Building a fountain on a suburban is not as complicated a procedure as it seems at first glance. Such structures are closed water circulation systems. Each system consists of two parts - a smaller one mounted in open form, and a larger one hidden under water.
If we simplify the scheme of the fountain, it would look approximately as follows. The element of the system, which is considered to be a fountain, is just a decorative bowl where the ejection nozzle is located. The shape of the bowl, as well as the nozzle itself, can be very diverse (remember, for example, the famous Bakhchisaray fountains).
Ejected from the nozzle, water fills the container, from where it enters the cleaning filter through a special hole and is fed back to the nozzle. It is characteristic that to adjust the filling level, the bowl is equipped with a special overflow device.
Main types
According to the method of execution, fountains can be of two types:
In the first case, they look like architectural structures that adorn municipal squares and parks. They are not just water "fireworks", but a true work of art. Usually, such fountains are based on some figure - for example, a plant or a woman with a jug. For their manufacture, polymer concrete (artificial stone) is used, which is characterized by strength, reliability and resistance to low temperatures.
Submersible systems are created in the reservoirs themselves and consist of several main elements:
Such fountains are used mainly in suburban areas and from the outside look as if an underground source spews water spray.
Decorative aspect of the question
Note! The most popular is the regular jet fountain. In it, a stream of water is directed upward, dividing into several smaller streams. Very primitive, but at the same time original. With such a miniature fountain, the garden pond will look new.
Often the shape of the fountains is symmetrical, that is, it obeys all the laws of geometry. They can be round, rectangular, etc. Regardless of the shape, in addition decorative design structures are not needed - the boundaries of the reservoir are simply indicated (for example, with stucco or natural stone), the main thing is that the style fits the overall landscape design.
Probably not worth it once again to say that the larger the area has a plot, the larger the fountain can be built. A huge construction on a miniature five acres would look ridiculous.
Choosing the right place
The best place for building a fountain is one that is perfectly visible from different points of the garden. It would be great to equip a water structure in a recreation area or on.
Note! The fountain should not block the approaches to other elements of the garden or buildings on the site.
When planning construction, the relief features of a particular site should be taken into account. It is desirable that the fountain is located in a lowland - this gives several advantages at once:
- volumes ground water it will be easier to correct in the required direction;
- the air will be saturated with moisture, which is important on hot days.
Note! Do not install fountains near trees or in the center of the site, otherwise the waterproofing or the entire internal structure will be damaged by the roots, and crumbling leaves will clog the filtration system.
Regardless of the type of construction, installation involves the following activities:
For a small structure, you can use an ordinary plastic container, while massive fountains need a preliminary foundation. For water supply it is recommended to use plastic pipes that do not rust and are connected with a soldering iron.
Note! The main element of any design is hydraulic equipment, which forms a pressure and ejects water from the nozzle.
Pump equipment
The operating life of the fountain largely depends on the quality, therefore, on given element better not save. The scheme of operation of the pump is quite simple: through the drain hole in the bowl, water enters the pipes and flows through them to the pump intake pipe. He, in turn, creates required pressure and throws it out through the nozzle. Thus, the cycle is repeated.
Pump power depends on two factors:
- bowl volume;
- required ejection force.
Note! The circulation pump requires electricity, so the connection should be taken care of even when planning. Do not despair if you cannot power the device with electricity - a small domed fountain can be made without the help of a pump.
Such models have a more natural look, but they can only be equipped on a sloping terrain. Here, water circulates according to the principle of several communicating vessels located on different tiers.
When planning, you can already use ready-made options, which have been repeatedly tested in practice:
- fountain of stones;
- design from improvised materials.
Consider the technology of their manufacture.
Prices for a linear range of pumping stations
Pumping stations
Option number 1. Making a fountain from improvised materials
Required tools:
- electric drill;
- metal scissors;
- insulating tape;
- shovel.
Expendable materials:
- iron sheet;
- stones of the appropriate size;
- acrylic bath;
- Earth;
- circulation pump;
- decorative elements (lamps, sculptures, plants, etc.).
Having prepared everything you need, you can get to work. The procedure is the following.
Step 1. First, stones are selected (they can be found near a pond or country road). They should be oval or round.
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4. Wide inserts are cut out of non-ferrous metal (copper, aluminum, etc.), necessary to protect the playground or recreation area from splashes. Inserts are stacked and decorated with stone.
