pvc film for pond service life. Do-it-yourself materials for building a pond. Why is film better?

The owners of a suburban land plot have two ways: to use square meters purely for a garden and lawn, or to lay flower beds and gazebos on them. Maybe we exaggerate a little, but there is something in it. Usually, those who choose the second option try to place everything on their site at once: a gazebo, a summer kitchen, a place for barbecue, flower beds, and a pond for swimming or breeding fish. And when you want to carry out so many plans, it is very important that everything is well planned. In this article, we invite you to discuss how it would be better to build a pond on your own. land plot.

Why is film better?

Most likely, few people want to dispute the fact that the pond is the most beautiful decoration suburban area. Therefore, it is very important that those who decide to build such a building find answers to all questions that arise during the construction process. The quality and durability of the pond depends on this.

Pond in the country - how to do it yourself

Pond maintenance is not easy. Therefore, it is very important that the waterproofing is at a high level. After all, it is reliable waterproofing that ensures high-quality and durable operation of the structure. Film for garden pond is the best insulating material for reservoirs. We will now consider its features.

Advantages of a film for artificial reservoirs

Pond care is not easy technical process. A good insulating coating will help to avoid many hassles. What is it - a high-quality coating for pools, ponds, reservoirs and artificial lakes?

Film laying

Modern manufacturers of insulation materials have invented a reliable waterproofing agent, which has a lot of advantages:

• An environmentally friendly product, which means that it will not harm anyone environment, nor people;
• Democratic price;
• Large selection of colors and patterns;
• Significant resistance to mechanical and chemical damage;
• High quality material can last up to 50 years;
• Easy and convenient use when finishing an artificial pond.

Agree that these listed advantages are enough to pay attention to such material as a film insulator. Among the owners of suburban areas and landscape designers, the film for the pond has become widely known. This material is not hard to work with..

Naturalness first

Any body of water begins with a foundation pit. Then a purchased polymer one-piece bowl is installed or a concrete one is poured. The polymer bowl has its pros and cons. Among the minuses, first of all, we will name the tendency to damage and the stamped shape. Therefore, if you have the physical and financial ability, give preference to a concrete pond. It's over durable material, and a concrete bowl gives more opportunities for further decorative transformation of the reservoir.

film coating with concrete pouring pond

So that the concrete does not crumble over time from exposure to moisture, it is tiled, glass mosaic or even marble. But, if we are talking about an artificial pond, then he will only lose from this. Ponds in the garden are built to get closer to nature, and not to emphasize the man-made design.

Therefore, a relatively new method of film waterproofing helps to cope with this task. The coating will be even, but at the same time will not emphasize the unnaturalness of the reservoir.

Film coating can be divided into three types:

• Ultra-thin coating is a film up to 1 mm;

• Ultra durable coating- this is a film from 1.5 mm and above;
• Air sac-durable cover with air cushions that prevent injury from falls.

These films are commercially available both in black and in all sorts of bright colors. Just look at the names: Blue Lagoon, Golden Sand, White Pearl.

Types and characteristics of a film for an artificial reservoir

The modern landscape design market offers us such waterproofing options: polyethylene film, PVC material (polyvinyl chloride) and butyl rubber pond film.

PVC film

Polyethylene film is the most inexpensive material of this kind, but at the same time the most fragile (warranty of use is only 2-3 years).

PVC film is a very durable material that has high elasticity and waterproofing.

Specifications and PVC films:

• Weight of one m2 from 0.5 kg to 1 kg;
• Thickness 0.5-1.2mm;
• Elasticity index 200%;
• To violate the integrity of the PVC film coating, it is necessary mechanical impact sharp glass or metal.

Installation of PVC film on a small pond (video)

Butyl rubber film

Butyl rubber film - durable and reliable material which will serve you for a long time (up to 50 years). Favorite material of builders because it is easy to work with. Also such material is not subject to destruction from sun rays (no cracks) and temperatures(this is very convenient, because you do not need to drain the water from the pond for the winter). Safe for the aquatic environment (compatible with fauna and flora). Another plus is that such a film is black, and this helps to create the appearance of a deep bottom in finished version pond.

