S19 E6: Installing Water Features

In this episode:

There is something tranquil about a water feature in a natural landscape. It adds a beautiful visual element to the yard and the sound of running water creates a sense of peace and serenity. In this special episode, we’ll share some of the features we’ve added to homeowners’ houses over the years and we’ll break down the process of adding one of these to your own backyard.

How to Install a Rain Chain

Roger installs a downspout alternative; a rain chain.

Where to find it?

Roger installs a Circle Rain Chain manufactured by Grasslands Road and later, in the workshop, shows more decorative rain chains like the Fish Pure Copper Rain Chain made by Good Directions and the Lily Cups and Watering Cans Rain Chains made by Ancient Graffiti. They can be found at some garden shops and also ordered through online retailers.

Everything Roger used for this project, including the stones, gravel, and mulch, can all be found at home centers and nurseries.

How to Install a Solar-Powered Fountain

Roger helps a homeowner install a solar-powered fountain in her backyard.

Where to find it?

The fountain was supplied by Compania International. After selecting a site for the fountain, Roger created a perfectly level base. They started by digging out 6-8 inches of topsoil. Next, they laid a mixture of stone and stone dust, compacted it with a hand tamper, and checked it for level. Next, Roger set the heavy concrete fountain’s base in place and shimmed it with stone dust underneath until it was perfectly level.

With the base installed, Roger set the basin on top and installed a pump. Instead of a pump that uses electricity from the house, Roger installed one that is solar-powered, the Sunjet 380, manufactured by Smart Solar. With the pump installed, Roger set the top piece in place, filled the basin with water, and the installation was complete.

How to Install a Water Feature that Reuses Rainwater

Next, landscape designer Jenn Nawada installs a water feature that collects and reuses rainwater.

Where to find it?

Jenn installed a water feature manufactured by Aquascape, which includes the rubber liner, underlayment, structural blocks, pump vault, basalt columns, and pump. SimpleMat tile setting mat & “Earth” colored premixed grout provided by Custom Building Products.