Step 5 Smaller stones are laid on the bottom, lighting is installed (if planned).
Step 6 A circulation pump is installed, the bowl is filled with water. Held final decoration designs (depends only on personal preferences and taste - there are no restrictions).
Note! Natural stones will look beautiful in combination with sculptures - a frog, a leopard, a gnome, and so on. The sculptures will merge with the stone and will focus on the original decor.
In addition, you need to select bright vegetation (preferably placed in vases), as well as wood elements - ordinary branches, wheels, mill blades.
Option number 2. Making a stone fountain
Required tools:
- mounting syringe for filling joints;
- a hammer;
- wrench;
- hacksaw;
- electric drill;
- metal scissors;
- insulating tape;
- pipe cutter
Expendable materials:
- boards and slats to strengthen the structure;
- stones (flat);
- copper pipe;
- PVC pipe;
- gravel for the drainage system;
- coupling;
- water pump;
- sealed bowl.
The construction of this kind of fountain consists of the following stages.
Step 1. First, a hole is pulled out 5 cm deeper than the height of the container. A small ditch is also made to the outlet.
Step 2. A 5-centimeter “pillow” of gravel falls asleep.
Step 3. The container and the PVC pipe are laid, both elements are connected. The ditch is covered with earth.
Step 4. A pump is installed in the container, outlet holes are marked and made.
Step 5. The container is connected to a copper pipe.
Step 6. Gravel is poured into the bottom of the tank, the pump is fixed.
Step 7. The fountain is strengthened - slats and boards are laid on the bowl.
Step 8. Flat stones are stacked on top of each other, places are marked for making holes in each of them.
Step 9. Holes are made, stones are strung on a copper pipe.
Step 10 Decorating the structure is the final stage of work. Large gaps between the stones are laid with small stones, silicone-based glue is used to fill the gaps.
When the glue dries, the bowl is filled with water, the pump is connected, adjustment is made and that's it - the fountain is completely ready for operation.
Prices for fountains and ponds
Fountains and ponds
Video - Construction of a stone fountain
And in conclusion - another thematic video.
Video - Teapot Fountain
Decorative ponds and fountains on a personal plot can be the main elements landscape design. Next to them you can arrange a cozy seating area. The murmur of living water will create a feeling of peace and tranquility. You can create such a corner with your own hands, even if you have little skills and means.
The principle of operation of the fountain and its types
In order to understand the structure of this useful and decorative structure, elementary knowledge of physical laws is enough. All existing fountains are divided into two large groups:
- having a closed system of fluid movement;
- with an open water system.
The first type of fountains needs a reservoir filled with water. It can be either a pond or a specially selected container, for example, a plastic basin. The circulation of water is started by a pump. After the wet “salute” splashes out, the liquid returns to the reservoir and repeats the same path again. It turns out the water cycle - but not in nature, but in a system of tubes connected to the pump.
Fountains of the second type are distinguished by the absence of circulation and, as a rule, are connected to flow-through hydraulic structures. In particular, if done in the outer water pipe hole, you get the most primitive fountain. In this case, no capacity is required. It remains only to think about how to direct the water flows further.
The diagram shows all the components of the fountain
The principle of operation of any type of fountain is that liquid is supplied under pressure into a pipe ending with a spray nozzle. The type of nozzle sets the water output to the outside in a certain shape.
Cascade
The liquid, overflowing alternately from one container to another, resembles a multi-tiered waterfall. Instead, you can also run water over "steps" of stones. It is allowed to do without nozzles, while the end of the pipe is masked.
Water is transferred from one bowl to another, forming a cascade
Geyser
Vertical discharge of water - distinguishing feature this most common type. It reminds of natural springs gushing out of the ground - geysers. Noisy splashes give garden plot liveliness and irrigate nearby plantings.
The geyser resembles springs gushing out of the ground
Bell
A vertical jet of water passes through a special nozzle of two discs, distributing evenly along its edges. The walls of the resulting water hemisphere become smooth and continuous.
Water passes through the nozzle and is converted into a "bell"
Spray
The nozzle for the spray fountain has a lot of holes for the release of water. Some nozzle options are capable of moving and rotating under pressure, creating either rain or a shower.