Butyl rubber film

Specifications of rubber film:

• The weight of one m2 is approximately 1.5 kg;
• Thickness 1.02mm;
• Elasticity index 300%;
• To break the integrity of the butyl rubber film coating, mechanical action of wood or metal is necessary.

If, nevertheless, you were able to cut or somehow damage the film, then with the help of rubber mastic you can repair any hole (such as a repair kit).

Rolls of rubber film are produced in a sufficiently large width (3-15 meters), which allows you to make a holistic, seamless coating small ponds.

Mounting a rubber film is just as easy as installing a PVC film. True, due to the fact that rubber rolls are produced much harder, at least one or two more pairs of hands are needed. Pieces of film are glued together with tape. Places of such soldering remain waterproof.

Flexible butyl rubber material will follow any shape and shape of the pond. And the folds will hide behind water, stones and plants. Experts advise using a geo-substrate to protect the rubber film from the effects of rhizomes.

Not without helpers!

It can be seen that materials for covering pools and artificial reservoirs enough now. Therefore it is very important to do right choice. We hope that these criteria will help you:

• The size and depth of the pond. If the depth of the reservoir less than a meter, then a polyethylene film 0.5 mm thick will be enough; if the depth is up to 2 meters, then you need a PVC film 1mm thick; if your pond is more than two meters deep and wide enough, then use a butyl rubber sheet for covering;
• Your choice should also be dictated by what you plan to place in the pond (additional objects - cascades of water, a waterfall, a fountain, fish or plan to swim in the pond).

Material manufacturers and price overview

Like many other products, artificial pond film is divided into high-end and public products. For example, elite film is one that imitates natural materials(stone, gravel). The price of such a film will start from 700 rubles / m2. The leading position is occupied by the Italians. They are following them German firms and manufacturers from the USA compete with them.

There are a lot of film manufacturers, so proceed from your requirements for the reservoir

We bring to your attention an overview of the most well-known manufacturers swimming pool covers:

• Agrilac is Italian firm specializing in the manufacture and sale of PVC material. The products of this company are of the highest quality and affordable. Agrilac film is best option. The price of products starts from 150 rubles / m2;
• IZOFOL is a Polish manufacturer specializing in the production of waterproofing films. Most important principle company is the quality of products, so the films of this company are not inferior in the market. The price starts from 200 rubles / m2;
• WTB ELBEsecur is the most famous manufacturer waterproofing materials on the German market. Produces and distributes several types of PVC material. The strength of the proposed product more than compensates for the small assortment. The films of this company can withstand even overload. The price starts from 230 rubles / m2;
• RENOLIT is another world famous German company. Products are of high quality and a wide range. The price starts from 200 rubles / m2;
• Gardena is a European association engaged in the production of items for landscape design. The price starts from 200 rubles / m2;
• Heissner is a German brand whose specialty is the chemical industry. Therefore, they are quite well versed in the production of PVC films.

There are not so many manufacturers of butyl rubber film on the market, because the production of such material is quite complicated and expensive:

• EPDM PondLiner is the leader of such products in the US market and in the world too. Trade is conducted with more than 100 countries. The price starts from 270 rubles / m2;
• Larex is an Italian company. To make the price more affordable, they reduced the thickness of the membrane film. The price starts from 160 rubles / m2;
• Ergis is a Polish brand that has tried to find a favorable price / quality ratio for everyone. Worthy company. The price starts from 200 rubles / m2;
• OASE and Pontec are German manufacturers of butyl rubber film. Products can be classified as elite. Therefore, the price starts from 300 rubles / m2.

It is clear that the list of manufacturers is not complete, but these listed are the most high level.

Step-by-step installation of a film for a pond (video)

Your choice - butyl rubber film or PVC coating - should be influenced by a qualitative analysis of your reservoir. Consider the size and purpose of your reservoir. Film material made of butyl rubber does not react with pool chemicals and is not damaged during water filtration. In order not to re-order, calculate the required amount of material. Also, be careful that you are provided with guarantees for service, certificates, adherence to all manufacturer's requirements, the possibility of an exchange.

