Garden Fountain Buying Guide

Choosing the right outdoor fountain is easy when you pay attention to a few key details As when choosing any accessory, outdoor fountains make a statement. And it's important to make sure the statement is saying what you want. You'll want to ask a few key questions, starting with: What style garden fountain best complements my home and garden? Admittedly, this is subjective, but you should be able to find clues based on the predominant style of your home. Is it casual or formal? Spit spot, or cheerfully cluttered? Are there children or animals you need to work around? Do you have a passion for a certain form of design, such as Southwestern, classic European, or Asian? Do you love cute figurines, or do you find clean geometric shapes more pleasing? Consider this, then focus on the garden fountain styles that you know you are attracted to and eliminate those you aren't. What is my budget? Realistically, this is a big deciding factor for most people. A good rule of thumb is to select the best quality garden fountain you can within your budget. If you settle for less pricey but just "OK," you may eventually find yourself unhappy with your purchase. A well-thought-out choice now will pay off with years of pleasure.

Are there safety considerations?

Generally this means do you or your neighbors have kids or pets that might get into an outdoor fountain? Unfenced pond garden fountains or large, deep courtyard fountains may prove irresistible to little ones who might drink, play in, or even fall into the water. All indoor and outdoor fountains require antifungal treatments, so their water should not be ingested.

Common sense dictates that fountains utilizing fire would not be a good match for growing families. Instead, consider a pretty wall fountain or outdoor tabletop fountain that creates a nice atmosphere but poses no threat.

How much room do I have?

Budget may come into play here as well. The larger the space, the larger you probably want your outdoor fountain. Garden fountains come in literally any shape or size, and range from huge 6-foot garden centerpiece styles to demure fountains that can be tucked prettily among shrubs and flowers as a naturalistic accent. Wall fountains are a great solution in the smallest spaces, as they take up no floor room, and do not require special wiring or plumbing. One last thought; consider whether the fountain will be unwieldy if you tried to install it by yourself. You may need to enlist some friends to help you.

Where am I going to put it?

Along with aesthetic considerations, remember that the best areas for your outdoor fountain will be exactly level so it sits easily and securely. Outdoor fountains generally have a more robust splash, as that is what creates the characteristic noise we are drawn to. Make sure you place the fountain far enough away from seating and electrical outlets that this will not be a problem. There are myriad shapes to consider as well. Vertical shapes such as columns have a small footprint that is good for small patio spaces, while a series of horizontal cascading dishes may make a very pretty fountain for a more open and rustic area. Don't forget wall fountains or those that fit neatly into a corner for areas that are a little tight.

Take these considerations into account, then start shopping. You're sure to find the perfect outdoor fountain for your life outdoors.