The nozzle has many holes, the water at the outlet turns into small splashes
Pump selection
For small fountains the best option will be submersible pump. It is not only more expedient in a home-made structure, but also cheaper.
External pumps are required only where the fountain has a complex structure and occupies a large area. Their noise is not extinguished by the water column, and in order to avoid theft, outdoor equipment has to be masked separately. On the other hand, "dry" outdoor pumps are easier to maintain.
An important parameter of the equipment is its power. If the height of the water jet does not exceed one and a half meters, then it is worth limiting to an indicator of 70 watts. If the power is greater, then the cascade will come out higher. Pumps with the ability to adjust the force of pressure are preferred, they allow you to change the height of the fountain.
The strength of the water at the outlet depends on the power of the equipment
When choosing a pump, you should focus on the ratio of indicators such as pressure and performance of the device. The first parameter characterizes to what height the jet directed upwards can rise. The second indicates the volume of water that is pumped by the fountain pump per hour.
Table: pump selection for different types of fountains
| Fountain type | maximum head (Hmax), m | maximum productivity (Qmax), m3/h |
| Geyser | 0,2 | 2 |
| 0,3 | 3 | |
| 0,5 | 4 | |
| 0,7 | 5 | |
| 0,8 | 7 | |
| Cascade | 0,6 | 1 |
| 1 | 2 | |
| 1,5 | 3 | |
| 2 | 5 | |
| 2,5 | 6 | |
| 3 | 8 | |
| Bell | 0,3 | 0,9 |
| 0,4 | 1,2 | |
| 0,5–0,6 | 3 | |
| 0,8 | 4 | |
| 0,9 | 6 |
How to make a fountain with your own hands
The first step is to determine the location of the hydraulic structure. It should be:
- away from trees so that the tank remains free of foliage falling into it;
- away from walls that can deteriorate from excess moisture;
- away from the paths so as not to block the road.
A good choice would be to decorate a playground or a place for relaxation with a fountain. Flowers, stones and will be appropriate nearby. If the fountain is placed in a lowland on a site with a slope, then the air for the plants growing above will become more humid and favorable. If you settle down at the top, and even with open system, the excess water will automatically water the garden.
Preparation of materials
In addition to the pump purchased at the store, other parts can be assembled from improvised materials. You will need either an unnecessary container or a pond. For the latter, a special hydro-repellent film - a liner - is added to the shopping list. To hold the film in place, its edges are pressed with bricks or stones.
Suitable for drainage sand, gravel or expanded clay.
Often, a metal mesh is installed on top of the bowl, on which stones masking the pump are laid. The presence of such a tricky detail significantly saves the amount of other materials that would have to fill the water space without it.
A simple spray fountain scheme
Work algorithm
- Under the reservoir or reservoir, they dig a recess in the ground equal to the height of the container plus 5 cm.
- On the side where the drain will be directed, deepen by 40 cm.
- Geotextiles are laid on the bottom.
- Equip a drainage layer of coarse sand with a thickness of 5 centimeters.
- The tank is immersed in the resulting "hole".
- The submersible pump is installed at the bottom of the tank. To keep it there, the device is made heavier. To do this, attach to it any object that has a large weight. Alternatively, the pump is placed in a basket and filled with stones.
Dig a hole for a pond or reservoir
To properly install the pump, three rules must be observed:
- disguise. All electrical must be hidden;
- transformer. The device is connected to a low-voltage transformer located inside the nearest room;
- electrical safety. All connectors for extending the electrical cable must be reliably protected from moisture. A separate machine and RCD will not be superfluous on the line.
They ensure trouble-free operation of the pump by protecting it from contamination. To do this, a filter is installed in front of the nozzle of the device that traps debris. There is also protection against "dry running".
The finished fountain mechanism is decorated, the tank is filled with water and the pump is started. If required, the pump power is adjusted. If desired, equip the lighting of the structure for evening hours recreation.
Is it possible to make a fountain without a pump
The magnificent Peterhof is famous for its 176 fountains that operate without pumps. The source of water in them is the Ropshinsky springs, passing through many pools and locks. Therefore, if on suburban area there is a spring, you can “connect” the fountain directly to it.
Another way to do without a pump is to create a device called Heron's fountain. This option is also suitable for those who do not have natural sources on the site.