The landscaping market is very competitive these days, so choose the pool protection material that suits your needs. Gone are the days when cracks were covered with clay. Polymers that have come to replace natural material nature adequately respond to all necessary requirements for high quality waterproofing.

Any site, even the most comfortable and tidy, will look unfinished if there is not some, at least a small, reservoir on it. Water acts on any person in a calming and relaxing way, it is pleasant to relax and dream by the pond. If funds and the size of the plot allow, you can make a fairly large pond and put fish into it. It's so nice to sit with a fishing rod after a working day or on a day off, and then enjoy a fresh and fragrant fish soup! As everyone has probably already guessed, the topic of this article will be the construction of a reservoir with using PVC films.

For a pond, this is, one might say, the golden mean between cheap plastic wrap and expensive butyl rubber, but in quality it is much superior to the first and almost as good as the last. It is not difficult to work with the film, but a certain accuracy is required (the film is still!), Observance of certain rules and sequence of work when constructing a reservoir.

Stages of work on the construction of a reservoir on the site

To determine the amount of film that will be needed, measure the length and width of the rectangle into which the prepared pit can be entered. The width of the film web will be equal to the width of this rectangle, to which should be added the depth of the pond, multiplied by 2, plus another 1 m. This margin is necessary to firmly fix the ends of the waterproofing on the shore. In the same way, the length of the material is calculated. PVC film for ponds is joined by hot welding or glue.

6. Filling with water and designing the coastal zone of the reservoir. Water should be changed twice a year. At this stage, everyone can feel like a landscape designer and create a recreation area where it will be calm and comfortable. From plants, irises, reeds, hosts, astilba, bathing suit, catchment area and others are suitable.

Acting according to such a plan, you can create a very pretty pond on the site. It should be noted that the PVC film for the pond is an environmentally friendly material. It tolerates frost well, does not rot and is resistant to damage. In reservoirs arranged in this way, fish live perfectly. If you think that making a pond is expensive and troublesome, then PVC film is your way out. Butyl rubber coatings can be used for the pond, they are more expensive, but with a longer service life (up to 50 years due to their plasticity and strength). They are suitable for creating free-form reservoirs with a relief bottom and steep slopes. If you just want to make a small water oasis, optimal solution- PVC film for the pond and your skillful hands.

Artificial ponds have long been popular and are widely used for decoration and interesting garden decoration. After all, what could be cozier and nicer than a calm water surface with small fish or a lily blooming on the surface? And if earlier it was quite problematic to make such a reservoir with your own hands, now a lot of simple, fast and completely available ways its construction.

pond material

The easiest way to get a beautiful front lawn

Of course, you have seen the perfect lawn in the movies, on the alley, and perhaps on the neighbor's lawn. Those who have ever tried to grow a green area in their area will no doubt say that this is a huge job. The lawn requires careful planting, care, fertilization, watering. However, only inexperienced gardeners think so, professionals have long known about the innovative tool - liquid turf AquaGrazz.

The industry does not stand still, every year inventing newer, more convenient and perfect materials for creating ponds, among them the most popular are:

• clay,
• plastic,
• fiberglass, etc.

Clay

Previously, before the advent of new building materials, ponds were created using crumpled clay. To do this, they dug out a pit of the appropriate size, completely lined it with a centimeter layer of soot to scare away earthworms, and after the recess was covered with a 2-3 cm layer of crumpled clay, which served as a waterproof layer, retaining water in the pond. If desired, even now you can use this complex, but proven technology over the years.

Plastic

Now they prefer to use more convenient and easy-to-use materials for the reservoir. Most fast way- dig into the ground purchased plastic container. You can find it in special stores various options containers for every taste, various shapes and depths, the color of the plastic is predominantly dark from brown to black, to more resemble natural earth. But such forms allow you to create small reservoirs up to 3.5 square meters of water surface and up to 80 cm deep. Such a pond may well last about 10 years, but if damaged during transportation, installation or use, it is impossible to repair the pothole. It is also important to leave such a pond empty for the winter in order to avoid the appearance of cracks when the frozen water expands.

fiberglass

Despite the fact that the material was invented and distributed quite a long time ago, it began to be used to create such forms only a few years ago. This material is also used to make ready-made forms for the pond, but already large sizes, the area of ​​​​such a reservoir can reach 10 square meters. m. But the price of such a product will be an order of magnitude more expensive than a plastic counterpart. Its high cost is fully justified, because an artificial pond made of fiberglass can last up to 30 years, another indisputable advantage of this material is the possibility of a full repair of cracks and potholes.

