RH Design Concepts can help create your vision for a water feature to add to your outdoor oasis. We construct and rebuild new and existing ponds, streams, and waterfalls. We can create the tranquil noise and effect you’re looking for out of a water feature—while also helping to create habitat and stunning landscapes around it. Let our team begin helping you and contact us about the installation of your pond / aquatics project!

We start the build process with excavation to widen, deepen or excavate your pond and stream, proper grading, and an EPDM high quality pond liner is installed. We will work through the environment and with your vision to achieve a natural appearance. Setting rocks and boulders becomes an artform and our team will ensure they are placed perfectly. We bring in the sand, the river rock, the boulders and all. We have worked with pond equipment manufacturers such as including Atlantic and Aquascape. From the design, to the pump, skimmer and waterfall box, to the materials and the operation, we have you covered. We strive to provide top notch service before, during and after the project—as these projects are always complex and evolving.

1. Planning and Design

• Assessment:
  • Site Evaluation: Analyze the location for sunlight, shade, soil type, and proximity to utilities. Consider the natural flow of water and any potential sources of pollution.
  • Purpose and Features: Decide on the purpose of the pond—whether it’s for fish, plants, aesthetics, or all three. Determine the features you want, such as waterfalls, fountains, or surrounding landscaping.
• Design:
  • Shape and Size: Plan the shape, size, and depth of the pond based on your preferences and the available space. Sketch the design or use pond design software.
  • Materials: Choose materials for the pond liner, edging, and any additional features. Common materials include EPDM rubber liners, pre-formed liners, and various types of stones and rocks.
  • Equipment: Plan for equipment such as pumps, filters, and aerators. Ensure that the equipment is suitable for the size of the pond.
• Permits and Regulations:
  • Check local regulations or homeowners’ association rules regarding pond installation. Obtain any necessary permits.

2. Site Preparation

• Clearing:
  • Remove vegetation, debris, and any obstructions from the area where the pond will be installed.
• Marking:
  • Use stakes, string lines, or marking paint to outline the pond’s shape and dimensions. Mark the locations for features such as waterfalls or fountains.
• Excavation:
  • Digging: Excavate the area to the desired depth and shape. Include deeper zones for fish to overwinter and shallower areas for plants.
  • Shaping: Create shelves or ledges for aquatic plants and ensure a gentle slope for the pond edges.

3. Installation of Pond Liner and Underlayment

• Underlayment:
  • Material: Lay an underlayment material, such as geotextile fabric, over the excavated area to protect the pond liner from punctures and damage.
  • Installation: Smooth out the fabric and trim excess material.
• Pond Liner:
  • Material: Use a pond liner material like EPDM rubber or a pre-formed liner.
  • Installation: Place the liner over the underlayment, ensuring it covers the entire excavated area. Allow for extra material around the edges to secure the liner.
  • Fitting: Smooth out wrinkles and ensure the liner fits snugly into the contours of the pond. Trim excess liner as needed.

4. Equipment and Features Installation

• Pumps and Filters:
  • Placement: Install pumps and filters according to the design plan. Place the pump in a location where it can circulate water effectively and the filter where it can be easily accessed for maintenance.
  • Connections: Connect the equipment to the appropriate pipes or hoses and ensure they are securely fastened.
• Waterfalls and Fountains:
  • Construction: Build waterfalls or install fountains as per the design. Ensure proper plumbing and secure placement.
  • Testing: Test the features to ensure proper water flow and operation.