Chapter Five: Where to Place Them
Chapter Six: Different Manufacturers
Introduction
Property and homeowners are often thinking about new ways to add value and beauty to their landscapes, whether it be by planting seasonal gardens, investing in trees and shrubs, or even changing the terrain. However, one of the best ways to beautify a region and make any property unique without needing to plant anything is by investing in an outdoor fountain.
Outdoor fountains come in numerous shapes and sizes. They can be made from dozens of different materials, have more than one basin, and can even raise property values when done correctly. While wonderful to look at, outdoor fountains require a great deal of preparation and maintenance to operate. For those who are new to fountains, the duties of the owner can seem overwhelming and confusing, but they are actually quite simple.
This guidebook is a thorough study of outdoor fountains. Different sections will discuss the type of structures available, how they are to be cleaned and maintained, the proper way to winterize a structure, where to place a new fountain, and even recommend some high-quality brands for new and seasoned owners alike.
While reading, owners should consider their own responsibilities and how much time they have to dedicate to a fountain. It sounds like a lot of work, but with practice, most owners only have to spend a few hours every year getting their fountain ready for months of luxury. This sounds like a deal that’s too good to be true, but outdoor fountains, once someone can afford one, are a beautiful asset to any home, garden, or landscape.
Without further ado, it’s time to dive into the styles.
Chapter One: Styles
People often think the style of their fountain says something about them, and in a way it does. However, style should be chosen based on what will look great in the yard or garden, as well as by how practical it is. Individuals who are looking for something small and simple, for example, would want to stick to a garden or self-contained option, while someone who wants something opulent might like cascading or endless. There is also a multitude of materials to choose from, and each one has its own maintenance requirements. Here are some of the most common and gorgeous styles currently on the market today.
The style of a fountain refers to its overall design and shape. The earliest fountains in Mesopotamia used natural springs to fill water basins, forming a spouting fountain. The Romans used a similar practice by utilizing their built aqueducts to forever have water cascading into a pool. In contemporary times, people now have numerous options when it comes to style. However, some are more popular than others.
Garden
The first style of fountain individuals tend to see is the garden. A garden fountain may range from simple to elegant but refers to any structure that is placed directly in a garden. This style tends to be smaller than the others because it needs to fit around flowers, bushes, and trees. Many people like to decorate these options by deliberately flanking the fountain with colorful flowers to draw more attention to the area and make the fountain look like a natural edifice. Because this style refers to only the location of the structure, a garden fountain can also be another type such as spouting.
Passaros Garden Water Fountain
Spouting
A spouting fountain is one in which water is pushed up or forced into the air. One of the most popular designs for this style is of a fish spitting water, or a single pipe that shoots up in a large jet. This style typically has a single basin filled with water and only one place for it to emerge. Because of the simplicity of this design, they are favored by individuals who would like to add some whimsy to their yards without spending a lot of money or performing a lot of maintenance.
Endless or Disappearing
These are the sorcerers of fountains. An endless or disappearing option is a structure where the central water basin is located underground so viewers can’t see where the liquid is coming from. Any design might be up top, but users can never see the pond below. This makes it look like the water is coming from nowhere instead of a simple pool. Oftentimes an endless fountain makes use of the cascading style as well for added dramatic effect.
Cascading
A cascading fountain is one where water flows down like a waterfall, typically over a precipice or geometric design. The most popular design for these is columns, where water emerges from a spout at the top of the column and then flows down the sides. Cascading fountains tend to be more expensive than other options because they require more materials, but they are a beautiful addition to any home.
Wall
Similar to the garden style, a wall fountain is any water feature that must be attached to a wall to work properly. This design is commonly seen indoors but is becoming more popular outside when connected to fences, walls, and even trees. In wall fountains, water typically cascades down a flat surface into a small basic, where it is then pumped through a hose and returned to the top. This style tends to be one of the least expensive options because wall fountains are small and manageable for homes.
