Posts Tagged ‘Stainless Fountains’

Stainless Steel Fountain Care

If you have a fountain basin made of stainless steel, or have other parts on the feature made of this special material, then you will have to take precautions. A stainless steel fountain is well regarded for its attractive look, its clean look and its very modern appearance. As if an effervescent fountain weren’t lovely enough, when you add the shine of stainless steel you get a dazzling focal point. Stainless steel is the preferred material for high-end businesses and contemporary decoration.

A stainless water fountain has a smooth and non-porous surface. This is excellent for a fountain because it makes it much harder for bacteria and other microscopic threats to survive. Stainless steel also has good resistance to corrosion. Of all the materials you could use to build a water fountain, stainless steel is one of the best options. This is a material that many call maintenance-free.

Not quite—there is some maintenance involved in caring for stainless water fountains. However, they are easy to remember. Stainless steel must still be kept clean, just as all fountains. Steel is not resistant to dust, algae and mineral deposits. In order for this material to retain its powerful resistance to corrosion, it must be kept clean. This is especially important when your water may contain rust which may cause corrosion in thinner gauge stainless steel.

When you are trying to clean your  stainless steel fountain be sure to wipe with the grain, as opposed to against. This will ensure that the sheen of the surface is kept. It’s best not to use soap for cleaning, although Windex is relatively harmless. Some experts advocate using club soda or vinegar as alternative and safer solutions. You definitely want to avoid chlorine-based cleaning solutions like bleach. These chemicals can be damaging. Always check your maintenance tips that are included with your fountain for proper cleaning of your stainless steel fountain.

A stainless steel fountain may be stainless but you can still leave fingerprints on them. In order to remove these markings, use a slightly wet sponge or a microfiber cloth. You want to avoid any cleaning tool that is abrasive because this could easily destroy or mar the finish. Avoid steel wool or scouring powders like the plague! While all stainless water fountains are bound to splash, it’s not a good idea to let beads of water accumulate outside of the frame of the fountain. Try to dry the area as much as possible.

A stainless steel fountain makes for a popular attraction for a business or for a home. These pieces are contemporary, elegant and without equal. All water fountains require water replacement, full cleanings and chemical treatment. Make sure your fountain has a long life by maintaining it regularly.

How to Choose the Right Fountain Material for Your Water Fountain

When looking to purchase a water fountain for your home, yard, or garden, you will quickly learn that there are many building materials to choose from. While the beauty and appeal of your fountain can be one of the largest factors in the choice you make, you will also want to pay attention to the needs and requirements of different materials. The climate you live in, the space where you intend to place the fountain, and other factors can help you decide which material will be best for you. In the next few paragraphs, we will take a look at some of the more common fountain materials.

When browsing water features, you will certainly find that copper is a common choice. Copper is warm and bright and offers a very upscale feel. Clear coated copper will retain a beautiful shine that looks new and radiant for years with proper maintenance, while natural copper will develop a patina, offering beautiful color changes as the metal oxidizes. Copper fountains can be used both indoors and outdoors and make wonderful choices. Slate fountains are also popular and offer an organic feel. Both thick and  lightweight slate fountains can be purchased for use on walls and  floors indoors and or outdoors.

Stone fountains are also quite popular, especially marble and granite. These fountains age beautifully and can make a wonderful investment, provided they are well maintained. These fountains are quite heavy and are most commonly used outdoors. Cast stone fountains are also common and offer the same look as natural stone without the same price. This material is most commonly used in garden water fountains. Ceramic fountains provide a handmade feel and can offer a sense of tranquility to a home, garden, or yard.

Glass fountains are often used for floor and wall fountains. They offer a beautiful artistic appeal and can look more like a work of art than a water feature. Acrylic fountains offer the same visual appeal as glass without the risk of breakage, making them ideal for many spaces. Fiberglass fountains are durable and can be placed outdoors in even the harshest weather conditions while remaining lightweight enough to be moved easily. Resin fountains are perhaps the most durable of all, and this material can be used for virtually any space while providing numerous looks and finishes.

In short, there are numerous options for fountain building materials. Many water fountains also make use of multiple materials to create a unique look. Your personal taste will likely be the biggest factor when choosing water features, but knowing the benefits of different materials can help you make the right choice for your space as well.