Outdoor Garden Fountain Models

and Features for Yards and Patios

Outdoor water fountains are excellent for elevating the aesthetics of your property. You can find several options available, each with its unique benefits. But which one should you select for your particular yard and landscape? (Click on any fountain on this page for complete details) If you need help choosing the right outdoor fountain for your landscape, you’ve come to the right place. In this article, we reveal the different types of classic and modern outdoor fountains, their features, pros, cons, and more.

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Tiered Outdoor Garden Fountains

Tiered fountains are one of the most popular options for standalone outdoor fountains. They are excellent for boosting curb appeal and making your yard more elegant. Most tiered outdoor garden fountains have two, three, or four tiers. The water cascades from the upper tier to the lower tier(s), creating a gorgeous waterfall effect and generating the soothing sound of trickling water.

 

Large tiered outdoor fountains usually go in the middle of the yard. As such, they are only suitable for homeowners who have sufficient yard space. Fortunately, other sizes of tier fountains are available. As long as your yard isn’t tiny, you can probably find one that’s a good fit.

The best materials for tiered outdoor fountains are resin and stone. Both are highly durable but require proper maintenance to keep them looking beautiful. Stone tiered fountains are heavier and pricier to install. You can get both options in various colors to match your yard and building aesthetics.

 

You can also get them in a range of shapes and designs. Modern designs are subtle and have few carvings. To ensure that your gorgeous tiered fountain stays visible even after dark, pair it with artificial lighting for a beautiful night display.

Outdoor Wall Fountain 

Outdoor wall fountains or wall-mounted fountains are great for small yards. Since they don’t go on the ground, they take up minimal horizontal space, leaving your small yard open and free of impediments. Besides building or using walls, you can mount an outdoor wall fountain on a post or fence. Most outdoor wall fountains are plug-in units that are easy to install and maintain. The cost of an outdoor wall fountain usually depends on its materials. Stone, clay, wood, fiberglass, and metal options are all available.

 

Fiberglass is popular because it’s weather-resistant, durable, and reasonably priced. Copper wall fountains are also durable but pricier than fiberglass fountains.

If you want a classic-looking wall water fountain, go for one made from cast stone or concrete. However, since stone and concrete wall fountains are heavier, they cost more to install and require more maintenance.

Outdoor Waterfall Fountain

Waterfalls are beautiful and majestic. Instead of heading into the wilderness to find one, install an outdoor waterfall fountain at home. It’s one of the best options for properties with enough space for large outdoor fountains.

 

You can install an outdoor waterfall fountain on a wall, at poolside, or as a standalone piece. Depending on the size and weight, a standalone waterfall fountain may be movable. Various styles are available. The best ones have features that stop the falling water from splashing out of the fountain basin.

 

Contemporary waterfall fountains are sleek and serene. They can feature materials like metal or fiberglass. Traditional designs use concrete, cast stone, or resin and have a rock or forest theme. The best forest-themed fountain waterfalls feature natural-looking moss, logs, or tree trunks that replicate what’s available in the wild.

 

Waterfall fountains are most beautiful at night when you pair them with the right lighting system. You can reduce your power bill by getting a solar system for your fountain’s pump and lighting. If the system has a backup battery, the waterfall will keep running even during power outages. You can have the design of your forest or rock-themed waterfall personalized to achieve your desired aesthetics. However, waterfall fountains can be pricey to install and maintain.

Modern or Contemporary Garden Fountains

Modern outdoor garden fountains are great for contemporary-styled homes. The typical modern garden water fountain can double as an art piece, and you have no limits when it comes to design options. However, before installing a modern water fountain, consider the aesthetics of your property.

 

The fountain must match or complement the property’s existing design. Otherwise, it will look out of place in your yard. You can find something large and majestic that becomes the centerpiece of your yard or something subtle and Zen that makes your yard a relaxing oasis.

 

Tiered, wall-mounted, and tabletop options are available in different colors and at prices for different budgets. Tiered fountains and other large standalone designs are a better fit if you have a large yard. If you don’t have a lot of floor space, modern wall-mounted and tabletop options are available.

