The Origins Of Garden Fountains

Pure practicality was the original purpose of fountains. People in cities, towns and villages received their drinking water, as well as water to bathe and wash, via aqueducts or springs nearby. Used until the 19th century, in order for fountains to flow or shoot up into the air, their source of water such as reservoirs or aqueducts, had to be higher than the water fountain in order to benefit from gravity. Fountains were an optimal source of water, and also served to adorn living areas and memorialize the designer. Animals or heroes made of bronze or stone masks were often utilized by Romans to beautify their fountains. To replicate the gardens of paradise, Muslim and Moorish garden planners of the Middle Ages introduced fountains to their designs. Fountains played a considerable role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exert his power over nature. The Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries were glorified with baroque style fountains made to mark the place of entry of Roman aqueducts.

Urban fountains created at the end of the nineteenth functioned only as decorative and celebratory adornments since indoor plumbing provided the essential drinking water. The introduction of special water effects and the recycling of water were two things made possible by swapping gravity with mechanical pumps.

Beautifying city parks, honoring people or events and entertaining, are some of the uses of modern-day fountains.

The Many Kinds of Exterior Fountains

The magnificence of a spouting fountain can be seen when it propels a stream of shooting water into the air. Large, existing ponds can have one of these built-in without much difficulty. These types of fountains are often seen in parks or historical stately homes.

Outdoor water features come in different shapes and sizes, one of which is a fancy wall fountain. If you are keen on include a water feature, but are concerned because you have a small yard, do not hesitate to install one of these. Wall fountains are not flashy water features as compared to a spouting fountain. In this simple process. the water which is pushed out of a small opening, moves down a beautifully textured wall and is then collected at the base before being pushed back to the top.

Dependent on the design you have chosen for the garden, you could consider a themed fountain. Consider a classic type of statue, such as a cherub supporting a spout, for the fountain if your residence or garden is rustic in style. Consider installing something bolder and distinctive for a modern-day garden. Feel free to let your hair down and pick something fun and intrepid.

Water streams down multiple levels in a tiered fountain. Water flowing down multiple levels of this water feature is the chief attribute of a cascading fountain.

Due to the fact that outdoor fountains can take up a lot of room, put up a wall fountain or a pondless fountain if the space you have is minimal. Install one of these fountains if your space is limited since their reservoirs are concealed from sight below ground.

Serenity and well-being are some of the key sensations imparted by Japanese fountains. The water moves through bamboo sticks in this kind of water feature. The repetition of water flowing into a bucket or shaped stone is one of the main characteristics of this kind of fountain.

One of the many designs of fountain around is the glass fountain. Featuring shaped metalwork, trellis-style fountains of this type have a more traditional feel. Water features of this type are a perfect alternative for gardens with many sharp edges as well as contemporary shapes and design. The flowing water creates a striking effect as it moves down the glass sheets. LED lighting fixtures are also used in some fountains to flash color across the water as it flows down on the glass sheet. With water softly running down its surface, rock waterfall fountains, often made of imitation rock, are a viable option for your garden.

Bubbling rock fountains are big stones drilled with holes which are then filled with pipes in the middle. Low pressure is used to push up the water which then bubbles and gurgles at the top. Downward flowing water appears as soft trickle as it moves down the sides of the rock to return to its base. Gardens with little space are good places to include this style of fountain. The low pressure used in this sort of fountain hinders water from being spattered about in case of a windy day.

Solar powered fountains have become more fashionable recently since they run on sunlight. There are numerous reasons for this newly found appeal such as the absence of cables, less difficulty in running them, a reduction in electricity bills, and the benefits to the environment. The varied designs in outdoor solar-run fountains means you will not have to compromise on style.

A Wall Water Feature to Suit Your Design

Stand-alone wall fountains, commonly known as floor fountains, are relatively big and feature a basin on the ground.

A stand-alone water feature can either be integrated onto a wall already in existence or fitted into a wall under construction. This style of fountain contributes to a cohesive look making it appear as if it was part of the landscape instead of an added feature.

What Are Large Garden Fountains Made From?

At present, copper is quite popular for sculptural garden fountains. Copper is used in cascade and tabletop water fountains as well as many other styles, making it perfect for inside and outside fountains. If you choose to go with copper, your fountain can be any style from fun and whimsical to modern.

If your style is more traditional, a brass water fountain might be perfect for you. Though not the most stylish, the creatures and sculptural features you find on fountains are commonly made of brass, thus making them very popular.

Most consumers today see stainless steel as the most modern option. Adding a modern-looking steel design will immediately add value to your garden and elevate the overall mood. Like all water fountains, you can buy them in just about any size you choose.

For people who want the appearance of a metal fountain but desire a lighter weight and more affordable option, fiberglass is the answer. Caring for a fiberglass water fountain is relatively easy, another benefit that consumers love.

The One Cleaning Solution to NEVER Use On Your Water Wall Fountains

A thorough cleaning every 3-4 months is recommended for garden fountains. Before you start cleaning, all of the water must be taken out. As soon as it is empty, wash inside the reservoir with a mild cleanser. If there are any little grooves, grab a toothbrush to get every spot. Be sure to carefully rinse the interior of the fountain to make sure all the soap is gone.

It is highly suggested taking the pump apart to better clean the inside and eliminate any plankton or calcium. To make it less challenging, soak it in vinegar for a while before cleaning. Build-up can be a big problem, so use mineral or rain water over tap water, when possible, to reduce this dilemma.

Finally, be sure to have a quick look at your fountain daily and add water if you notice that the level is too low. Low water levels can damage the pump - and you do not want that!