Before Ordering Your Fountain
After deciding upon the optimal location for your fountain,
we strongly suggest that you do the following:
- Carefully compare (measure and re-measure)
the height, width and the depth (including the Base) of
the fountain specs (listed on the website) with the area it is to be situated on:
Insuring that there is adequate space & clearance - as well as a
proper foundation area - allocated for your fountain.
- Assess the hardness of the ground in relation to the weight
of the fountain that is to be installed:
Is the fountain heavy enough (+ water weight per gallon = 8¼ lbs.)
to require a concrete slab or a poured foundation?
Fountain Placement & Installation
Determining if a fountain should be placed on soil or a hard surface depends on the
type and size of your fountain:
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If you are installing a basin-type fountain on a hard surface - such as
a tile or concrete slab - spread a thin layer of sand, from ½” to 1”, on the surface
before assembling the fountain. Doing so will reduce the risk of stress cracks to the
basin, and will help with leveling as well.
-
Pedestal style fountains work best on a firm, level foundation. When
placed on dirt, erosion may occur unless you use a concrete stepping stone at least 24”
in diameter under the fountain.
- Place your fountain far enough away from trees so as to avoid either situating the fountain base
directly over a tree's root system or the direct falling of leaves and debris into your fountain.
Aesthetic Considerations
The scale, proportion, style and placement of your fountain should be
in keeping with the house and grounds:
- In a small garden, for example, a small decorative fountain
can sufficiently fit the bill.
- A fountain with geometric lines will look best with a formal house and garden,
while one that mimics shapes found in nature will complement an informal architectural style.
- The addition of a fountain or pond can create a virtual sanctuary
- a focal point where you and your guests can socialize in a relaxed and casual atmosphere.
Whether small and modest or large and formal, the sight and sound of flowing, running water in the garden
satisfies an inner need for serenity and can be envigorating - even therapeutic.
About Cast Stone
A type of concrete, cast stone is a highly refined architectural pre-cast building stone:
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It’s made from fine and coarse aggregates such as limestone, granite, calcite, quartz, marble,
natural sands, Portland cement and mineral oxide coloring pigments. This mixture is rammed
into sturdy molds to achieve a dense texture which is strikingly similar in appearance
and durability to natural cut stone. Its appearance is actually improved by exposure
to the elements over the years.
- Cast stone’s superiority to concrete is clear – it has
a more natural appearance, and does not contain the coarse, dark aggregates that start
to show through over time as with concrete.
Color Finishes
Your cast stone fountain has been factory-finished to remain beautiful over the years:
- We use only the most durable, high quality finishes available. These finishes
are hand-applied and bond with the cast stone material, creating an extremely long-lasting
color.
- If you need custom color matching - please send us a color sample
(if paint or stain please apply it to a non-porous white background surface).
Optimal Fountain Performance
Just a few simple to follow steps:
-
Fountains should be cleaned at least once a month.
Drain the fountain and wipe all of the surfaces with a sponge or soft cloth.
-
Keep fallen leaves, branches, mulch and other debris from accumulating in outdoor
fountains. This decomposing organic matter releases bacteria into the fountain water
which can lead to some unsightly and unpleasant-smelling buildup.
-
Water evaporation and mineral build-up cause a white residue to form on the bowl or shell of the fountain.
Frequent rinsing with fresh water will help to reduce this build-up.
Pump Operation & Maintenance
Depending on the amount of lime and minerals in your local water source, your pump
should be cleaned once or twice monthly.
- First - remove any twigs, leaves or loose debris that have gathered on the pump screen.
- To clean your fountain pump use two cups of white household vinegar diluted in
one gallon of water. Soak the fountain pump in the solution for approximately 10
minutes then plug the fountain pump in and let it run while submersed in the
solution for approximately 30 minutes. This will loosen the deposits that have
formed on the fountain pump.
-
Check your water level daily and apply water as needed to compensate for evaporation and to
assure that the fountain pump is running smoothly and efficiently.