The principle of the "eternal" fountain is cyclical
Two of the three containers shown in the diagram - namely B and C - are hermetically sealed, water is poured into A - this is a visible fountain reservoir. The whole trinity is located one above the other and is connected by a system of tubules. In order to start the mechanism, it is enough to add water to the open bowl A. Pressure builds up and the fluid starts to move. The magic stops when all the water from the middle vessel goes into the lower one. The thinner the tubes, the longer this moment is delayed.
You can create a fountain with your own hands using the law of communicating vessels according to the ancient method of Heron, even from ordinary plastic bottles. If five-liter ones are taken, then one charge of water is enough for 40 minutes of continuous operation of the mechanism. Tubes are preferred those used in droppers. The tightness of the vessels is provided with silicone sealant.
Primitive fountain model
Video: how to make a fountain yourself
How to equip
Statues and figurines always remain classics of the genre. Sculpting enthusiasts with artistic talent will be pleased to work on disguising the pump. The material for the manufacture of monumental figures is polymer concrete - an artificial stone. It retains the strength of forms even in harsh frosts.
Modeling and statues - traditional elements of decor
In a large area, even a car is allowed to be disposed of. Let the currents of living water pass through it and give strength to the green shoots around, and the neighbors will stop to take a selfie against such an unusual background.
Even an old car will come in handy
Such a still life will be more appetizing. Old samovars, teapots and cups will be used, and the pump tube will be hidden in the leg of the tea table. Abundance pouring onto the earth will be a symbol of the endless hospitality of the owner of the cottage.
Fountain still life - original composition in the recreation area
Imitation of a natural source will always be appropriate among lovers natural farming. To decorate the fountain, only the stone that is under your feet is taken. Naturalness is provided by this technique one hundred percent.
Natural stone is one of the popular materials used in landscape design.
Great illustration of what to do earthworks for the arrangement of the fountain is optional. A geometrically calibrated stone slab becomes an obstacle in the way of a spring allegedly beating from the depths and, unable to withstand its power, passes upwards.
An ordinary stone slab can be installed among plants on large pebbles
The Art Nouveau fountain is modern and minimalistic with its right angles. The accent of the building is given by successful lighting at the place where the water flow falls. Light bulbs for underwater "chandeliers" are purchased exclusively LED and completely protected from moisture ingress.
Good lighting will make the whole composition livelier.
You can even imitate the miracle of levitation. For the illusion of floating above the ground faucet simply enough to veil the pump hose in a transparent plastic tube. Water enters the faucet, turns around and falls down.
Skillfully decorating tubes and wires, you can create an unusual composition
In this version, it is as if an invisible gardener is watering flowers in a flower bed. If the tube is thin enough, it will not be visible from a distance. For such a fountain, any used dishes are taken. Here, a bowl was added to the teapot.
An old teapot and a rusty bowl found a use
From these bottles will flow uninterrupted fun. With such an original fountain, it is not a shame to invite friends to barbecues. And let alcohol remain at the celebration of life only in this form - in the form of cooling water.
The original fountain, next to which you can stay with friends
There is nothing easier than placing an old musical instrument in a bath filled with water. On the waves of the pouring "music", a children's rubber duck sways quietly. Such an installation would be the envy of the best museums in the world. If desired, the structure is removed, and the bath is used for its intended purpose. The versatility of the tank is another feature of the presented masterpiece.
The design is easy to assemble and disassemble
Rules for care and maintenance
The same water, circulating in a circle, gradually evaporates. Topping up a new portion is the very first thing you will encounter when operating the fountain.
Periodically, the water must be completely replaced in order to avoid its deterioration. Over time, dust settles in the liquid, polluting it. The water turns cloudy bad smell. Simple measures can reduce the amount of dirt coming from outside - it is enough to close the fountain from above with any material at hand after each use.
When draining water, it is necessary to clean all the internal surfaces of the fountain. The filter, fixed at the pump nozzle, is rubbed with a brush.
The shading of the fountain helps to delay the blooming of the water.
Before the offensive winter months all water is removed for good, and the fountain is dried. The pump is removed and transferred to the room until spring. If the instrument is to be stored in cold room, after drying, it is cleaned of deposits. If the room is warm, you can avoid the cleaning procedure by storing the pump in a bucket of water.
If dimensions allow and the fountain is mobile, it is moved entirely under cover. If not, the structure is covered with a film.
