so you want a koi pond...
The pond hobby has recently gained popularity and as a result, there is a lot of conflicting information out there. Unfortunately, capitalists flock to make a quick buck in these scenarios and they will build your deck and put in a hot tub too. Box stores sell pond equipment and landscapers are ready to tackle the biggest pond project without even a rudimentary knowledge of fish and filtration principles. This is why 80% of our projects are rebuilds
These are not knowledgeable and skilled sources for advanced information and pond construction if you are to get the most from your pond. You need to carefully consider the source of your information before anything else
At Clarke Koi Ponds, we encourage you to do your research - then stop in with your list of questions. We are happy to discuss your build at our shop and explain to you in a logical scientific manner the right way and the wrong way to proceed. A visit to some or our pond builds can be also arranged. Ultimately, you need to be comfortable in proceeding with such a large project and our goal is simply to help you get the best result possible
These are not knowledgeable and skilled sources for advanced information and pond construction if you are to get the most from your pond. You need to carefully consider the source of your information before anything else
At Clarke Koi Ponds, we encourage you to do your research - then stop in with your list of questions. We are happy to discuss your build at our shop and explain to you in a logical scientific manner the right way and the wrong way to proceed. A visit to some or our pond builds can be also arranged. Ultimately, you need to be comfortable in proceeding with such a large project and our goal is simply to help you get the best result possible
Wade in, Don't dive
Poorly constructed ponds are perfunctory at best. We see a lot of them, and speak with many clients with a long list of "should have's". Deficiencies include a lack of filtration, shallow depth and poor pond plumbing. Unfortunately this translates into high maintenance, poor water quality and fish health issues. This is why most hobbyists end up building 3 ponds to get to their ideal design. Our mandate is to save you those steps because going through them just costs you a whole lot more
Poorly constructed ponds are perfunctory at best. We see a lot of them, and speak with many clients with a long list of "should have's". Deficiencies include a lack of filtration, shallow depth and poor pond plumbing. Unfortunately this translates into high maintenance, poor water quality and fish health issues. This is why most hobbyists end up building 3 ponds to get to their ideal design. Our mandate is to save you those steps because going through them just costs you a whole lot more
Construction Warning Signs:
- Your pond will be built in just a few days
- Your pond will be less than 5 feet deep
- Rocks will be installed in the bottom [see pic ->]
- Your builder can start the job tomorrow
- Your builder suggests you don't require a bottom drain
- You are getting very little equipment for the money
- The builder recommends box or small canister filters
- Your builder can't answer all your questions
- Your builder doesn't have their own pond
80% of our pond work is rebuilds
Most of our work comes from repairing, upgrading or completely rebuilding existing ponds. Many times a concrete collar wasn't installed and the waterfall is collapsing. Or the pond may be too shallow and full of stone - and the client has realized these costly short cummings. Whatever the reason, the bottom line is most ponds are not built properly [see the waterfall rebuild pictures below for an example of the prototypical poor stone work we encounter]My biggest recommendation to everyone is to take your time and get educated. Whether it's the fabulous looking website that has no actual content, or the business first capitalist who sends a team of teenagers - the red flags are usually pretty obvious and you need to make sure you are dealing with the right company
It amazes me how many clients visit us looking for solutions. We often find out they had an expensive pond built by the wrong company and/or have been receiving the wrong information. Pond building is hard. Really hard. It takes skill and creative talent, equipment and know how to get a good result
clarke koi Pond Construction Pricing Guide
If you would like to contract Clarke Koi to construct your pond, your first step should be to visit the shop so your project can be discussed. This is of course free with no obligation and we will show you different options in operation on our own tanks. The next step could be a statement of work [estimate] or an onsite consultation. There is a charge for this service as it takes a visit to your site. The advice given however, will save you moneyWe will also provide you with our 22 page Pond Pricing Guide which is an overview of our construction procedures and answers most questions. As part of the consultation, visiting some of our pond builds can also be on the agenda and is a great idea
After we agree on the parameters and cost, a nominal booking deposit is paid and your projects timeslot is reserved. We then we bring our passion and expertise to your backyard to create an exceptional result
Project Management
The time required away from the jobsite can't be underestimated. Travel, loading and unloading our vehicle and recording the work records are daily tasks. Correspondance with you & suppliers to arrange delivery and pickup, cost reports and billing are also very time consuming
Please realize approximately 20% of the projects total time is not billable and occurs away from the job site. These efforts are essential to ensure the most efficient progress while actually building your pond