Outdoor water fountains can be a great addition to any home or garden. They add a touch of elegance and can be a great focal point for any outdoor space. But with so many different materials to choose from, how do you know which one is best for your outdoor water fountain?
In this article, we’ll take a look at the different materials used for outdoor water fountains and their pros and cons. Hopefully, this will help you make an informed decision about which material is best for your needs.
1. Cast Stone
Cast stone is a popular material for outdoor water fountains. It’s made from a mixture of concrete and aggregates, and it can be cast into any shape. This makes it very versatile and means that it can be used to create a wide variety of designs.
Cast stone is also very durable, meaning that it will withstand the elements well. It’s also low maintenance, as it doesn’t require much in the way of cleaning or upkeep.
The main downside of cast stone is that it’s quite heavy, so it may not be suitable for all locations. It’s also quite expensive, so it’s worth considering other options if you’re on a budget.
2. Fiberglass
Fiberglass is another popular material for outdoor water fountains. It’s lightweight, making it easy to move around, and it’s also very affordable. Fiberglass is also fairly durable and low maintenance.
However, fiberglass can crack or chip over time, so it’s not as durable as some other materials. It’s also not as heat resistant as some other materials, so it may not be suitable for all locations.
3. Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a popular choice for outdoor water fountains because it’s very durable and weather resistant. It’s also quite low maintenance, as it doesn’t require much in the way of cleaning or upkeep.
However, stainless steel can be quite expensive, so it’s worth considering other options if you’re on a budget. It’s also quite heavy, so it may not be suitable for all locations.
4. Bronze
Bronze is another popular material for outdoor water fountains. Like copper, it has a beautiful patina that will develop over time, giving your fountain a unique look. Bronze is also quite durable and weather resistant.
However, bronze can be quite expensive, so it’s worth considering other options if you’re on a budget. It’s also quite heavy, so it may not be suitable for all locations. Additionally, bronze can stain clothing and skin, so be sure to wear gloves when handling it. Additionally, bronze requires more maintenance than some other materials, as it will need to be regularly polished to maintain its shine.
5. Plastic
Plastic is a popular choice for outdoor water fountains because it’s very affordable and lightweight. Plastic is also fairly durable and low maintenance. However, plastic can crack or chip over time, so it’s not as durable as some other materials. Additionally, plastic may not be suitable for all locations as it can discolor in direct sunlight.
6. Resin
Resin is a synthetic material that looks like stone or ceramic. It’s lightweight and easy to move, making it a great choice if you plan on changing the location of your fountain.
Resin is also waterproof and fade-resistant, making it a low-maintenance option. Soothing Company is a brilliant brand that offers resin and other fountains with the highest quality and best prices, so make sure to check them out.
7. Metal
Metal is another popular choice for outdoor water fountains. It’s durable and weather-resistant, so it can withstand even the harshest conditions.
Metal fountains also tend to be very low maintenance, since they don’t require as much cleaning as other types of fountains. The downside of metal fountains is that they can be quite loud when the water is running.
If you’re looking for a peaceful oasis in your backyard, a metal fountain might not be the best choice.
8. Stone
Stone is a classic material for outdoor water fountains. It’s elegant and timeless, and it can add a touch of class to any setting. Stone fountains are also very durable, so they can withstand the elements without issue.
The only downside of stone fountains is that they can be quite heavy, which can make them difficult to move or install.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing a material for your outdoor water fountain.
1. Consider The Climate
If you live in an area with a lot of freezing weather, you’ll want to steer clear of materials like cast iron and concrete, which can crack when exposed to the cold. Instead, look for materials that are designed to withstand the elements, like stainless steel or fiberglass.
2. Think About Maintenance
Some materials, like natural stone, require more maintenance than others. If you don’t want to spend a lot of time cleaning and caring for your fountain, look for materials that are easy to care for, like ceramic or plastic.
3. Consider Your Budget
Outdoor water fountains can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, so it’s important to set a budget before you start shopping.
Keep in mind that materials like natural stone and bronze tend to be on the pricier side, while materials like ceramic and fiberglass are more affordable.
4. Choose A Style That Fits Your Space
There are all sorts of different styles of outdoor water fountains to choose from, so take some time to browse through different options until you find one that fits the overall aesthetic of your space.
If you have a more formal garden, for example, you might want to choose a traditional-style fountain made from materials like stone or bronze. Or, if you have a more relaxed backyard space, you might prefer a more contemporary fountain made from materials like glass or stainless steel.
5. Keep Size In Mind
When shopping for an outdoor water fountain, be sure to take measurements of the space where you plan to put it, so you know what size fountain will fit best.
You don’t want to end up with a fountain that’s too large or too small for the space, so it’s important to get the dimensions right before you make your purchase.
Conclusion
There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to choosing the best material for your outdoor water fountain. It all depends on your personal preferences and your budget. If you want a durable fountain that will last for many years, then concrete or stone may be the best option.
If you are looking for an elegant fountain that makes a statement, then metal may be the best choice. And if you are on a budget, then plastic may be the best option for you.