Tribus Wall Outdoor Water Fountain
Self-Contained
A self-contained fountain is an option where every piece of the fountain is held within one structure. This means users don’t need to install any extra hoses, outlets, or lay any groundwork or foundations. These are appealing to the average homeowner because they come with their own pump and are easy to cover in the winter. Because this phrase refers to a broad style, it is possible to have a self-contained fountain that is of another type as well, such as cascading or even garden. These outdoor fountains can be placed just about anywhere, including on decks or patios.
Materials
Besides the style of an outdoor fountain, people also need to consider what material they desire. Material is important as it affects the cost, longevity, and maintenance of the structure, especially over a long period of time. Although fountains can be made of almost any substance, the most frequently seen are stone, metal, plastic, fiberglass, and ceramic.
Stone
The earliest human fountains from Mesopotamia were made of stone, so it’s only logical that people continue to enjoy them. A stone fountain is traditional, long lasting, and surprisingly easy to care for since stone doesn’t discolor or fall apart easily. The only catch is stone is one of the most expensive materials because of its longevity and desirability. Even a small stone fountain can set an individual back several hundred dollars, but the gain is well worth the original investment.
Metal
Metal fountains stand the test of time, being one of the most durable models, comparable to stone. A metal piece can be any shape or size and actually tends to have some of the most detailed and intricate designs because of the ability of artists to shape the liquid material. Since metal fountains can range drastically in size and function, they tend to be in the middle of the fountain price range. One of the biggest factors in choosing a metal fountain is whether the owner is willing to keep up with maintenance, as regular treatments are needed to keep the metal from rusting over time.
Lightweight Resin or Plastic
Sometimes small fountains are made of a lightweight resin or plastic. Because of the relatively low weight of these products, they tend to be designed to be attached to walls or partially buried in the ground. These are inexpensive options for individuals who would like a fountain but can’t afford something more costly. The biggest downside to having an outdoor plastic fountain is that the material can become bleached by the sun and is more prone to breaking down over time. However, they are great option for those who would just like to try something out.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is actually a type of resin plastic that is reinforced with microscopic shards of glass to make it more durable and long lasting. Fiberglass fountains have tons in common with typical plastic options, including being lightweight and more affordable. These come in numerous designs but tend to be small. They are also susceptible to sun bleaching and breakage, but are great for individuals who would like to test having a fountain. Maintenance is also extremely easy and neat.
Ceramic
Ceramic is great to use indoors and outdoors, making it a versatile and colorful choice for fountains. Ceramics are easy to clean and can be finished with all sorts of colors, meaning people who want to add splashes of color to their landscape can do so without planting more flowers. Ceramic fountains are heavy enough to stand on their own and tend to be small to medium-sized. Most are spouting fountains and can feature several basins of water. Because ceramic is easy to clean and maintain, this is a great option for individuals who want something durable and long lasting without spending a bunch of money on stone features.
Chapter Two: Maintenance
Maintenance is a crucial part of outdoor fountain ownership. No structure can withstand the rigors of the outdoors without regular cleaning, upkeep, and repairs. This is because many harsh elements can affect a fountain’s operation, including wind, rain, dirt, and even animals. Bacteria and algae can also grow around the waterline, causing unpleasant odor and even fountain clogging. To avoid these issues, it’s important to check on the health of the fountain every other week to make sure it operates efficiently.
Cleaning the Pump
The pump is the most central part of a fountain because it is responsible for keeping water in constant motion. Without it, the fountain would only be a decorative pool. There are numerous issues that can occur with the pump that will cause it to clog, run at reduced capacity, or stop working altogether. Obstructions are the most common issue, closely followed by algae growth and then general damage.
In most outdoor fountains, the pump can be removed. Since not all fountains are the same, this guide will cover the basics of pump removal before diving into how to clean one.
The first step in removal is turning off the power. Almost all outdoor fountains run on some form of electricity to generate enough energy to keep water flowing. In most standard models, shutting off the power should be as easy as flipping a switch or unplugging the structure from a secure outlet. As an extra safety measure, always remove the plug from the outlet in addition to flipping a switch. This reduces the chance of accidents.
