It needs a 28 × 20 ft liner, 560 sq ft, so about $700 at $1.25 per sq ft before underlayment, edging and the pump.
How the pond liner calculator works
PondLinerCalc sizes the liner so it reaches the bottom of the deepest point on both sides and still overlaps the edge: liner length = pond length + 2 × maximum depth + 2 × overlap, and the same for the width. It then rounds each side up to the next 5 ft (or 1.5 m), the steps most EPDM and PVC liners are sold in, and suggests underlayment of the same size. Volume is length × width × average depth, multiplied by π/4 for round or oval ponds, at 7.48 US gallons per cubic foot or 1,000 litres per cubic metre. The pump should turn that volume over once an hour, or twice for koi.
Pond liner sizes for common ponds
Rectangular ponds with a 1 ft overlap each side.
| Pond | Depth | Liner needed | Gallons |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6 × 4 ft | 1.5 ft | 11 × 9 ft | 269 |
| 8 × 6 ft | 2 ft | 14 × 12 ft | 718 |
| 10 × 8 ft | 2 ft | 16 × 14 ft | 1,197 |
| 12 × 10 ft | 3 ft | 20 × 18 ft | 2,693 |
| 15 × 10 ft | 3 ft | 23 × 18 ft | 3,366 |
| 20 × 15 ft | 4 ft | 30 × 25 ft | 8,977 |
Frequently asked questions
Is EPDM or PVC better?
EPDM is more flexible, UV-resistant and longer lasting; PVC is cheaper but stiffer and wears out sooner.
Do I need underlayment?
Yes. A geotextile underlayment protects the liner from stones and roots and is cheap insurance.
How long does a pond liner last?
EPDM often lasts 20 years or more; PVC around 10 years.
Is PondLinerCalc free?
Yes, with no sign-up or ads, and your pond details stay in your browser.
Should I buy a bit bigger than calculated?
Yes. Measure the dug hole, not the plan, and round up: a liner that is too small cannot be fixed, while extra can be trimmed.