In a pond equipped with a hydraulic structure, it is often difficult to change the water. Large debris floating on the surface is caught with long-handled nets. Planting algae and populating it with molluscs allows you to start the process of cleaning the reservoir. The more the pump nozzle sprays the jet, the more oxygen the pond will receive - this also has a positive effect on the freshness of the water.
A properly selected pump and a creative touch in the design - that's all that is required to complete the dacha happiness. They say that a person is able to look at fire and water endlessly. However, even five minutes spent at the babbling fountain can give you a feeling of infinity.
For those who want to update the exterior, make it special and memorable, we suggest using a small homemade fountain. Step-by-step instruction making a fountain with your own hands is quite simple and anyone who has a certain set of tools and materials can create this beauty in their yard.
We install a fountain in the country
The first point of the fountain installation plan is planning its size and type. Consider the size of the yard, do not make the fountain too big or small - this will not give a positive visual effect. Remember power pumping equipment directly proportional to the size of the structure.
Now you have to choose right piece of land for installation. Firstly, the fountain should be located where it will be clearly visible. Secondly, it should be close to the place of rest. The sound of running water and cool freshness in the summer heat are important components of a pleasant and peaceful outdoor recreation. Try not to install the fountain on open sun. Water will have to be changed frequently due to its flowering. There is also no place next to the construction trees, the roots can damage the thicket and for repairs you will have to disassemble the entire decor element.
To install a fountain with your own hands on the site correctly, do not choose places near the walls. In this case, the structure will not avoid acquaintance with mold and fungus. And this, in turn, will not only spoil appearance, but will also cause an unpleasant musty smell.
Plan ahead for future buildings on the site. Do not install a fountain on the road to them.
Do-it-yourself step-by-step guide for installing a fountain in the country
Let's talk about how to make a fountain with your own hands using the example of a very simple design - fontanel fountain. This type of building has several advantages:
- Effective appearance;
- Easy care;
- Easy access to parts for the purpose of repair;
- The possibility of parsing for the winter.
Having picked up a place for installation, we dig out foundation pit slightly larger than a fountain bowl. Additionally, a shallow hole should be dug around it. gutter(about 10 cm).
Do-it-yourself fountain. Instructions in the photo
At the bottom of the pit should be sand cushion 15 cm thick. This will protect the underground part of the structure from plant roots. We level the surface and install on it plastic bowl. We set the font according to the level, pour and ram the sand. The container should be installed in such a way that its edges protrude by 5-8 cm.
The next step is filling. plastic container under a bowl of water. It is not necessary to pour “with a slide”, leave 4-6 cm to the edge.
Now you need install a fountain and check the operation of pumping equipment. If power pumps can be adjusted, then we adjust so that the water falls back into the bowl. Approach to the choice of equipment should be very careful. Ideally, at the time of purchase, explain to the seller what bowl size and bowl volume is expected. Then he will help you choose the equipment of the required power.
Do-it-yourself fountain. Instructions in the photo
After installing the bowl and pump, you need to do waterproofing fabric. Cut out the canvas with a diameter of a hole for the fountain. Starting from its center, cut into strips. This must be done so that the diameter of the resulting inner circle is equal to the diameter of the bowl of the structure. We bend the resulting strips of material and lower them into a container. You can fix them with a sealant. Do-it-yourself fountains always require a lot of patience and accuracy in work, especially this stage construction.
So that the base of the structure does not lose its shape and is stable, we put a couple of rods on the sealed fabric fittings, and on top of them - galvanized fine mesh. The cell size will affect the size of the stones or rubble used. used in the decor of the fountain.
Do-it-yourself fountain. Instructions in the photo
The final stage of construction - decoration designs. The border of the fountain can be laid out with larger stones, but you should not make it too clear. Small stones like sea pebbles or gravel are laid out on the grid. If you want to add a natural fountain, then its boundaries should not be too clear. Various plants will look good along the edges of the structure. 
Thematic japanese fountainfor lovers of oriental exoticism, it is installed in a similar way. Step-by-step instructions for making a fountain with your own hands for the garden in Japanese style consists of the same items. You will find a diagram of the structure below.
Do-it-yourself waterfall fountain
We will not build anything grandiose, but small, about 1 m high, cascading waterfall we are quite capable. It has already been described in detail above how to prepare a foundation pit for a pond bowl. But this time we are building a waterfall. And if there is no natural elevation for him, he will have to create it himself.
