No matter the theme of a garden – be it rustic, modern, big or small – a koi pond will always have a place in it. To an outdoor landscape, it brings beauty, aesthetic appeal, and a fascinating point of interest.
Johannes Brand, from the Sika team in Botswana, got together with Christiaan Bothma from Whistle PTY LTD. Their task was to establish the ideal long-term waterproofing solution for a residential koi pond project.
The star product specified for the koi pond was Sika® Cemflex®, a universal waterproofer and bonding agent. It offered a practical and durable submersible waterproofing solution for the pond walls and floor. Sika® Cemflex®, when mixed with Portland cement and water, forms an effective waterproofing slurry that is used in conjunction with Sika® Cemflex membrane. This waterproofing system is ideal for reservoirs, shower floors and walls, veranda floors, ponds and retaining walls. It is watertight, non- toxic and UV stable.
The surfaces on which the waterproofing products were applied were all raw reinforced block work. Provided all the correct preparations are implemented – such as mixing ratios and readying pre-cut membrane for application – this system is very simple to apply on such surfaces. Cement is highly alkaline and will initially influence the ph of the water. Given the sensitivity of koi to the quality of their environment, it is important to thoroughly wash out the pond after applying the Sika® Cemflex® slurry. This will assist in ensuring that the water is conditioned and stable before introducing the fish. Conveniently, and unlike the bitumen waterproofing systems, one of the benefits of using Sika® Cemflex® waterproofing system is that there is no waiting period before the pond can be filled.
A properly built koi pond means less maintenance issues and costs downstream. Sika® Cemflex® is technically, and aesthetically, an excellent product in providing a durable, seamless and professional waterproofing solution. Immaculately built, this koi pond added the perfect touch to this home, bringing life to its surroundings and joy to the proud owners. Proof that Sika’s dependability is indeed watertight.
