DIY Network

Fences and Fountains From "Weekend Landscaping" episode WKL-201

A fence -- in this case, a partial, louvered fence to compliment the house design -- is a great perimeter presence for an outdoor room. If it's to be painted or stained, choose a neutral color that compliments the patio floor. With a few additional steps, it becomes the perfect backdrop for a fountain and decorative accents.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

1. An additional fencing section is added to act as a framework for a fountain. If a fountain will be attached to the fence, be sure the installation of the fence is strong enough to support the weight of the fountain when filled with water. Small niches, to showcase flower vases, are part of the fence design above the fountain area.

2. Stain in a subtle, neutral shade to match the existing fence (figure A). Again, mask off any areas that might be accidentally stained. Apply stain in light coats to achieve the desired finish. Use a rag to wipe off excess stain. The stain used here is a light gray, a great background color and complimentary to the floor stain.

3. A GFCI (ground function circuit interrupter) outlet is needed when using any type of water feature. These outlets are designed with an automatic shutoff feature if they come in contact with water. For this patio, the outlet is mounted against the bottom of the fence framework (figure B).

   Safety Note: The installation of a GFCI outlet should be performed only by a licensed electrician.

4. Choose a fountain that is proportionate to the surrounding space. Look for self-contained simple shapes like the one featured here (figure C) and determine its function before purchasing -- whether it's for sound, ambiance or just a focal point. Always check the sound level before purchasing: it should be a relaxing, trickling sound. Since fountains have short electrical cords, plan to position it close to the electrical outlet.