How Much Does It Cost to Install a Fountain? A Homeowner’s Guide

Are you looking to freshen up your home with a unique feature? While it may not be the first thing you’ve considered, a fountain can enhance the surroundings of your home and add property value as well. It can be daunting to navigate all of the fountain options you have and that’s where this guide comes in.

You’ll learn about the different types of fountains as well as the cost to install a fountain. Due to the sheer amount of options for your new fountain, the cost will depend on the size and material mainly. Then you’ll have to factor in any costs for labor and placement.

Read on to learn more about the cost to install a fountain.

Average Cost to Install a Fountain

Fountain prices vary depending on several factors, you can expect to pay as little as $175 all the way up to $10,000. The average cost is around $2,500 to install a backyard fountain or waterfall. As you begin to think of your dream fountain, know that different variables such as the size, complexity, and material will affect the cost.

Don’t be intimidated by the price. If you’re hoping to find the right fountain but worry about affording it, know that there are fountains that can be built for a sensible cost. They won’t require much upkeep and it’ll still add value to your home. To get the best idea of what you’ll be spending, it’s important to look at the details of each factor.

Fountain Materials

As you look for fountains, you’ll quickly realize that there are a lot of choices you’ll need to make. One of your first choices is deciding what material your fountain will be made out of. This will not only determine the aesthetic of your new fountain but it will determine the cost as well.

If you’re looking for a simple fountain and don’t need to spend much money, you can find a garden fountain at your local hardware store. If you’re looking for something more elaborate then you’ll want to browse around to see what’s available, you can also click here for a plethora of fountain options.

Plastic or resin fountains will be the most affordable material, by far. They usually range between $100-$400. Then there’s the popular rock or stone option which can set you back between $200 – $1,200.

Then you have concrete which can cost as little as $300 and go all the way up to $4,000. If you’re looking for something durable and appealing then you’ll want to go with a marble fountain but that’s going to cost between $300 – $4,000.

Size of Fountain

In addition to the material of the fountain, the size and height of your fountain will be one of the biggest factors that will determine the cost. A small rock fountain that is around 3 square feet will cost $125 – $350 while a large concrete fountain that is around 63″ – 100″ in diameter will cost between $3,000 – $10,000.

While it may seem obvious that the size of a fountain will be a main determinant in the cost, it’s good to know the range so that you can have an idea of how much the fountain you want might be.

Indoor or Outdoor?

When you envision your perfect fountain, do you see it being installed inside your home or outside? If you’re looking at an indoor fountain, these typically are more affordable than outdoor fountains. They tend to be smaller, easier to maintain and the installation is simpler.

All it may require is purchasing the indoor fountain, filling it with water, plugging it in, and voila! Outdoor fountains require more electrical, plumbing, and site prep which can quickly add up. There’s also no worry about environmental damage to your indoor fountain, so you won’t be spending as much time and effort maintaining it.

With that said, there are indoor fountains that can surpass the cost of an outdoor fountain if they are made of high-end material and include programmable features or special lighting.

Electricity and Plumbing

If you have the electrical and plumbing experience to install your own fountain then that can save you a lot of money. However, be sure to consider your own skillset because a complicated structure will require significant experience and tools. More complex fountains can involve lighting, a grotto, and even site preparation.

Before spending the money to do it yourself and risk any costly errors, be sure you consult with professionals beforehand. If it’s simple like a small indoor fountain then you’ll be fine.

For any fountain that has complex features, you’ll want to hire someone that can set up plumbing and electricity. The cost of a plumber range from $45 to $65 an hour, an electrician will run from $65 to $85 an hour. This can get pricy with a big project so be sure to keep that in mind.

Solar Water Fountains

You’ve likely heard of solar water fountains. These are fountains that come with solar panels that absorb energy from the sun and use it to operate the fountain’s pump. As far as the solar water fountain cost, it’s likely to be higher than a non-solar fountain that is similar to it.

Like with any type of fountain you are looking at, there are solar fountains that are sure to fit in your price range. The best aspect of these fountains is that they are likely to save you money in the long run since they are powered by the sun and don’t require electricity. It’s a great investment if you’re looking at different fountains.

Great Fountains For Home

There are many things you can do to give your home curb appeal. This can be anything from landscaping to a new coat of paint. Something you may not have considered is a fountain!

If you decide to install a fountain, you’ll be enhancing the surrounding of your home and boost property value. The cost to install a fountain varies greatly, depending on factors like size and material. No matter what your budget is, you’ll find the fountain of your dreams.

Found this article helpful and want more like it? Be sure to check out our gardening or landscaping section!