These forms are quite resistant to cold and sunlight, have natural colors - brown, black or green. And recently, it has become possible to apply a coating to the edge of the mold with natural materials- durable, indelible and indelible, but almost perfectly repeating sand, pebbles or stones. This allows you to easily and efficiently disguise an artificial reservoir as a natural one, perfectly fitting it into the design of the garden.

Types of waterproofing of reservoirs

There are the following types of pond waterproofing:

Flexible waterproofing

A bright representative of flexible waterproofing is film materials and butyl rubber. A flexible waterproofing coating is preferable for areas where the terrain is rocky. The thickness of the film must be selected based on the depth of the created pond.

For example, for a pond with a depth of approximately 1.5 m, the film thickness of the waterproofing layer should reach 1.5 mm. For shallow ponds, 0.8 mm foil can be used. Ready-made polyethylene ponds are made with a volume of 130-800 liters.

Rigid waterproofing

Rigid waterproofing is considered to be a dense coating of the base and banks of the pond. Therefore, ready-made forms (tanks) are used for waterproofing. Ready-made forms of the pond are made industrially from fiberglass. When choosing ready-made pond forms, it is better to give preference to designs with ready-made terraces designed to decorate a pond. The construction technology of such a hydraulic structure is easy.

Exaggerated technology can be imagined as the installation of an old used cast iron bath in the garden. The difference will be in the dimensions of the tank and, of course, in the cost. It is not difficult to purchase such a ready-made "hyper-rigid" waterproofing for a reservoir. Rigid pond baths are produced in volumes from 600 to 900 liters.

Proper installation of pond materials

Very important for long life correct installation forms. After all, initially such containers began to be produced in Europe, where the climate is milder, there are no such severe frosts, therefore, the requirements for installation and stability of the material are different. In our own natural conditions improper installation can easily lead to squeezing and cracking of the mold due to the voids formed during installation. In fact, it is very difficult to first dig a large pit, then establish a rather large shape in it in terms of level, and then moisten and compact the soil around it, completely filling free space and at the same time keeping an eye on the ideal levelness of the surface. Such difficulties often lack patience, time and effort. And the desire to simplify the task is likely to lead to quick problems and damage to the form.

If you leave this difficult task specialists, the installation will result in a tidy sum, commensurate with the price of the form itself, and then the very idea of ​​\u200b\u200bcost-effectiveness and ease of installation is lost. Therefore, experts recommend using fiberglass for small ponds, during the construction of which it is quite easy to set the shape correctly on your own, but for arranging large ponds, use more flexible materials.

concrete pond

A few more common and fairly popular materials for creating a pond:

Ordinary polyethylene film

To equip a larger pond, it is necessary to use more flexible materials to create a reservoir. The cheapest and most affordable building material is plain film, it is easy to buy, transport and lay out in the desired form, recreating any outline of the coast.

Many mistakenly believe that the thickest film will be the strongest, but in reality a fairly thin grade can be more durable and stronger than a film of solid thickness. Therefore, before buying, you should find out in detail the characteristics of the film. Experts recommend using two layers of film to create a pond, then such a coating will last up to 3 years. But some high-quality and resistant types of film can withstand 12 years. It should also be remembered that it is advisable to pour out the water from the pond in cold weather, because when it freezes, it can expand and deform, tear the film.

Polyvinyl chloride film is a durable and malleable material for construction. Thanks to the improved structure, it can last up to 15 years. On sale you can find a film of dark green, black and even brown, which are closest to the color of the ground and the bottom of the reservoir, making the pond look very natural, and the banks are easier to disguise. For ease of installation, there are special types adhesives that quickly and easily connect the pieces together, which makes it possible to cover an area far exceeding the standard width of the film.

