The Origins Of Fountains
The Origins Of Fountains A water fountain is an architectural piece that pours water into a basin or jets it high into the air in order to provide drinkable water, as well as for decorative purposes.From the beginning, outdoor fountains were soley there to serve as functional elements. Water fountains were connected to a spring or aqueduct to provide potable water as well as bathing water for cities, townships and villages. Up to the late nineteenth century, water fountains had to be near an aqueduct or reservoir and higher than the fountain so that gravity could make the water move downwards or shoot high into the air. Fountains were an optimal source of water, and also served to adorn living areas and memorialize the designer. The main materials used by the Romans to build their fountains were bronze or stone masks, mostly depicting animals or heroes. Muslims and Moorish garden designers of the Middle Ages included fountains to re-create smaller models of the gardens of paradise. To demonstrate his dominance over nature, French King Louis XIV included fountains in the Garden of Versailles. The Romans of the 17th and 18th centuries created 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.
Indoor plumbing became the main source of water by the end of the 19th century thereby limiting urban fountains to mere decorative elements. Gravity was substituted by mechanical pumps in order to enable fountains to bring in clean water and allow for beautiful water displays.
Contemporary fountains are used to adorn community spaces, honor individuals or events, and enhance recreational and entertainment events.
Keep Your Large Garden Fountains Tidy
Keep Your Large Garden Fountains Tidy Adequate care and regular cleaning are important to the longevity of water fountains. It is essential to clean it out and take out any debris or foreign elements that might have dropped into or onto it. On top of that, algae can be a concern, because sunshine hitting the water allows it to form quickly. To stay clear of this, take vinegar, hydrogen peroxide, or sea salt and add right into the water.
Experts advise that the typical garden fountain undergoes a thorough scouring every three-four months. First off you must drain the water. When you have done this, scrub inside the water reservoir with a gentle detergent. If there are any tiny grooves, grab a toothbrush to get each and every spot. Do not leave any soap deposit inside or on the fountain.
Some organisms and calcium deposits may get inside the pump, so it is recommended to take it apart and clean it thoroughly. Soaking it in vinegar for a time will make it easier to scrub. Neither rain water nor mineral water contain components that will build up inside the pump, so use either over tap water if possible.
One final recommendation for keeping your fountain in top working condition is to check the water level every day and make sure it is full. Low water levels can damage the pump - and you don't want that!