A metallic water spout flows steadily into a small stream, surrounded by grass and stones that create a natural landscape design.

Water bowls, fountain troughs and water objects for any garden

Only with water elements the garden becomes an experience. By installing small or large water objects made of metal such as fountain troughs, spring fountains, fountains or water bowls, every garden gains quality of stay. The rippling and refreshing water creates a special atmosphere and captivates young and old alike.

Wide range of modern fountain systems for garden, terrace and interiors.

As market leader of metal garden objects and fountains, Gartenmetall® covers the complete range of water objects for outdoor and also indoor use such as hotel lobbies or large entrance areas. Modern water objects differ in shape, technology, material and field of application. All fountain objects are individually manufactured by us in our in-house production.

GARDEN DESIGN IDEAS

A rustic water fountain flows against a stone wall, surrounded by plants and modern outdoor furniture with white cushions, in a sunny garden with blue skies and red tiled roofs in the background.

Water objects, fountain systems and water inlets made of metal

For every garden, every park and even for interiors there is a suitable fountain. Learn more about our metal water objects:

The classic fountain systems are the water troughs AQUA LINEA made of folded metal, which we carry as rectangular, round or semicircular fountains. However, special shapes are always possible! The water inlet is through a water wall attached to the water trough with a stainless steel water chute. It forms a wide curtain of water. Alternatively, the water ripples into the basin via a stainless steel water pipe that is screwed directly to the wide trough edge. Atmospheric effects can be created with several water troughs staggered in height. Here, the water flows over stainless steel water overflows as a cascade into the lowest trough and is pumped up from there with a pump.
From our round water bowls AQUA BOWL can be shaped into effective water features for private gardens as well as parks and public spaces. The AQUA BOWL range includes simple bowls with standing water, bowls without or bowls with water overflow. If several bowls with overflow are used, an elegant cascade fountain is created. The bowls are available in high-quality Corten steel or elegantly shining stainless steel. By using LED lighting installed as standard, special fountain nozzles or bubblers, each builder can give the fountain its own personal touch.
The spring fountains AQUA CUBUS are available with rectangular or round cube and in different sizes. Thanks to their compact size and easy installation, they are also excellent as displays for trade shows. This group also includes the spring fountains AQUA BLOCK, which are usually combined with a fountain trough, as well as our spring fountains with globe AQUA GLOBE. They spread a very special atmosphere with their gentle splashing and are also suitable for indoor installation.
The water walls AQUA TOP are available with single-sided of double-sided water outlet. Just like the water curtain AQUA RAIN they can be set up as an optical room divider and, for example, dampen unwanted background noise in hotel lobbies with their noise. At the same time, they provide a better indoor climate.
In our own production we also produce the matching fountain and water inlets - tubular straight or curved and linear straight or curved. All water bowls are made of high quality stainless steel V4A, which makes them particularly durable, and can be tailored in width and projection to fit the type of fountain exactly. In numerous test series, we have optimized our water chutes so that a particularly even water distribution results.
With our high-quality and extra-large rain barrel AQUA COLLECT made of solid metal, you can water your garden sufficiently even in dry summers. After all, the largest barrel holds up to 800 liters! The rain barrel is connected to the rain collector at the back, the water outlet is via a matching brass water tap. The barrels are provided inside with black interior coating, so that the water remains clean even with the Corten steel variant.
The heatable bath barrel AQUA LUND transforms the garden into a small wellness oasis. It is made of high-quality metal, double-walled and coated inside with haptically pleasant plastic. AQUA LUND is available with underwater wood stove and / or round bench.
Garden lounge with grey cushions on wooden deck, next to rectangular water feature with decorative waterfall, surrounded by pebbles and wooden fence, sunny atmosphere.
Wasserschütte ASCONA als Quelle für kleines Brunnenbecken AQUA LINEA.

Pumps for even water level

With the position of the pump there are three different options: The cheapest and fastest to install option is to sink the pump directly into the water trough. If you do not want the pump to be visible, you can also choose a higher quality pump, which is installed outside in the dry, for example, in the water wall. Cooling is provided by the water flowing through it. The third option is to place the pump in a separate sump. The additional water in combination with an overflow pipe ensures that the water level in the fountain basin always remains the same.

Although all our pumps are "frost-proof", we strongly recommend that you completely empty them and all hoses in the winter. In a frost-free place, e.g. in the garage, the pump can then be stored submerged in water.

For more info on pump maintenance and winterization, see our >>> user info WATER

Weatherproof materials and proper handling for durability

When selecting the materials used, our primary goal is for builders to enjoy their new metal water feature for as long as possible. For this reason, we manufacture our fountains from high-quality and weather-resistant metal and, in the case of Corten steel, we line the inside of the fountain troughs and water basins with a special black plastic coating to prevent rusting through and red water. This inner coating is always tested for tightness before delivery.

To prevent water bowls in stainless steel optics from rusting through like normal steel, they must dry off completely at least once a week. Only then can the stable barrier layer to protect against rusting through form again. To do this, the pump must be turned off, preferably by means of a timer. The water then drains off completely through a small, defined leakage hole. The drying of the shell additionally inhibits algae growth reduces the dirt in the shell.

