Tips for Using Bentonite for Pond Construction

Here at Southwestern Materials, our team has many years of experience in using sodium bentonite for pond construction. They know what works and what does not work, and are qualified to provide guidance on how to best apply the bentonite, what method to use, what ratios are ideal for mixing and so on. One point to note is the importance of preparing the sealing layer during the construction phase of the pond, as opposed to afterwards. It is more efficient to lay the seal in place before the pond is filled, as opposed to having to drain and dry the pond later on.

For more details and information on how to use bentonite for ponds, you have come to the right place. Our staff can offer recommendations and advice on using bentonite for pond construction that is tailored to your particular pond and construction site. You can get in touch with us directly by phone at 512-280-7801 toll free @ 888-600-6077 to speak with a professional. We would be happy to discuss what we, as your bentonite supplier, can do to assist with your project.

Preparation Before Applying Bentonite for Ponds

Before applying bentonite for pond sealing, some preparation will need to be carried out. For example, the site itself will need to be cleared and modified properly. If there are any objects on the pond bed that make the surface irregular, these will need to be removed. These include boulders and large rocks, the stumps or large roots of trees, and other similar objects. This is part of making the pond bed as level as possible. In addition, the sides of the pond should also be checked to ensure that the slope is not too steep. The target slope is one that is at or close to 3:1.

It is also important to determine how much bentonite for ponds will be needed for the entire project. For the most accurate computation, we recommend having the soil analyzed by a soil lab. In addition to that, however, the consistency of the soil will also be a significant factor. If the soil is coarser, more bentonite will need to be applied. Pond depth is also important because the deeper a pond is, the greater the water pressure that will be bearing down on the bentonite seal. So, greater depths and increased water pressure will require more bentonite for ponds to compensate.

Applying Bentonite for Pond Sealing

Once the necessary preparations have been carried out, application of the bentonite for pond sealing can take place. Here, the bentonite is applied over the pond bed in a uniform manner. The dry bentonite should be mixed and combined with the upper 4 inches of the native soil. The area can then be hydrated by dousing it with fresh water, and then it can be compacted. The workers must be careful while compacting, so that they do not accidentally penetrate or puncture the sealing layer.

In some projects, that layer is then covered over by another layer of local clay, that is around 2 inches in thickness. That additional layer is then compacted. Again, it is important to ensure that no puncturing of the bentonite pond sealer accidentally happens. Check out our Bentonite Pond Sealer Application Guide for more on sealing ponds with bentonite.

Learn More About Using Bentonite for Pond Construction

For more information on using bentonite for ponds and pond construction, please reach out to us directly at 512-280-7801 toll free @ 888-600-6077. If you need an estimate, you can request a quote online using our convenient form. Our experts are ready to answer any of your questions regarding what we, as a your Texas bentonite supplier, can do for you.