There are various ways you can observe that an earth dam is leaking.
Investigate if you can see seepage through the dam walls. Look for darker coloured dirt or wet areas. A wet area forming close by the outside of the dam is a good indicator the dam is leaking. Water will escape through or under the dam wall & pool nearby.
Another thing you may observe is that the dam empties out much faster than evaporation rate or usage.
Inflow of water never seems to fill the dam properly and empties out within days or weeks.
Heavier plant growth around the base of the dam wall can be noticed in some instances. You will then see that the plant growth rate is healthier than plants further away from the dam.
If a dam is not built correctly it will not hold water. A common mistake is not ensuring there is a key in the wall during the construction. This can cause a wet area to form outside the dam wall, with water likely to be leaking through or under the wall. Another reason for dam failure is lack of compaction.
When compacted, clay is the ideal material for building an earth-based dam. Sandy/fine or coarse/rocky soil may struggle to hold water. Most dams have a combination of these soil types but will have a higher percentage of one type. Porous soil types will battle to hold water.
Root systems in general damage dam walls, when the tree dies and the roots rot out it leaves a space for water to leak. Obstructions such as fallen branches can puncher and alter the dam’s structure. Vegetation in or around the dam can also do this as it grows & dies. It is not uncommon for the surrounding landscape to make its mark on a dam. If the dam already has existing obstructions such as large boulders, these can cause a weak point in the dam.
A dam may hold water for many years before it starts to show signs of leaking. Dramatic changes to the water levels for long periods of time either through lack of use or drought can cause a dam to dry out. This can result in cracking & cavities.
If a liner is incorrectly installed, a dam can continue to leak. If the joins & edges are not laid correctly, gaps can form, reducing the effectiveness of the liner. Liners can also be ripped or torn during installation or by wildlife & cattle who use the dam. Falling branches & debris can puncher the liner. Vegetation in & around the dam can reduce the effectiveness of the liner as it grows & dies as well.
DAMFIX is a uniquely formulated super-absorbent polymer in a dry, powdered form. It's designed to seal earth dams while the water remains in the dam.
The polymer activates when applied to the water surface, turning into a gel and expands up to 400 times.
DAMFIX draws itself rapidly to the floor of the dam where the hydrostatic pressure forces it into the porous areas of the soil. This action creates a permanent seal.
Sodium Bentonite is a natural clay that is used for its unique swelling and sealing capabilities.
This product is available in a dry powder form for use as a soil amendment in earthen dams and ponds. It can expand up to 20 times it's dry volume when exposed to water.
Planned and proper application of Bentonite is critical in order for it to create a permanent seal.
Not only do we supply DAMFIX & Bentonite, we can also do the application for you.
Whether you need to build a new dam, make adjustments or require repairs to a dam, we can gladly assist!
Our experienced network offer site visits, design, construction, adjustments, maintenance and the sealing of earth dams.
DamPro is solution driven for your unique problem!
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