Butyl rubber is considered the most expensive, but also the most reliable material. Due to the unique structure, it is not affected by ultraviolet and cold, does not crack and can last up to 50 years. This material is very plastic, can be stretched in all directions, mounted at any time of the year, and is simply indispensable for arranging ponds. large area, depths, on hard stony soils.

But this amazing material has weak sides- it can be damaged by sharp stones, rodent teeth and even strong plant roots. Therefore, to protect rubber from these factors, experts recommend using various insulating coatings, for the bottom it can be ordinary sand, but it is better to secure the walls and the lower layer of the film with a special material called geotextile.

Concrete

The most expensive, but also very reliable material can be called concrete. Such a bottom is very strong and rigid, it can easily withstand the weight of a person. But during the construction of a reservoir, certain skills in working with concrete are required; it is impossible to do without traditional frames made of reinforcement and formwork. In addition, when pouring the bottom and walls with ordinary concrete, care must be taken to waterproof both the outer and inner layers so that groundwater does not destroy the structure over time.

And to work with special waterproof grades of concrete, knowledge of special pouring technologies is required. The advantage of such a pond can be called resistance to external influences such as sun, frost, rodents or rocks. But such a material also has disadvantages, because the arrangement of a reservoir with the help of concrete is very long, complex and expensive, and in the future it will not be easy to remake and finalize the pond.

Demand creates supply, and with the growing popularity of artificial reservoirs, new and comfortable materials for a pond, which allow you to quickly and efficiently create a water surface of the desired size and shape. Before building a pond, it is advisable to consult with experts, read special literature in order to choose the optimal type of pond that fits perfectly into the design of the garden plot. The choice of material will depend on the desired shape, size and depth of the pond.

For small and intricate ponds, ready-made forms made of plastic and fiberglass are well suited, and for creating large and deep ponds, it is better to use polyethylene or PVC film, butyl rubber or concrete. Wish, good materials and a little strength, work and patience - and the garden will be decorated with a beautiful and stylish pond, a corner of calm and silence. From the foregoing, we can conclude that the materials for creating a pond great amount, and you need to choose them for arranging a pond in your garden based on your needs.

Pond waterproofing steps

Regardless of the material chosen, the pond waterproofing process consists of the following:

• preparatory work: removal of soil by manual method;

• leveling and tamping of the base and walls of the pit;
• laying a geotextile with a film;
• strengthening the edges of the film and the walls of the reservoir;
• filling with water.

We add that the excellent water resistance of a reservoir will depend on the quality of processing of technological seams, therefore it is better to entrust geomembrane welding to professionals in this field. It has been verified that the use of a geomembrane for the construction of ponds is considered beneficial from an economic point of view.

At the same time, not only material costs are reduced, but also the construction time of the reservoir. And this means that next summer you will definitely have a pond in your summer cottage.

An artificial reservoir is a decoration of any suburban area. But not everyone knows that the construction of this building is technologically difficult process. One of the main nuances is high-quality waterproofing. It must be not only reliable, but also durable. Among insulating materials, film is better than others for these purposes. Next, consider the types and features of this material.

Film for a reservoir and the feasibility of its use

Any reservoir consists of a pit dug in the ground. Next, drainage is installed and a bowl is made. It is of two types:

• concrete bulk,
• whole.

For standard pools, one-piece bowls made of various modifications are used. polymer materials. Disadvantages:

• pattern form,
• ugly appearance,
• susceptibility to mechanical damage.

Concrete is much stronger and allows you to create quite unusual works of art. But moisture is detrimental to bulk bowls. When wet, concrete loses its strength and begins to crumble. As a result, monolithicity is broken. In addition, sand and concrete chips get into the water.

The easiest way to solve this problem is to use tiles. If we are talking about a pool, this option is acceptable. But tile is categorically not suitable for a pond, as it will greatly spoil the appearance of the reservoir. The same is true for other decorative objects.

More modern way- usage bituminous mastics and chemically active waterproofing agents. The former create a uniform waterproof coating on the surface, the latter create a microfilm with a thickness of 1-2 microns.

