In the niche world of water gardening, a debate rages on that mirrors the natural instincts of the koi fish they cherish. Much like these fish, which are known to consume their offspring, certain practices within the industry have been criticized for being self-destructive. This article delves into the contentious pond liner industry, examining the claims of its proponents and the concerns of its detractors, while exploring the statistics and alternatives that shape this unique market.
Water gardening forums, often a haven for enthusiasts, have become battlegrounds for debate over industry practices. The pond liner market, once a burgeoning field, has come under scrutiny for its business ethics and product reliability. Greg Witstock, dubbed the "Liner Messiah," revolutionized the industry with his company, Aquascape Design Inc., by promoting pond liner kits through a network of installers, his so-called "disciples."
Witstock's business model, which includes a comprehensive suite of sales tools and training materials, promises success to those who adhere to his methods. However, the industry faces criticism for marketing products that some claim are overpriced and inferior. According to Bob Wilder, author of "48-Hour Waterfall" and a pond liner installer for 18 years, the statistics are alarming:
These figures, while sourced from within the industry, are corroborated by my own experience. Over 26 years, I have constructed more than 1,900 concrete and rebar waterfalls and ponds, often replacing faulty liner ponds with more durable materials and offering lifetime warranties.
The pond liner industry's rapid growth has been driven by the allure of quick profits. Do-it-yourself kits, costing between $500 and $800, can be installed in a day, yielding profits of $2,500 to $4,500. This lucrative opportunity has even drawn professionals with college degrees away from their fields.
However, as the market becomes saturated with installers and awareness of the pitfalls of liners grows, the industry's reputation is at stake. Customers are becoming more informed about the limitations of liners and the potential for unethical practices and poor workmanship.
Online forums, where water gardening enthusiasts and industry professionals converge, have become hotspots for controversy. While some praise Witstock for his accomplishments and the financial success of Aquascape Design Inc., others criticize the high prices of products and suggest that similar results can be achieved with common plumbing products at a fraction of the cost.
Despite using Aquascape's marketing materials, many installers are accused of disloyalty for sourcing cheaper alternatives. This lack of product loyalty and professional etiquette has drawn comparisons to the ruthless behavior of piranhas and starving lions.
When I contributed to these forums, advocating for concrete pond construction and high-performance pumps, I faced backlash. The choice seems clear: build a durable concrete and steel pond with a 20-year guarantee for a $5,000 profit, or opt for a liner pond with a one-year warranty and risk leaks from external damage.
After sharing articles critical of pond liners, I was banned from the forum, which was administered by a landscaping company owner who installs pond liners. This experience underscores the divide within the industry and the importance of integrity in both business and construction.
As the industry evolves and the truth about pond liners becomes more widely known, the reputation of the water feature business will be reshaped. For those passionate about building waterfalls and ponds, it is crucial to base their work on strong foundations, both literally and ethically. Concrete and rebar constructions offer peace of mind and long-term satisfaction, standing as a testament to the builder's integrity.
For further insights into the pond liner industry and alternatives, consider reading "Pond Liners: Seven Reasons Why I Don’t Use Them" by Doug Hoover.
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