Pond Leak Repair Instructions

There are five common types of pond leaks:

1. A hole or cut in the liner.
2. Leaking skimmer.
3. Edge of the liner has receded or dropped.
4. A leak from water being diverted out of the pond, usually in the stream or falls.
5. A leak along the hosing, usually where there is a connection or pin hole

Find The Leak

• Ensure your pond is full.
• Turn off all pumps and filtration.
• Keep aeration running if there are fish present in the pond.

Water level continues to drop

You have determined that the leak is likely either:

1. A hole/cut in the liner.
2. A crack or leak from the skimmer.
3. The edge of the liner has receded or dropped slightly.

Water level remains at the same level

You have determined that the leak is either water being diverted from the falls/stream or a leak from the hosing. Check along the hosing for any pin holes or cracks. Turn off your pond for a day or two then turn on and search for any wet areas along the hosing or near the falls to find the origin of the leak. A damaged hose can be cut and repaired using a coupling. A leak from the falls will usually require some shifting of rocks to redirect the water.

Option A: Cut/Hole in the Liner

Drop the water level beyond the cut/hole to create an area that is at least an eight inch diameter around the hole/cut. Clean and dry the area perfectly. Cut patch into a circle to avoid lifting corners in the future. Use the scrub pad with primer and clean/prime the entire area plus a couple of inches beyond. Let primer sit for 10-30 seconds until it is tacky to touch. Remove the backing of the circular patch and adhere to the cut liner ensuring the hole is in the center of the patch. Use the roller to apply pressure to the patch and roll out any potential air pockets. Pay special attention to the edges of the patch. For added protection lap sealant or silicone can be used around the edges of the patch. Wait 30-60 minutes before adding water.

Option B: Edge of the Liner has Receded or Dropped

Often if the edge of the liner has receded or dropped there will be a patch of moist soil or aggregate where this has occurred. This is usually a tricky leak to find as there are often larger rocks or boulders that need to be removed from the edge of the pond to see the edge of the liner. Once you have found the leaking area, the liner can be lifted/repositioned and backfilled to prevent the liner from slipping back. As well ensure edge rocks are not shifting over time and repositioning the liner to cause a leak.

Option C: Crack or Leak from the Skimmer

Drop the water level below the skimmer. If there is a crack in the skimmer box it will likely have to be replaced. Usually the leak will be where the skimmer plate has been attached. This plate may have to be removed and resealed if this is the case. Ensure there is excess liner below the skimmer plate to keep the liner from stretching and tearing over time. Use a lap sealant to seal as it adheres to EPDM liner better than silicone. Also use lap sealant in the screw holes for a better seal.