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Add Value To Your Home With A Backyard Water Feature

(HIT) - As the housing market slump continues, homeowners are looking for ways to make their homes stand out and increase resale value without spending their life savings. According to a survey of 5,000 U.S. home owners by Remodelestimates.com, the interest in remodeling remains high for homeowners though they are more conservative about costs in light of declining home prices.

With so many options available for the do-it-yourself (DIY) homeowner, it can be confusing to know where to start. Homeowners should consider the following questions: What remodeling project will give you the most value impact for prospective buyers? What is the price range for remodeling and addition projects?

According to Remodeling Magazine’s "Cost vs. Value Report 2007," the national mid-range average for a deck addition was more than $10,300; a mid-range kitchen remodel (major) was more than $55,500; and a sun room addition was nearly $70,000.

A much less expensive alternative is to add a water feature to enhance your backyard landscape. Water features not only add aesthetics to a yard and home but also provide a calming, serene and eco-friendly environment that everyone can enjoy.

"Landscaping and the appearance of your yard is a critical point to making your home stand out in today’s market," said Mark Munley, vice president of sales and marketing for Firestone Specialty Products. "You don’t have to be discouraged by today’s high remodeling costs because something simple, such as installing a backyard water feature, is easy, cost efficient, and can provide you with a higher resale value."

Building a Water Feature

It is easy to become discouraged with many home improvement projects because of the complicated installation processes. Water features, on the other hand, range in size and complexity from the novice all the way up to the DIY expert.

The most important factor is to decide what size and shape water feature is appropriate for your backyard. A commonly used style is the smaller kidney-shaped water feature because it is easy to install and can fit in even the smallest backyards.

Although the average water feature measures about 11x16 feet, sizes and shapes may vary. Also consider other factors, including if the water feature will accompany other objects in your backyard such as a pool or deck.

Begin your water feature installation by determining the perimeter and creating an outline. After digging your hole, add a geotextile mat large enough to cover the base of the hole and walls. The geotextile mat is important because it acts as extra protection for the liner, helping to prevent punctures.

Choosing and Installing the Liner

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

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

Available in a variety of sizes, PondGard provides you with peace of mind because it requires minimal maintenance once installed and it is extremely resistant to ultraviolet (UV) radiation and ozone, even when exposed.

To install the liner, gently place it in the hole and fill with water to hold it in place. Next, use rocks and stones on the floor of the water feature and begin building layers along the walls.

Add the stones and rocks on top of the exposed liner and continue to stack. Using a range of stones from your local nursery, masonry supplier or even your own yard will help add character to the water feature. Be sure to use different size stones and ground-covers on the perimeter of the pond to avoid a harsh transition from the water feature to the landscape.

To take this design even further, you can add a small waterfall by adding a pump, hose and additional rock formations to the equation. If you are considering this addition, be sure to contact your local electrician to ensure a safe and proper installation.

Other "finishing touch" options to consider are plants and aquatic life. Many water feature enthusiasts include Koi fish and other tropical water life to enhance the aesthetics. Visit your local nursery and aquatic center to find out which options work best for your water feature.

Sit Back and Enjoy

Imagine the sound of calm, flowing water and swimming fish–right in your backyard. Easy to install backyard water features create a scenic and aesthetically pleasing mini eco-system that can be enjoyed by all. Adding this unique feature to your home will give you an edge over your competition in the housing market, and who knows, you may not want to leave after seeing how much a water feature enhances your home.

For more information about Firestone PondGard 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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