Tips & Tricks For Choosing a Fountain
A fountain adds a peaceful and beautiful element to your outdoor space, and installing one might be easier and more affordable than you expect. At PRO Aggregate, we're here to help you explore the best option to fit your space and preferences.
The first tip is to decide what you want most from your fountain. Are you drawn to the gentle, rippling sound of trickling water, or do you prefer a lively splash that enlivens the area? The sound your fountain makes will depend on several factors, including the force of your pump and the way the water falls. For example, water cascading into a pool can be soothing to some, but might sound like a running hose to others. Knowing the effect you want will help you choose the right decision and components for your perfect water feature.
The second tip is to evaluate your space and choose a feature that harmonizes with its surroundings. Tall, bold fountains command attention and serve as striking focal points, while shorter, wider features blend more subtly, offering a calming visual and gentle background sound. Consider your environment carefully, if your space is noisy, a quiet fountain might be drowned out; if it's peaceful, a louder feature could add just the right touch. Matching the size and sound of your fountain to your space ensures it complements and enhances your outdoor area.
The third tip is to stay consistent with the style of your landscape. Just because you're drawn to the look of a granite millstone fountain doesn't mean it will suit a classic ranch-style home. Fountains should enhance your existing aesthetic, not clash with it. Stone fountains come in many shapes, colors, and finishes; some lend themselves to a rustic or ranch vibe, while others reflect a clean, modern, or zen-like feel. Choosing a feature that matches the tone of your home will create a more cohesive and natural-looking outdoor space.
The trick to an easy installation is to know your space options before choosing your feature. Is electricity close by? Will you require a patio basin, or will you dig a hole for your reservoir? Will you want to add lighting for night viewing? Considering these details ahead of time will help you avoid surprises and make installation smoother. For installation materials and more tips, read our fountain installation page.
Will you want to attract local wildlife or pets to the feature? Or keep them away? Some water features can be a refreshing stop for birds, bees, and butterflies, while others may need to be designed to discourage animals for safety and cleanliness. Consider how your feature fits into the broader ecosystem of your yard and whether you'll enjoy or want to prevent animal visitors.
The trick of easy maintenance is to plan ahead. If your feature is in full sun, be prepared to deal with algae. There are many options to manage this, from natural bacteria treatments to UV clarifiers. If you have hard water, consider the impact it may have on your feature, especially with dark-colored fountains, which can show white mineral buildup. Fortunately, there are many products available to help combat hard water staining and scaling, making ongoing care much easier when addressed early.
The last trick, and perhaps the hardest to accomplish, is to slow down and take the time to relax and enjoy the peace, quiet, and comforts of home. There's no place like home. Make yours a haven.