When it comes to protecting your property from the devastating effects of wildfire, having a reliable and effective fire suppression system is crucial. One central component of such a system is a fire pond. In this article, we’ll guide you through installing a fire pond, from choosing the most effective liner, to step-by-step instructions for embankment and excavated ponds, and installing essential features.
Choosing the Right Materials for Your Fire Pond Liner
The fire pond liner prevents water from seeping into the ground and ensures optimal water retention, making it a critical component of your fire pond. There are several options for fire pond liners, including PVC, EPDM, and reinforced polyethylene (RPE).
PVC liners are lightweight, flexible, and inexpensive, but they are more susceptible to punctures and tears than other materials and are vulnerable to degradation from UV rays.
EPDM liners are durable, long-lasting, and resist weathering and chemical exposure but are heavy and vulnerable to punctures. EPDM should always be installed with a protective underlayment, which adds cost to an already fairly pricey option.
RPE liners are puncture-resistant and provide excellent strength and durability. Overall, RPE is less expensive and lighter than EPDM and is available in very large single panels to simplify installation. BTL Liners offers high-quality EPDM and RPE liners for fire pond applications. Give us a call today to find out more.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Building an Earthen Embankment
Building an embankment fire pond involves creating a natural barrier to hold the water. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Examine the site: Before building your dam, it is essential to examine the site carefully. This examination includes checking for underground utilities, such as power or gas lines. You should also check the soil conditions to ensure the ground is stable enough to support the dam’s weight.
- Build the foundation: The foundation of an earthen embankment dam is essential for stability. It should be excavated to a depth of at least 3 feet below the ground surface. The foundation should then be compacted to ensure that it is stable.
- Build the core: The core of an earthen embankment dam is the most critical part of the dam. It should be made of compacted clay or other waterproof material. The core should be at least 3 feet thick and extend the dam’s width.
- Build the shoulders: The shoulders of an earthen embankment dam are the sloping sides of the dam. They should be made of compacted sand, gravel, or other permeable material. The shoulders should be at least 2 feet thick and extend the dam’s width.
- Install a liner: The floor and sides of the pond should be free of sharp rocks, large stones, or other protrusions. Small smooth stones are acceptable if you’re using an RPE liner, but other liners and conditions will require underlayment. Consult with your liner supplier to assess the situation.
- Install a spillway: A spillway is a way for water to escape from the pond if the dam gets too full. It should be designed to safely discharge excess water without damaging erosion or endangering downstream structures and populations.
- Plant vegetation: Vegetation such as fire- and drought-resistant native grasses and shrubs can help stabilize the dam and prevent erosion but avoid trees whose deep roots can damage the dam’s structure.
- Fill the pond: Once the dam is built, you can fill the pond with water and monitor for leaks or seepage.
- Be aware of the weather: Know the weather conditions when making a dam. Do not build during a storm or when there is a risk of flooding.
- Get professional help: If you are not comfortable building a dam yourself, it is a good idea to get professional help. A qualified contractor can help you to make a safe and effective dam.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Building an Excavated Fire Pond
At its simplest, building an excavated fire pond involves digging a hole in the ground and lining it with a fire pond liner. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
- Mark out the perimeter of the pond using stakes and a string or fluorescent spray paint
- Excavate the pond area, ensuring the depth is at least 8’ and the slopes are suitable for the liner.
- Remove any rocks or sharp objects from the soil to prevent damage to the liner.
- Compact the soil at the bottom of the pond to create a stable base.
- Carefully unroll the fire pond liner and position it in the pond, ensuring it covers the entire area with some overlap.
- To ensure a proper fit, smooth out any wrinkles or folds in the liner.
- Secure the liner in place using an anchor trench.
- Install an overflow pipe, access points, and a fire pump as necessary.
- Fill the pond with water and monitor for any leaks or seepage.
Adding Essential Features to Your Fire Pond
Several essential features should be incorporated to ensure your fire pond’s functionality and safety. One of these features is an overflow pipe, which allows excess water to be safely drained out of the pond during heavy rain or snow melt.
Access points are necessary to allow easy access for maintenance and inspection purposes. A fire pump should also be installed to ensure a constant and reliable water supply on-site in case of a fire emergency.
Fire services access should be considered in building a functional fire pond. Fire tankers can range from pickup trucks with small tanks to full-size water tenders carrying several thousand gallons of water. A large, fully loaded water tender can weigh in at 20 tons.
These trucks need a hard, durable surface road to get a tanker close enough to the water source to reach it with a 12-foot-long drafting hose. Roads that are soft or wet from seeps or other causes can create real problems for heavily loaded vehicles.
Hiring a Professional for Fire Pond Construction
Building a fire pond can be a rewarding DIY project but also complex and time-consuming. If you lack the necessary skills, equipment, or time, hiring a professional for fire pond construction is advisable.
A professional contractor will have the expertise and experience to ensure your fire pond is built to code and meets all safety requirements. They can also recommend the best materials and designs for your specific needs. Remember, investing in professional fire pond construction is an investment in the safety and protection of your property.
