How To Install a Dam Liner in Kenya: Step by Step

Knowing how to install a dam liner properly can go a long way in ensuring long-lasting results. The procedure on how to install dam liners properly starts with carefully preparing the excavated surface before placing the dam lining material.

In this article, we explain how to install a dam liner in Kenya step by step to give you an idea of what dam lining contractors must do. With this knowledge, you can supervise the dam lining installation process and ensure you get the desired results.

Steps For Installing Dam Liners in Kenya

Dam liners are typically installed using the same methods in different regions, albeit with slight variations. Here is how to install dam liners in Kenya.

Step 1. Site Preparation and Excavation

Site preparation usually depends on the condition of the land. It can involve removing rocks, sharp objects, or tree stumps, whichever is in the location where you want your dam installed.

Once these objects are out of the way, the dam lining contractors or hired laborers can proceed to excavate the soil.

Communities in Kenya usually dig the soil manually using jembes and hoes or hire specialized machines. Commonly used machines for this activity include excavators, backhoe loaders, and bulldozers.

While digging, it is recommended to slope the sides appropriately to avoid collapse. Reputable Kenyan supplies indicate this practice as a standard.

The excavation exercise can cost anywhere between KES. 5,000 and KES. 9,500 per hour, depending on the machine used, location, and dam size.

Step 2. Smoothing The Base

Once excavation is complete, the next step is to smooth out the base to remove any sharp objects that may damage the dam liner. This exercise can sometimes involve applying water to the floor and sides to make it soft.

Step 3. Creating Trenches

Trenches around the dam create the spaces where the dam liners are installed. This step forms part of the planning of the edge.

Once the base of your dam is ready, dig anchor trenches around the perimeter of the dam or pond. The trench size can vary significantly, depending on the size of the dam and the dam liner thickness.

The typical trench sizes in Kenya are approximately 1foot deep by 1foot wide and 1.5feet deep by 1.5 feet wide.

Consider leaving enough liner overlap so that when folded into the trench, it will remain buried once water is added. This simple precaution goes a long way in preventing the dam liner from slipping when the dam fills.

As the final step in trench digging, ensure you mark the inlet and overflow points, as these constitute important drainage and overflow features.

Step 4. Placing The Liner and Welding It in Place

Welding the dam liner can be optional, but often recommended.

To install a dam liner, start by unrolling it carefully, starting from one side and moving across, ensuring it contours to the shape of the excavated dam or pond. Do not drag the dam liner roughly over the soil, as doing so can increase the risk of tears and overstretching.

If your dam or pond is larger than the liner width, overlap sections by about 15 centimeters (or as per the manufacturer’s specifications) and then weld the seams using proper equipment. This usually requires the handywork of an expert, which is where reputable dam lining contractors like Irrihub come in.

Once done with the seams, allow the liner t settle in naturally. Avoid pulling it tightly as doing so can damage the seams or cause wrinkles.

Step 5. Anchoring And Fixing the Overlaps

After placing the liner in the dam or pond, you must tuck the edges into the anchor trench around the perimeter and backfill it with soil, rocks, gravel, or a combination of these materials to secure it in place.

For added protection on rough or rocky soils, we recommend placing a geotextile underlay beneath the liner to add a thin cushion for the coarse sand or gravel before filling the dam with water.

If you have inlet and outlet pipes, silt traps, or overflow channels in your design, be sure to seal them properly before completing the work.

Step 6. Filling And Inspection

Once done with all the steps above, ensure you test your dam liner by filling the dam with water slowly and evenly. Watch for any shifting or movement of your dam liner. The idea is to ensure every part of your dam liner, including the sides, settles evenly.

Once the dam or pond is partially filled with water, inspect all seams, edges, and corners for leaks, bulges, or unusual stress.

If you detect any leaks, you would have to drain the water partially and patch the leaking areas or weld the seams again if the leak involves the welded seams.

FAQs

Here are some questions that people frequently ask before installing a dam liner

Is it necessary to dig a trench around the dam before liner installation?
Yes, the anchor trench helps lock the liner in place once the dam is filled. Without it, the liner edges can slip and cause costly leaks.

Can I install a dam liner on rocky or uneven soil?
Yes, but you must smooth the base, remove or cover sharp stones, and ideally add a protective underlay or cushion before laying the liner.

Do I need to weld liner seams if my dam is bigger than the liner width?
Absolutely. Overlapping and welding sections ensures a watertight seal, avoiding leaks where liner pieces join.

How long before I fill the water after the liner installation?
Wait until the seams are fully cooled and the liner edges are anchored and covered. For best results, fill slowly and check for leaks during the initial stages.

Parting Shot

Following these steps carefully should help ensure that you get a properly working dam for your project. However, you may not always have the required equipment to install your own dam liner in Kenya. This is why it is always recommended to leave this task to a professional dam lining contractor.

We hope you find this guide useful. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to Irrihub for expert advice.