Need Advice and Feedback

[Onion01]

I am planning a concrete pond with liner in the garage. I was thinking of using landscaping bricks (interlocking ones). My question is this, if the pond is 4' tall, will just the bricks be enough? Or will they need additional support? What would you suggest for a pond that tall (It is planned out to be 10x4x4). Also, what would be the best way of incorporating a viewing window that goes from the top down to 1 ft below water level? It would only be 2x1, so it wouldn't be big. I don't want something too permanent i'll need a demolition crew to take it apart, but I don't want something so flimsy it will fall apart if I bump into it. Thanks

[Onion01]

something like this

[ctoychik]

Imo, 4' high pond can not be made with interlocking bricks. Hollow bricks with rebars only.

2' hihgh can probably be made with brick and mortar (no need rebars).

Alternatively, check necrocanis's thread on the wooden tank with viewing windows.

[Muske]

Do you really need a window?

I would get a material list for blocks and lumber. If you make it out of wood, you can use lags bolts and screws to make disassembly easier down the road.

[Onion01]

bump for more suggestions

[Dr Joe]

You've seen dbjunkies pond, I don't think it's 4', but the blocks are interlocking (concrete blocks are cheaper and larger making them a better but) and could work if you use a construction adhesive for stone to hold them together since your using a liner (an interior framework wouldn't hurt). Integrating the window is a little complex when mixing medias. A concrete section (with a groove to fit the glass and gasket into) with the window in it would be the easiest to match to. Kind of like Johnptc's on a small scale.

Dr Joe

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[Onion01]

You've seen dbjunkies pond, I don't think it's 4', but the blocks are interlocking (concrete blocks are cheaper and larger making them a better but) and could work if you use a construction adhesive for stone to hold them together since your using a liner (an interior framework wouldn't hurt). Integrating the window is a little complex when mixing medias. A concrete section (with a groove to fit the glass and gasket into) with the window in it would be the easiest to match to. Kind of like Johnptc's on a small scale.

Dr Joe

.

the viewing window isn't all that important. I'm worried about the structure. What would be your suggestion in the framework and structure of a 4' tall structure? Interior wooden frame?

[DB junkie]

Mine is 3 feet tall. With it full to the brim I can wiggle the wall but it's still pretty solid. I wouldn't trust mine at 4 foot without some adhesive. BUT with some PL 400 or liquid nails I'de give it a go no doubt!!!. The RIGHT adhesive (for stone) would be even better yet. I would say a lot of the decision on what to use for bricks would depend on the shape you want the pond. The interlocking landscape brick (like mine) will allow you to do crazy shapes and even a circle. But if you're maximizing space and going square I would shy away from the bricks I used and just go with cinder blocks.

[Pharaoh]

I think you should definitely look at using cinderblocks for an indoor pond of that magnitude.

[Muske]

If you do use the glue, just reg. Heavy Duty Liquid Nails will work wonders. With the smaller blocks it is advised to make curved walls. These are stronger than straight walls. The cinder blocks is the way to go for a straight or square pond. They are cheap, and be reiforceable w/rebar and a compactable gravel in the voids. A interior frame may not be necessary, but piece of mind at the very least.

[Onion01]

thanks guys, i'm going to consult a friend today who's in construction :)