Ice in a raised wooden pond??

[Calico kid]

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...

 

[DrCase]

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

 

[koikeepr]

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.

 

[nc0gnet0]

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.

 

[mrsclem]

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.

 

[firemedic]

I have built several in ground ponds in past places where I have lived. I have also built ponds working with a landscaping company. From that I learned I could keep several fish year round if, (here in Ohio, USA), I built at least3 to 4 feet deep and kept some form of a bubbler running through the winter. My question to someone experienced with raised ponds, how deep in the ground do I need to go if I'm 2 or 3 feet above ground?

 

[mrsclem]

I have 2 raised ponds, both built with 4x4s and 2x12s. Both have one side completely above ground and 2-3' below ground. ( Built on slope.)

 

[rodsboys]

I have a wood pond much smaller then the size you are considering. I also live in Canada. I had a good 8" of ice on mine for a little while this past winder. No structural damage at all. I ended up adding a cattle trough type floating heater though and never had ice again despite temps dropping below -30 Celsius a few times.

 

[rodsboys]

oh yeah, mine is built from 2"x4" non pressure treated lumber with 7/8" OSB inside lined with tyvek and fence board "siding" on the outside. I also cut and crammed 3" rigid insulation into the cavities and a sheet underneath.