I converted a 20 x 40 swimming pool, 10 ft deep end, using an epdm
pond liner.
The liner was cheaper than filling the pool.
I had
alot of surplus at the shallow end, less at the deep end.
I think my epdm sheet was 80 x 40.
I put in some big
feed bags full of sand to create bottom structure, also some ledges with surplus patio bricks.
Around two sides I excavated a ~6x20x1.5 ft trench to become a biofilter marsh, with 1 ft brick retaining rim.
I used old tarps and pieces of the old liner as a base layer.
But, it is critical not to create a wate/gas tight pockets between the under layer and the liner, because decomposition gases can build up and bulge the liner inside out.
After that I got a crew of strong people to help unroll the epdm from one end to the other, allosing it to sag and draw down to conform to the pond and the biofilter trench.
I wish now I had shingled a separate piece from the biofilters over the edge of the pond.
I trimmed excess and draped it over the rim to protect from foot traffic.
I refilled the biofilter with
pea gravel which I
should have washed better.
I weighted the edge over the rim of the pool with a trench full of pea grave but I wish I had used rocks, the trench is a stagnant nuisance
It all worked well, although a bit of a rush because the old pool was held up by
water pressure, so I had to get it refilled before it collapsed.
Tomorrow I am installing a
solar powered circulation pump, instead of the old pool pump I currently use.
Lots of dragonflies, toads, some frogs, mint, nice plants in the biofilter, and a growing patch of water lilies.
Next I am going to try wild rice.
And, maybe ducks.