Next, locate the pump and gently disconnect it from the surrounding mechanisms. Make sure it isn’t tangled in algae or other growths. Most pumps sit underneath the central structure. Owners of large outdoor fountains with a pond can usually find the pump near the middle, typically sitting on a flat surface. People with smaller models might need to gently turn the fountain over and remove the pump from underneath.
Now it’s possible to clean the pump. The best way to do this is in a large sink so the faucet can be used to rinse out individual sections of the structure. Using a soft sponge, a clean toothbrush, and some dish soap, gently scrub the interior and exterior of the pump. Most pumps have a panel that can be removed to access a small inner propeller. If possible, remove the panel and clean out debris from around the wings of the propeller as well. Once done with the cleaning, the pump can be returned to the fountain.
Checking the Pump
While cleaning is necessary, it’s also important to make sure the pump is in good working order. Some of the most common issues fountain owners experience is poor water flow, spitting, splashing, and stagnation. Many of these problems trace back to the pump, which operates much like the heart in the human body.
On average, pumps should not break down for several years. If it’s removed and there are pieces missing or broken segments, the pump will need to be replaced. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to glue it back together, although many people try every year.
If the pump isn’t working correctly but there doesn’t seem to be any broken pieces, then the issue is most likely a clog caused by improper cleaning or too much algae growth. Follow the steps for cleaning the pump seen above and then test the fountain. If it’s still struggling, the most likely cause is poor water pressure or not enough water. Try refilling the fountain to slightly higher than normal and try again. If it’s still not working, flush the pump and hose lines and check for worn out filters.
How to Flush Hoses
When treating the pump doesn’t work, the next step is cleaning and flushing the hose line. Clogs and damage can occur here as well because they are often full of sitting liquid that carries bacteria and the beginnings of algae and slime. Dirt and debris can also become trapped in the hoses.
The first step to flushing is disconnecting the hoses from the rest of the fountain. Next, inspect the entire hose to see if there are any visible clogs. If there are, use a wire bristled pipe cleaner to reach the clog and break it into smaller chunks. It’s then possible to run water through the hose from one end to the other, flushing out the broken clog and any debris. If the obstruction is unreachable, then run a pressurized stream of water down one side to break it up and flush it out.
Treating the Central Pool
Once the pump is taken care of, it’s time to turn to the main body of the fountain. Thankfully, this section doesn’t require too much maintenance beyond basic cleaning, although it is the part most likely to get dirty. Animal waste and mineral deposits tend to foul water and be disgusting, so remember to clean the exterior of the fountain once every 1-2 weeks for the best appearance. Nobody wants to deal with algae or pond scum in their fountain!
Besides regular cleanings, the best thing to do for a fountain is replenish the water at least once a week. Experts recommend draining out old, dirty water and replacing it with liquid that has been treated with additives to inhibit algae growth and hard water mineral deposits. People who don’t have time to drain the fountain every week can instead try every two weeks. Just remember to adhere to a schedule so greater issues like pump and hose clogs don’t happen!
Chapter Three: Cleaning
Cleaning is one of the most significant steps when it comes to maintaining an outdoor fountain. Failing to do so can result in damage, algae, mold or mildew, and mineral buildup over time. These can clog the central pump and pipes and even cause the entire fountain to fail when left unchecked.
As a general rule, outdoor fountain owners should strive to do a complete clean once a year, and several smaller maintenance washings every few months during the active season. Once cold weather approaches, it’s time to winterize the fountain instead. Cleaning is a part of winterizing, but there are many other steps involved.
A Basic Cleaning
Many people underestimate how much work goes into ensuring an outdoor fountain is spic and span. The first step is to always check the water level and see if the fountain has been losing pressure and liquid. The water pump should be covered with water at all times. If it isn’t, it’s important to check whether or not there is a leak or a way for liquid to seep out of the fountain.
Once the water level is ascertained, large debris like leaves and sticks can be skimmed from the surface and disposed of. Then the the fountain needs to be drained. Draining is essential because the basic, pump, and internal components need to be scrubbed to avoid buildup and future damage. Draining can be done in under an hour for most outdoor fountains.
