Water features
Whether you have a waterfall or water column, these tips can help you keep it beautiful year-round.
Foam
When foam starts to build up in your water feature, the best cure is to use a hot tub de-foamer. Simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the foam will disappear.
Algae
Algae are caused by an imbalance of pH. Use a swimming pool test kit to monitor your pH and apply chemicals when needed. Also, a small quantity of outdoor pond algaecide every other week will do wonders.
Winter time
A commonly asked question is what does one do to winterize a water feature? This depends on what type of water feature you have. Some water features are designed to run all year around. For those that aren’t it’s possible to simply shut them off or pull the pump from the system to avoid costly repairs during winter. If you encounter a hard freeze, you can remove ice when it’s blocking the pump or water outlets. A heater can also be installed in your pond for temporary use. For more advice contact your landscape service provider.
Evaporation
All water features lose water either by splash or by evaporation during the hot summer months. If your water feature is equipped with an Auto-fill Valve, adjust the time of fill according to the seasonal conditions.
Pump
A common concern with underwater pumps is cavitation; the sound of mud or air being sucked up by the pump. Cavitation usually occurs when the water level is too low. Unplug the pump and check the water feature for leaks. By turning off the pump, you can assume that if the water level still drops, a leak is the problem. If it doesn’t, then the water is probably being dispersed from the evaporation or splash. Also, check the pump for any debris that might be lodged in the motor.
Fish
Can fish be put in your pond? Yes and no. Fish need fresh water to survive, so a filter should be included with your pump to help clean the water. Fish will also add discoloration to the water and attract predators. Raccoons, possums, and blue herons will try to devour your fish and sometimes destroy the liners in the process.
Clarity
If needed, your water feature can be drained and flushed out to ensure clean, clear water for everyone to enjoy. (Refer to your notes for your individual water feature.)
Pavers
Your pavers are made of compressed concrete, which makes them very dense and almost impermeable to water. There are many colors, sizes, and shapes available to make unique patios, steps, and walkways.
Sand
Sand “interlocks” the pavers together and also serves as a base. The sand between the cracks can wash out from hosing or a very heavy rain. Ordinary sand can be swept back into the cracks to bring back the beauty. Using an upright broom or a push-broom, sweep back and forth at a forty-five degree angle. Polymeric sand can be applied to bond the cracks and prevent weed growth.
Efflorescence
This is a chalky, white substance that can appear on some pavers. It is a chemical reaction between the lime in the concrete and the moisture in the ground. This is usually a temporary situation that can sometimes be removed simply be scrubbing with water and a stiff scrub brush. It will generally wear off over a period of time depending on the exposure.
