Improve Your Property Value: Install A Decorative Water Feature

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Improve Your Property Value: Install A Decorative Water Feature

(HIT) - With the ‘Green’ recent economic downturn, many homeowners are losing valuable equity in what is often their largest financial investment. According to a report by CNNmoney.com, by the end of 2008, Americans have collectively lost more than $2 trillion in home value. Numbers like this are encouraging homeowners to stay put until the housing market regains its footing.

Now is a great time to invest in around-the-house projects that will increase future resale value. With the unpredictable economy, pricey remodeling projects are not an option.

According to Remodel Magazine’s annual "Cost vs. Value Report 2008," installing a mid-range deck can cost anywhere from $10,500 to upwards of $37,500 for an upscale deck, while only providing a 60 percent return on investment.

Smaller projects, such as adding a water feature to your landscaping, can have a big impact on your home. In fact, the American Nursery & Landscape Association states that "excellent" landscaping can increase a home’s value seven percent above comparable homes.

"Landscaping with a water feature can create a tranquil atmosphere and make a backyard area feel like an extension of your home," said Mark Munley, vice president of sales and marketing for Firestone Specialty Products. "A water feature not only adds beauty, but it is a cost-effective improvement that can help increase the home’s value."

Building a Water Feature

Water features range in size and complexity from pondless water features for the DIY novice, to an average size pond, about 11ft x 16ft, for someone with more experience in DIY projects, to professionally designed and installed features that may include streams, multiple ponds and waterfalls.

Deciding what size and shape water feature best suites your yard is important. The next thing to decide is whether to tackle the project yourself or use a professional installer. Remember, there is more to it than digging a hole. You will need a filtration system to keep your pond healthy. So, if you aren’t comfortable with light electrical work, seek a local professional.

If you have decided to do-it-yourself, the next step is to do determine the location and create an outline of the design. Be sure to consider wind direction and any surrounding vegetation that may affect your pond’s filtration system. The depth of the pond is determined by your climate, as well as the types of plants and aquatic life you plan to add.

Begin digging out your design; be sure to include shelves if you plan to add plants. Once completed add a geotextile large enough to cover the bottom and slopes of your feature. The geotextile helps prevent punctures from rocks and boulders that may be placed onto the liner to give your feature a more natural look.

Choosing the Liner

There are many liner options available to choose from, but the most popular and trusted option for water feature installations is rubber liners.

"Firestone Specialty Products manufacturers PondGard Rubber Liners, which provide outstanding durability and flexibility, and can be shaped to fit the unique contours of any water feature," said Munley. "PondGard liners are also an eco-friendly option for those looking to include plant and aquatic life in their design, because it resists algae growth and microbial attack."

To install the liner, gently place it in the hole and partially fill with water to hold the liner in place. Next, set rocks and stones on the floor and shelves, and continue to add them to the portion of the liner that will be exposed above the water line. Using a range of stones from your local nursery, masonry supplier or even your own yard adds character. Be sure to use different size stones and ground-covers on the perimeter to avoid a harsh transition from the water feature to the landscape.

Adding a small waterfall is a great way to enhance the design. Other "finishing touches" to consider are plants and aquatic life, such as Koi fish and other tropical water life. Visit your local nursery and aquatic center to find out which options work best for your water feature.

Relaxing in Nature

Whether you like listening to the soothing sounds of water flowing or feeding the fish in your own backyard, a decorative water feature can offer a backyard eco-system that can be enjoyed by all ages. It not only adds beauty, but can add value to your home.

For more information about Firestone PondGard liners and to find your local distributor, please visit our Web site at www.firestonesp.com.

Courtesy: Home Improvement News and Information Center

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