Do mound convenient in the process of digging a pit. We just throw off the ground where the hill should be, and carefully ram it. For the hose supplying water to the point where the water falls, make a small groove in the wall of the pit and embankment.
Do-it-yourself waterfall fountain. Instructions in the photo
After the foundation pit and the base of the waterfall are ready, we begin to cover the bottom and walls of the mini-pond waterproofing material (for example, PVC film). It is necessary to lay the canvas in such a way that it not only completely covers the bottom and walls of the pit, but also protrudes about half a meter on the sides of the pit.
Be sure to lay a pipe for supplying water to the top of the waterfall in a pre-prepared channel-ditch. Bend one of its edges 30-40 cm up.
This time we are making a permanent structure, and therefore it is best concrete pond bowl. To begin, carefully lay out metal mesh at the bottom of the pit. Do not allow the waterproofing to be damaged. Next, pour a layer of concrete with a thickness of about 12-15 cm.
How to make a fountain in the country with your own hands. A photo
Now you need to prepare bowl walls. We lay out the grid, strengthening it in a solution that has not yet hardened. You can continue to install a fountain with a pump with your own hands, which will look like a cascading waterfall, in a day. We fill the walls of the pond bowl and finish the most difficult stage of construction.
The next part of the build is decoration the resulting structure. We build steps on a pre-rammed hill. The step should be about 30 cm and three ledges will be enough.
On the resulting flat surfaces posting flat sandstone, pebbles or any other material you like. We decorate the rest of the fountain, including the film around the perimeter, with stones, rubble, marble or other pre-prepared materials.
It remains only to turn on the pump and fill the font of the structure with water. We observe how the stream falls steadily down the steps of the waterfall and enjoy the originality of our suburban area. 
DIY stone fountain
How to build stone fountain? We will talk about this right now. First you need to take care of the availability of all necessary devices and materials. We will need:
- Water pump (underwater with medium power is suitable);
- Plastic container for a bowl;
- Tube made of metal or PVC for holding an electric cable;
- Coupling;
- Flat stones and gravel;
- Bars of wood;
- Water flow power regulator;
- Copper tube with a diameter of 15 mm.
foundation pit for the bowl of the fountain should be a little more than the capacity prepared for these purposes. By filling the space between it and the walls of the pit with soil, we will significantly strengthen the position of the bowl. As in previous cases, do not forget to create at the bottom of the pit sand cushion . Lay a layer on top pebbles.
Water pump located freely in the water tank. This will make it easier to repair it if necessary. From debris, the water tank can be secured by a simple fine mesh. To give structural strength over metal mesh are placed wooden blocks (if desired, they can be replaced with metal fittings).
The base of the fountain will be metal pipe which is attached vertically to the pump.
The next step is preparation flat stones. To do this, using special tools, we make holes with a diameter slightly larger than the diameter metal pipe- Foundations of the structure.
Further, according to the principle of the children's pyramid, we “plant” the stones on the pipe. It remains only to add decorative elements to the fountain and connect the pump. Very simple but effective beautiful fountain at the cottage with their own hands ready for use.
A variety of do-it-yourself fountains on personal plots
Submersible fountains
If there is already a pond in the yard, then it can be used as a basis submersible fountain. The principle of its work is simple. Water is supplied by a pump directly from the pond. In this case, to install a submersible fountain, you will need:
- Pump;
- Pipe for water supply;
- Appropriate nozzle for shaping the water jet and setting it in the right direction.
Nozzles are very different. For example, bell nozzle is a two-disk design. The flow of water passes between them and changes when the gap is adjusted. Nozzle " geyser” - a tube narrowed to the top - quite effectively copies the corresponding natural phenomenon.
Such structures have quite a lot of possibilities. For example, you can create the effect of a key beating out of the ground. To do this, do-it-yourself fountain is mounted in such a way that the end of the pipe does not protrude above the surface of the reservoir.
Using more complex nozzles, you can significantly expand the possibilities of decor. The effect of spraying water, the simultaneous combination of several nozzles and many other variations for the choice of those who design a fountain in their country house.
