As you start considering your landscaping projects for this year, you can’t go wrong with water features. A landscape water feature adds value to your home and can completely transform your yard into the space of your dreams. But what is a water feature, exactly, and what kinds are available? Let’s explore a little more about these installations and see just how unique and exciting your next landscaping project could be!
What Is a Water Feature?
Before we jump into different types of water features available, what is a water feature? When it comes down to it, a water feature is any addition to your landscaping that uses water as part of its function. This can range from a decorative fountain to a full pond complete with fish and anything in between.
If you thought water features were only meant for huge yards or giant budgets, think again! Ranging in size from very small to absolutely enormous, there are a wide variety of landscape water feature designs available to fit almost any size yard and budget. When considering a water feature installation, don’t forget to also factor in the opportunity for landscaping around it, as well. This finished look can transform your yard into a private oasis or the ultimate entertaining space.
Are Water Features Hard to Maintain?
When you ask the question, “what is a water feature?” there’s no doubt you’re also wondering how much upkeep they require. One of the greatest things about backyard water feature installations in Albany, NY and the Capital Region is that they’re relatively easy to maintain without much effort. The different parts that control how water features work do most of the job for you with minimal intervening necessary.
As far as maintenance goes, most water feature designs simply require that you keep an eye on the water levels. Today’s water features are typically recirculating, keeping water in a reservoir and cutting down on operating costs. Natural evaporation over time means you may need to top off water levels periodically, but otherwise the majority of water feature maintenance will come in the form of keeping it clear of debris and winterizing it for the colder months.
What Types of Water Features Are Available?
Now that you’ve learned the answer to, “what is a water feature?” let’s explore the different types of water features you can choose from. While there are a seemingly infinite number of water feature designs you can choose from, there are four main types of water features that exist. These four common types of landscape water feature installations are:
- Ponds
- Waterfalls
- Pondless Waterfalls
- Fountains
- Backyard water features with fire
Consulting a water features installation professional will help you determine which is best for your space and budget to make your vision into reality.
Pond Water Features
When you think of pond water features, you most likely envision a large pond requiring a huge amount of space. While it’s true that most pond water features are on the larger side, they can be adapted to fit your space even if your yard is smaller.
Pond water features make excellent focal points in your backyard landscaping, creating an incredible outdoor space for relaxing or entertaining. Whether you want a pond with fish or simply a beautiful waterscape design, you have plenty of options to choose from.
Pro Tip: Go slightly larger than you initially think with a pond water feature. You don’t want to be wishing you’d gone bigger when you had the opportunity!
Backyard Waterfalls
What is a water feature pond missing to make it even more grand? A backyard waterfall! Waterfalls make excellent additions to ponds providing the calming, relaxing sound of trickling water to your space. Ranging in size and design, backyard waterfalls take your water feature design to the next level.
Consult your waterscape design professional about the best way to landscape around your backyard waterfall and create a finished look that appears to have simply sprouted naturally from the ground! They’ll also have the best information on height and design to maximize the effect you desire.
Pondless Waterfalls
Love the calming sounds of water features in your backyard but don’t have the space or desire for a full pond? Pondless waterfalls are cost-efficient (and size-efficient) alternatives to a traditional pond waterfall while still adding a wow factor to your yard.
Instead of emptying into a pond, pondless waterfalls end in a hidden water reservoir where the water is then recirculated for continued operation. These reservoirs are most commonly filled with rocks, which help conceal the water feature pump as well as serve to protect it from fallen debris such as leaves or sticks.
Outdoor Water Fountains
Whether you’re looking for backyard fountains to add to your space or a front yard water fountain to boost curb appeal, outdoor water fountains are something special. Available in all shapes, sizes, and costs, outdoor water fountains offer some of the largest variety of options for your waterscape design. They’re also some of the easiest residential water feature installations to maintain.
Fire and Water Features
You’re telling me I can have a cool fire and water feature that has both elements in one? Yes! One of the most exciting installation options that have exploded in popularity in recent years are backyard water features with fire. These amazing backyard waterscape designs combine the calming sounds of trickling water with the mesmerizing sensation of fire. We’ll be able to work with you to know what fire and water feature designs will work best for your space so you can watch your backyard transform into more than you ever thought possible!
We hope this guide has answered your question, “what is a water feature?” and given you plenty of food for thought about which type of water feature you want for your yard. Still unsure which is best for you? Consult a waterscape design professional (we happen to know a highly recommended and professional team! 👋🏼) for help with choosing a water feature that will transform your space into a one-of-a-kind spot you can enjoy year after year.
Feeling extra spicy? Ask us about the above fire and water features that combine both elements in a truly unique backyard water feature design!
