Jump to content



- - - - -

Ice in a raised wooden pond??


4 replies to this topic

#1 Calico kid

  • Members
  • 1 posts
  • Location:Southern NJ

Posted 22 January 2010 - 01:43 AM

I would like to build a raised pond using wood and an epdm liner. I am well aware of the weight and lateral pressure water exerts on its container. I am wondering if 3"- 5" of ice would damage a structure 32' x 10' x 3' made from 4" x 6" and 2" x 12" pt lumber with concreted poles spaced 4' to 5' feet apart? I have built many decks, carports and other large projects, I do not want to build this pond to small. Any info you could provide would be much appreciated...


#2 DrCase

    Moderator

  • Moderators
  • 3152 posts
  • Location:Arkansas

Posted 22 January 2010 - 03:18 AM

that's a nice size pond
I never had a wooden pond but it should work especially since your building it thinking about what ice will do to it..a little over kill would be the way to go.
I had 3" of ice on my concrete block pond this year .. It was the first real ice test since i built it with no problems
Welcome to the forum

#3 koikeepr

  • Members
  • 2817 posts
  • Location:North Carolina

Posted 22 January 2010 - 03:35 AM

If you could build even a 12" of it under ground it will help you not only with structural integrity, but also with a bit of insulation for those winter months. Also, don't forget above ground ponds also get warmer in summer.

#4 nc0gnet0

  • Members
  • 273 posts
  • Location:Michigan

Posted 22 January 2010 - 04:29 AM

I have done alot of research as i am undertaken a build nearly identical. If you build it to retaining wall specs you will be fine as wet dirt weighs more than water.

#5 mrsclem

    mrsclem

  • Members
  • 333 posts
  • Location:st. mary's county

Posted 22 January 2010 - 10:20 AM

I have a 10'x13'x3' built with 4x4s and 2x12s. We have had ice up to 8" thick this year alone and have never had a problem. The pond is over 10 years old. Just make sure to put your posts in well. 2x12s will bow out from the weight of the water.