If you are looking to create a backyard oasis for your home, a waterfall might be a great way to go. Whether you have a pond that you plan on incorporating the waterfall into or intend to set up an independent water feature, knowing the kind of work that goes into building a backyard waterfall can help you decide whether you want to pursue the job yourself or hire a professional, like the ones at Fontana Ponds & Water Features.
How to Build a Waterfall in Your Backyard
With the right supplies and knowledge, most people are able to build a functioning backyard waterfall that suits the space and looks natural. If you have not taken on a project like this before and you are not familiar with the landscaping and outdoor plumbing work required to build your fountain, it is best to contact a professional so that the job is done properly and you do not flood your yard. The work required to build your waterfall will vary based on the materials used and the design of the water feature. If you are looking to install a backyard waterfall yourself, observe the following procedure:
1. Design and Plan
Make sure that you have a comprehensive plan in place of where the waterfall will stand, what materials will be used, and how much space it will take up before getting started. Gather all of your materials in one place and plan out the structure. If the waterfall is going to consist of any framework, have designs drawn up to build that portion of the water feature complete with measurements. If you already have a mound or hill in your yard, you can use that in the design.
2. Set Up the Reservoir
If you are incorporating a pre-existing pond, a good portion of the starting work is already done for you. If not, you will need to dig a reservoir or pond for the waterfall. Pondless waterfalls still use an underground reservoir, but it is buried beneath rocks to prevent drowning.
3. Build the Waterfall Structure
If your water feature cascades over a series of small waterfalls or spill points, dig out steps along the path of the waterfall and install the liner and rocks. If it consists of one main waterfall, you can build the structure using either stacked rocks, bricks, or wooden framework.
4. Plumb the Waterfall
You are now ready to place the pump in the waterfall basin and run the plumbing to the top waterfall reservoir. Install the pump housing in the lower pond or waterfall basin and set the pump in place in the housing. Run your hose or other plumbing from the pump underground up to the waterfall’s reservoir.
5. Finish the Stonework
Finish the waterfall by placing the final stones where they need to be in order for the water to cascade over them into the basin below. Use heavy-duty construction adhesive to mount the rocks and fill in any gaps with waterproof expanding foam.
If you are interested in learning more about how to build a backyard waterfall, or if you would like to learn about our range of pond services and products, please connect with us by filling out a contact form on our website and we will get back to you, or call us at 778-990-9773.