Bitumen bases have poor vapor permeability, therefore, the concrete will rot, especially if a drainage belt is not made around the bowl. Chemically active components are free from this drawback, but any mechanical damage will destroy the protective cover.

With the development of methods for processing polymers and rubbers, many interesting materials have appeared in terms of their insulating abilities. They received the collective name "film for reservoirs". Its advantages:

• environmental friendliness,
• low cost,
• choice of color,
• resistance to chemical and mechanical damage,
• service life of at least 50 years, depending on quality and material,
• good vapor permeability
• suitability for decoration.

All these advantages ensured the popularity of the material. In addition, it is quite easy and fast to work with it even alone. On the other hand, there are different ways film production and it is made from various materials, each of which has its own characteristics.

Types of waterproofing film for a pond

There are only two types of films on the market:

• PVC,
• butyl rubber.

Polyvinyl chloride is a fairly strong elastic material that has high waterproofing properties. It is obtained from vinyl chloride. It is a gas with a high content of chloride compounds. They are highly toxic to humans, but finished products selection volatile substances minimized. Since a person spends only a few hours a day in the pool, harm to the body is completely excluded. However, this film is not suitable for a fish pond. The release of chloride compounds occurs constantly. They mix with other gases that are present in the water and are then absorbed by the fish. As a result of the negative impact of chlorine, the inhabitants of the reservoir will either die or get sick.

The rubber film for the pond is created by the polymerization of isobutylene. Although this gas also contains chloride compounds, they evaporate to a much lesser extent. This makes it relevant to use this type of product for ponds with fish. Another reason is that the film has a black color, which allows you to create a bottom that is identical to the real one.

In terms of practicality, both materials have proven themselves quite well. Therefore, it is necessary to make another division according to the type of waterproofing film:

• ultrathin,
• with air sacs
• ultra-strong.

All these compositions are performed both in classic black and blue colors and in brighter colors.

Ultra-thin film is the standard product used by most pool installers. This film is for the reservoir, the price of which will be the lowest. Therefore, it has certain disadvantages:

• susceptibility to mechanical damage,
• special installation skills
• the shortest service life.

The thickness of such a film is up to 1 mm.

The ultra-strong film is devoid of the disadvantages of a cheaper option, but its cost is somewhat higher. However, for a swimming pool, this option should be considered, since such pools are subject to strong mechanical stress. The thickness is usually 1.5 mm or more.

Film with air sacs appeared relatively recently. It is a more durable counterpart packaging film. The cost is not much different from ultra-strong film. And from the advantages it is necessary to highlight the possibility of creating a floor and walls that are pleasant to the touch. In addition, the presence of air cushions provides protection against injury from falls or bumps.

Specifications of waterproofing film for ponds

The choice of bityl rubber or PVC depends on the specific features of the mode of operation of the reservoir. Therefore, it makes sense to consider in more detail physical properties each of the materials. From the point of view of chemistry, they are identical, since they are formed from relatively inert gases that do not react. Accordingly, both materials are chemically passive and resistant to detergents and special additives for water treatment.

The film for PVC reservoirs has the following parameters:

• weight 1 m2 - 0.6-0.9 kg,
• thickness - 0.5-1.2 mm,
• high elasticity, not less than 200%,
• high resistance to mechanical damage, to violate the integrity of the coating you will need a metal object or sharp glass,
• is an unfavorable environment for bacteria and viruses,
• withstands temperatures up to -500C, does not respond to temperature changes,
• retains waterproofing properties at pressures up to 2 kPa,
• service life of at least 20 years,
• price from 170 rubles. - 1 m2 ultrathin, from 240 rubles. - 1 m2 ultra-strong.

It is worth saying a few words about the method PVC mounting films. For these purposes, a special waterproof glue is used. Seams must be processed as efficiently as possible using the appropriate tool. The film must be overlapped. Otherwise, high-quality waterproofing cannot be achieved.