 

The materials in modern outdoor fountains typically vary, but it’s not unusual to find glass, stone, ceramic, wood, and metal designs. Lightweight options made of fiberglass or resin are also available. These lightweight modern fountains are low maintenance and easy to move for relocation or storage.

 

Besides boosting the sophistication of your yard, other reasons to install modern outdoor fountains are their energy efficiency and the relaxing vibes they provide.

Zen Fountains

Unlike other outdoor water fountains, Zen fountains don’t just pour water and beautify your yard. A real Zen fountain has a minimalistic design and complies with other Zen requirements. Adhering to these requirements enables a Zen fountain to create an atmosphere for meditation and relaxation.

 

Zen fountains help you relax by replicating the soothing sound of a gently babbling brook. Such fountains typically feature natural materials, light colors, and simple designs that prevent distractions. Makes meditation easy.

 

Design options include bamboo Asian fountains and new-age indoor Zen water fountains. If you own a flower garden, a Buddha statue fountain design will be an excellent addition to your space.

You can get Zen fountains in various sizes, such as small unobtrusive ones or large fixtures that can serve as centerpieces. Homeowners that don’t have yards can get tabletop Zen fountains for their patios or decks. Put it next to your garden gnome!

 

If you want something a bit more personal, get a customized Zen water fountain. Getting a custom-made outdoor garden fountain ensures that the water feature perfectly fits your unique tastes and available space.

Birdbath Fountains

Are you a bird lover? Installing a birdbath fountain can benefit you and your feathered friends. Place the fountain right next to bird feeders, and birds will have a place to wash down their meals. If you don’t own a bird feeder, birds will still come to your installed birdbath to groom themselves and quench their thirst.

 

Various styles of bird bath fountains are available, including tiered, weeping, and spigot designs. The best materials for bird bath fountains are fiberglass, stone, and polyresin. Fiberglass and polyresin outdoor water fountains for birds are a great choice because they are lightweight, and you can easily move them to better locations for your birds.

 

Your birdbath fountain can be as big or small as you want, and since the water keeps recirculating, it stays safe for bird use. The fountain will feature a solar or electric pumping system that handles the water recirculation.

Birds aren’t the only ones that benefit from installing a birdbath fountain. The fountain and its flowing water will make a beautiful addition to your yard.

 

The birds attracted by the fountain will also make your garden more lively and interesting. However, note that birdbath fountains cost more than traditional birdbaths and require storage during freezing winters.

Tabletop Fountains

If you don’t own a yard, you can still own a water fountain. Tabletop fountains are a perfect fit for porches, patios, decks, and similar spaces. They are available in different sizes and in hundreds of designs to achieve your preferred look.

Popular design options include tiered tabletop fountains. This option can be a traditional two- or three-tiered fountain or something modern that adds a Zen touch to your space. Artistic options that incorporate figurines and lighting are also available. If you want something that looks more natural, go for one that resembles a miniature stone waterfall. 

 

Since these tabletop fountains are small, they are easy to install. They are also portable, so you can move them around to suit your changing needs. The cost of a tabletop fountain usually depends on its material and design. Glass and porcelain options are pricier but fragile.

 

If you want something more durable, select one made with stone, metal, cement, or polyresin. Since tabletop waterfalls run on electricity, you need to place them close to an outlet and make sure that their wiring is out of sight so it will not ruin the visual. Also, make sure they are on a stable surface, or they may fall over and make a mess, or worse, break.

Choosing the Right Outdoor Garden Fountain

Choosing the right garden water fountain for your premises requires knowing what features to consider. Here’s everything you need to know:

 

1.  Outdoor Fountain Materials
The materials manufacturers use to create outdoor garden fountains determine their look, weight, durability, and other factors. Your options include:

 

Cast Stone


Natural stone fountains are beautiful and expensive. Cast stone fountains resemble natural stone water features but are less pricey. They are also lightweight and easy to move around.

Even though cast stone is light, it is durable, and you can have it molded into almost any design, making it ideal for a custom fountain. You can also get it in various colors. The stone of the Great Houses of Chaco Canyon would make a great fountain. While cast stone fountains require minimal maintenance, you need to store them during winter to prevent cracks.