The easiest way to drain a fountain is actually by using a hose and more water. Simply fill a standard garden hose until it is full, and then turn the faucet off. Keep the hose full of water and slowly pull it towards the fountain. Insert one end into the basin and then release the other so water is pouring out. Thanks to science, the pressure of the water ensures the fountain will drain completely using this maneuver. Otherwise, if the fountain has a plug, simply remove it and allow the water to spill out.
Rinse the basis using a hose and a clean cloth. Take out the pump and wipe it off as well, being sure to eliminate buildups of dirt and debris. The hoses might need to be rinsed as well. Distilled water is better to use during cleaning than regular tap because it doesn’t contain as many minerals and won’t leave stains.
Scrubbing Pads and Pressure Washers
If your outdoor fountain happens to be slate, cleaning it will be as simple as draining it and scrubbing it with a soap pad like you would use on metal pots and pans. This will loosen dirt, algae, and hard water buildup and leave your fountain sparkling clean. Be sure to rinse away any soap residue when you are finished scrubbing or it could end up creating foam in the water when your fountain is refilled.
One of the easiest ways to clean your water fountain isn't a cleaning solution at all but a cleaning device. Rent or use your own pressure washer with a fan tip to strip away stains, mildew, mold, and hard water. Remove the pump as well and give it a cleaning in a bucket of warm water with a tiny bit of dish soap. Fill your fountain again and you'll be all set for another year of summer gardening.
Bleach and Water
If you want to use a cleaning solution that is stronger than dish soap, a reliable option is mixing bleach and water. The exact formula should be two tablespoons of regular bleach mixed well into an entire gallon of clean water. You should wear gloves and a face mask to avoid touching the bleach or inhaling its fumes, as it can be quite dangerous even in small qualities.
Bleach is best used as a soak for mineral stains. You can scrub this mixture into stone fountains and similar models and allow it to sit for a few minutes to eat through lime, calcium, and other minerals. Once finished, rinse the bleach away thoroughly with clean water. If you need to clean the central pump, remove it from its place then submerge it in the bucket of bleach and water. After a few minutes, mineral stains will once again loosen while algae and other growths will have been destroyed.
After using bleach and water, rinse every part of the fountain thoroughly before attempting to start it again. Afterwards, you can refill the fountain and it will ready to go.
Vinegar and Water
Similar to bleach and water, using vinegar and water is a great way to inject extra power into cleaning an outdoor fountain. While bleach is a base, vinegar contains acids that eat away at mineral deposits, algae, and mold before it has a chance to clog and destroy the fountain.
To use vinegar as a cleaner, combine a single cup of it with one gallon of water and mix thoroughly. Then, use a scrubbing brush and apply the liquid mixture to areas of the fountain suffering from mineral deposits and other buildup. Allow the vinegar to sit for five minutes and then thoroughly rinse it away using clean or distilled water. If any stains remain behind, use baking soda as a mild abrasive to scrub away any remnants of deposits and organic growth.
It is possible to clean the central pump using vinegar and water. Simply place the pump in the mixture and allow it to sit for five minutes. Remove it and rinse it thoroughly with clean water. If stains and buildup remain, scrub them away using a soft sponge, pad, or brush. Avoid using abrasive materials because scratches in the pump can be weaknesses that will become full blown damage later on.
Extra Tips for Cleaning
It’s strongly recommended that you don’t allow your fountain to become so dirty that you need to use bleach, vinegar, and other solutions to scrub out stains and algae. Remember to keep leaves, twigs, petals, and other debris out of the fountain. If you can, shut the fountain off at least once a week and use a pool skimmer to pull out these objects.
Keep the pump fully submerged under water so it functions properly. This means the water needs to be deep enough in the basic that the pump will be able to keep water flowing on a regular basis. Owners who live in hot, dry climates will experience more evaporation, so it’s important to check the water level on a regular basis and then refill the basin as much as needed.
If mosquitoes are a problem, consider buying small tablets of mosquito killer that can be slipped in the water. These tablets will eliminate any mosquito larvae in the basin and will stop the parents from coming back. The best style to use is called mosquito dunk, which is harmless to birds but should be kept away from pets and other animals. Regular cleaning can also stop mosquitoes from roosting and hatching in the fountain.
