Water Feature FAQs
Fountain Metalworks designs and fabricates custom metal water features for residential and commercial spaces. Whether you’re planning an outdoor fountain for a garden, courtyard, or architectural installation, it’s natural to have questions about installation, operation, customization, and maintenance.
Below are answers to some of the most common questions about metal water features, shipping, installation, and care. If you need additional guidance choosing the right feature for your space, feel free to contact us for more information.
Water & Operation
Learn how Fountain Metalworks water features operate, how they are powered, and what is required to keep them running smoothly in your space.
Connecting to a dedicated water source is not necessary for the water feature to operate. However, by having a dedicated water connection, you guarantee that the proper water level will be maintained at all times.
Located inside the water basin, we install what’s called a float valve. A “float” which is typically a hollow plastic box or ball is connected to a brass rod. The brass rod is connected to a valve that can open or close depending on the position of the float. The float rests or floats on the surface of the water and as the water level drops, so does the float.
Once the float reaches a specific level the valve is opened and water begins to fill the water basin. Once the water has reached its correct level, the valve is turned off.
If you choose to fill water manually, I would suggest setting alerts or reminders.
If the water level falls below the level that allows the pump to operate efficiently, there is a greater risk of overheating the pump causing damage to the pump or causing it to stop working.
All necessary components are included with the water feature which is why we like to say that our water features are “plug and play”.
All fountain pumps and LED lights come with their own plugs however in some situations clients have cut those plugs off and hard wired the pump and or the lights directly into their electrical service.
No. Most water features use a small submersible pump, similar to what is used in decorative fountains or aquariums. These pumps are designed to be energy efficient and typically use a relatively small amount of electricity. The exact usage depends on the size of the pump and the feature, but operating costs are generally low.
Most Fountain Metalworks water features are self-contained systems, meaning the water continuously recirculates within the basin of the feature. They do not require a permanent plumbing connection. The internal pump moves the water through the feature and back into the reservoir. In most cases, you simply fill the basin manually and occasionally add water to compensate for evaporation.
Amount of water depends solely on the size of the water feature but it could be anywhere from a few 100 gallons to close to 1000 gallons. However, your water feature comes with an autofill valve. As long as you have a water source connected, as water evaporates the autofill valve fill the water basin to the required level as needed.
The simple answer is no. If you would like to enjoy your water feature for many years, there is some level of maintenance required.
How you maintain your water feature depends on many factors. The water feature location, annual climate, how often it’s used, and type of water being used. It comes down to clean water. Keep your water clean and clear and this will prevent algae build-up which can cause an array of issues with the surface of the water feature and the pump.
If you have hard water, you will need to wipe down the water feature with soap and water when the calcium starts to build up on the surface. Using a soft water system can help reduce this problem. If your winters are more harsh, you may need to winterize your wa
ter feature by draining it. Making sure there is no water in the plumbing that could freeze. Nature is beautiful but can also be harsh on water features over time, by taking a few steps to maintain your water feature regularly, you’ll ensure its longevity.
Water treatment should be handled in the same way that hot tubs are dealt with. Making sure that the PH is balanced, oftentimes in hotter climates a cap full of algaecide will be all that you need to do.
You can use your water features in any climate however we do suggest winterizing the water feature if you know that you are going to drop below freezing. And this requires draining the water from the basin so that the pump is not underwater. The pump doesn’t necessarily need to be removed if there’s no water in the basin. And we have a couple of options that can be added to your order such as a sump pump which helps pump the water out. Or we can install a drain plug in the basin if you want to drain your water into your existing plumbing.
All water features can be used indoors or outdoors however it’s important to specify if it’s going to be used indoors and we will make a wider basin to ensure that any splash is contained.
Purchase & Customization
Find out how to order a custom metal water feature, what customization options are available, and what to expect during the ordering process.
All our water features are built specifically to your dimensions. And we have a wide variety of finishes available from rusted Corten to multiple powder coat colors and textures. If you have a specific size, finish, or design in mind, you can start the process by submitting a request through our Request a Quote page.
At Fountain Metalworks, we have four finishes that we use on our water features.
Powder Coated is a finish that is a powdered paint that is baked onto the stainless steel water feature and is very durable. It comes in a wide variety of colors and textures. Available powder coat colors.
Stainless Steel as a finish is typically brushed or given some kind of pattern or design in the stainless. While it is durable and resists rust, it does pick up fingerprints and smudges very easily and requires maintenance depending on how many people touch the stainless.
