Cast stone garden fountains are durable and splash and ice resistant, making them a great choice for outdoor use. You’ll also be pleased to know that cast stone is a masonry material that will last for decades. Read on to learn more about this masonry material and its benefits. Then, find out if it’s right for you.
Cast stone is a masonry material
The process for creating a garden fountain using cast stone involves two main steps. First, a stone is finely crushed and mixed with Portland cement. This mixture is then molded into a form and placed in a silicate solution to dry for several weeks. Next, the stone is stained and patinated by skilled artisans. This process creates a unique patina, which replicates the look of naturally aged materials. The patina varies in intensity and character and is unique to the stone.
Cast stone has limitations, however. While cast stone is an excellent choice for garden fountains, it’s not always the best choice for large panels. In addition, the connection methods of cast stone are limited compared to those of natural stone. For instance, dry-tamped cast stone can’t be used to connect large panels, and cast stone never looks as real as natural stone.
Another benefit of using cast stone for garden fountains is its durability. It’s lighter and more durable than stone fountains carved from natural stone. You can even add coloring to the mix to give your fountain a natural stone look. Pre-cast fountains are readily available, or you can have a masonry artisan custom cast your fountain.
Once your fountain is finished with the installation process, you can start caring for it. The first step is to remove any water from it. This step will protect the fountain from the freezing conditions that winter brings. Freezing water expands and can crack the stone. It will also give you ample time to properly dry your fountain. Ideally, this should be done in early fall, before the temperatures plummet.
Cast stone is a popular choice for commercial outdoor water fountains. They add an architectural touch to a property, while requiring minimal maintenance. Custom architectural water fountains are made to match a property’s hardscape and surrounding building structures. The fountains serve as focal points in entryways, pools, and gardens. They are also often used in theme parks and resorts.
It is splash resistant
If you’re planning to use your cast stone garden fountain outside during the winter months, you need to take extra precautions to protect it from freezing temperatures. If it freezes, it can break or chip. In order to prevent this, you should elevate the base of your fountain, ensuring it’s above ground level.
You can find splash resistant fountains made from stone, concrete, or fiberglass. The latter are durable and lightweight, while the former can imitate the look of stone. They are often cheaper than their stone counterparts. If you’d like a fountain that can withstand heat, moisture, and even freezing temperatures, consider a fiberglass fountain. The materials used in fiberglass fountains are lightweight, and they are very durable.
Another benefit of cast stone garden fountains is their durability. Cast stone fountains are often handcrafted to ensure that they will last for generations. This means that they are more intricately designed and offer more options than lightweight fiberglass ones. Also, unlike fiberglass fountains, stone garden fountains don’t fade or chip over time.
While you’re casting your fountain, you should ensure that the materials you use are sturdy. Most garden centers carry fountains, and some home centers carry them, too. Costs can range anywhere from $100 for a small fiberglass model to $500 for a large model. However, if you’re working with a smaller budget, rigid foam insulation is the best choice.
Cast stone residential fountains are also available. They can add elegance and beauty to a modern home. They can be custom made and can be engraved with a message. They will be a prized part of your home for years to come.
It is ice resistant
Winter is a time to keep your Cast Stone garden fountains out of the elements. When temperatures fall below 32 degrees, the water expands and can crack the fountain’s components. To prevent this from happening, place a towel or kitty litter in the bowl of your fountain. Alternatively, you can unplug the fountain. This way, you can use it again in the spring. If you do not want to remove it completely, you can place a plastic liner over the entire fountain.
If you live in an area where the temperature drops below freezing, you must bring your garden fountain inside. During this time, you should replace the standpipe, refill the pottery and box kit, and plug in the pump. These basic steps will ensure that your garden fountain remains in good shape during the winter.
Before storing your Cast Stone garden fountain, be sure to drain it thoroughly. This will prevent any possible cracks or breaks from occurring. It is also a good idea to cover the fountain to keep it clean. Another tip to keep your fountain free of buildup is to use distilled water or fountain enzyme products.
To keep your Cast Stone garden fountains free of algae and moss, you should periodically drain the water. This will keep the fountain water clean and will also keep mosquitoes away. For best results, remove the water from the pieces once a week and drain the basin at least once per month.
You can use a pressure washer to clean your fountain. Remember to use a 45-degree angle for the spray. Using a pressure washer will remove any mildew and mold that has accumulated on the fountain’s surface. Afterward, you should rinse the fountain thoroughly to remove any remaining cleaning product and dirt. You can then cover your fountain with protective materials and enjoy your fountain even more.
It is durable
Choosing a fountain material is important when it comes to your landscape. For example, a stone garden fountain will not be damaged by heavy winds or by freezing temperatures. However, it is important to keep in mind that a porous material such as granite will not stand up to such conditions for as long. That being said, you can have a stone garden fountain engraved with your own personal message or a favorite sentiment.
One of the biggest advantages of cast stone garden fountains is that they will last for years. Unlike their lightweight fiberglass counterparts, stone fountains are often hand-crafted, and therefore, will look great for generations. These garden fountains are also available in a variety of designs and colors. You can choose between a simple rectangular fountain and one with a detailed design.
Cast stone garden fountains are popular for commercial projects. They offer an elegant architectural design and require little maintenance. Cast stone outdoor water fountains are also made to complement surrounding building structures and hardscapes. These fountains become focal points in gardens, swimming pools, and entranceways. They’re also popular in theme parks and resorts.
Cast stone garden fountains can be custom-made to fit virtually any landscape design. They are also lighter than fountains carved from natural stone. Some manufacturers offer pre-cast fountains, but if you want a custom-made fountain, it’s best to contact an artisan.
Cast stone garden fountains are a stunning centerpiece for a landscape. They are durable and can stand years of outdoor use.
It is easy to maintain
A garden fountain can be one of the best accent pieces in your yard. You can choose from a variety of styles to complement the rest of your landscaping. They’ll not only add a decorative touch to your yard, but they can also be enjoyed by friends and family. Besides being aesthetically pleasing, they’re also good for wildlife, such as birds, squirrels, and other small creatures.
Water fountains require some care, but generally only need a top-off and clean-out once in a while. You can also opt to cover them during the cold season to prevent damage. However, if your fountain weighs more than 150 pounds, you should consider hiring a professional to install it for you.
Cast stone garden fountains are extremely durable, making them an ideal choice for outdoor spaces. They also come in a variety of styles and finishes. You can even choose a fountain made from granite, which is a popular material for fountains. However, granite fountains are expensive compared to other materials. Glass fiber reinforced concrete and stainless steel are also durable options.
When choosing a fountain, consider the type of water movement you want to have. A gentle sheeting motion will be more pleasing to the eye than a forceful stream. You also need to think about the debris that will be in the water as you place your new fountain. A professional electrician is best suited to handle the installation of your new fountain, as they have extensive experience and know all the necessary safety precautions.
If you’d like your fountain to look as beautiful as possible for years to come, you’ll need to keep it clean. You should clean the water regularly to remove algae and other harmful debris. A thorough cleaning will also include wiping out the reservoir and cleaning the pump. Once you’ve cleaned your fountain, you can then use an acid solution to remove calcium scale and iron stains. While the acid solution won’t harm the stone, it’s important to wear protective gear and apply it on a non-windy day. After that, rinse off the solution with water to remove all traces of it. You can also try vinegar because it’s a good antibacterial and antifungal. It’ll keep algae and bacteria from growing.