Fountain owners who follow all of these tips and tricks for cleaning will be able to enjoy their outdoor fountains as much as possible and keep them clean and beautiful throughout the summer!
Chapter Four: Winterizing
Outdoor fountains need adequate preparation for winter in areas where the climate drops below freezing temperatures. This is because, although the exterior is meant to withstand the elements, the water itself when freeze when not moving. When ice is formed, it expands and can crack whatever is containing it. This phenomenon is what causes potholes in roads, and the same concept applies to an outdoor fountain. The worst part to lose is the central pump that runs the fountain, which is responsible for water moving.
How to Winterize a Fountain
Winterizing an outdoor fountain is a simple, although time-consuming process. While it takes some time to get used to, experienced fountain owners will soon be able to fully winterizing their possessions within a single day. All it takes is a couple of simple steps to keep a fountain safe for the entire season.
First, it’s best to drain all of the water out of an outdoor fountain before freezing temperatures arrive. For many, this means eliminating moisture in September or October, especially for those who live in the north. Once the water has been drained, the pump needs to be removed if possible and stored for the winter. The pump can be kept in a basement, shed, or garage but should be thoroughly cleaned. This means scrubbing out any dirt, debris, and algae that managed to grow in the wet environment.
Some outdoor fountains can actually be taken down and stored in their entirety. If this is an option, it’s one of the best things that can be done. Most large installations can’t be move, but smaller options that sit in gardens can be disassembled, have the internal piping removed, and then be set aside in a garage or shed for safer wintering.
If it’s not possible to move the fountain, then a cover is necessary. Most fountain covers are a protective waterproof fabric made of synthetic materials. They are UV-stabilized to prevent degradation from radiation over time, and often have a drawstring around the bottom. The drawstring is essential as it forms a final layer of protection against harsh winter elements like snow and ice. While it is possible to order customized covers, they are also available in standardized sizes that make it easy to find an option for every fountain.
Covers
Covering the fountain should be one of the easiest steps of winterizing the structure, but owners will discover there are numerous types and styles of covers out there. The best type is a one made of a waterproof material, as these will stop ice and snow from seeping through the cover and affecting the fountain during the winter months. Some additional requirements for a cover include being waterproof and having a zipper or drawstring to seal the cover around the base of the fountain.
People who purchase a premade fountain should be able to find a cover on the market since many manufacturers make covers specifically for their fountains. Individuals who ordered a custom fountain or decided to DIY one will have a more difficult time, since a standardized option might not fit. To order the right cover, two measurements are needed: height and diameter.
Measuring the height and diameter of a fountain is a simple and easy process. For height, use a flexible tap measure and keep one end at the very bottom of the fountain. Measure all the way to the upper tip of the structure and then add 1-2 inches to ensure there is enough room inside. Since almost all covers sold in the United States are measured with inches, this is the most desirable unit of measurement.
When it comes to diameter, owners need to measure the fountain at its widest point, which is usually around the basin. Measuring in inches, wrap a flexible tape measure around the entire widest point and then add 1-2 in. to the result. With the two measurements of height and diameter, it’s possible to order a standard cover from a hardware store or fountain manufacturer. If one can’t be found in the right size, then covers can be special ordered from certain retailers.
The final necessity is making sure to get a cover that has a zipper, drawstring, or Velcro around the base to hold the cover in place during even the nastiest of winter weather. To cover the fountain, simply air out the cover and place it over the fountain. Seal the bottom in place with a tight seal and then leave the fountain alone. The process is then complete!
Chapter Five: Where to Place Them
Not everyone has the landscaping capabilities to sculpt the quintessential Baroque garden, but there are still plenty of opportunities for fountain placement in the average yard.
Safety
Safety is perhaps the most important consideration when choosing where to place a fountain, especially for those who have pets or small children at home. Active children and rambunctious pets should be kept away from open basins as much as possible, so avoid having them in locations where it’s easy for creatures to slip and fall inside. Also consider that active creatures can damage the exterior of the fountain, so try to find a balance between being beautiful and practical.