 

Fiberglass


Fiberglass is a super lightweight material that makes water fountain designs durable. Since they are so light, fiberglass fountains aren’t ideal for windy locations. However, you can overcome this issue by getting a fiberglass fountain with a copper, ceramic, stone, or another heavy material finish.

You can find fiberglass fountains in various designs, including contemporary and traditional ones. They are also easy to install and don’t require a lot of maintenance.

 

Ceramic


Ceramic fountains are gorgeous, but their fragility and size don’t make them the best choice for open spaces. Most ceramic fountains are small and in the shape of pots with bubbling fountains in them. They are ideal for adding color and style to patios and small container gardens. Several color options are available, and you can choose between terra cotta and glazed ceramic styles.

 

Wood


Wood fountains are excellent for giving your yard a more natural look or creating a Zen garden. Bamboo fountains are a popular option because of their durability, but most wood fountains need more maintenance than other materials.

 

Metal


Metal fountains are durable and heavy, so you’ll likely not be moving them after installation. Their durability makes them a popular choice for large outdoor fountains, but they can be pricey. Depending on your desired visual style, you can go for a bronze, steel, copper, or aluminum fountain. The fountain can be standalone or wall-mounted, and you can embellish it with inscriptions, carvings, and more.

 

Rocks


Tiered rock fountains create beautiful waterfall effects. They are expensive and heavy, however, Without proper maintenance, the fountain may develop algae and moss. Rock options include granite, limestone, and marble.

 

Resin


Molded resin fountains are lightweight but not as durable as heavier materials. Their portability makes them suitable for tabletop fountains and other movable options. You can find this budget-friendly option in various colors.

2. Outdoor Garden Fountain Height

 

Large outdoor water fountains weigh more. However, the taller your fountain is, the more beautiful its cascade effect will be. If you are getting a large outdoor fountain, make sure you have sufficient space in your yard. A professional installer can visit your property to take measurements and recommend the ideal fountain dimensions.

 

Large fountains make excellent centerpieces in yards because their weight keeps them grounded against strong wind. If your yard is small, you can get a wall-mounted fountain. Alternately, you could install an accent fountain (such as a ceramic pot fountain) in a corner. What if all you have is a patio or deck? Go for a small, lightweight fountain, such as a fiberglass or resin tabletop fountain.

 

3.  Outdoor Garden Fountain Features


Garden fountains come with several features that boost their beauty and functionality. These include:

 

· Lighted Outdoor Fountains: An outdoor fountain with lights looks good during the day and even better at dark. You can install the lights underwater or around the fountain to accent its design and illuminate your yard.

 

· Adjustable Flow Control: Adjustable flow allows you to control how fast your fountain is pumping water. If the setting is too high, excessive splashing and evaporation may occur, leading to your fountain needing frequent refills. If the flow is too low, algae and other organisms can start flourishing in the water.

 

· Solar Outdoor Garden Fountains: Solar outdoor fountains reduce your power bills since they keep running even when the power is out. Adding a solar battery ensures a fully functional fountain even after night falls.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where Should I Place Outdoor Water Fountains?


The best place to install an outdoor fountain depends on its size, material, and design. Large fountains are better off in the center of your yard, but this is only possible if your yard is large enough to contain the fountain.

 

If you buy a small or lightweight fountain, it’s safer to place it close to a wall or on your patio or deck. Do not install your small fountain in a dark corner. Otherwise, splashing water from the feature may render the area around the fountain unpleasantly moist. Placing your fountain where sunlight will reach it is especially important if the system runs on solar.

 

Non-solar fountains need to be close to electrical outlets so you can plug them in and keep the wires hidden. Other factors that determine the best place to install your fountain are:

 

·  Sound: To enjoy the soothing sound of running water, install the fountain as close as possible to your most-used room. If you need fountain sounds to cover traffic noises or other nuisances, install the feature between your home and the source of the racket.

 

·  Pets or Kids: Pets and children may attempt to play in or drink from fountains. Reduce the risk of this happening by installing a wall-mounted fountain that’s out of the reach of vulnerable little ones.

