![]() ![]() Water features can offer a range of benefits when incorporated into a landscape design. It’s also important to consider the long-term value of the water feature, including its impact on property value and the overall enjoyment of the outdoor space. It’s important to consider the budget for the water feature, including the cost of installation and ongoing maintenance. Water features can vary significantly in cost, depending on the size, materials, and complexity of the design. This could include using recycled water, planting native vegetation, and incorporating features such as rainwater harvesting systems. It’s important to consider the environmental impact of the water feature and to design it with sustainability in mind. Water features can have a significant impact on the environment, including water usage, wildlife habitat, and energy consumption. iv) Environmental impact and sustainability It’s also important to consider the maintenance requirements of the water feature, such as cleaning, algae control, and winterization. It’s important to consider the safety aspects of the water feature, such as the depth of the pond or pool, the placement of rocks and other features, and the use of non-slip surfaces. Water features require regular maintenance to keep them clean and functioning properly. iii) Safety and maintenance considerations The water feature should also be appropriately scaled for the size of the property and the other elements of the landscape design. ![]() It’s important to consider the style, colors, and materials used in the design of the water feature and how they integrate with the surrounding landscape. ii) Integration with the overall landscape designĪ water feature should complement the overall landscape design and should not be an afterthought. It’s also important to consider the water source, whether it’s a natural spring, municipal water supply, or a recycled water system. The analysis should include factors such as topography, soil type, and drainage. Here are some key design considerations for water features: i) Site analysis and water sourceīefore designing a water feature, it’s important to conduct a site analysis to determine the suitability of the area. Also, install a timer into your water feature so that it only operates when necessary. The sound of soft rippling water is much more calming and relaxing than that of a high gusher.When incorporating water features into a landscape design, there are several important design considerations that need to be taken into account. This will prevent water from being splashed out of the collecting pool. Remember that a Water Wise water feature is one where the water falls into a pool below that is 1.5 m wider than the height of the fall of the water. Dark pigment colours on the inside of water features cause temperatures to rise and encourage evaporation.For example, avoid the dripping tap type feature that drains into the landscape. Aim rather for self-contained, re-circulating water. Avoid water features that require a continuous supply of new water.Place one water feature strategically in a focal area to get the greatest effect rather than several scattered around the garden.Plant water plants that cover the water surface area and reduce evaporation.Check old ponds manufactured of concrete regularly for cracks and leaks.If your water feature is placed in an area of high wind, this will increase evaporation.Check the level of your pond daily to see if it drops dramatically, and if so check for leaks.Choose fountains with coarse droplets that help reduce atomisation, thereby reducing evaporation. Fountains with a fine spray or high pressure waterfalls lose a lot of water due to evaporation.Tips to ensure your water feature does not waste water: When constructing a pond, use solid surface construction material, for example cement or glass fibre in preference to clay or soil that allows water to infiltrate through it, causing a water loss.Swamp type plants cope well with filtering household waste water for example Typha capensis (Bulrush).Design/adjust to ensure that no splashing occurs.Aim to locate water features in the shade to limit evaporation.Plant water plants that cover the water surface area and reduce evaporation.Aim for minimum size, with maximum effect and limited open pans of water.Use this guide to ensure your water feature is Water Wise. However, water features can also use and lose a lot of water. A water feature can add a wonderful focal point to any garden or landscape and encourages birds and insects. ![]()
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