How to choose the right fountain

How to choose the right fountain

When looking for a fountain for your patio, learning about what types of fountains are best for your space, will help set you on the path to find your perfect outdoor water feature! Here are the top five things to consider in making your choice.

1. Design

 

When you’re looking at your overall landscape, consider first why you want a water feature. Is it meant to be the centerpiece of the design or an accent? What is the space used for? If this is an area where you entertain, then consider the flow of your space and what it will be like when others are gathered. Noise level should also be factored in. If you are looking to use the sound of water to add ambience or drown out other unpleasant sounds such as traffic, for example, then you’ll want to choose a fountain style that accomplishes those goals.

2. Weight

 

The next thing you should consider that many people overlook is the weight of the fountain. Your patio may not be able to handle the weight of a heavy cast stone or concrete fountain. You may then need to consider fiberglass fountains, which are much lighter in weight. It is important to remember that wood patios hold less weight then concrete patios.   To calculate the weight per square foot, use this format: measure the base, in inches, divided by the inches per foot and multiple by two. This will give you the area of the base. You can then use the total weight of the fountain; divide it by the base in inches of the fountain to determine what the weight per square foot of the fountain you are looking to purchase may be. This will help determine if the outdoor fountain you have chosen can be supported properly by your patio or deck.

3. Overall size and shape

 

Once you determine which weight is correct for your patio, you should next look at the size of the fountain. Depending on your landscape, you may determine that you want it to be the focal point; if so, you’ll want a much larger water feature. If you are unsure, you should review the dimensions of the fountain, both the height and overall shape. Choosing fountains with basins may not be an optimal choice if you have a small area. For example, a tall, tiered fountain over four feet in height may create the wrong optical appearance for a small backyard. Or, if you have a wall or corner area, consider using this space for your fountain. There are many styles of wall-fountains which are designed to be set against, or hung, on a wall.

4. Focal point

 

If the fountain will be a centerpiece of the design, consider thin, tiered fountains. These fountains will create tiers of cascading water that will be very appealing to the eye and ear. If you have a small area for your fountain, pot-style fountains, which are round and smaller in size, would be a smart decision. If you are just looking for an accent piece, you may find the terrace sized fountains such as Campania Internationals mini-series fountains can add an element of water flowing while keeping the size in check.

5. Splash

 

The last thing you should consider is the splash of the fountain. All fountains will splash outside of their barrier, to some degree. If the water is landing on a surrounding area such as a patio, then the walking surface may become slippery. If you desire minimal splash, you should consider urn fountains which bubble and cascade down the sides of a fountain, versus multi-tiered fountains, which will have a higher level of splash. Adding flow restrictors onto fountain tubing will help cut down on the water that will flow to the top of the pump. Remember though to also keep in mind your original goals. The amount of sound your fountain makes is determined in part by the amount of splash one has.

Adding a fountain or water feature on your patio or deck can be a wonderful choice once you’ve determined what will work best for your home, lifestyle and needs. Posted by Jean Widner.