Butyl rubber film for a pond, since it is most appropriate to use it for these purposes, has the following parameters:

• weight 1 m2 - 1.1-1.3 kg,
• thickness -1.02 mm,
• very high elasticity, not less than 300%,
• medium resistance to mechanical damage, to violate the integrity of the cover you will need a sharp tree or metal,
• does not fade in the sun, does not dry out over time, respectively - does not form cracks,
• absolutely safe for any living organisms, while the roots of freshwater plants do not damage the film,
• temperature regime from -450С to +1200С, with a sharp change temperature regime slightly changes the geometry,
• repairable,
• withstands pressures up to 2.5 kPa,
• service life of at least 20 years,
• price from 350 rubles - 1 m2.

Despite the cost, rubber film has two distinct advantages. Firstly, in case of damage, any, even a large hole or scratch, can simply be repaired with rubber mastics. Secondly, the film is produced in rolls with a width of 3 to 15 meters, which allows you to make seamless connections in reservoirs with a sufficiently large cubic capacity. A change in size due to a temperature difference is characteristic only if there is no water. For seamless reservoirs, this is not a problem.

The film is mounted by analogy with PVC, but unlike the previous version, at least three assistants will be needed to work. This is primarily due to the impressive dimensions and weight of the roll. One or even two people are not able to lay out and install the film evenly. In addition, before starting work, you must familiarize yourself with technological map process, otherwise the quality of waterproofing will be poor.

Where to buy a film for the pond and pool

With an abundance of construction hypermarkets and traders in the global network, there are no difficulties in finding a seller. But the quality of his products is a question. The main problems faced by buyers:

• no guarantee,
• no delivery,
• lack of quality certificates,
• counterfeit,
• non-compliance technological requirements production,
• product change.

Despite the banality of each of the points, 90% of ordinary buyers of building material face them. For example, the absence of a guarantee suggests that the seller is selling either without a license or a product that was purchased through dubious intermediaries. Consequently, the seller does not have a direct contract with the manufacturer and warranty service cannot be performed.

The lack of delivery, given the weight and size of the rolls, is actual problem. Some firms offer to hire their movers and charge an additional fee for this. On the other hand, reputable companies always deliver either for free or for significantly less money.

Like the lack of a guarantee, the lack of a quality certificate means that the seller's product does not meet the declared parameters, therefore, you are buying a pig in a poke.

Counterfeit products are a real scourge Russian market building materials. Quite a lot of companies, especially market leaders, in pursuit of increasing profits, buy products from private firms and package them in packages of world-famous brands. Checking the authenticity of products is quite simple, you need to ask for a product passport or invoice.

Young players offer goods from little-known manufacturers. Often it is not inferior to more expensive imported counterparts. But much more often small entrepreneurs try to save on quality, in pursuit of quantity. As a result, the film will not meet even 50% of its standard characteristics.

One of the oldest tricks is the substitution of goods, when in the store the buyer is shown all the documents for the goods, and after the conclusion of the transaction and the delivery, they write their own invoice and change the branded product to a handicraft one. The result is still the same - waterproofing will last only a year or two instead of tens of years.

However, this is not all. In order for the film for the reservoir not to disappoint, it is better to purchase goods not only with a full package of documents, but also from a trusted manufacturer.

Overview of manufacturers of films for the reservoir

A film for a reservoir, which will be beneficial to buy not only in terms of savings, but also for its practicality, is divided into elite products and publicly available. Elite models imitate a natural stone or other materials. Regardless of the manufacturer, its price starts from 700 rubles. for 1 m2. Next, consider the most famous manufacturers of PVC films:

• The Italians from Agrilac specialize specifically in the production of rolled PVC waterproofing. As a result, their products are one of the highest quality and affordable. If we are talking about arranging a pool for private use, it makes no sense to consider other options. Price from 150 rubles. for 1 m2.
• IZOFOL is a Polish company that specializes in the production of waterproofing materials. The main focus of the company is on quality, so its products are not inferior to more eminent counterparts. Price from 200 rubles. for 1 m2.
• WTB ELBEsecur is perhaps the most famous German manufacturer of waterproofing various types. The range includes several varieties of PVC film. Despite the rather small assortment, the offered products have one indisputable advantage - a double margin of safety. This circumstance ensures the reliability of insulation even under overload conditions. Price from 230 rubles. for 1 m2.
• Another world-famous Germans is RENOLIT. Despite the high quality and rich the lineup, the price is 200-250 rubles. per 1 m2 is unjustified.
• Gardena is one of the largest concerns in Europe, which is engaged in the production of various gadgets for the garden. Office and main production capacity located in Germany. Relatively low price of 180-200 rubles. per 1 m2., due to the quality of the goods. Since Gardena is a multi-profile company, experts do not physically have time to pay due attention to each area.
• Heissner is another German multi-brand. Specializes in chemical industry, including in the production of PVC. The choice of this brand can only be justified if the options listed above are not available.

