Application Guide

bentonite application methods

Application Guide for Bentonite Pond Sealant

Water seepage can be a major problem during the pond construction process. If the soil, on which you have constructed a water body, like a small pond, is porous, it is likely that your pond will experience high rates of water seepage. Porous soil and gravel is littered with small holes and gaps that allow water to flow through. Over time, water from the pond will slowly seep into the soil and leak away, causing a variety of problems. Applying bentonite pond sealant during construction or later to fix leaks is an effective way to combat water seepage problems.

Soil type and pond size are the key factors in determining the amount of sodium bentonite required to seal ponds. Normally, coarse soils require more bentonite.

If the size of pond is known and the type of soil is available, the following chart above gives a good estimate on the amount of bentonite needed to seal pond. The chart at left is based on water depths of up to eight (8) feet.  For ponds deeper than eight feet, it is recommended increasing the application of bentonite pond sealant by one pound per square foot for each additional eight feet of depth. It is always recommended to perform a soil test yourself or contact your local soil conservation service.

PRIMARY SOIL TYPE AMOUNT OF POND SEALANT REQUIRED
Clay Soil 1.0 to 1.5 lbs per sqf
Sandy Silt 20% Clay Min 2.0 to 2.5 lbs per sqf
Silty Sand 2.0 to 3.0 lbs per sqf
Clean Sand 4.0 to 8.0 lbs per sqf
Rock Or Gravel 6.0 lbs per sqf or more

** One-tenth of an inch of bentonite weighs about six-tenths of a pound per square foot; therefore, 3 pounds per square foot of bentonite would require about one-half of an inch thick layer of bentonite.

For more information about applying bentonite pond sealant to your pond or if you have any questions you may have about bentonite pond sealant, contact us today!

Important Information About Pond Sealant Application Techniques

Applying pond sealant to a pond is not a simple process. There are a number of factors that you must consider before choosing the best method of application. Your application method will depend on the dimensions of the pond, the depth of the pond, and the current conditions of the pond. Moreover, the type of soil may also affect the pond sealant application method. There are three primary techniques for applying pond sealant. These are:

  • The Blanket Method
    The blanket method can be used in new pond construction as well as in existing ponds that can be drained. This is usually the most effective method to control water loss. However, more care is required during the application process.
  • The Mixed Blanket Method
    The mixed blanket method can also be used in new pond construction and existing ponds that can be drained. It may be less effective than the blanket method due to uneven mixing, but increased amount of bentonite and/or thorough mixing can minimize this possibility.
  • The Sprinkle Method
    The sprinkle method is recommended only when it is not feasible to drain the existing pond, or in cases of isolated leaks when spot treatment may be a possible alternative.

(Click on the method above for detailed information)

Choose Easley, Inc. for the Best Pond Sealant

A pond sealant, like sodium bentonite, is extremely effective in curbing the problem of water seepage. As a leading supplier of bentonite materials, Easley, Inc. supplies high quality bentonite that can be used to address any pond leakage problems. Our sodium bentonite pond sealant can help your pond retain its water levels and reduce the rate of water seepage significantly.

To learn more about our products and to place your order, contact us by phone at 405-382-1973 or complete our online contact form.