We outline a swim pond build in stages through these images. Pictures are a much easier way to show the flow than words can ever be!
Nature's Tailor took these images. They undertook this project for the client and collaborated with us to supply the plants and design their layout within the gravel area.
Before fitting the liner:
- You need plenty of space for a swim pond - this project was 14x8m in size.
- A swim area of 9x5m with a planting area of 2m depth surrounding it.
- 300 tonnes of topsoil and clay removed. The topsoil was reused around the area and in the garden and the clay removed for use by local farmers.
- Blockwork outlines the area that will become the swimming area.
- You can add an internal shelf for waterlilies reaching up to 80cm/30" below finished water level around the edge of the swim zone to position waterlilies on. Not required on this project.
- Next the land around the swim area will create the gravel planting area
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- Build a second boundary rim to create the final outline of the total pool itself
- Between the two outlines is the planting or regeneration zone - sloped to allow for the different depths of water necessary for the different plants to thrive in
- Use sand as a bedding medium to avoid any issues with the liner from sharp objects underneath.
- Use underlay to protect against the sharp blockwork
- The liner fits over and beyond the entire area
After fitting the liner:
- Oak sleepers of the same size as the blockwork sit on the liner to create the height needed to hold the planting gravel in place
- 'Sandbags' of rot proof woven fabric filled with aggregate are an alternative to the oak sleepers
- You can add an internal shelf or individual towers of sandbags reaching up to 80cm/30" below finished water level around the edge of the swim zone to position waterlilies on.
- Protect the liner in the plant area with underliner & input the perforated pipework, pump and electrics - specially designed for each swim pond build.
- Fill with gravel
- The gravel planting zone slopes down to the swim zone to allow for the depths of water required by the different plants used
- Jetty constructed and ladder added (this project does not allow for access via the gravel with stepping stones firmly placed through the planting zone)
Planting:
- A planting list drawn up using 4 of our Pond Planting Scheme Swimming Pond
- Diagram shows height of plants required in certain areas to provide privacy
- A detailed positioning plan sent with the plants to site.
- The plants wrapped for delivery from us placed around the pond in their planting areas
- First day of planting in December with water filling this section by rain as the planting carried on!
Thanks to Nature's Tailor for sharing these images.
The attention to detail & expertise required for a swim pond build is critical for its success. Otherwise, it will not function effectively and you will not create the eco-friendly swimming ecosystem you hoped for.
Read more about the principles of a swimming pond and the operation of the planting zone.