If we talk about manufacturers of bityl rubber film, then the list is somewhat shorter. This circumstance is associated with the complexity of production and the price of raw materials.

• EPDM PondLiner is the undisputed market leader in rubber membranes. The company was founded in the USA and successfully exports its products to more than 100 countries. The declared service life is 50 years. At the same time, the price starts from 270 rubles. for 1 m2.
• Larex is an Italian brand. By reducing the thickness of the coating while maintaining most of the product parameters, the company reduced the price of rubber membranes to 160-180 rubles. for 1 m2. However, 0.5 mm will not provide reliable waterproofing for reservoirs with a volume of more than 5 cubic meters.
• Poles from Ergis offer a compromise between price and quality. Their products are first and foremost worthy of attention, but a bad distribution makes it difficult to buy this brand. Price from 200 rubles. for 1 m2.
• OASE and Pontec are the largest German manufacturers of butyl rubber products. These companies produce top-class products, but their cost is also high - from 300 rubles. for 1 m2.

Of course, not all manufacturers were considered. But it makes no sense to compile a more detailed list, since the rest of the companies still do not reach the level of those indicated, and buying their products is a waste.

In the old days, ponds were arranged by reinforcing the edges of a dug hole with crumpled clay. The use of this technology, although cheap, inevitably entails the sinking of the banks and clouding of the water.

Sandy soil is also not very good, as it does not hold water at a constant level. The usual plastic film laid on the bottom serves only two or three years.

Another thing is modern technology. They involve the use of reliable building materials. For example, convenient containers for garden ponds various shapes with a decorative edge. Manufacturers also make molds for creating cascades, streams and waterfalls.

When laying such forms, it is necessary to carefully level the pit, and then evenly pour water into it so that the container lies flat on the ground. Such products are frost-resistant, and they can be safely left in their place for the winter.

Special film for the device of reservoirs, channels of falls and streams - too good decision Problems. She simply lined the bottom over the protective fabric. This option significantly saves time and money, and also allows you to give the future creation absolutely any shape. Films are made of PVC, synthetic rubber (butyl rubber), copolymer materials and polyethylene. They are very tear resistant ultraviolet rays and not even afraid severe frosts. In case of damage to the bottom and water leakage, such a coating is easily repaired.

Types of films that offer modern manufacturers, are quite diverse: single-layer, two-layer and decorative coated with fine gravel. Moreover, the highest quality films do not contain cadmium and regeneration products. They can be used to build ponds for fish.

Despite the fact that the films are elastic and can withstand heavy loads, when preparing the pit, you should still be careful about the presence of sharp stones and tree roots, which can still damage the future bottom.

A film imitating a rocky surface can be used to decorate the edge of a pond with partial immersion in water. This will create a natural transition coastline. Well, the stream bed, decorated with such a film, looks quite natural.

The bottom is also lined with other types of films, while calculating the degree of load depending on the surface area and depth of the reservoir. The larger the pond, the thicker the film should be.

Films from different manufacturers are offered on the domestic market: Russian, Canadian, German, Italian, Dutch, etc. Each product has its own service life: from 3-5 to several decades. Films made of butyl rubber (synthetic rubber) costing from 250 rubles are considered to be long-lived.

PVC films usually serve up to 10-15 years and cost within 200 rubles. per m2. The same gravel-coated material will cost 700 rubles. The polyethylene film will last the least: 3-5 years. Its cost is 150-190 rubles. German films have proven themselves especially well. Their granular structure contributes to better survival of plants, making the film almost invisible.