When designing a waterfall, the water circulation system in the pond is necessary to maintain water quality, as well as to provide aesthetic appeal. The water circulates and comes alive from a high point and travels downwards, to the delight of the ears and eyes.

To create a natural atmosphere for your garden waterfall (like this one), it is important to choose the method of water circulation according to the natural slope of the installation. Here are some tips for choosing the materials for your garden waterfall.

How to create a stone garden waterfall?

The waterfall turns out to be faster than a stream and involves a certain slope of terrain. Water falls in a vacuum from a higher point to a lower point.

Stone, an ecological material, promotes the creation of a healthy ecosystem both for users, but is also beneficial to micro-organisms, insects, birds, flora and small fauna.

In order for the waterfall to be visually aesthetic, it is better if the height is short. A stream can precede it, which will accentuate the natural side. In the development of a waterfall, it is important to have a natural slope facilitating the design of this type of outdoor development. It is possible to build an artificial mound, as long as efforts are made to conceal it.

There are three steps to follow to create a stone garden waterfall:

• PROJECT PLANNING: Get the help of a landscape architect to put the design details of this project down on paper. Since the work concerning the slope turns out to be rather complex, it is imperative to respect the calculations of the designer.
• CONSTRUCTION: Dig to establish a vertical slope, which will create the void zone conducive to the spillage of water. Position a geotextile felt vertically to create protection for the waterproofing layer. The felt serves as a hook for the mortar, when the time comes to fix the stones of the waterfall.
• TARPAULT: Spread a tarp making watertight junctions between the various sections of the installation. Use specific glues for this type of operation. Do not remove the surpluses until after the finishes have been completed.

Finishing step: choose the stones for your waterfall

Finishes are the major part of the work of a waterfall construction. It is important to hide the waterproofing materials as much as possible. This is why masonry work is required. This involves using different types of stones for your garden waterfall, and making an effort to choose the stones for your waterfall well.

The choice of materials, shapes and heights is endless. Just let your imagination run free!

• MORTAR: Spread a sufficient layer of mortar between each stone, in order to assemble them together. This will ensure the solidity of your work.
• CONCRETE PEDALS: Flanking the tarp, create concrete pads to secure and support a large flat stone. Water will pour out from this element in the form of a blade, which will move over the vertical masonry. The choice of this stone is crucial to obtain a natural atmosphere for its garden waterfall.
• STACK OF ROCKS: A stack of stones gives a more realistic and successful look.
• DRYING: When your stone composition is finished, let everything dry for a minimum of seven days before testing your waterfall.
• SIMPLE PLANTS: The waterfall should be the focal point of your landscaping composition. Don't overload the landscape with too much vegetation.
• CLOSED CIRCUIT: A pool is not mandatory for this type of staging. However, you will need a closed circuit to ensure the circulation of water.

You may check further information on the Gartendek.fr website