How to Build a Fountain
Nothing is more satisfying than sitting out on your patio on a beautiful day listening to the water trickling in the fountain you built yourself. Fountains are not only beautiful to look at, but they are very appealing to listen to as well. While the idea of building your own may be daunting at first, you need not be intimidated. By following a few easy steps, you will be well on your way to building a beautiful fountain to adorn your backyard.
Choose a Location
Find a place in your yard where a fountain would be visible but not intrusive. To keep your fountain clean and free of debris, choose a place out of the reach of low hanging branching or trees that drop a lot of leaves. Look for as level a spot as you can find.
Choose a Style
The style of fountain you choose will affect how easy or difficult it is to build. The easiest fountain to construct is a simple one—a fountain with a single decorative urn or pot. The more complicated your design, the harder it will be to construct. Find a waterproof container that matches your style and is a suitable size for your fountain. If latex has not been mixed into the concrete of your pot, invest in a sealer to coat your container or freezing will gradually chip the pot. Apply the sealer according to manufacturer directions.
Gather Your Materials
Before you build, gather your materials. You’ll need the main component of your fountain—a large pot or urn. In addition, find some silicone sealant, an electrical cord, a shovel, a drill, and a pump. There are several options to choose from for the pump. Choose the one that matches the type of fountain you want, whether the water is gurgling and bubbling at the surface or shooting up into the air. Be sure you have everything together before you begin.
Put It Together
Drill a hole in the bottom of your pot for the electrical cord to run through. Place the pump in the pot, and be sure to test it before permanently installing it. Run the electrical cord through the hole in the bottom of the pot and use the silicone sealant to seal the hole. Dig a trench from the fountain to the electrical outlet, but be very careful when working with the wiring, and keep the electrical cord in mind when working or digging in the yard. Once you have your fountain assembled, you can enjoy it for years to come.
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Posted in Building and Remodeling, Home and Garden
