What Kind of Stone Is Used In Fountains?

Outdoor Fountains

• In many areas, outdoor fountains must withstand all kinds of weather from searing heat to rain, snow and subzero temperatures. Granite is the most common choice for garden fountains or those located in commercial squares and plazas. It can be carved into various artistic shapes and lasts for hundreds of years. It is one of the toughest stones available, will not crack under freezing temperatures and is impervious to other natural elements including heat, rain and snow. Granite can be acid washed without ruining its finish. Slate is resilient to changes in weather and won’t stain but is not thick enough to be carved, so it is typically used as a base for fountains. Marble is attractive but easily absorbs stains, deteriorates when washed with acid-based cleaners and can crack in cold climates. Limestone is an attractive natural stone but slowly erodes and compromises the finer features of the fountain.

Indoor Fountains

• Since indoor fountains are protected from weather, they can be made from more delicate stone. Indoor fountains can be small, tabletop styles, flow down walls or occupy floorspace. Slate goes well with most interior textures and its relatively light weight makes it appropriate for backgrounds and bases for desktop, tabletop, floor and wall fountains. Limestone and other stones and rocks found in riverbeds are frequently incorporated into the designs of indoor fountains. The facades of indoor fountains are often decorated with small stones attached to copper and other metal surfaces with adhesives or embedded into concrete.

Fountain Styles

• The type of stone and other materials used to build interior fountains depends on the chosen style. Contemporary fountains commonly include glass, stainless steel and a mixture of man-made resins and natural stone that give the home or office a modern feeling. Environments with earthy or rustic decor are enhanced by traditional-style fountains with designs of river rock, slate, agate and limestone.

Considerations

• Consider the size and configuration of the space and fountain. Outdoor and indoor fountains require room for submerged plumbing and electrical conduit and need properly angled runoff avenues to avoid puddling. To fully appreciate indoor pedestal or wall fountains, they should be in an open, uncluttered area that makes them the focal point of the room.