Planning water features correctly: drop height and overhang of water chutes

In water features with free-falling water, the drop height and the overhang of the water chute have a significant influence on the appearance and function of the water curtain. Careful coordination of these two dimensions ensures that the water falls as evenly as possible into the fountain basin and that the effects of wind, splashing and the sound of splashing are reduced. This applies, for example, to AQUA LINEA fountain systems with a water wall or AQUA BLOCK spring fountains.

Maximum drop height of 350 mm for an even water curtain

Gartenmetall recommends a maximum free fall height of 350 mm between the water outlet and the water surface for water features. With greater drop heights, the falling water becomes increasingly susceptible to wind. The water curtain can be blown to one side, causing water to land outside the fountain basin. At the same time, the sound of splashing and the amount of spray increase.

The appearance also changes: as the drop height increases, the water film tapers, so that the water curtain becomes narrower towards the bottom and loses its uniform appearance. A limited drop height therefore contributes to a controlled flow of water and a harmonious water display.

Why a 120 mm overhang is useful for water spouts

As well as the drop height, the overhang of the water spout also plays an important role. For appropriately designed water spouts, Gartenmetall uses a 120 mm overhang as standard. This ensures that the water emerges at a sufficient distance from the water wall and can fall as freely as possible into the fountain basin below.

If the overhang is too small, there is a risk that even a light breeze will push the water film against the water wall, causing it to run along the surface instead of forming a freely falling water curtain. A sufficiently large overhang reduces this risk and promotes a uniform water display.

Dimensions may vary depending on the design and installation situation. Gartenmetall therefore offers a range of water and fountain inlets whose design can be tailored to the specific water feature.

Delivery: pre-assembled and functional

All Gartenmetall® water objects are - as far as possible - delivered pre-assembled and thus completely functional. In addition to the selected body, a water collection vessel, the desired pump, required connections and the optional lighting elements are included. Many other options are possible: additional protection for children is provided by cover grids, individual overflow standpipes, various pump systems and different LED lighting systems meet (almost) all customer requirements. By choosing the water outlet or the type of water nozzles used, you can additionally customize the appearance of the fountain. And if something should be missing in our extensive assortment: Through our own production and construction, we can also meet unusual customer requests.

A rectangular metal fountain with a water jet in a natural setting, surrounded by tall grass and rocks, flows over a concrete edge into a shallow watercourse.
AQUA BLOCK als Wasserspender für Sumpffläche.

Frequently asked questions about our water features

When planning a water feature, it is not just a question of shape and surface. Water flow, noise levels, the subsoil, power supply, access for maintenance and any drainage requirements must be suited to the specific installation situation. The following answers are designed to help you select and plan water features for gardens, patios, entrance areas and commercial outdoor spaces.

For clearly defined water features and longer fountain troughs, we offer the AQUA LINEA fountain system. Compact spring fountains such as AQUA CUBUS, AQUA GLOBE, AQUA FONTIS or AQUA BLOCK are suitable for smaller areas.

With AQUA BOWL, we create water bowls with still, bubbling or overflowing water. AQUA TOP creates a vertical water surface, whilst AQUA RAIN forms a free-falling curtain of water.

The most suitable design depends on the available space, the desired water effect, the noise level and the splash area. These factors should be determined at an early stage, particularly for terraces, entrance areas and indoor spaces.

The choice of material depends on the location, the design and the desired surface finish.

Corten steel develops its characteristic rust-brown patina when exposed to the elements. It combines well with natural stone, timber, gravel surfaces and planting. For our Corten steel products, we use weather-resistant structural steel of grade S355J2W+N.

Stainless steel has a technically precise and understated appearance. For water features, we use particularly corrosion-resistant stainless steel with the material number 1.4404, also known as V4A. Depending on the product, we can also provide colour-coated surfaces in accordance with RAL or DB standards.

When making a decision, we take into account not only the appearance, but also the location, water flow, maintenance requirements and adjacent paving.

If water is left standing for long periods, a functional barrier layer cannot form on Corten steel. Without a technical barrier between the water and the metal, the water in the fountain may turn a rust-brown colour. Furthermore, rust particles may settle on the bottom of the basin, leading to material damage in the long term.

That is why we coat the inside of our Corten steel water troughs with a black, elastic, UV-stable and waterproof plastic coating. This prevents direct contact between standing water and the metal water trough.

The interior coating is therefore not merely a design feature. It protects the water trough from waterlogging and ensures that the water is not discoloured by rusting interior surfaces.

As the patina forms and develops, rust water or rust particles may run off the visible external surfaces. In the case of light-coloured patio slabs, natural stone surfaces, façades or other sensitive surfaces, this runoff should be taken into account at the planning stage.

Depending on the installation situation, we recommend, for example, maintaining a sufficient distance from sensitive surfaces, creating a strip of gravel, or ensuring the rust water is channelled away effectively.

