Step #1 Locate
Determine the ideal location to penetrate the liner. Avoid areas near rocks or other in-water features. Penetration should be at least 6” away from pumps or filters.
Step #2 Mark
Mark the area where the hole will be cut by placing the hose against the liner. Trace the outline of the hose with a crayon or score lightly with scissors. Important – the hole size must be two thirds of the size of the pipe. A larger hole risks leaking; a small hole may cause the liner to rip when the pipe is inserted.
Step #3 Cut
Make a clean, even cut in the liner. It is very important that the cut is even and smooth – a rough cut could result in the liner splitting at the cut.
Step #4 Insert
Working from the ground side – outside the pond – carefully insert the pipe through the hole. Move the needed length of pipe through the hole at a 90º angle to the liner.
Step #5 Clean & Prime
Clean the liner and pipe adjacent to the hole with gasoline. Prime the joint area thoroughly.
Step #6 Cut & Install a Collar
Cut a strip 1” wide, long enough to wrap the liner and pipe at the penetration, from 6” sealing tape. Wrap this “collar” around the joint, half on the liner and half on the pipe, smooth out any air bubbles, and secure with a hose clamp.
Step #7 Cut & Install a Guard
Cut a second strip 2”, long enough cover the hose clamp, from 6” sealing tape. Wrap the tape around the hose clamp. This creates a “guard” over the hose clamp to prevent harming fish and to keep water out of the clamp.
Step #8 Prime and Seal
Prime an area 6” wide, centered on the hose clamp, to the pipe and liner. Apply lap sealant.
Step #9 Backfill Around the Pipe
Completely backfill and tamp down the earth in the area where the pipe penetrates the liner. Any voids in the earth will cause the liner to stretch and risks leaking.
Step #10 Allow Joint to Dry
Allow joint to dry thoroughly before contact with water.