Your garden is the perfect place to relax, meditate and hang out with your loved ones. But every once in a while, you will want to breathe new life into the area. And what better way to do this than by adding or upgrading your existing water hardscape? In this blog, we will discuss everything you need to know about the water features in your backyard. Let’s start with the basics.
What Is a Water Hardscape?
Water hardscapes add a unique and beautiful aesthetic to your garden and lawn renovation. A water hardscape in your landscape is any hard material, such as stone or brick, used in the construction of a garden pool, pond, fountain, stream, or waterfall. Water features like these create a visual spectacle that can be enjoyed by everyone. They also bring calming and peaceful sounds to your outdoor space.
The Benefits of Adding Water Hardscapes to Your Garden
Infusing your backyard with water features adds more than just aesthetic appeal. A water feature can provide your space with a sense of peace and tranquillity, as well as improve the air quality and humidity levels in the area. Different backyard water feature ideas offer various benefits like attracting birds, bees, and other wildlife to your garden, while helping to create a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation. Additionally, they provide an opportunity for you to be creative when designing your outdoor oasis by allowing you to choose from a variety of options such as ponds, streams, fountains, and waterfalls.
Types of Popular Water Features to Consider
Water features come in many shapes and sizes, and it can be difficult to decide which one is the best choice for your garden renovation. Some of the most popular types of water features include:
Ponds
Perfect for larger outdoor spaces, ponds provide a great habitat for fish, frogs, and other aquatic life.
Fountains
Fountains are an easy way to add some drama to an outdoor space and can help reduce noise levels.
Streams
A stream with gently cascading water adds a peaceful background sound to your outdoor oasis.
Waterfalls
The sound of cascading water creates a calming atmosphere that makes any outdoor area feel like a paradise.
Bubbling Rock Features
These unique water features provide visual interest while creating soothing sounds that make it easy to relax outside.
Designing and Installing a Water Feature in Your Garden
Installing a water feature in your garden can be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. Here are some tips to help guide you through the process:
Choose a location: First, decide where in your garden you would like the water feature to go and make sure it is away from any trees or structures that might cause problems.
Estimate Costs: Estimate the costs of materials, labour, and other related expenses to ensure budget compatibility.
Select Materials: Choose durable materials such as stone, brick, or concrete that will stand up to extreme weather.
Design Your Feature: Sketch out your water feature design and consider factors like shape, size, function, and décor elements like lighting.
Installation: Follow installation instructions for pumps and other equipment carefully, as they can differ depending on the type of water feature you are installing.
If you don’t have the time or the skills to design your own installation, you can simply hire a contractor who can create a plan for you.
Common Mistakes to Avoid when Installing a Water Feature
Installing a water feature in your garden can be a fun and rewarding experience, but there are some common mistakes to avoid.
Not Planning Ahead: Take the time to plan out your design before starting installation. Consider the size and shape of the water feature, the type of materials you will use, and the function it should serve.
Poor Installation: Improper installation can cause permanent damage or lead to unsafe conditions. Make sure you follow all instructions exactly as they are written when installing pumps or other equipment.
Ignoring Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for any water feature. Skipping maintenance tasks such as cleaning filters and checking for leaks can lead to major problems down the road.
Overlooking Safety Measures: Make sure your water feature meets safety standards, such as proper fencing or a cover to keep children and pets away from deep waters or powerful pumps.
Again, if you’re not into DIY projects, there are contractors like Green Oasis who can do the job for you, maintenance included.
Maintenance Tips for Your New Water Feature
Congratulations on installing your new water feature! Here are some easy maintenance tips to keep it looking its best:
Clean and Inspect Regularly: Clean the dirt or debris out of the pump, filters, and pipes at least once a month. Check for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or leaks in the material or equipment.
Change Water Regularly: Change the water in your water feature every 1-2 weeks to keep it clean and clear. Empty the basin completely and discard any standing water.
Care for Plants: Make sure you trim any overgrown plants around your feature to ensure they don’t clog up the pumps. Add fertiliser regularly to keep them healthy and tidy.
Keep It Safe: Ensure that all safety features, such as fencing or covers, are kept in working order to prevent accidents, especially if you have young children or pets running around near your garden.
How to Find a Good Water Hardscape Contractor
Finding a good water hardscape installer can be tricky. Here are some tips to help you find the right contractor for your project:
Ask For Personal Recommendations: Get recommendations from friends and family who have used similar services in the past. This is a great way to get an honest opinion on the quality of work they provide.
Check Credentials: Make sure any potential installers have proper credentials such as licensing, insurance, and certifications that prove they’re qualified to perform the service.
Verify References: Contact references provided by the installer to get a better understanding of their work quality and customer service. Ask questions about their experience with the contractor and whether or not they would recommend them.
Shop Around: Get quotes from multiple installers so you can compare prices and services offered. Be sure to read through all contracts carefully before signing anything.
Talk to a Reputable Landscaper Today!
Now that you know how to find a good water hardscape installer, it’s time to start the search. Make sure you work with professionals who have the necessary credentials, just like Green Oasis Lawn and Reticulation. If you need exceptional hardscape installation and reticulation in Perth, we’re the right contractor to call for your project. So don’t wait – call us and start making your dream outdoor water feature a reality!
