3
Viewing Area
(Patio, Deck, or Lawn)
2" to 3"
On the Level
When excavating, it is important
to make sure that all of the edges
are level. This is not only to avoid
an unexpected low edge, but also
to make sure that the skimmer sits
at the proper height to skim. There
are several different methods that
can be used to level, depending on
the resources that are available.
The most accurate method is to
use a transit, either sight or laser,
and take several readings around
the perimeter. Transits need to be
rented or bought, however, and may
not be the most practical option for
a one-time installation. There are
two other options that utilize more
common household items and may
be more convenient. First, you can
take a standard 2"x 4" board and lay
it across the pond or basin with a
common bubble level resting on the
center. The level will show if the two
sides are even, and all sides can be
measured in the same way by alter-
ing the angle of the board across the
pond. The second method is to use
a line level. A line level is basically
a small bubble level attached to the
end of a string. The other end of the
string is then attached to a stake
that is placed at any point around the
perimeter. The level is then walked
around and readings are taken at
several different points to ensure the
sides are even. Remember, the pond
or basin does not have to be perfectly
level, but general readings should be
taken to avoid any major problems.
Design spaces for plants
• Design your shelves wider in
areas where you wish to place
aquatic plants.
(See fig. 8)
• Marginal and bog plants require
a water depth up to about 10", so
the top shelf is a perfect location
for these plants.
(See fig. 8)
• Water lilies will vary according to
species, but a depth of 12-24"
at the crown works best, so the
second shelf or bottom of the
pond will work great for the lilies.
(See fig. 8)
• To make planting lilies easier add
a few ‘lily pockets’. These pockets
are simply depressions or bowls
cut into the soil 6-8" deep and
10-16" in diameter. The goal is
to create a natural looking pond,
and this is possible only if plant
pots are eliminated or completely
hidden.
(See fig. 8)
• It is typical to set the water level
2- 3" below the main viewing
area (patio, deck, etc.). This will
bring the water level of the pond
up close to the edge of the pond
without going over the sides.
(See fig. 6)
• Dig a hole alongside the pond to
house the skimmer filter.
• The skimmer should be exca-
vated down to a depth so that the
proposed water level in pond is
approximately 3/4 inch below the
top of the opening of the skim-
mer.
(See fig. 7)
• Make sure the excavated shelf
in front of the skimmer is low
enough to provide access to the
lower screws on the faceplate.
• Re-check all your measurements,
including length and width of
pond, plant shelf depth, and
overall pond depth.
Excavate your Pond cont …
Fig. 4
Dig second shelf one shovel depth and
start excavation of skimmer hole.
Fig. 3
Dig entire pond one shovel depth.
Fig. 5
Dig a third shelf, if desired.
Fig. 6
Soil backfilled around the filter creates a planting berm.
Fig. 7
Set water level 2" - 3" below viewing area.