Corten is a steel specifically designed to rust. It is corrosive resistant and is commonly referred to as “weathering steel”. Keep in mind Corten is not used for the water basin however we can build a Corten cover that goes over the stainless steel to provide a matching rusted look for the top water feature structure and lower basin.
Copper is also used as a finish without water features. It has a natural patina that occurs over time or a chemical patina can be added for the desired look. Copper is a soft material and is prone to scratches if in a high-traffic area.
The ideal size depends on the available space, viewing distance, and overall design of the landscape or interior area. Larger spaces such as patios, commercial courtyards, or entryways often benefit from larger statement pieces, while smaller gardens or indoor spaces may work better with more compact designs. If you are unsure, Fountain Metalworks can help recommend a size that fits your space and design goals.
On average our lead time is anywhere between 6 to 8 weeks depending on the season.
We will offer discounts on multiple water features purchased at the same time.
Yes. Fountain Metalworks specializes in custom metal water features designed to fit the specific needs of your space. Whether you are working on a residential landscape, commercial courtyard, or architectural installation, the team can help guide you through sizing, finishes, and design details to create a feature that complements the environment.
Shipping, Delivery & Installation
Learn how your water feature is shipped, what happens when it arrives, and how easy it is to install.
Most of our water features are shipped via LTL Freight. Before we ship your water feature, we test it to ensure everything is working as it should. We then build a wooden crate to protect the water feature from damage. Through our shipping broker, we look for a reasonably priced carrier that we know we can rely on to transport the water feature.
When it arrives and depending on the size of the water feature, you may need a forklift to unload it from the truck or if it’s under 84″ you may be able to utilize the liftgate on the truck. We go over these details in the ordering process. We do have options for shipping on a truck with a forklift if you don’t have access to one. When the water feature exceeds the dimensions that are allowed by the carriers, we ship via “hot shot” trailers. These are typically independent drivers with long flatbed trailers. We have even been knowing to deliver the water feature ourselves where it is the last option.
When we ship out your fountains, we do so via LTL Freight. When the shipment is set up, it is insured by a third-party insurance company.
Before we ship your water feature, we will go over what to expect when it arrives. During that process, we explain that if for some reason it arrives damaged, we ask that you take pictures of the damage and contact us immediately.
If the driver asks you to sign a delivery document, we ask that you write on the document, “received damaged” and please keep a copy that you can send us. At this point, we will deal directly with the insurance company. However, we will also work directly with you to solve the issue as quickly as possible so you can continue to move forward with your project.
With regards to warranty, Fountain Metalworks provides a limited warranty for the structure, basin, and plumbing for one year. The fountain pump and any lighting if applicable have a one-year limited warranty provided by the manufacturer. Keep in mind, if you have any issues before or after the warranty we are available by email or phone to help resolve any issues that may arise.
We like to consider the water features we build, “Plug & Play”. You receive it, you fill it, and plug it in. It truly can be that simple, however, keep in mind, that you do need access to 110v electricity (a standard GFCI outlet) and a water source. If you want the water basin below ground, then you will need to dig a hole as deep as the water basin (typically 12″ deep).
You will need to run power and water to the location of the water feature. On the larger water features, you may want to pour a concrete slab for the water basin to sit on. In this case, we can weld on concrete anchor plates that allow you to secure the water basin to the concrete. This is helpful for commercial projects or areas with high winds. For more detail on how to install the water feature send an email to info@fountainmetalworks.com and we can send you the “How to install” PDF.
Because Fountain Metalworks water features are constructed from high-quality metal, they can be substantial in weight depending on the size and design. Smaller features may be easy for two people to move, while larger custom installations may require equipment or professional placement. The weight helps provide stability and durability for both indoor and outdoor installations.
Product & Company
Learn more about Fountain Metalworks, how the water features are made, and where you can see examples of completed projects.
Water features are made to order in our shop near Tucson, Arizona.
Fountain Metalworks has been in business for about a year however we were previously known as Artfully Rogue which has been in operation for the past twenty years. You can learn more about our experience designing and fabricating custom metal water features on the About Fountain Metalworks page.
Yes. You can view completed water feature installations on our Water Feature Portfolio page, where we showcase custom metal water features installed in residential landscapes, courtyards, and commercial spaces.
Still Have Questions?
If you didn’t find the answer you were looking for, we’d be happy to help. Feel free to reach out and we can discuss your project, answer any additional questions, and help you determine the best approach for your custom water feature.