Our interior coating protects the fountain water and the water trough from waterlogging. However, it does not prevent the natural weathering of the visible Corten steel surfaces.

Many of our garden fountains and water features operate using a pump in a closed water circuit. In such cases, a permanent fresh water connection is not strictly necessary.

However, water losses due to evaporation, wind or splashing must be regularly replenished. Depending on the system and the installation situation, we can therefore provide an automatic water top-up system.

Whether a water connection is required depends on the size of the basin, the desired water display, the frequency of use and the water technology to be used.

A properly fused electrical connection is usually required to operate the pump. If lighting is also to be integrated, its power supply must also be taken into account.

During the planning stage, we tailor the pump’s position, cable entries and maintenance access to the specific water feature. Particularly in the case of bespoke designs, these positions should be clearly defined before production begins.

The noise level depends primarily on the drop height, the volume of water, the width of the water outlet and the surface area onto which the water falls.

A spring fountain with a low drop height can be designed to be very quiet. A wide water chute, a waterfall or a free-falling water curtain, on the other hand, produce a clearly audible sound of flowing water.

For terraces, office buildings, hotel entrances or other sensitive public areas, we therefore clarify at an early stage whether the water feature should produce a rather subdued trickling sound or be deliberately used as an acoustic design element.

A water feature requires a load-bearing and level base. Depending on its size, water volume and design, a compacted gravel bed or additional foundations may be required.

In addition, the following points should be clarified prior to manufacture:

  • Position of the pump
  • Water supply and hose connections
  • Cable penetrations
  • Overflow and drainage
  • Electricity and, where applicable, water connections
  • Spray area
  • Maintenance access
  • Adjoining floor coverings
  • Possible rust water drains for Corten steel

For our AQUA-LINEA water troughs, we determine the necessary penetrations to suit the construction project. Making changes at a later stage is usually considerably more labour-intensive than taking them into account during the design phase.

Leaves, floating debris and sediment should be removed regularly. Intake openings, drains and pumps must also be checked and cleaned as required.

It is also important to maintain a sufficient water level to prevent the pump from running dry. Low-calcium water can reduce visible limescale deposits on water spouts and in splash zones.

For smaller installations without filtration systems, we recommend regular water changes or appropriate water maintenance. For larger or permanently operated water features, a professionally designed filtration and water treatment system may be advisable.

The technology required depends, amongst other things, on the water volume, location, sunlight exposure and the desired level of maintenance.

Before periods of frost, the pump, hoses and water level must be prepared in accordance with the relevant installation and maintenance instructions.

As a rule, the water level in the water trough or reservoir is lowered. Hoses must be completely drained and stored in a frost-free location. The pump is removed and stored in a frost-free place in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Before recommissioning, the basin, pump and pipework should be checked and any deposits removed. The instructions for the specific water feature and the pump technology used are always decisive.

Yes. We can adapt many of our water features to the specific installation requirements.

With the AQUA LINEA fountain system, rectangular, round, semi-circular and bespoke shapes are possible. Dimensions, water inlets, pump positions, overflows, feed-throughs, lighting and other technical features can also be planned on a project-by-project basis.

For bespoke fountains, we create a 3D CAD design for approval prior to manufacture. This allows dimensions, connections, water flow and design to be checked and finalised before production begins.

The following information is particularly helpful for a specific enquiry:

  • Floor plan, drawing or hand-drawn sketch
  • Desired external dimensions
  • Material and finish
  • Desired water effect
  • Installation location and substrate
  • Existing electricity and water connections
  • Position of overflow and drain
  • Details regarding lighting or filtration technology

Water features in public spaces place particular demands on safety, stability, maintenance, durability and water technology. When planning, particular attention should be paid to ensuring that the installation is accessible to different user groups and can withstand heavy use over the long term.

Open water basins require particularly careful safety planning. Depending on the location and intended use, it may therefore be advisable to opt for water features that avoid large, freely accessible water surfaces.

For public outdoor spaces, suitable options include, for example, AQUA CUBUS water tables, AQUA TOP water walls, AQUA GLOBE ball fountains and AQUA BOWL water basins. Which design is suitable depends, amongst other things, on the location, the desired water effect, the safety requirements and the options for maintenance and water technology.Which water features are suitable for public spaces? 

GARTENMETALL® supports planners and local authorities in selecting and technically designing the appropriate water feature. Translated with DeepL.com (free version)

Even shallow water can pose a risk to young children. Safety should therefore be taken into account at the planning stage for freely accessible water basins. Depending on the design, structural measures such as a suitable grille within the water basin may be provided. 

Alternatively, water features that avoid large, openly accessible water areas may be considered. These include, for example, AQUA GLOBE spherical fountains, AQUA BOWL water basins or certain versions of the AQUA CUBUS spring fountains. Which solution is suitable for a particular location should be assessed on the basis of the specific installation situation and intended use. 

Technical safety measures are no substitute for the necessary supervision of young children.

Are you planning a water feature with non-standard dimensions or a project-specific water flow?

Please feel free to contact us. Our sales team will help you choose and plan the right water feature for your project and answer any other questions you may have. 

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