Outdoor Water Fountains-how to Maintain And Clean
Outdoor Water Fountains-how to Maintain And Clean
The aging and wearing of natural concrete fountains is a normal process and little or nothing can be done to change this process. However, many owners find the aging and weathering of this natural stone lawn and garden fountain very appealing. This natural aging and weathering process can be slowed down by applying a clear concrete sealer that can be found in any hardware store.
The concrete sealer repels the effects of aging and weathering. However, after a number of years have passed, you may wish to refinish the fountain. A high quality, outdoor latex paint for your outdoor lawn and garden fountain can be used. You will need to apply several coats to, completely, seal the fountain and maintain a lasting finish.
White residue may, also, form on the bowl or shell of the fountain. This is due to mineral buildup and evaporation. Frequent rinsing with fresh water will help reduce the mineral build up on the fountain. When the buildup becomes unsightly, it may be removed with a lime remover and fountain cleaner.
Broken pieces and cracks sometimes occur with concrete fountains, statues and other lawn ornaments. These breaks can be repaired with Quick Patch Epoxy or 15 minute epoxy available at hardware stores. You must follow the instructions on the package. The surface must be clean and dry before the product can be applied. The product should dry and cure for 24 hours after it has been applied to your lawn ornament, fountain or statue.
Another issue that affects fountains is the water supply. The water level of the fountain should be checked daily and water should be added as needed in order to maintain the pump in proper condition. Depending on the amount of lime and mineral buildup in your water and where the fountain is located, the pump should be cleaned at least once a month if not twice.
To clean your fountain pump, add two cups of white household vinegar to one gallon of water. Soak the pump in the solution for, approximately, 10 minutes. Then plug the pump into an electrical outlet and let it run while it is submersed into the solution for approximately 30 minutes. This will loosen the deposits that have formed on the pump. It is important to remove any twigs, loose debris or leaves that have gathered on the screen.
Lawn ornaments, statues and concrete fountains need to be protected from severe winter weather because freezing could damage the fountain. If you live in an area where temperatures reach below freezing, the fountain or lawn ornament should be stored indoors in an area such as a garage where it will be protected from snow and freezing temperatures. If this is not feasible than the fountain or bird bath should be drained completely.
Once the birdbath or fountain has been drained completely, you can place burlap inside the bowl so no water can gather in the bowl. The expanding and contracting of freezing and melting ice, water and snow can cause damage to the fountain. The fountain can be covered with a waterproof cover so that no water can gather inside the bowl. If you are storing your fountain inside, you should place a layer of burlap between the bowls so that no scratching can occur from the pieces rubbing together. These simple steps can help you get your fountain through the winter and maintain your fountains for many years.
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