Keep cool with a water feature
 

There's nothing like the splash of water to cool down a hot July day.  It soothes the senses, muffles city noise and creates a sense of calm. 

Whether it's a fountain, pond-less stream or architectural focal point, a water feature adds cost-effective curb appeal and A+ ambiance to any property.  Once a luxury item, it is now within the financial reach of most of us. 

Here's a checklist of factors to consider when planning a water feature:

• Locate the water feature so it's a focal point for your outdoor living area.
• Make the size appropriate for your yard or the area of the yard it will occupy.
• Make it water-conserving by going pond-less or by limiting the amount of surface area that is exposed to water loss through evaporation.  The three examples above--while quite different styles--are all designed to conserve water.
• If you have pets, make it pet-friendly right from the beginning.  Work with your designer to create a water feature that pets will like and to anticipate pet-related issues from the start.  These might include access points for the pet, durability considerations and placement issues.
• If you have children, decrease drowning risks by having a pond-less feature.
• Incorporate water plants into your design because they will lower maintenance costs and effort.   Because plants consume nutrients that would otherwise feed algae, they help to keep water clean and reduce the amount of other treatments needed. 
• Work with a pro who knows how to design and build quality water features.  As with any other major purchase, check references, visit previous work and talk with former clients

Follow this checklist and you'll be on your way to creating a real splash with a water feature that matches your style.

Find inspiration for your water feature design at ALCC's water feature photo gallery.

Tip of the Week reprinted courtesy of Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado (ALCC) of which Harbor Landscape Company is a member. ALCC is the only professional organization for Colorado's landscape contracting industry statewide. Tip of the Week is copyrighted by Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado and may be forwarded or copied by its members provided proper credit is given to ALCC.

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