Marble fountains bring a touch of refinement to any outdoor area, serving as a captivating centerpiece that radiates opulence and elegance. Yet, for newcomers, the installation process might appear overwhelming. Worry not, as this comprehensive guide will lead you through the step-by-step procedure of setting up a marble fountain, ensuring a smooth and gratifying experience. Let&#;s delve in and transform your outdoor space into a breathtaking oasis.
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1.Planning and Preparation
Before embarking on any project, meticulous planning and preparation are essential. Installing a marble fountain requires careful consideration of the location, size, and design of the fountain. Here are the key steps we suggest:
a) Choose the Perfect Location
Selecting the ideal location for your marble fountain is crucial for its overall aesthetic and functionality. Look for an area that receives adequate sunlight while providing some shade to maintain the pristine condition of the marble. Ensure that the location has a stable and level surface to support the weight of the fountain.
b) Measure and Design
Measure the available space to determine the appropriate size of the fountain. Consider the style and theme of your outdoor space to choose a fountain design that complements the surroundings seamlessly. Take into account the height, width, and depth of the fountain to create a harmonious and visually appealing arrangement.
Check local regulations: Consult your local authorities or homeowner&#;s association to determine if there are any specific regulations or permits required for installing a fountain.
2.Gather Your Materials and Tools
With the planning stage complete, it&#;s time to gather all the necessary materials and tools. This includes:
a) Marble Fountain Kit
Purchase a high-quality marble fountain kit from a reputable supplier. These kits typically include the fountain basin, pump, plumbing, and all the essential components needed for installation.
b) Safety Gear
Ensure you have the appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and safety goggles, to protect yourself during the installation process.
c) Digging and Construction Tools
You&#;ll need digging tools like a shovel, as well as construction tools such as a level, measuring tape, and rubber mallet.
3.Excavation and Base Preparation
Now that you have all the necessary materials and tools, we can begin the installation process:
a) Mark the Area
Mark the area where you intend to install the marble fountain using stakes and a string. This will serve as your guide during the excavation process.
b) Excavate the Area
Using the digging tools, excavate the marked area to create a hole that will accommodate the fountain basin and provide a stable foundation. Ensure the hole is deep enough to accommodate the entire basin and leave room for a layer of gravel.
c) Level the Base
Use a level to ensure that the base of the excavation is even and flat. This is crucial for the stability of the fountain.
d) Add Gravel
Add a layer of gravel at the bottom of the excavation. This will aid in drainage and provide additional stability for the fountain.
4. Laying the Foundation
Establishing a robust and steady foundation is paramount to ensure the proper installation of your marble fountain. Follow these steps to not only lay the groundwork but also guarantee a solid base for your fountain:
a) Adding a layer of gravel
Begin by placing a layer of gravel at the bottom of the excavated area. This strategic addition serves multiple purposes; it aids in efficient drainage, preventing water from accumulating around the fountain. By doing so, you safeguard the longevity of your fountain and protect it from potential water damage.
b) Mixing and pouring concrete
The next crucial task involves preparing the concrete mix in accordance with the manufacturer&#;s instructions. Take care to follow the recommended ratios and procedures. Once the concrete mix is ready, slowly and evenly pour it into the excavated area. Ensure that the concrete spreads out uniformly, covering the entire space. To achieve a level surface, employ a trowel to smooth out any irregularities.
c) Allowing the concrete to cure
Patience is key at this stage. Allow the concrete to cure for the duration specified by the manufacturer, typically around 24 to 48 hours. Curing is the vital process through which the concrete gains its strength and stability. Resist the temptation to rush this step, as it lays the foundation for a durable and long-lasting marble fountain.
By meticulously executing these steps, you establish a sturdy and dependable base, setting the stage for the subsequent phases of your marble fountain installation. With a solid foundation in place, you can proceed confidently, knowing that your fountain will stand tall and grace your outdoor space for years to come.
With the base ready, we can now begin assembling the marble fountain:
a) Follow the Kit Instructions
Refer to the instructions provided with the marble fountain kit for step-by-step guidance on assembling the fountain. The kit should include detailed instructions and diagrams to make the process easier.
b) Place the Fountain Basin
Carefully place the fountain basin in the center of the excavation. Ensure that it sits level on the layer of gravel.
c) Install the Pump and Plumbing
Follow the kit instructions to install the pump and plumbing within the fountain basin. Properly connect the plumbing to allow water to flow smoothly through the fountain. Place the fountain pump at the base of the fountain. Attach it securely according to the manufacturer&#;s instructions. Connect the pipes: Use PVC piping and fittings to connect the pump to the fountain. Apply plumbers&#; tape and sealant to ensure a watertight connection. Consult the pump&#;s manual for specific instructions.
d) Position the Fountain
Gently position the remaining components of the marble fountain, such as tiers and decorative elements, as per the design you have chosen.
