Introduction
Water features are central elements in commercial landscaping design, and pond liners provide a versatile and durable solution for creating and maintaining fountains, artificial creeks, retention ponds, and other aquatic installations. In large-scale projects, where aesthetics, function, and environmental responsibility are critical, selecting the right pond liner can make a significant difference in the installation’s performance and longevity.
For decorative ponds in a corporate park, retention ponds for stormwater management, or an irrigation pond for a golf course, a pond liner ensures water features can operate efficiently and reliably. This article explores a few examples of how pond liners are used in commercial landscaping, their benefits, and key considerations for their selection and installation.
Liner Materials
In commercial and municipal landscaping, decorative water features usually face low chemical exposure levels but potentially high UV exposure. They may also be subjected to high environmental stresses from animals, water flow, etc.
For these applications, three liner options stand out:
RPE (Reinforced Polyethylene)
RPE liners are highly durable, UV-resistant, and cost-effective. They offer strong puncture resistance, which is essential if the feature includes rocks or other potential hazards.
RPE is generally more affordable than many other high-performance liners, especially when matched with its long lifespan and durability. It’s also available in large sizes, which simplifies installation and reduces the need for seaming.
RPP (Reinforced Polypropylene)
RPP liners offer a good balance of flexibility, UV resistance, and durability. They are well-suited for water features where the liner may need to conform to complex shapes while providing reliable protection against UV exposure.
RPP prices typically fall between RPE and EPDM, offering a middle-ground option that provides good performance at a reasonable cost. It’s a solid choice when budget constraints are important, but high UV resistance is still needed.
EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer)
EPDM liners are known for exceptional flexibility and UV resistance, making them ideal for water features with intricate designs and curves. They can easily conform to complex shapes found in some decorative applications.
Since EPDM always requires underlayment, it is more expensive than RPE or RPP. Yet, it’s still a viable option for small water features where its superior flexibility and UV resistance can be fully utilized. However, its higher cost and thickness make it less ideal for more extensive, budget-conscious projects.
Applications in Commercial Landscaping
Pond liners are integral to most water-related installations in commercial landscaping projects. Their adaptability and reliability make them ideal for creating water features that are both functional and aesthetic.
Decorative Ponds and Water Features
Decorative ponds and water features are frequently used in commercial landscapes to add visual interest and a sense of tranquility to spaces such as corporate parks, hotels, shopping centers, and public gardens. Liners are used to create a variety of decorative features, from small reflecting pools and fountains to large, complex ponds with cascading waterfalls or integrated lighting. Pond liners provide a reliable and watertight base for these installations, minimizing water loss so the feature remains attractive and functional.
Considerations
Decorative ponds and water features vary considerably in design and the stressors that will affect a pond liner. In general, RPE is an excellent, affordable option for most installations since it is durable, easy to install and maintain, and doesn’t require underlayment.
Retention and Detention Ponds
Retention and detention ponds provide effective stormwater management on large commercial properties. These ponds are designed to collect and temporarily store runoff, helping to prevent flooding and reducing the strain on municipal drainage systems. Pond liners ensure the water is effectively contained so the pond can function as intended.
Retention Ponds
Retention ponds hold stormwater permanently, allowing it to be leveraged for irrigation or habitat support. Liners keep the water from escaping, maintaining consistent water levels and reducing damage from erosion.
Detention Ponds
Detention ponds hold stormwater briefly, gradually releasing it to help control water flow and reduce peak discharge rates. A well-installed liner ensures that detention ponds can handle the variable water levels associated with storm events without leaking or causing environmental damage.
Considerations
Durability and impermeability are critical for retention and detention ponds. RPE and RPP liners are often chosen for their strength, resistance to punctures, and ability to withstand fluctuating water levels. EPDM is not recommended since it’s vulnerable to hydrocarbons such as oils, fuels, and some solvents, which stormwater frequently carries.
Irrigation Ponds
Irrigation ponds are vital resources for large commercial landscapes, including golf courses, corporate campuses, and botanical gardens. These ponds are often integrated into a stormwater management system, where they capture and store water for irrigating lawns, gardens, and other plantings. These ponds help maintain the landscape during dry periods and reduce demand on municipal water supplies.
Considerations
An irrigation pond liner must be durable and resistant to UV degradation, especially in open areas with direct sunlight. Since the liner can be exposed as water levels change, RPEL liners are an excellent choice due to their high strength and exceptional UV resistance. RPE treated with additional UV blockers are another cost-effective solution.
Sustainability and CSR in Commercial Landscaping
In today’s business environment, corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become a key factor in how companies are perceived by customers, employees, and investors. CSR represents a company’s commitment to contributing positively to society and the environment through its operations and practices. For many organizations, one of the most visibly impactful ways to embrace CSR is by implementing environmentally friendly and eco-conscious strategies in their landscaping efforts.
Pond liners play an essential role in enhancing sustainability in commercial landscaping by providing a reliable method for managing stormwater, conserving resources, and supporting natural habitats. Geomembrane liners help create retention and detention ponds that efficiently manage stormwater runoff, reduce the risk of flooding and erosion, and filter out pollutants before they reach local water sources. By preventing contamination and controlling water flow, pond liners help protect natural water bodies and the surrounding ecosystems.
Conserving water resources with the help of pond liners aligns with
broader CSR goals. Liners ensure that water features, such as irrigation ponds, retain water effectively, reducing the need for constant refilling and minimizing water waste. This effort supports sustainable water management and demonstrates a company’s commitment to responsible resource use.
Supporting natural habitats through thoughtful landscaping is another valuable example of CSR. Pond liners, by creating stable, controlled environments that foster aquatic plant growth and provide wildlife habitats, play a crucial role in this. By incorporating these eco-friendly features into commercial landscapes, companies can actively support biodiversity and contribute to the well-being of local ecosystems.
Companies must integrate these environmentally conscious practices into their culture and operations to be perceived as genuine in their CSR efforts. By adopting sustainable landscaping practices, including the strategic use of pond liners, businesses can positively impact the environment while enhancing their brand reputation and aligning with the values of customers, employees, and investors who prioritize social and environmental responsibility.
Conclusion
Pond liners are indispensable in commercial landscaping, providing the foundation for water features that are both beautiful and functional. By carefully selecting the appropriate liner materials, businesses can ensure their water installations are durable, efficient, and sustainable. In addition to enhancing the visual appeal of commercial properties, pond liners play a crucial role in managing stormwater, conserving resources, and supporting natural habitats—key components of a company’s broader commitment to corporate social responsibility. By integrating these sustainable practices into their landscaping efforts, companies contribute positively to the environment, strengthen their brand’s reputation, and align with the values of their stakeholders.
