used in the construction industry, at a more reasonable price!

I bought one of those preformed black plastic ponds. They are fairly inexpensive. The largest cost was the pump for the fountain. Use an outdoor extension cord for power. Mine was buried under mulch and plugged into the electric outlet. It held up fine.

The hole has to be dug larger than the pond. Use sand on the bottom so that you can more easily move and level it in place. Make sure it is level before filling the sides in with dirt or it will look really lopsided. I used found rocks from a creek around the sides and closely planted perennial green plants by the rocks to give the circular rock pattern a break to the eye. My goldfish lived in it year round. I loved it!

There are probably booklets or web sites that can give more thorough instructions for installation. Good luck with your pond. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!