If the pump is allowed to run dry, it will burn out the motor!
Maintaining Proper Water Levels
If the pump is allowed to run dry, it will burn out the motor:
- Keeping the water at the proper operating levels,
which includes the replacing of evaporated water in a timely regular fashion,
is probably the most important step to optimize pump function and longevity.
-
It is recommended that you only run your fountain when you are at home -
since gusty winds can blow water out of your fountain leaving no water
to protect your pump.
Preventing Algae and Calcium Build-Up
Using safe methods of water treatments is the number one most important thing you can do to preserve
both the life of your fountain as well as the resident wildlife.
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This entails controlling the accumulation of algae and
minimizing scale build up on your fountain.
Mineral deposits are harmful to many fountain finishes and can be difficult to remove.
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Even with the use of water treatments, if the same water is constantly running through
a fountain, it can take on a bit of a sour smell over time.
- Replace the water in your fountain with fresh water approximately once a month.
- Then, once every three months or so, clean your fountain thoroughly according to the
manufacturer’s instructions.
Environmental & Ecological Concerns
If you’re interested in creating a bird-friendly environment:
- A birdbath fountain or a multi-tiered fountain allows birds to bathe
under a falling shower of water droplets (some fountains are even heated so that birds may enjoy
them year round).
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If your fountain or birdbath is accessible to birds, animals or pets - DO NOT USE BLEACH. Instead, be sure to
use an animal friendly cleaner such as Microbe-Lift Fountain Clear.
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Some alternative product possibilities include ozone, silver, apple cider vinegar, lemon and citrus
extracts.
(We will be posting further updates concerning this issue as soon as they are available)
Winter Care of Outdoor Fountains
So as to avoid the likelihood of water freezing in
any of the fountain tiers, reservoir, or pump during winter (and any reultant damage):
- In areas that reach temperatures below freezing,
if possible, store your fountain or lawn ornaments inside away from snow, frost and ice.
- Otherwise it is recommended that you drain the fountain (or bird bath) completely,
and place an absorbent material - such as burlap -
inside the bowl and then cover the fountain with a waterproof cover so that no water can gather inside the bowls.
- This is the perfect opportunity to clean your pump, removing any algae, pet dander, or other debris that may have
accumulated over time (Submersible pumps can be stored in a bucket or tupperware container
filled with water in a warm indoor spot so that the seals and gaskets do not dry out).
Repair of Cracks & Chips
Cracks or broken pieces do sometimes occur with concrete fountains,
lawn ornaments and statues:
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Many concrete and cast stone fountains will develop tiny hairline cracks over time after
exposure to the elements; these cracks are completely natural and will not effect the
functionality of your fountain.
- Cracks or breaks may be repaired with
Quick Patch Epoxy or 15 minute epoxy available at hardware stores.
Follow the instructions on the package. The surface must be clean
and dry before applying the product. Let the product dry and cure
for 24 hours after application to your fountain, statue or lawn ornaments.
Electric, Plumbing & Permit Issues
Issues to Consider:
- With our fountain pump system there is no need for a plumbing hook-up
or the addition of an electrical outlet. An extension cord is all that is needed,
and the amount of electricity required for running your pump
is equivalent to that of a 60 watt lightbulb.
- It is advisable, however, to check with you township or municipality
as to whether or not a Permit is required for an outdoor fountain.
Other than that - zoning ordinances may govern how close to the property line
you can install a large water garden or fountain.
Shipping & Handling
Shipping of monumental artwork involves planning and packaging methods
not ordinarily required for the shipping of either less-fragile or much lighter-weight items.
- Our products come to you directly from the manufacturer, minimizing handling and risk of damage.
- The cost of shipping is generally determined by product size, weight and delivery distance.
- Subsequent to placing an order, you will be assigned a delivery date (2 - 4 weeks in continental US).
Guarantee
Your cast stone or resin product is guaranteed against damage of any kind (whatever the cause)
and/or faulty workmanship - upon delivery.
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