If you’re looking to enhance your outdoor space, water feature construction offers an eye-catching and soothing addition. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to build a simple yet striking stone fountain that will bring aesthetic appeal and require minimal maintenance. Whether it’s for your home or a larger project through commercial landscaping services, water features like fountains are timeless elements that elevate the overall design.
This project uses a stone with a drilled hole that allows water to recirculate, giving the impression of a natural bubbling spring. Let’s get started.
Selecting the Right Fountain Stone
The first step in water feature construction is choosing the perfect stone. You want a stone that suits your space’s design and allows water to flow smoothly. Look for stones with natural channels or basins that can help guide water, giving the fountain a more organic look. If you’re unsure where to begin, many stone suppliers offer pre-drilled stones, but you can also drill one yourself with the proper tools.
Choose a stone less than 15 inches thick at the location of the hole. Anything thicker might be difficult to drill through, especially if you’re working with basic equipment. Once you’ve selected your stone, test the flow by pouring water over it.
Preparing the Site and Digging the Reservoir
Before you start the actual construction, you’ll need to mark out the area where the water feature will sit. Using a rope, outline a natural-looking perimeter around the future fountain and gravel bed. Mark the edges with spray paint once you’re satisfied with the layout.
Next, you’ll dig a reservoir beneath the fountain, deep enough to collect and recycle the water without causing overflow issues. A depth of around six inches more than the height of your collection pails is ideal for water retention. Choose an area with minimal slope to prevent water from pooling in the wrong spots. As you dig, make sure that the deeper section where the pump will sit is wide and flat enough for stability.
Installing the Liner and Pails
After digging the reservoir, lay down old carpeting or padding in the hole to protect the liner from sharp rocks or roots. The padding guarantees longevity for the liner, which will hold the water in place and prevent leaks.
Unfold the liner and press it into the hole, pleating where necessary to match the contours of the ground. Once the liner is in place, insert the pails that will act as water collection containers. Drill small holes in the sides and bottoms of these pails to allow water to circulate and prevent stagnation. Set the pails in the deeper part of the reservoir, with the pump pail positioned centrally, slightly raised above the rest.
Backfill the space around the pails with gravel, keeping the top of the pump pail slightly below ground level to create a clean, even surface. Once the gravel is leveled, spread a final layer of pea gravel on top to cover the liner and enhance the visual appeal.
Setting Up the Pump and Water Line
For a smooth water feature construction, setting up the pump correctly is key. Connect the water line to the pump, making sure that it’s routed away from any areas where heavy stones will be placed. The water line should be long enough to reach the fountain stone easily but discreetly hidden under the gravel and surrounding stones.
Once the pump is in place, use tubing clamps to secure the water line and prevent leaks. If the water flow seems too strong or weak for your design, you can install a restrictor valve near the pump to adjust the flow to your liking.
Arranging and Testing the Fountain
With the pump and reservoir ready, it’s time to arrange the stones for your fountain. Position the drilled stone where you want the water to flow from, adjusting its angle to guide the water in the most natural direction. Other decorative stones can be added around the main fountain stone to create a cohesive look.
Before permanently securing the stones, test the water flow by running the pump. Adjust the placement of the stones as needed to create a smooth water path. Once you’re happy with the result, use pond foam to fill any gaps between stones. This foam helps lock the stones in place and directs the water flow more precisely.
Final Touches and Decoration
After securing the stones, it’s time to add the finishing touches to your water feature. Trim away any excess liner that sticks out around the edges and place potted plants or decorative stones to enhance the overall design. The combination of flowing water and natural elements will create a relaxing focal point in your outdoor space.
Once everything is in place, fill the reservoir with water and switch on the pump. If the water flow is steady and the fountain looks complete, your water feature construction is done.
Maintenance Tips for Your Water Feature
Once your water feature is built, maintaining it is simple with a few key practices that will help preserve its beauty and functionality. Regularly clean the pump to prevent clogs from debris, and check the water level for optimal operation.
Additionally, if you notice mineral buildup, particularly in areas with hard water, use a specialized water treatment solution to keep the fountain running efficiently and looking its best. During winter, consider draining the water feature and covering it to protect it from freezing temperatures, which can lead to damage. It’s also beneficial to periodically inspect the surrounding landscape to make sure the area remains tidy and enhances the overall aesthetic of your water feature.
How We Can Help with Your Water Feature Project
Building a water feature requires attention to detail and thoughtful design. Our Saylee Greer, LLC team specializes in creating custom water features that fit seamlessly into your outdoor space. Whether you’re looking for an intimate patio fountain or a larger installation through our landscape design and build services, we work with you to achieve stunning results that require minimal maintenance.
Let us bring your vision to life.