The Many Designs of Wall Water Fountains

The two kinds of water features available to you are mounted and freestanding models. Small, self-contained models can be hung on a wall are known as mounted wall fountains. Fountains of this type need to be lightweight, therefore, they are typically fabricated from resin (resembling stone) or fiberglass. In large stand-alone fountains, otherwise known as wall fountains, the basin is located on the ground with the smooth side positioned against a wall. There are no weight restrictions on these kinds of cast stone water features.

Custom-made fountains which can be incorporated into a new or existing wall are often prescribed by landscaping designers. The basin and all the required plumbing are best installed by a trained mason. The wall will need to have a spout or fountain mask built into it. If you want a cohesive look for your garden, get a customized wall fountain because it becomes part of the scenery rather than an afterthought.

Modern Garden Decoration: Large Outdoor Water Fountains and their Roots

Originally, fountains only served a practical purpose. 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. Used until the 19th century, in order for fountains to flow or shoot up into the air, their origin of water such as reservoirs or aqueducts, had to be higher than the water fountain in order to benefit from gravity. Designers thought of fountains as wonderful additions to a living space, however, the fountains also served to provide clean water and celebrate the artist responsible for creating it. Bronze or stone masks of wildlife and heroes were frequently seen on Roman fountains. To replicate the gardens of paradise, Muslim and Moorish garden planners of the Middle Ages added fountains to their designs. The fountains seen in the Gardens of Versailles were meant to show the power over nature held by King Louis XIV of France. The Popes of the 17th and 18th centuries were extolled with baroque style fountains constructed to mark the arrival points of Roman aqueducts.

Indoor plumbing became the key source of water by the end of the 19th century thereby restricting urban fountains to mere decorative elements. Fountains using mechanical pumps instead of gravity helped fountains to deliver recycled water into living spaces as well as create special water effects.

Contemporary fountains are used to adorn public spaces, honor individuals or events, and enhance recreational and entertainment events.

Taking Care Of Large Outdoor Fountains

The general outdoor wall feature is available in an easy-to-use kit that comes with everything you need and more to properly install it. The kit provides a submersible pump, hoses as well as the basin, or reservoir. Depending on its size, the basin can typically be hidden quite easily amongst the plants. Once installed, wall fountains typically only require some light maintenance and regular cleaning.

Change the water frequently so it is always clean. It is important to quickly get rid of debris such as leaves, twigs or other dreck. Extremely cold temperatures can affect your outdoor wall fountain so be sure to protect it during the winter months. If left outdoors, your pump could break as a result of icy water, so bring it inside during the winter. All in all, an outdoor wall fountain can last for any number of years with the right maintenance and care.

The Magificent First Wonders by Bernini