Another thing to consider is that pets might try to drink from the fountain, which is terrible if the water has been treated with chemicals or is constantly recirculated through the pumps and hoses. It isn’t a healthy water source, so consider putting an outdoor fountain away from a pet’s typical prowling area. Some people choose wall-mounted outdoor fountains or options that sit high up like a birdbath to stop animals from drinking.
Finally, remember that outdoor fountain placement will have an effect on the surrounding environment. Fountains placed too close to plants and gardens can cause too much water to splash on the growths, killing them. Putting a fountain on a wooden deck can result in mold and mildew, while setting the structure underneath trees means tons of debris will fall inside. Always consider nearby environmental factors before choosing a place for any outdoor fountain.
Sound
A major highlight of fountains for many people is getting to enjoy the soothing sound of trickling water from the comfort of their own homes. For some, the fresh smell of the running water is also a benefit. To be able to enjoy this wonderful sound, it’s important to place the fountain somewhere that the owner will be able to here. In general, it’s recommended that the fountain not be near bedrooms, just because some have trouble falling asleep with the white noise. However, for those who actually enjoy it, placing an outdoor fountain near a bedroom window is a great way to fall asleep easier at night.
In some cases, home and property owners use fountains to mask unwanted noises, usually from streets or construction areas. If this is the case, the fountain should be placed between the source of the noise and the property’s owner favorite area to relax. For the optimal sound, the fountain should be adjusted slightly so the angles produce the best noise. Some experimentation might be necessary, but it’s worth it. Just remember not to place a fountain to close to other loud noises like construction, because then it could be drowned out.
Electricity
Electricity is a crucial element of getting a modern outdoor function to work. Most models operate using an electric pump which needs to be plugged in to a source like an outlet. Remember that wires need to go somewhere, and the fountain can’t be too far or too close to the source. Also consider that wires, even those protected by a plastic or rubber coating, can be damaged over time by animals and the weather. They can additionally be a nuisance when it comes to mowing the lawn.
The best case scenario is to place the fountain within a few feet of an outlet or to run wires underground so they are less likely to be damaged. Many manufacturers are now producing solar outdoor fountains as well, while more minimalistic designs don’t require any power at all. Keep these factors in mind when making a selection to find the best outdoor fountain for you.
Feng Shui
Water fountains are a crucial element of Chinese Feng Shui both inside and outside of the home. Ancient philosophers believed the water element possessed a unique ability to affect the qi or chi of a home, bringing prosperity and good luck to the homeowner. Depending on the fountain owner’s sensibilities, they might wish to create a more harmonious yard and home by incorporating these philosophical elements into their own garden design.
There are some “do’s” and “do not’s” of Feng Shui when it comes to outdoor fountain placement. In general, the best place to put any water structure is by the front door of the home with the water flowing towards the house. This symbolizes money and prosperity going to the family instead of away from it. A fountain that faces east is great for improving health, while southeast is for money and north is for career. Surprisingly, practitioners of Feng Shui claim it’s a bad idea to be able to hear the fountain in the bedroom, although this is practical advice for people who can’t sleep with white noise.
There is a long list of things people are not supposed to do when it comes to placing outdoor fountains. They are as follows:
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Don’t place a fountain south of the home, because the south symbolizes fire.
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Don’t block the entrance of the home with the fountain.
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Don’t place two fountains in front of the home.
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Don’t let the fountain break.
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Metallic fountains are ideal because they enhance water.
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Filling a metallic or wood fountain with coins brings extra luck.
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Never have a fountain where the water looks like someone is crying.
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Don’t have a fountain with sharp edges.
These are basic rules but will limit outdoor fountain placement for those who choose to follow them.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the best location for an outdoor fountain is one close to an electrical outlet where debris won’t fall into the basic and the fountain itself is easy to maintain. This means owners have many options about the actual placement, but might be limited by their home’s shape, size, and current gardening situation.
Chapter Six: Different Manufacturers
Because of the popularity of outdoor fountains, numerous manufacturers have entered the marketplace to take advantage of demand. However, not all of them are of the best quality, and many are known to break down after a few years. For individuals seeking a long lasting model with many different shapes, sizes, and styles, here are a couple of reputable options.
