As the season comes to an end, winterizing your fountains, birdbaths, and statuary is essential to ensure they stay beautiful and functional for years to come. While concrete is strong, it does not handle freezing water well. When water freezes, it expands, and this pressure can cause cracks, chips, or even complete breakage. The good news? With just a few simple steps, you can safeguard your investment all winter long.
Step 1: Drain All Water
When winterizing your fountain, start by removing all of the water from your fountain or birdbath. Use the drain plug if available, utilize a small pump, or carefully scoop the water out with a cup or small container. It’s imperative to remove as much water as possible, as any remaining water can freeze, expand, and damage your fountain.
Step 2: Clean Thoroughly
Once drained, scrub away algae, dirt, and debris. A nylon brush and garden hose are gentle yet effective tools. This step prevents buildup from staining or damaging surfaces while your fountain is in storage mode. Let the fountain dry completely.
Step 3: Protect the Interior
Place old towels or rags inside the fountain bowl to soak up any condensation that might develop throughout the winter. If your fountain has a pump, remove it, clean it, and store it indoors if possible. If you leave the pump in place, be sure to disconnect and plumbing lines and cover it for added protection.
Step 4: Cover Securely
Use a durable, weatherproof fountain cover that fits snugly. Secure it at the bottom with a drawstring, rope, or bungee cords. This prevents snow, ice, and water from collecting inside.
Lurvey Pro Tip: Place an object inside the fountain beneath the cover (like an upside-down bucket) to help water and ice slide off rather than pooling on top.
Step 5: Raise Birdbaths and Statuary
For birdbaths and statuary, avoid leaving them directly on frozen ground. Place them on pavers, bricks, or wood blocks to minimize the risk of cracking as the ground shifts with freezing and thawing. Once elevated, cover them securely just as you would your fountain.
Step 6: Regular Checkups
Winterizing your fountain doesn’t stop once the snow starts to fall. During the winter, take a quick look after snowstorms or heavy ice. Ensure the cover is still snug and no water has pooled. This small step can prevent big problems.
Why Winterizing Matters
Concrete water features are a beautiful centerpiece in any landscape. With proper winter preparation and care, you can protect your pieces against cracking, extend the life of your fountain or birdbath, and save yourself from costly repairs or replacements come spring.
Final Tip: Don’t wait until the first freeze. Plan ahead and get your outdoor features winter-ready early in the season.
Our Outdoor Living Experts Are Here to Help
If you’re unsure about the right products to use, or want personalized guidance for your specific fountain, birdbath, or statuary – our outdoor living experts are here to help. Visit us at Lurvey Home & Garden to see recommended covers, cleaning tools, and accessories firsthand. We’ll walk you through best practices, answer your questions, and help make sure your outdoor features are fully protected this winter.
