Cost of Building a Koi Pond
By ProMatcher Staff
How Much Does a Koi Pond Cost?
The cost of building a koi pond depends on a number of different factors, including your geographic location, the size of the pond, and the type of equipment required. Use the information below to get a better idea of how much your pond project should cost.
1. Where you live. Your geographic location may impact the cost of building a pond. The cost of installation is usually higher in large cities and it should be a little bit less in smaller towns.
2. Permitting. Depending on local regulations and the size of the pond, you may need a permit before beginning construction. The cost of any permit inspection fees should be included in the contractor’s estimate.
3. Excavation and site preparation. Digging out the pond is one of the most important parts of the construction process. Larger and deeper ponds will be more expensive to excavate. If you are handy, you may be able to save a few dollars by digging out the pond yourself. Before beginning, make sure you stay clear of any underground utility lines. Installing an above-ground koi pond is also an option in some cases.
4. Pond design. The shape and size of the pond will be up to you and your contractor to decide. Keep in mind that koi prefer deeper habitats (at least 3-4 feet deep). Kidney shapes are very popular, but circular, square, and free form shapes are also available. Many beginners start with a 1,000-2,000 gallon koi pond and work up to a larger size.
5. Pond construction materials. Koi ponds can be built a number of different ways. Many koi ponds are built with a flexible rubber liner. With this type of pond, you can completely customize the shape and size. If soil conditions are difficult, your contractor may recommend installing a concrete (or gunite) pond for extra durability. Additionally, some koi ponds are built with prefabricated shells. These pond shells are typically made of PVC or fiberglass, and they come in a variety of different depths and sizes.
6. Plumbing and electrical work. Most koi ponds rely on a system of PVC pipes to keep the water in the pond moving. Additionally, an electrical connection is needed for the pond’s pump, filters, and lighting system. If your pond builder needs to enlist the services of a plumber or an electrician, this will add to the cost of your project.
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7. Pond filtration. All of the necessary filters should be included in the pond builder’s estimate. Filtration is important for keeping your koi healthy, as well as keeping the water safe and clean. For a koi pond, you will need two different filters: a biological filter and a mechanical filter. The mechanical filter traps miscellaneous debris, and the biological filter will remove potentially dangerous pollutants and toxins. An ultraviolet sterilizer (or stabilizer) can also help kill algae and bacteria, keeping your pond clean and healthy. Additionally, a skimmer may be useful for removing debris from the pond’s surface. This equipment will come at an additional cost.
8. Equipment. All necessary pond equipment (pumps, filters, bottom drains, aerators, etc.) should be included in the cost estimate. The pump is responsible for keeping all of the water in the pond moving. Pond pump capacity is measured in gallons per hour (or gph). As a general rule, the pump should be able to circulate all of the water in the pond every 1-2 hours.
9. Heated ponds. If you live in a colder climate, you may consider installing a pond heater or de-icer to keep your fish comfortable during the winter. This equipment is not typically included in the cost of a basic koi pond.
10. Waterfalls and fountains. Waterfalls and foundations are both decorative and practical. They help to aerate the pond and they provide ambience. However, these features will add to the cost of building your pond.
11. Pond protection. Local regulations may require that the pond has a fence built around it. This will add to the cost of installation. Additionally, koi can be vulnerable to attacks from birds and other critters. Installing a system to keep out predators may increase the cost of your project.
12. Pond stocking. The cost of the stocking the pond with koi is not typically included in the cost of construction. The cost of koi can vary greatly. While some small, domestic fish may cost under $50, some imported, mature koi can cost thousands of dollars. The fish should always be introduced to their new environment slowly to ensure a smooth transition.
Related Resources:
+ Pond Builders Directory
+ Pond Construction Cost Report
About the Author
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| ProMatcher Staff, ProMatcher
Orlando, FL 32803
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