6. Test and Fine-Tune
Before completing the installation, we must test and fine-tune the fountain to ensure its optimal performance:
a) Fill the Basin
Fill the fountain basin with water and switch on the pump to check for any leaks or irregular water flow.
b) Adjust Water Flow
Fine-tune the water flow to achieve the desired effect. You may need to adjust the pump settings to achieve the right water pressure and flow rate.
c) Check Stability
Ensure that the fountain is stable and secure in its position. Make any necessary adjustments to prevent wobbling or tilting.
7. Final Touches and Maintenance
Congratulations! We have successfully installed the marble fountain. However, the journey doesn&#;t end here. To keep your fountain in pristine condition and maintain its allure, follow these final touches and maintenance tips:
a) Seal the Marble
Apply a high-quality sealer to the marble surface to protect it from water damage and staining. This will also enhance the natural beauty of the marble.
b) Regular Cleaning
Clean the fountain regularly to remove debris and prevent algae growth. Use a mild detergent and a soft brush to gently scrub the marble surface.
c) Seasonal Maintenance
Before winter sets in, drain the water from the fountain and cover it to protect it from freezing temperatures.
8.Design and Match the Landscape
a) Landscaping:
Elevate the allure of the marble fountain by incorporating meticulous landscaping. Thoughtfully choose an array of plants, stones, or other decorative elements that harmonize with the fountain&#;s timeless beauty. Selecting greenery that complements the surroundings will create a harmonious and cohesive outdoor space, while strategically placed stones or ornamental features will add depth and character to the landscape. Thoughtful landscaping enhances the overall aesthetic, turning the area around the marble fountain into a captivating oasis of natural splendor.
b) Lighting:
To cast an enchanting spell after sunset, consider adding exquisite lighting fixtures around the marble fountain. Soft, warm lights gently illuminating the marble&#;s intricate details will make it gleam under the night sky, creating a mesmerizing and magical ambiance. The play of light and shadows will add an extra layer of charm to the fountain, inviting peaceful contemplation and relaxation during evening gatherings. By artfully accentuating the fountain&#;s elegance with carefully positioned lights, you transform your outdoor space into a captivating wonderland long after the sun has set.
9.Maintaining Your Marble Fountain
If you have a marvelously crafted marble fountain, preserving its timeless allure requires diligent maintenance. Follow these professional tips to ensure your fountain remains a captivating centerpiece in your outdoor space:
Regular Cleaning: To ward off the buildup of unsightly algae, debris, and mineral deposits, implement a regular cleaning regimen. Utilize a soft cloth or sponge, along with a pH-neutral marble cleaner, to gently wipe the fountain&#;s surface. This careful approach keeps your fountain gleaming while safeguarding its pristine beauty.
Monitor Water Levels: Regularly monitor the water levels within the fountain and promptly refill as necessary, ensuring the pump remains submerged. Preventing the pump from running dry is essential in averting potential damage, thereby extending the fountain&#;s lifespan.
Periodic Inspection: Conduct routine inspections to detect any signs of damage, such as cracks or chips in the marble. Address any issues immediately to prevent further deterioration and maintain the fountain&#;s structural integrity.
Winter Protection: For those residing in regions experiencing freezing temperatures, safeguarding the marble fountain during winter is vital. Drain the water to prevent freezing and then cover the fountain with a waterproof shield, shielding it from potential damage caused by freezing and thawing cycles.
Professional Maintenance: Consider enlisting the services of a professional to carry out regular maintenance and inspections on your marble fountain. These experts possess the know-how to ensure proper functioning, identify underlying issues, and provide meticulous care and repairs when needed, preserving the fountain&#;s grandeur.
Landscape Maintenance: Surrounding landscape upkeep is crucial to preserving the fountain&#;s aesthetic appeal and cleanliness. Trim plants and trees that may interfere with the fountain or cause debris accumulation, safeguarding the fountain&#;s splendor and unobstructed flow.
By adhering to these expert guidelines, you contribute to the longevity and charm of your exquisite marble fountain. Cherish its enchanting presence as it graces your outdoor space, exuding sophistication and elegance throughout the seasons. Should you require any further assistance or guidance, our dedicated team is here to offer professional support, ensuring your marble fountain remains a cherished masterpiece for generations to come.
