Everything You Need to Know Before Starting Your Project with Swim Pond
Natural Swim Ponds are growing in popularity as an eco-friendly, chemical-free alternative to traditional pools. Combining the beauty of a natural water feature with the functionality of a swimming pool, these projects offer a unique opportunity to create a stunning and sustainable backyard oasis. But building one is not a simple DIY weekend job—it requires expert planning, precision equipment, and in-depth knowledge of aquatic design and filtration systems.
At Swim Pond, we specialize in the design-build process of large-scale Natural Swim Ponds. Here’s what you can expect during the construction process—from initial concept to your first swim.
1. Design Phase – Building the Vision
Every successful project begins with a solid plan. Our team works closely with you during the onsite consultation to understand your vision, the layout of your land, and your goals for functionality and aesthetics.
We take into account:
- Site accessibility
- Sun exposure and wind direction
- Depth and swim zones
- Waterfall or feature placement
- Surrounding hardscape and softscape integration
This phase may include 2D or 3D renderings, cost estimates, and a working timeline that reflects your budget and project goals.
2. Site Prep, Soil Conditions & Excavation
Before digging, a soil assessment may be necessary to evaluate the soil type, water table, and drainage conditions. Sandy or clay-heavy soils, for example, may require additional reinforcement or structural consideration.
Then comes the heavy equipment:
- Excavators dig the pond’s various zones—swimming area, wetland filter basin, and intake bay.
- Skid steers and track loaders manage and relocate soil, while rock-setting machines position boulders and large stone for natural aesthetics and structural reinforcement.
Proper grading and shaping ensure safe swimming depth, stable edges, and smooth transitions to filtration zones.
3. Liner Installation – Choosing the Right Material
Your pond liner is what holds the water, so choosing the right material is critical. At Swim Pond, we typically use two types:
- EPDM Rubber Liner: Flexible, easy to shape, and resistant to UV and punctures. A great option for custom curves and organic shapes.
- Polyethylene (Poly) Liners: More rigid, extremely durable, and often used for very large installations or commercial-grade projects.
Each liner is carefully installed over an underlayment fabric to protect against sharp rocks or root punctures, then seamed, sealed, and tested before proceeding.
4. Natural Filtration: Wetland & Intake Bay Systems
What sets a Natural Swim Pond apart is its biological filtration system, not chlorine or chemicals. We use two key components:
Constructed Wetland Filtration:
This zone mimics nature using aquatic plants, gravel layers, and beneficial bacteria to purify the water. Water circulates up through the gravel and plant roots, which trap debris and absorb nutrients—keeping the pond crystal clear and healthy.
Intake Bay System:
Acts as a mechanical pre-filter, pulling in surface debris like leaves and pollen before water is sent to the wetland filter. It’s also where the pump station is typically located—safely hidden in the landscape.
5. Rocks, Boulders & Aesthetic Features
Large natural boulders, flagstone shelves, and gravel beaches are placed strategically to create a swimming area that feels like a mountain spring or forest pond.
Now’s the time to enhance your pond’s wow factor by incorporating:
- Natural waterfalls for sound and circulation
- A stone grotto or cave for cooling shade and fun exploration
- A custom waterslide built into the boulderwork
- Underwater LED lighting for stunning nighttime ambiance
Each feature is built in harmony with the pond’s layout to feel organic and natural.
6. Exterior Landscaping & Pump Station Concealment
The final touch is exterior landscaping, which ties the entire space together and hides the mechanical components like the pump station or access hatches. We use:
- Native plants and grasses that thrive in our climate
- Stone pathways and sitting areas
- Berms, fencing, and natural screens for privacy
- Low-voltage landscape lighting for evening enjoyment
Landscaping isn’t just decorative—it helps the pond blend seamlessly into your environment and supports water balance by reducing runoff.
7. Timeline & Budget Considerations
Natural Swim Ponds are custom projects, and timelines vary depending on:
- Size and scope of features
- Weather delays
- Site accessibility
- Permits or municipal requirements
Generally, larger projects can take anywhere from 6 to 12 weeks. Budget ranges will depend on factors such as liner material, filtration complexity, rock and plant selection, and custom upgrades like waterfalls, lighting, or hardscape features.
Our team ensures that your project stays on budget and on schedule with clear communication every step of the way.
Trust Swim Pond’s Design-Build Expertise
Large-scale Natural Swim Ponds require a deep understanding of hydrology, construction, and aquatic ecosystems—that’s where Swim Pond shines. Our team, led by industry expert Craig McBride, brings decades of hands-on experience designing and building high-end, natural water features across Texas, Oklahoma, Kansas, and surrounding regions.
We don’t just build ponds—we build living, breathing aquatic environments tailored to your space, lifestyle, and long-term enjoyment.
Ready to bring your vision to life?
Contact us today to schedule your onsite consultation with Swim Pond and let us help you turn your outdoor space into a luxurious, sustainable retreat.