Which is the Best Material for a Water Fountain?

Introduction

When you put a water fountain in your garden, on your patio, or inside, the material is more important than you might think. It not only changes how the fountain looks, but it also determines how long it will endure, how easy it will be to care for, and how well it will fit in with its surroundings. So, what is the finest material to use for a water fountain? Before you bring one home, let's look at the most popular choices more closely.

Stone Fountains Never Go Out of Style

Stone fountains will always be in style. They have that natural appeal that makes them feel at home in any outdoor space. The texture, pattern, and colour of each piece are different. It is also one of the strongest materials, able to withstand the weather.

Granite

Granite is thick and strong, which makes it perfect for big fountains that are outside all year. It won't lose its shine even when it's freezing, in harsh sunshine, or when water splashes on it. Granite fountains provides you with both long-lasting beauty and a natural, polished look.

Marble

Marble gives a traditional, elegant look. It has an attractive look because of the subtle veins and gentle shine. Marble, on the other hand, needs frequent care to keep in good form because it is porous. It works best in places that are covered or shaded so that it doesn't get too much direct sun or heavy rain.

Slate

Slate has a rough, natural quality that gives it depth and character. People like to use it in their gardens and on their patios. Slate looks great with copper or steel accents, such in the Terra Pillar Slate & Copper Modern Tower Fountain. This sculpture has a tall square pillar and basin with water bubbling up from the top and falling down onto a plate of stones. The combination of slate and copper brings out natural colours that look great outside.

The Amora 8-Tier Slate & Copper Cascade Wall Feature is another wonderful example. It is 121 cm tall. This towering wall fountain has eight spouts that let water flow gracefully over them, making a mellow, layered sound. The green patina finish goes well with the plants in the garden, giving it both a pretty and calming element.

Sandstone

People like sandstone fountains because they have soft, warm colours and a little rough surface. They look great with plants, gravel, or wood decor. Sandstone is softer than granite or slate, yet its natural beauty makes it a popular choice for rustic gardening.

Resin: Lightweight and Easy to Manage

Resin fountains are becoming more popular because they are light and easy to take care of. They can seem like real stone or metal without being heavy or expensive. If you like to move things about or want a fountain that's easier to put up, resin materials are great.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass fountains are robust but light. Even in direct sunshine, they don't fracture or fade. They are commonly utilised for tall or sculptural designs since they can keep their shape while being easy to work with. When they want a striking feature that is easy to work with, a lot of homeowners pick fiberglass.

Polyresin

Polyresin is a cheaper choice that also lasts a long time. It lets you make precise drawings and can be polished to look like wood, stone, or ceramic. Polyresin fountains are worth thinking about if you want something that is useful and durable.

Resin Stone

This mix of resin and stone particles gives you the best of both worlds: it is strong and feels like actual stone. It looks and feels like stone, but it doesn't weigh as much or need as much care. It's great for modern homes that desire a natural look without the work.

Ceramic For Glassy and Elegant Finish

The clean, shiny surface of ceramic fountains reflects light nicely. They work well in small places, on patios, or in corners. There are an infinite number of colours to choose from, including delicate blues, earthy browns, and even deep greens.

Porcelain

Porcelain is a kind of ceramic that is stronger and shinier than other types. Because it doesn't have pores, it can be used both indoors and outside. Porcelain fountains have a clean, beautiful finish that looks great anywhere you put them.

Here is our Ceramic fountain collection - https://fountainland.com.au/collections/ceramic-fountains 

Metal: Durable and Easy to Care for

People who like a modern look will adore metal fountains. They are strong, fashionable, and simple to care for. Each metal has its own individuality. Some metals get more character as time goes on, while others stay shiny and smooth.

Stainless Steel

Minimalist designs often use stainless steel. It doesn't corrode, therefore it's great for fountains outside. The Celeste Orb Slate Water Fountain with Stainless Steel Ball is a great example of how to combine modern and natural design. It has a copper sphere that softly bubbles water into a basin of river stones. The sphere is held up by a slate pedestal. The combination of materials gives the room a calm, modern look.

Copper

Copper is a strong and warm colour. Over time, it changes colour and develops a beautiful patina that gives it depth and character. The Venezia Copper Ridge Water Fountain - Vertical Flow 123cm is a beautiful example. Water flows slowly down a surface made of stacked stones, which is made even better by gentle LED lights. The soft glow of the copper highlights adds serenity and texture to any space.

Bronze

Bronze fountains are the height of elegance that never goes out of style. They look good as they get older and work well in both traditional and modern environments. The golden surface gets a delicate green colour over time that looks even nicer as it gets older.

Concrete: Strong, Stylish and Long-lasting

Concrete fountains are sturdy, stable, and may be used in many ways. You may shape them into practically any pattern, from strong, architectural shapes to soft, rounder ones. Earlwood 3-Tier Concrete Water Feature - Large 240cm is a great example. Water flows over three tiered levels, making a soothing sound that makes being outside more relaxing. The blend of marble chip, limestone, and cement makes it durable and aesthetically pleasing.

Concrete fountains are perfect for big outdoor areas because they can handle the rain and wind well. Just keep in mind that they are hefty, so they will probably stay where you set them.

Final Thoughts

So, what is the best material for a water fountain? It depends entirely on what is most important to you, such as how long it will last, how it looks, or how easy it is to maintain.

If you value natural beauty, stone materials, such as slate and sandstone, are best. Metal and concrete fountains are very striking in a contemporary garden. If economy and lightness are your top priorities, then resin options are good. Every type of material has its own character and use. 

In summary, the best material for your fountain project will depend ultimately on its location and the overall effect you are trying to achieve. Choose a material that fits with your design scheme and you will continue to enjoy its visual quality and sound quality for many years.

For inspiring design ideas that elevate your outdoor space, check out our article on Refreshing Water Feature Ideas for Your Landscape full of smart layouts and creative styles to bring water and serenity into any garden.

Related FAQs

1. What is the best material for a water fountain?

Stone and metals are the best options for beauty that lasts. Slate and copper fountains in particular, are highly regarded because of their natural and elegant appearances.

2. Are stainless steel water fountains better than plastic?

Yes, stainless steel fountains are stronger, last longer, and look nicer. Fountains made of plastic are lighter but not as strong.

3. Are cast iron fountains good?

Yes, definitely. They’re durable, weather-resistant, and have that old-world charm that instantly elevates any garden. With a bit of care, they can last for generations and still look stunning year after year.

4. What are most outdoor fountains made of?

Most fountains that are outside are composed of stone, resin, or metal. Each one has a particular blend of strength, design, and water resistance.