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In conclusion, installing a marble fountain can be a rewarding and transformative project for any outdoor space. By following this comprehensive step-by-step guide, we have equipped you with the knowledge and know-how to install a stunning marble fountain that will undoubtedly become the centerpiece of your garden or courtyard.
Remember, meticulous planning, precise execution, and regular maintenance are the keys to ensuring the longevity and beauty of your marble fountain. So, go ahead and add a touch of elegance to your property with a breathtaking marble fountain!
FAQs
Q: How much does it cost to install a marble fountain?
A: The cost of installing a marble fountain can vary based on the size of the fountain, labor costs, and additional features. On average, you can expect to spend between $1,000 to $5,000 for installation.
Q: Can I install a marble fountain myself?
A: While it is possible to install a marble fountain yourself, it is recommended to seek professional assistance. Marble fountains are heavy and delicate, and a professional can ensure a safe and proper installation.
Q: How much maintenance does a marble fountain require?
A: Marble fountains require regular maintenance to keep them in pristine condition. You should clean the fountain periodically, check the pump, and apply a marble sealer as needed.
Q: Can I install a marble fountain indoors?
A: Yes, you can install a marble fountain indoors, provided you have a suitable location with proper drainage. Indoor marble fountains add a touch of luxury to living spaces.
Q: What tools do I need for installing a marble fountain?
A: You&#;ll need basic tools such as a shovel, level, tape measure, wrench, and rubber mallet. Additionally, specific tools for assembling the fountain may be required.
Q: Can I dismantle and relocate my marble fountain?
A: Yes, you can dismantle and relocate your marble fountain, but it&#;s a delicate process that should be handled with care. Seek professional assistance to avoid damage.
The White Marble is now a days, one of the most required natural stones by Architects, Interior Designers and of course by the final users. Specially for interior and in particular for kitchen and vanity tops.
There is a wide range of white natural stones and different origin (igneous, metamorphic or sedimentary). In this post, we will focus on the &#;Actual Marble&#;. In other words, Marble since a geological and commercial point of view (1). And particularly, White Marble.
(1) In our post &#;&#;How to choose the best kind of marble or natural stone for your house&#; we show the differences between the commercial and the geological term of marble.
Therefore, all the materials described hereafter, have the following common issues:
The name of this white Marble comes from the Greek island of Thassos, where it has been extracted since antiquity.
Bianco Thassos, Extra, Grece.
Art works such important as &#;The Victory of Samothrace&#; were sculpted on this material.
White Thassos is a very pure dolomitic marble, with an exceptional whiteness, a very small grain size and with almost a lack of veins, principally in the Extra or Higher qualities(2)
(2) Speaking about white marble, the quality uses to depend principally on the purity of its colour. That is to say, it will depend more on their aesthetic appearance than its physical-mechanical properties. So, the lower presence of impurities the higher degree or whiteness and normally, the higher price of the marble.
Referring to the White Thassos marble, the smaller the grain size, the higher the quality of the stone is.
Its almost immaculate whiteness due to its purity, along with its hardness and consistency (typical of the geological term of marble), allow to use this stone for interiors but also for exteriors. Nevertheless, it is preferable to use it for interior for the following reasons:
Its physical-mechanical characteristics allow to use White Thassos for quite any application. As pavement, cladding, stairs, handicraft (balustrades, sculptures, fireplaces, etc), facades and also for vanity and kitchen tops. In that last case, is highly recommended to apply a good surface treatment to prevent stains.
In the Oberoi Hotel in Mumbai, India we can enjoy its magnificent Lounge, paved with this delicate, beautiful, pristine white and homogeneous floor of White Thassos.
Lounge. Oberoi Hotel, Mumbai, India.
White Thassos allows a wide range of finishes, such as the classic polished and honed, but also brushed used to be required. Nevertheless it is more recommended to apply any finish that enhances its beauty and purity, consequently polished is one of the favorite finishes.
White Thassos Crystal, Honed.
Now a days, there are at least 10 active quarries in Thassos Island, Greece.
Some of the most important and antiques are:
White Sivec Marble is the most well-known term to name or require this marble. Nevertheless, it is also common to find it in the Stone Market as &#;White Yugoslav&#; &#;White Macedonia Marble&#; or &#;White Chive&#;.
White Sivec Extra-Dermitzakis, Greece.
