Pond Contractor

Transform your outdoor space with Houston’s trusted pond contractor! We specialize in designing and building world-class ponds and water features that bring beauty, tranquility, and value to any yard. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene koi pond, an elegant waterfall, or a custom backyard oasis, our expert team delivers exceptional craftsmanship and personalized service from start to finish. We handle everything — from design and installation to maintenance — ensuring your pond stays stunning year-round. Experience the difference of artistry and precision with Houston’s premier pond and water feature specialists.​

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Locations and Services

Rapid Water Gardens has offices in both the Houston and Austin areas and services everywhere in-between. Click below to see our Services.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a koi pond cost?
The cost of a koi pond typically ranges from $5,000 to $20,000, though smaller entry-level projects can start around $3,000 and large, custom luxury designs can exceed $60,000.
Your final price will depend on several key factors:
  • Size and Depth: Larger ponds require more excavation, liner material, and water volume.
  • Filtration & Equipment: High-quality pumps and advanced filtration systems are essential for koi health and contribute significantly to the initial cost.
  • Custom Features: Additions like waterfalls, LED lighting, and decorative stonework will increase the total investment.
  • Labor: Professional installation ensures proper ecosystem balance and structural integrity, while DIY kits offer a lower-cost alternative for smaller setups.
Is a koi pond hard to maintain?
No, a properly built koi pond is not hard to maintain and they generally require less maintenance than a pool. A well-built pond—featuring proper filtration, aeration, and aquatic plants—largely maintains itself. Weekly upkeep typically takes only a few minutes and involves three simple tasks:
  • Emptying the skimmer basket: Removing debris before it settles.
  • ​Adding beneficial bacteria (which can be automated): Helping to keep the water clear and healthy.
  • Feeding your fish (Can also be automated): Providing a high-quality diet for optimal health.
While seasonal tasks like winterization or spring cleaning are required, a correctly installed system ensures your pond is a place of relaxation rather than a difficult chore.
Are natural pools worth it? 
Yes, natural pools (or recreational ponds) are often considered worth it because they offer a chemical-free, low-maintenance alternative to traditional pools. By trading chlorine for biological filtration, you create a year-round backyard ecosystem that provides aesthetic beauty even in the off-season, while eliminating the costs and health concerns associated with harsh chemicals.
Are natural pools hard to keep clean?
No, natural pools are not hard to keep clean; in fact, they can be easier to maintain than traditional chemical pools. Instead of relying on expensive chemicals and constant testing, natural pools use a biological filtration system where plants and beneficial bacteria naturally balance the water chemistry and clarify the pool. Aside from occasional skimming of debris and annual plant maintenance, the ecosystem handles most of the cleaning itself.
What kills algae but not fish?
An effective way to kill string algae without harming fish or plants is by using an IonGen™ System. This electronic algae controller releases copper ions into the water through electrolysis. These ions inhibit the growth of algae but are safe for fish and aquatic plants when maintained at recommended levels (below 0.25 ppm). Unlike traditional liquid chemicals, it provides a more permanent, environmentally friendly solution for ponds and waterfalls.

Other Fish-Safe Methods Mentioned:
  • Adding Shade: Using water lilies or other aquatic plants to block sunlight, which algae needs to thrive.
  • Nutrient Competition: Adding aquatic plants that compete with algae for the same nutrients in the water.
  • Beneficial Bacteria: Beneficial Bacteria will reduce fish waste, organic plant material, sludge, and excess nutrients in your pond, and is completely fish safe.
  • Physical Removal: Manually removing large clumps of algae before treating the water.
  • Algaecide: Aquascape Algaecide is a liquid pond algae control product that quickly and efficiently combats algae and can be used with fish and aquatic plants. 
How much does it cost to install a waterfall?
The cost to install a waterfall typically ranges from $6,500 to $20,000+, depending on the size, design, and complexity of the feature.
  • Small Pondless Waterfalls: Start around $6,500.
  • Medium-Sized Features: Average between $10,000 and $15,000.
  • Large or Custom Projects: Can exceed $20,500, especially when incorporating long streams, multiple drops, or extensive stonework.
Factors that influence the final price include the length of the stream, the type of boulders used, and any additional features like LED lighting or automatic fill valves.
How much does it cost to install a Fountain?
Professionally installed fountains can vary greatly in cost but small fountains can usually be installed in the $2,500 range. 
  • Single Decorative Fountain: Smaller fountains such as the Aquascape 24” Stacked Slate Urn or 18” Stacked Slate Sphere can be installed by Rapid Water Gardens for around $2,200.
  • Medium Fountains: As you move us in size, like the 33” Scalloped Urns, prices move into the $3,000 range (installed).
  • Bubbling Rocks: Range from about $5,000 for medium size (2-man boulders, core drilled through the center; to the $7,000 range for slightly larger boulders that must be lifted with a machine.
  • Spillway Bowls: Rapid Water Gardens installs spillway bowl; a small set starting under $3,500 and a large set for under $5,500.  
  • Fountainscapes: Multi-dimensional fountains the include different elements such as natural stone and wood or incorporate a combination of multiple fountain options and completely customizable and will vary in cost, and usually starting around $10,000.
What is the best way to filter pond water?
The best way to filter pond water is by using an ecosystem approach that combines both mechanical and biological filtration. This is achieved by using a pond skimmer to remove floating debris (mechanical filtration) and a biological filter (such as a BioFalls waterfall) to house beneficial bacteria that break down organic waste, ensuring clear and healthy water.
For more information on pond filtration click here.
​Contact Rapid Water Gardens for a consultation today!
Houston Phone Number: (713) 369-0909
​Austin Phone Number: (737) 473-1888
Email: [email protected]
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