Stationary fountains
A fountain of this type is a real find for lovers and professionals of design art. Structures can take the form of natural stone fonts, antique structures; they are made from clay pots, plastic bottles and any material that is at hand. Particularly popular in recent times fountains for Japanese gardens.
Any frost-resistant material will do: marble, artificial stone, sea pebble And so on. To decorate such fountains, they often resort to painting. There are two ways to do it:
- Staining of the material before the manufacture of the structure;
- Painting of the finished figure.
The first option is much more expensive, but it is also much more reliable. To protect against moss, fungus and mold, it is useful to treat the fountain structure with special means.
Small stationary fountain will look good in family recreation areas or close to playgrounds. Our master class "Do-it-yourself fountain in the country" will help novice designers to correctly build, perhaps, one of the main elements of decor in suburban area. And it doesn't matter if it's a small fountain-geyser or a large-scale cascading waterfall 2 meters high. The main thing is that he pleases the owners and does not cause problems.
Video instructions for making a fountain in the country
This article is about how to make a fountain in the country with your own hands. We have to decide what equipment is needed for its arrangement; purchase everything you need; finally, all devices and materials will need to be combined into an integral composition with attractive design. So, let's go.
Components of success
It is obvious that making the fountain flowing is too wasteful: drinking water is not cheap, and its disposal in the simplest and most obvious way will mean an abundance of dirt and puddles on the site. Our choice is a closed system, in which recirculation is provided by a pump.
What will be needed to organize it?
- capacity . It should be large enough so as not to require frequent renewal of the water supply: the main problem with mini-fountains is precisely that due to evaporation and splashing, the miniature pond rapidly becomes shallow.
- Area around the tank, ensuring the absence of puddles in windy weather.
Note: the site should have a slight slope towards the center.
In this case, the water blown by the wind jet will regularly return to recirculation.
- Power supply . Powerful pumps are powered by 220 volts, so for their connection it is only necessary to ensure the sealing of the cable connections and its protection from mechanical damage. Low capacity devices may require a 12 volt converter direct current at the exit.
- Own pump. Technically, nothing prevents the use of any drainage; however, specialized devices look much more preferable - since their price starts from a thousand and a little rubles.
- decorative design. In most cases, the fountain is designed natural stone- boulders laid on the bottom and around the tank; however, the reader's imagination may well suggest unconventional solutions.
Gift - to the studio
Didn't the work front scare you? For those who find a significant amount of work burdensome, the current market can offer turnkey solution, and quite inexpensively. It is enough to install garden and country fountains made of polyresin on a flat area, pour water into a container and apply power.
Probably an unfamiliar term needs clarification. What is polystone?
The origin of the term is obvious: poly - from "polymer", stone - transcription of the English "stone" (stone).
The exact composition of the material is not widely available and is probably a trade secret of the manufacturer - the Chinese company Acrilica; however, since it is marketed as an acrylic stone, it is not difficult to guess the main components.
- Aluminum trihydrate Al (OH) 3 (more precisely, white clay, consisting of it a little less than completely).
- Acrylic resin (in solid form, better known to us as plexiglass).
- Mineral pigments that give artificial stone kind of natural.
Since our material is a typical thermoplastic that can be molded (as well as glued, cut and sanded), it can be made into products arbitrarily. complex shape. How is it different from natural stone?
The cost of products starts from about 1500 rubles.
Please note: many manufacturers supply lower price category without a pump.
Purchases and their application
For those who have resisted the temptation and want to build a country fountain with their own hands, we will continue. As always, great work begins with shopping; in the process of discussing purchases, we will inevitably touch on their use.
Capacity
The most obvious solution is a small PVC garden pond. These products are produced in any shape and size; the typical color of the inner surface is black. The pond can be of constant height or stepped.
Plan "B" - use the usual old bath. The outlet is closed with a plug planted on the sealant; the inner surface is etched oxalic acid and painted with any waterproof black paint.
Playground and drainage
Obviously, you will have to dig under the container small pit. Do not rush, however, to put it on the bottom: first you need to fill the pit with 10-15 centimeters of sand, screenings or fine gravel.
What for?
- The bedding will provide drainage. After rain, the container will not be immersed in liquid mud.
- In addition, crushed stone and sand are non-porous soils. Freezing water in the cold will not squeeze the container to the surface.
Please note: backfilling is also best done with sand or gravel.