The same as White Thassos, Sivec is an extraordinary white Marble. Easy to differentiate because of its whiteness, a very small grain size, a micro-granular structure and a low presence of veins. Just in the lower quality blocks or slabs we can find some small dots (minerals embodied in the calcareous matrix) and some greyish veins.
It is a very hard and strong marble, even harder than Thassos Marble.
There is evidence that it has been extracted and used since 500 years B.C. from the current Macedonia, where now a days Mermeren Kombinat, one of the mains extractive and commercial companies of Sivec® Snow-White marble.
Because of its strength and hardness, this is a stone suitable for any application or space, either in exteriors or interior. As pavement and cladding, kitchen and vanity tops, handicraft and art work, etc.
Such iconic and magnificent buildings as the Sheik Zayed Great Mosque in Abu Dhabi, UAE, have used White Sivec® as one of their main decorative and constructive elements.
The Cathedral of Christ the Savior, Moscu, Rusia has also used this gorgeous natural stone provided also bya FHL Kiriakidis Group.
Verona Fair is always a good place where to be able to compare different materials, but also the &#;same material&#; provided by different extractors or suppliers. In addition, we have the opportunity to compare the differences between the range of qualities or classifications of a same natural stone.
Hereafter we show some samples of different qualities of White Sivec offered by FHL Group and Dermitzakis.
Different qualities of White Sivec, FHL Group. Verona Fair .
Different qualities of White Sivec. Dermitzakis, Verona Fair
To highlight that due to the poor and different brightness at the stands, the whiteness of the Stone is not very representative. However, the pictures help us to show the differences between the classifications of &#;a same marble&#; as we go down to lower qualities and vice versa.
White Sivec is extracted form Prilep Area, Macedonia, where just Mermeren owns the 30% of the concession area.
White Sivec Block, by Mermeren. Exterior Stand, Verona Fair
The pristine whiteness and crystallinity of the blocks reminds us sugar cubes!
The White Statuario is an Italian marble extracted from the famous area of Carrara, located in the Apuan Alps. Place where there can be extracted up 7 different kinds of marble.
Bianco Statuario Marble, Italy
Among these 7 types of marble, we can say that Statuario is the most valued variety due to:
The beauty of this marble comes from its characteristic veins, which cut and installed in &#;Open Book format&#; gets exceptional effects. This is one of the main differences between Statuario and Sivec or Thassos Marble.
Statuario Apuano Block- Arabescato Corchia Quarry, Savema: Verona
We can see one example of &#;Statuario Marble Open Book format&#; and &#;Cut to size&#; at the ADGM, Abu Dhabi, supplied and installed by Albora.
Front view ADGM, Abu Dhabi. Walls and counters covered with Bianco Statuario. Stone Project executed by Albora.
Side view, ADGM, Abu Dhabi.
Cut to size and Open-Book matched, Statuario Marble. By Albora
It is another Greek marble, highly requested at this time. The same as Thassos, Volakas owns its name to the area where it is extracted. There are 10 quarries now a days approximately.
Volakas Marble
Volakas has as slightly white-greyish matrix with a wide number of grey veins, quite noticeable.
Lower qualities have also dots (minerals) with different sizes and amounts.
We could say since an aesthetical point of view, that Volakas Marble matches with a very low quality White Sivec. However physical-mechanical parameters of Volakas are worst and lower than Sivec Marble.
Volakas Marble Floor with Grey Rubina, Polished Pulido. Project by Álbora.
Waterjet Mosaic: Gris Rubina combined with Volakas. By Albora
The extraction of Volakas is heavily concentrated in Grupo Empresarial FHL that controls the 85% of the total amount of Volakas Wordwide, extracted from its own 4 quarries .
Due to its typical veins and dots, this material can be quite vary and diverse. Hereafter you can observe 2 examples from two different quarries and companies in Drama: Dermitzakis and FHL Group.
The veins of this marble allow to create amazing Open-Book layouts depending on the nature of the veins and the quarried block.
Example of Volakas, Open Book Layout, Factory in Drama.
White Carrara, like Statuario is extracted from Carrara, area that as we mentioned before, they are extracted up to 7 different types of marble. The most well-known of all of them is the White Carrara or Bianco Carrara Marble.
Bianco Carrara Marble
It is a marble with a white background and grey veins. Like in the other mentioned kinds of marble, as we go to lower qualities, the backgrounds becomes a bit darker (greyish) and we can observe a bigger presence of veins and other impurities.
There is a a wide range of classifications/varieties of White Carrara such as: Bianco Carrara C, CD or D.
White Carrara has a very thing grain size with and a mealy texture. It is a very hard and strong marble suitable for quite any use, indoor or outdoor.
