Protecting Stone Fountains from Winter
Seasonal Care for Your Stone Fountain
Winter is upon us, and while your outdoor furniture might not be on your mind, it’s time to think about your outdoor stone fountain. While most stone fountains are made to withstand all weather conditions to some extent, proper maintenance during each season is imperative in making your fountain last as long as possible. Especially in areas with sudden or drastic changes in temperature or weather conditions, it’s essential to provide proper care in order to ensure the longevity of the fountain.
Move It
The best option for any stone fountain is to move it. Moving a fountain indoors, even if to only a garage or shed, can dramatically affect how long it lasts. An indoor space protects fountains from the harshest of weather elements. Especially in places with snow, which melts and refreezes, the safest place for a stone fountain is inside. Understandably, many fountains are too heavy for this option.
Remove Water
If your fountain can’t be moved, the first step to protecting it is removing any water. Any water left inside the fountain will freeze and expand. Although it won’t necessarily break the fountain, small cracks will form. They’ll worsen with time, and you may not even notice them until next spring. Plan on doing this pretty early in the season, preferably before the weather even begins to drop. This will ensure no water has already frozen inside. If there is a pump associated with your fountain, disconnect it and bring it inside. They’re not built to withstand much weather conditions at all.
Use a Fountain Cover
After removing any water, a fountain cover is a good idea. While it can’t fully protect from the temperature, it does shield the fountain from rain, sleet, snow, and hail. Be selective when choosing a cover; some covers are specifically designed for winter. If you are dedicated to making your own cover, start by using an absorbent material against the stone. An old towel works. Place it in crevices or dips where water is most likely to collect. Then, cover the fountain with a tarp and secure it, keeping it from blowing away during any storms.
Disassemble and Store
For fountains that are too heavy to move as one collective piece, there is the option of dissembling the fountain. Most fountains are easier to take apart than they appear. However, it should never be done alone, and a lot of care must be taken. Fountains can be heavier than they look, and you don’t want to accidentally drop or damage a portion. Contact the manufacturer for assembly instructions if necessary. As mentioned before, the best places for storage are garages, sheds, or anywhere else that removes the possibility of the fountain getting wet.
Take Precautions
The last tip for preserving your stone fountain is to take precautions. Don’t fill up the fountain again until you’re positive that no more cold, harsh weather is on the way. Make sure to use water that is neither too hot or too cold, because a difference in temperature between the stone and water can cause cracks.
Impression Creates Timeless Fountains
When it comes to outdoor fountains, Impression is the company to trust. We’ve created countless custom limestone and marble fountains, adding timeless beauty to many homes. No matter what you’re seeking to add, our team of artisans is ready to help. Have questions about an already existing stone fountain? Give us a call for any help or information!