Caring for Your Decorative Fountain or Urn (Fountainscape) Material

Decorative fountains, or Fountainscapes, are designed to be elegant, low-maintenance accents for your Southampton, PA, or Bucks County property. While the closed-loop system handles the water management with ease, you may wonder how to keep the feature’s artistic focal point—the ceramic urn, basalt column, or brass sculpture—looking its best over the years.

The great news is that maintenance for the ornamental surface is just as simple as caring for the water. At Ponds By George, we select durable, high-quality materials that are meant to weather the elements beautifully.

Because Fountainscapes use a closed system, the ornamental element is only exposed to circulating water and the air, minimizing debris and organic buildup. Your main focus is simply preserving the integrity and aesthetic of the material itself.

1. Basalt Columns (Natural Stone):
   
   • Issue: Over time, especially in hard water areas, you may see minor mineral (calcium or lime) deposits that create a white haze where the water flows.
   • Care: These columns are incredibly durable. A gentle solution of water and white vinegar applied with a soft brush or cloth can be used to periodically scrub away mineral buildup. After cleaning, be sure to rinse the column thoroughly with fresh water. Aside from this, basalt requires virtually no maintenance and retains its beautiful, rich texture indefinitely.
2. Ceramic Urns and Vessels:
   
   • Issue: Ceramic surfaces can develop similar mineral deposits and may occasionally show minor algae growth in shaded areas.
   • Care: The surface should be cleaned using a non-abrasive sponge or cloth. For mineral deposits, the same white vinegar solution is highly effective and safe. Never use harsh chemical cleaners, as they can damage the glaze or stain the material. Ensuring the fountain is placed in an area that receives adequate sunlight can naturally minimize algae growth.
3. Brass and Copper Sculptures:
   
   • Issue: These metals are not meant to be kept shiny. They naturally develop a patina—a beautiful, aged, greenish-brown layer—due to continuous exposure to water and air.
   • Care: The development of a natural patina is highly desirable, as it adds depth, character, and a classic look to the feature. Never scrub or use abrasive cleaners on brass or copper, as this will strip the patina. Simple rinsing is usually all that is required. If you prefer a faster patina, there are specific, non-toxic products designed to accelerate this process.

In addition to the periodic surface cleaning, we recommend a simple annual check:

• Rinse the Reservoir: During your annual pump check or before you start the fountain in the spring, gently rinse out the underground reservoir to remove any fine sediment that has filtered down through the rock.
• Check the Water Path: Ensure the stream path is free of small leaves or pine needles that could impede the water flow over the urn or column, maximizing the soothing sound and visual appeal.

By following these simple, material-specific care steps, your custom Fountainscape will remain a breathtaking and tranquil centerpiece of your Bucks County outdoor space for decades. Contact Ponds By George today for more personalized care advice on your specific water feature.