It is one of the the most affordable varieties of Carrara Marble, so along with its aesthetical and physical-mechanical characteristics, make it one of the most required marble in spite of its whiteness is not so immaculate as other kinds of marble as Sivec, Thassos or Statuario.
We know the use of Carrara Marble since ancient times. Buildings as the Hercules Temple in Roma or the Famous Tower and Cathedral of Pisa (among many other very important monuments) have used this natural stone to enhance its beauty and magnificence.
Carrara Marble Columns. Hercules Temple, Rome. 120 B. C.
Architectural and decorative elements of Carrara marble. Cathedral and Tower of Pisa, Italy.
Michelangelo sculpted a lot of his Art Works like &#;the David&#; and &#;the Piedad&#; in blocks of Carrara Marble, but he has not been the only one, of course. At this link, you can enjoy an extensive repertoire of sculptures in White Carrara exhibited at the Prado Museum in Madrid.
We can find an important example of White Carrara in Spain currently at the Victoria Eugenia Theatre, in San Sebastián. Macael Award Craftmanship , Cuellar Stone.
Stairs, Moldings, Flooring and Carving in Carrara Marble. Victoria Eugenia Theatre, San Sebastian. Image Creative Commons Generic Attribution/ShareAlike 3.0.
This Marble is extracted from the very well known area of Macael, Almería. Spain. Now a days the volumen of extraction of this material are decreasing, mainly if we compare it with the described materials above.
Nevertheless, this marble is a very good option to almost any use, possible to find at affordable prices.
White Macael Marble
It is a medium-grain calcitic marble with an alternating white-grayish background. Straight and wide grey-cream or white veins are very characteristics of this marble, whose color can be also green and inclusively orange depending on the area of quarrying.
This marble allows many kinds of finishes. Polished of course, which enhances its beauty and splendor, but also honed, sandblusted, aged, even thought flamed -a more specific finish of granites-.
To know more about this Spanish Marble we suggest to have a look to the &#;Marca Macael&#; website.
We know about the use of White Macael use since 2.700 years B.C approximately. Nevertheless the Romans were who started to use it actually in important buildings, as decorative items, architectural elements, etc. in big quantities and professionally.
We can find this marble in places so far from Macael as the famous Theatre of Merida, Badajoz, Spain. (15-16 years B.C.) Badajoz, where Macael Marble is present in columns, statues, structures, etc.
Another example afterwards, we found in the Arab period, in the Alhambra Palace of Granada, where columns, and the popular Lions fountain are carved in White Macael Marble.
The Patio of Vélez-Blanco Castle, Almería, currently exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of New York, was also decorated with this beautiful Marble.
Indoor Patio, Vélez-Blanco Castle, Almería. Image under license (CC BY-SA 3.0)
The Library of Kansas City-USA, indoor spaces at the famous Burj- Al-Arab Hotel, Dubai, etc, are some contemporary examples of the use or White Macael.
In Spain for example we find it in the interior stairs of the Playa Hotel, in Cartaya, executed by the Spanish company, Crumar Projects.
And of course, we find White Macael at the interior of the Geo-Mining Museum, Madrid, Spain.
White Macael Stairs. Geo-Mining Museum, Madrid, Spain. Benjamín Núñez González, Creative Commons Atribución-CompartirIgual 4.0 Internacional.
In general, and as we have been mentioning, all of these varieties of White Marble are suitable for almost any use. For interior and exterior, in floors, coverings, handicraft, facades, and Art Works. However is highly recommended to check the physical-mechanical properties before any installation and to be aware of the weather, temperature changes, the transit, pollution, etc&#;
All of them allow different sizes and formats: From &#;standard sizes&#; to &#;cut to size&#;. The only limitation will be the &#;Big Size&#; that will depend on the size of the blocks.
Special attention to polished and honed finishes outdoor floors, where we recommend to choose a sandblasted, bush hammered or any other rough finish. In any case, we advise to apply an anti-slip surface treatment.
We hope to have clarified some doubts about the wide world of White Marble. In Albora we are Geologists and certified Project Managers (PMP by PMI) with an extensive professional experience . We know both, Stone and Construction Sectors in the international markets.
If you need help, solve your doubts or any other question, do not hesitate to contact us.
Feel free to leave your comments, that will be very appreciated to improve this article. We thank in advance if you let us know your concerns and interests about marble and natural stone. They will be taken into account for future posts.
Are you interested in learning more about simple character outdoor marble fountain for sale? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!