Question 1

What are they made from?

Accepted Answer

The fountains and basins are high-fired ceramic. This is a great material for water features as it has a very tough surface, able to last for decades with no fading or wear. Essentially the surface is glass, so you can imagine how robust it is. Gaudi created his magnificent architecture and parks in Barcelona 100 yrs ago using mosaic tile, and they still look as beautiful now as they did then.

Question 2

Are they for indoors or outdoors?

Accepted Answer

Both!   With minor adjustments they are splash-free, and can live indoors with you. And they can handle the elements outdoors as well – the high-fired glazed surface will not fade or deteriorate. If you have heavy winters, we recommend a reinforced basin or bringing the piece inside.

Question 3

How much do they weigh?

Accepted Answer

Without water, a 3’ piece is about 80 lbs, a 4’ piece is about 120lbs, and a 5′ piece is about 150lbs.

Question 4

How easy is shipping and assembly?

Accepted Answer

Very! Packaging and shipping to the US is $400-$600. If you're near Los Angeles you can come pick it up, or we can deliver and install it within 50 mi of LA for $200.  Assembly usually takes just 15-30 min.

Question 5

How much sound do they make?

Accepted Answer

This depends on how full the basin is. When it’s nearly full, the water flow has a subtle sound, but when it’s halfway full or less, a more cavernous, echoing resonance emerges.  If you'd like less or no sound, there is a sound dampener that can make it almost silent.

Question 6

How do I prevent white scale deposits from forming?

Accepted Answer

As the fountain runs, the water evaporates, but the minerals don’t. After a few months they’ll get super concentrated in the water, and will start to deposit on the surface of the piece. So once you start to see this happening, that’s the cue to change the water in the basin – emptying out the old mineral-filled water and replacing it with new water. A wet/dry vacuum makes this task simple.
 
If you do get mineral deposits on the piece, pour in 2 gal vinegar and 2 gal water after emptying the old water.  Run this overnight and it will eat off most of the deposits -- any remainders can be removed with a wire brush (this will not hurt the glaze)

Question 7

How do I keep algae from forming?

Accepted Answer

If this becomes a problem, you can purchase algeacides for fountains from your local hardware store -- use as directed

Question 8

How do I keep leaves and debris from collecting in the basin?

Accepted Answer

There’s a foam debris screen that slips between the basin and the top sculptural section, which will catch most of these intruders before they slip into the basin.  Make sure you request one when you order.
 
However, this will not block all debris, and you should take the top section off and clean out the basin at least once a year.

Question 9

What if the pump burns out?

Accepted Answer

They should last for 5-10 yrs, but if you have to replace one, it’s very simple to detatch the old one and put in a new one. They can be purchased at Home Depot or Lowe’s. If you email me I’ll give you the exact details.

Question 10

Does it need a water line?

Accepted Answer

No -- most people fill it up with a hose or bucket once or twice a week.  However if you want to add a water line we can put a fill float inside.

Question 11

Does it splash much?

Accepted Answer

They are well housebroken and won't pee on your floor.  Generally there may be a few drops of water that come off on occasion, but nothing that will accumulate.  For complete splash prevention, turn down the flow rate on the pump (there's a dial on the side) and push the top cap down until it meets the water surface.

Question 12

The water isn’t flowing well -- what can I do?

Accepted Answer

This is probably caused by the filter being clogged.  Remove the “cage” end of the pump and clean it.

Damien Jones Art

FAQ

Frequently asked questions