Gist Products
Gist Products, also called Gist Concrete Products, is a manufacturer of numerous objects intended to decorate landscapes, gardens, and other outdoor spaces. Besides offering benches and statues, this company is well-known for its creative fountains that include designs such as massive spheres resting atop pedestals. Artistic value and quality are important to Gist Products, and the company takes pride in developing products that appeal to the creative spirit inside its customers.
Campania International
Campania International is a reliable manufacturer that engineers and sells fountains for the North American market. The company opened its doors in 1983 and has been producing models ever since, including a broad range of spouting and cascading options. There are two features that stand out about Campania International: its penchant for tiered fountains and their overall durability. For anyone who would like an enclosed model or a style with multiple basins, this is the company to choose.
Henri Studios
Henri Studios possesses over 50 years of experience designing and producing creative fountains and outdoor features for landscapes. The company serves markets worldwide and strives to improve the Zen of outdoor living spaces by using original designs and handcrafted water features. Besides being soothing, each outdoor fountain is highly durable, meant to last a lifetime when maintained properly.
Al’s Garden Art
Al’s Garden Art is also called Fiore Stone, and is well known for its high quality stone fountains and decorations meant to last for a lifetime, similar to Henri Studios. These are luxurious fountains manufactured and produced in Southern California, making them a popular choice for individuals who would like to enjoy a water feature during the wicked summer months. Many of the homemade features from this company follow the traditional Tuscan designs of the founder’s heritage, giving the fountains a timeless and classic feel.
Giannini Garden
Giannini Garden Ornaments is a company based on Southern California with a well-established reputation for producing solid, durable, and beautiful fountains and decorations for yards of all styles. Water features are this manufacturer’s specialty, and the company creates handmade, uniquely designed water features meant to suit an individual’s personal preferences and styles. For a truly unique or individualized piece that won’t be found anywhere else, this is the company to contact. They also possess over 900 premade and assembled fountains in their warehouse, so it is possible to choose a popular design and have it shipped instead.
Phoenix Precast Products
Phoenix Precast Products develops a wide variety of precast outdoor products like water features, benches, and statuary. The company operates out of Phoenix and remains popular locally while also expanding its consumer base to include more nearby cities and regions. This company is well-known for its supportive staff and development of beautiful water features that are manufactured in house in the United States.
Harmony Fountains
Harmony Fountains specializes in affordable water features that can be purchased by individuals will different budgets and style preferences. They craft exquisite garden fountains and take pride in making handmade custom pieces for their customers. As of today, Harmony Fountains handmade water features are a division of Ever Sky Enterprises LLC.
Kenroy Home
Kenroy Homes is a hands-on producer of luxurious outdoor water features and other elements of home décor. It features a staff of trained professionals who help customize handmade pieces and can much adjustments as needed to match client preference. At present, there are over 100 employees in this role. Kenroy Homes is committed to sustainable solution interior design, meaning the manufacturer prefers environmentally friendly options.
Alpine Corporation
The Alpine Corporation is one of the largest manufacturers and distributors of outdoor water features and other décor in the United States, meaning it has numerous options for people to choose from when it comes to finding the perfect outdoor fountain for a home. These world class fountains include plenty of different shapes, designs, and materials, meaning the ideal fountain is just a couple of clicks away for anyone interested in finding the right piece for their yard.
Conclusion
Outdoor fountains are a beautiful addition to any home or landscape but do require a certain amount of preparation and maintenance to keep lovely throughout the year. Once a design has been chosen, it’s important to consider placement, installation, and what the fountain needs in order to retain its natural luster and poise. Owners need to be prepared to clean the basin, hoses, and pump regularly, and be able to winterize the structure before the ice and snow arrives.
This guidebook has provided a brief yet thorough overview of the trials, tribulations, and duties of fountain owners, but don’t forget to enjoy the benefits. Once a fountain is in place, it offers its owners and even other viewers hours of enjoyment and relaxation. After all, what is more soothing than the gentle sound of running water?