
Adding a water feature to your yard can entirely transform the space. Water has a uniquely relaxing appeal that tends to put everyone in a good mood. Plus, a pond or fountain instantly becomes a focal point of your landscaping. Whether you're spiffing up your home prior to selling or customizing a place you recently bought, adding a water feature to your yard is a wise option. Here are a few key things our REALTORS® feel are important for homeowners to know before taking on this project.
- High Ground Is Best
If you install a water feature in a low part of your yard, it is likely to flood when it rains. So, the best spot for a pond or other water feature is often at the highest point in your yard. If you plan on surrounding your water feature with plants, putting it at a high point will also help them get more sunlight.
- Check Local Regulations First
Some towns and cities have regulations related to water features. They may restrict how deep you can dig, for example. Or, they may specify that if your pond is more than a certain depth, it must be surrounded by a fence for safety. In Bucyrus, reach out to the city's Engineering/Zoning Department for a list of codes and rules related to water features. This way, you can build to suit them from day one—rather than having to make changes or pay a fine later on.
- Set a Budget
Water features can cost more than you might imagine. There are some pretty pricey, artistic fountains out there. You also have to account for the cost of soil, cleaning supplies, thermometers, and other materials. It's easy to overspend. Set a budget early on, and choose materials and features that fit within that budget.
- Know What Maintenance You're Comfortable With
Some water features require far more maintenance than others. A simple, above-ground fountain, for instance, may only require occasional cleaning. An in-ground pond with koi fish, on the other hand, may require daily skimming and temperature checks. Decide how much time you're willing to put into maintenance, and design your water feature around that preference.
- Consider the Animals
Water features often attract animals. Decide if this is something you want to capitalize on or minimize. For instance, if you don't want too many birds in your yard, then you may want to choose a moving water feature, like a fountain, over a still one. On the other hand, if you want to attract more birds, you may want to choose a still water feature and decorate around it with bushes that produce berries.
- Keep Sounds In Mind
Sound can be an important element of a water feature. When you're resting in your backyard, do you want to hear a waterfall tumbling? Perhaps you'd prefer a slower, trickling noise or the sound of a babbling brook. Think about what sounds you'll find most appealing, and choose a water feature that makes those noises.
- Plan for Winter
Most water features need to be turned off for winter, but there are a few exceptions. A more natural pond, for example, can be allowed to freeze over naturally and then thaw in the spring. Decide whether you want to spend time winterizing your water feature each fall, and choose accordingly.
With the advice above, you should be better prepared to add a water feature to your space. If you're still looking at Bucyrus homes for sale and have yet to find "the one," feel free to contact us. Our real estate agents can help.