Sometimes your backyard is just too boring. Sorry to say, but it’s true. If you look out to your backyard and all you see is wasted potential, it’s time to get out there and do something about it. The good news is a backyard pond can liven up a dull yard and can be done rather easily. So if you’re of the DIY bent (and I’d wager that you are), you can build a small pond that will make your backyard fresh and interesting.

But before you start, here are a few things to think about on how to build a backyard pond.

• Think about the type of pond you want to build. Do you want your pond to be above ground, in-ground, or partially in-ground?

• Think about what materials you’ll use to surround and line your pond.

• Think about what style you want your pond to be. Do you want your pond to be modern? Natural? Casual? Which style of pond works best for your yard?

• Think about features. Do you want a waterfall, fountain, or bubbler? Do you want your pond to be a calm oasis or a vibrant water feature? Do you want plants or fish in it?

Once you’ve thought about what type of pond you want, now it’s time to build it. Luckily for you, we’re also providing this guide on How to Build a Backyard Pond in 6 Steps.

What You’ll Need: A shovel, One 2×4 board, paint brush, garden spade, bubble level, tape measure, garden hose, SANI-TRED PermaFlex

Step 1 Excavate the Area

Lay out the area you want your pond to be with a rope or garden hose. Use a garden spade to dig down 3 inches in a 1-foot wide ring outside the border to create the border shelf. Continue digging inside the bordered area to a minimum depth of 18 inches, creating a slight slope.

Step 2 Level the Pond

Set a 2×4 across the newly dug hole. Put a level on top of the board and adjust the pond’s edges until level. Carve out a 6-inch wide, 1-inch deep channel on one side to redirect water overflow. Make sure the area is smooth before moving to the next step.

Step 3 Waterproof the Pond

Using concrete or other pond liner. If using concrete, waterproof by applying SANI-TRED’s PermaFlex liquid rubber coating.

Step 4 Fill Pond

Using a garden hose, fill the pond with water. Fill until the water reaches the border shelf.

Step 5 Arrange Border

Border the pond with whatever material you have chosen. Rocks can hang over the edge of the pond, but make sure they are balanced so they don’t fall all the way in. Arrange border until you’re satisfied with how it looks.

Step 6 Final Touches

With the pond completed and bordered, complete any landscaping you want to be in the area around your pond.

For more information on how to make a pond in your backyard and on waterproofing your new pond, visit Sani-Tred