Raised Wooden Pond

[Kim]

im wanting to build a raised pond, I've been looking a videos on YouTube and everyone uses 4x4, would it be possible to use 2x6's instead?

 

[CeeJayH]

Kim,

I guess it depends upon how large you want to build it. There could be a lot of pressure on the walls, so 2" may not be thick enough and will bow out unless it's supported at regular intervals.
How big?

 

[mrsclem]

Both our ponds are built from 2x12's. One is 4-5' above ground and 10x10'. We used 4x4 posts set in cement every 2 1/2' as supports but the walls have bowed out. No danger of collapse but just something to think about.

 

[Kim]

I'm sorry, it's going to be 5x10 2 ft deep

 

[Andrew]

4x4s are easier since you can just "log cabin" it together without tons of support posts along the sides to prevent it from bowing. I'm sure you could do 2x6s but you'd have to account for that in your design.

 

[sissy]

Pipes in the ground outside the wood could hold it in place or even rebar and could also act as supports to put a cover over the pond .Almost like a green house for fish

 

[Jeff Kraemer]

I don't recommend it. Even with extra bracing, at some point they could warp and look out of shape.

Oh wait...only 2 ft deep? I think you would be ok. Like I said though, I would add some extra bracing. If it's going to be that long, it will bow outward at some point.

 

[sissy]

also depends she lives .Cold climates on an exposed pond will freeze faster and at that depth I would worry Plus bottom board would have to be a ground contact board .It will rot faster if not .What is your budget

 

[Jeff Kraemer]

I wouldn't use a bottom board. Just build four walls on the ground, and Line the inside walls , underneath the Liner, with styro-board. It will help. It would also help to make some sort of cover for the winter. Something that covers like 80%, and leave the rest open for oxygen. It would keep the cold draft off of the surface water. Not saying I Know everything, but that's how I would do it.

 

[sissy]

Mine is partially above ground and there is a concrete block wall 3 high that hold the liner and then extruded polystyrene between the 2 walls to keep warmth in and it is only a couple of feet from my septic tank that gives off heat .The wishing well is where the septic tank is.I don't think I would wish for anything there LOL

 

[Kim]

I think we have decided on 4x4 but know what size lag bolts should we use? Thanks for everyone's help!

 

[Andrew]

I used a product called TimberLok when building with 4x4s: http://www.homedepot.com/p/FastenMa...uty-Wood-Screws-50-Pack-FMTLOK06-50/202268250

 

[Kim]

I used a product called TimberLok when building with 4x4s: http://www.homedepot.com/p/FastenMa...uty-Wood-Screws-50-Pack-FMTLOK06-50/202268250

Thanks so much!! That's a lot better in price than lag bolts! U have a pic of your pond?

 

[pecan]

I used a product called TimberLok when building with 4x4s: http://www.homedepot.com/p/FastenMa...uty-Wood-Screws-50-Pack-FMTLOK06-50/202268250

I used these to build the deck over our filters behind the waterfall. They worked great for the supports.