Even more practical option- filling with a mixture of cement and sand in a ratio of 1: 5: in this case, the pond will be surrounded by a strong and rigid frame that prevents any external influences.
It is not difficult to provide a slope to the tank; but how to make the surface of the ground impervious to water?
The most obvious solution is concreting the site, followed by ironing (set concrete is sprinkled with dry cement). Alternatively, it can be pressed into freshly laid concrete flat stones mimicking natural terrain.
Food
The power cable is laid at a shallow depth in metal-plastic pipe 16 mm in diameter. It has sufficient rigidity and is covered with a dielectric on both sides - external and internal.
For low-voltage pumps, a low-power transformer for LED lighting systems is installed in the house. These devices are inexpensive, high efficiency and practically do not heat up.
How to splice a cable in a section laid in the ground?
- We clean the general insulation and cores.
- We put a heat shrink tube on each of the cores. Another, larger section - on the cable itself.
- We twist or, better, solder the wires and put heat shrink on them with a hairdryer or a lighter.
- We apply a little silicone sealant to the area with the stripped general insulation.
- We shift the thick heat shrink and heat it. The resulting connection is completely sealed.
Pump
Our choice is a submersible pump with an adjustable spray nozzle. The presence of a tee in front of the nozzle, designed to organize a waterfall, is welcome. Even if it is not included in your plans - the arrangement of fountains in the country implies their drainage for the winter; by connecting a hose to the outlet, you can quickly drain the container.
In the photo - several pumps of different capacities.
The main problem in choosing a pump is to find its optimal performance. It is linearly related to the expected jet height; for that, in turn, optimal value equal to a third of the cross section of the pond.
Here is a table of the relationship between performance and jet height for domestic Cascade pumps.
Please note: the height of the jet depends not only on the performance, but also on the nozzle used.
Be sure to read the documentation before buying.
The pump is installed in the pond at a slight elevation: in this case, it will not become clogged with silt.
Decor
Decoration is a matter of personal preference; to impose one's opinion in this area is frankly a thankless task. We can only offer the reader a few interesting ideas.
Conclusion
We hope that the material offered to the attention of the reader will help him decide how to build a fountain in the country. Good luck!
The fountain- one of the most attractive decorations in the country. Its presence contributes not only to improving the microclimate of the territory, but also to increasing the humidity, which is necessary for plants and today we will not talk about do-it-yourself fountains.
size, shape and DIY fountain design may be different. The decor of this design can be made from any materials that are available. These are vases, buckets, earthenware pots, dome-shaped stones.
The area near the fountain will become a favorite place for everyone to relax. Pumping system for must correspond to the size of the structure.
For the construction of the fountain, choose an area that is clearly visible from any corner. Of course, it is better to place the fountain in the center of the site, but so that it does not interfere on the way to the house or to the outbuildings.
Install the fountain away from trees and vegetation that do not need additional moisture.
One of the popular types of fountains is a jet pond with a jet of water going up, which breaks up into small streams.
To make a barrel fountain, prepare:
- 2 oak barrels;
- cut sleepers;
- pumping system (jet lift 1.5 m);
- hose and silicone-based putty.
Barrels can be replaced with a sealed container that will have a hose inlet. It will take some effort to install the upper vessel so that the water can flow in a beautiful stream to the lower vessel. Reinforce the top barrel with sleepers or putty. You can replace the sleepers with large stones or short logs.
We pass the hose through the side of the lower vessel and the bottom of the upper vessel. The end of the hose should be attached to the pump. Fill the bottom tank with water and connect the pumping system.
For the manufacture of decorative fountain from stones, you will need:
- pumping system;
- copper pipe 1.5 diameter;
- a plastic or metal tube for installing an electrical cable;
- coupling with reservoir;
- gravel with even stones and bars;
- water regulator.
The fountain pit should be larger in width and depth of the tank so that it can be filled with soil and well strengthened.
At the bottom of the pit we pour pebbles. Sand should not get into the water through the reservoir, so the area near the reservoir is watered and tamped with stones.
Place the pump freely in the tank so that it can be easily reached in case of maintenance. Cover the tank with galvanized steel to prevent debris from entering. Attach a metal tube to the pump so that water is supplied, put bars on top of the mesh.
Now collect the stones on the pipe in the form of a pyramid, connect the pump.
It remains to carry out the decoration of the fountain and the area around it.
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