How Do You Maintain an Outdoor Fountain?

Follow these tips to keep your fountain and its water clean:

 

·  Regularly Clean the Fountain and Water Pump: Outdoor fountains tend to accumulate leaves and other debris. Every couple of weeks, scoop out any visible debris and check the fountain pump. You can clean the pump’s inside with a brush and moist cloth. Don’t forget to scrub and rinse the inside of the fountain to eliminate accumulated algae.

 

·  Keep Your Fountain Pump Submerged: Water fountains lose their water over time and need a refill. If the water level falls below the pump while it’s running, it can damage the system.

·  Keep Your Water Fountains Running: Stagnant water in a fountain creates a breeding ground for algae and other organisms that can spoil your water feature.

 

·  Use Distilled Water: Distilled water in a fountain reduces the risk of algae buildup. Alternatively, you can use animal-friendly water treatments for algae and white scale control. It’s important to use animal-safe products. Otherwise, you may poison wildlife that drink from your fountain.

 

·  Winterize Your Fountain: Freezing weather can damage a fountain’s body, hose, and pump. Avoid such problems by storing your fountain before winter starts. If your fountain is too heavy to move, winterize it by draining its water, disconnecting its pumps and hoses, and storing them indoors. Fill the emptied basin with burlap bags or hay and cover the feature with a tarp.

Do Garden Fountains Need Electricity?

Fountains need electricity to power the pumps that keep the water flowing. You also need electricity if your fountain has lights. Most modern fountains don’t consume a lot of electricity. However, large fountains with high-end pumps consume more electricity because they generate lots of water pressure.

 

Whether you have a high or low-end pump, you can reduce the cost of running your outdoor fountain by switching to solar. Installing a solar fountain costs more than regular fountains, but since you won’t have to pay for electricity, the system ultimately pays for itself.

 

Plus, you can use a solar system 24/7 without worrying about how much power you are consuming. For the best results, get a solar fountain with a battery pack. The battery stores energy, so you can use the fountain even after dark.

How Much Does It Cost to Run an Outdoor Fountain?

If you have a small or medium-sized water fountain and use it several hours a day, you may pay less than $50 a month, depending on electricity rates in your area. The cost of running a low-end fountain pump is close to the cost of using a small lamp.

 

You can reduce the cost of running your water fountain by running it only when you need it. However, note that frequently turning your fountain on and off wears out the pump more quickly. Also, stagnant water in a fountain breeds algae and other unsightly organisms.

Should I Leave My Water Fountain On All the Time?

If possible, you should leave your outdoor water fountain running around the clock. Doing so has several benefits. It will:

 

·  Extend Pump’s Lifespan: Replacing a fountain pump can be pricey, so the less frequently you have to do it, the better. Switching a pump on and off shortens its lifespan. If you want your pump to last for three to four years, you need to leave it running as much as possible and service it often.

 

·  Keep the Water Cleaner: Stagnant water accumulates algae, bacteria, and debris quickly. If your pump is constantly running, the water stays clean longer.

 

·  Reduce Your Water Bill: You have to change dirty fountain water. If you have a large fountain and the water gets dirty quickly, the cost of refilling your fountain may become costly. Reduce how often you need to change your fountain’s water by running it as often as possible.

 

·  Prevent Mosquitoes: Mosquitoes are disease-carrying insects that breed in stagnant water. If you live in the warmer parts of the U.S., turning off your fountain for long periods can turn it into a mosquito nursery and make your premises unsafe.

 

·  Improve Humidity: If you live in the drier parts of the U.S., installing a water fountain close to your window can improve the moisture content of your indoor air. Humidified air prevents dry skin, breathing issues, and cracked lips.

What Is the Best Outdoor Water Fountain? 

The perfect outdoor fountain for your premises depends on your budget, available space, preferred style, and other factors. If you need help picking the right water feature for your home or business, get in touch with us.

 

At Red Earth Shop, in Boulder City, Nevada, we have several years of experience supplying and installing the best outdoor garden fountains. Let our experts guide you towards the best option to boost your property’s attractiveness, comfort, and value. Give us a call today to find your dream outdoor water fountain.