The Origins Of Outdoor Fountains
The Origins Of Outdoor Fountains A fountain, an amazing piece of engineering, not only supplies drinking water as it pours into a basin, it can also launch water high into the air for an extraordinary effect.
From the beginning, outdoor fountains were simply meant to serve as functional elements. People in cities, towns and villages received their drinking water, as well as water to bathe and wash, via aqueducts or springs in the area. Up until the 19th century, fountains had to be higher and closer to a water supply, such as aqueducts and reservoirs, in order to benefit from gravity which fed the fountains. Acting as an element of decoration and celebration, fountains also supplied clean, fresh drinking water. Roman fountains usually depicted imagery of animals or heroes made of bronze or stone masks. During the Middle Ages, Muslim and Moorish garden designers included fountains in their designs to re-create the gardens of paradise. Fountains enjoyed a significant role in the Gardens of Versailles, all part of French King Louis XIV’s desire to exert his power over nature. The Romans of the 17th and 18th centuries manufactured baroque decorative fountains to exalt the Popes who commissioned them as well as to mark the spot where the restored Roman aqueducts entered the city.
Urban fountains built at the end of the 19th century served only as decorative and celebratory ornaments since indoor plumbing provided the essential drinking water. Gravity was replaced by mechanical pumps in order to enable fountains to bring in clean water and allow for amazing water displays.
These days, fountains adorn public areas and are used to honor individuals or events and fill recreational and entertainment needs.
Taking Care Of Garden Wall Fountains
Taking Care Of Garden Wall Fountains A very important first step is to think about the proportions of the outdoor wall fountain with regards to the area you have available for it. A strong wall is definitely necessary to hold up its overall weight. Remember that small areas or walls will require a lightweight fountain.
An electric socket near the fountain is required to power the fountain. Whatever the style of outdoor wall fountain you select, they generally come with simple to follow, step-by-step instructions. Generally, when you purchase an outdoor wall fountain, it will come in an easy-to-use kit that will include all the needed information to install it properly. A submersible pump, hoses and basin, or reservoir, are included in the kit. If the size is appropriate, the basin can be concealed among your garden plants. Once installed, wall fountains typically only require some light maintenance and regular cleaning.
Replenishing and purifying the water on a regular basis is very important. Remember to remove debris like leaves, twigs or dirt as quickly as possible. Protecting your outdoor wall fountain from the freezing winter temperatures is essential. Your pump may break when exposed to freezing water during the winter, so it is best to bring it indoors to prevent any damage. All in all, an outdoor wall fountain can last for any number of years with the right maintenance and care.