Backyard Waterfalls vs. Fountains: Which Is Right for You?

Adding a water feature is a great way to boost curb appeal and transform the overall feel of your yard. However, deciding between a waterfall and a fountain can be a tough choice for many homeowners.

At Backyard Depot, we have built and maintained custom water features for countless homes all across Oklahoma. Over the years, we have learned one important thing: “ the ‘right’ choice ultimately depends on more than just aesthetics.”

Here’s a simple guide that can help you identify which water feature would be more suitable for your space, lifestyle, and budget.   

The Case for Backyard Waterfalls

There’s something naturally relaxing about the sound of flowing water from a waterfall. For homeowners all across Oklahoma, including Creek County, looking to add a more organic and nature-inspired element to their space, backyard waterfalls are perfect.

Pros:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Waterfalls replicate streams and creeks, which enhance the overall beauty of your yard. Additionally, they blend wonderfully with stone, greenery, and ponds.
• Soothing Sound: The soothing sound of running water can help to reduce stress, block out the noise, and even attract birds.
• Customization: Waterfalls can be fully customized to match your landscaping, including the type of rock used and the height of the tiers.

Things to Consider:

• Room for setup: Waterfalls with a pond usually require more outdoor space to accommodate the basin and surrounding landscape. In contrast, pondless waterfalls (where water flows into a hidden underground reservoir) are more flexible and can work in both compact and open spaces.
• Maintenance: All water features require some maintenance, but the type and frequency vary. Ponded waterfalls tend to collect more debris and may require algae control, while pondless systems are often easier to maintain due to their recirculating setup. 

Looking for ideas? Many homeowners enjoy the aesthetic appeal of backyard waterfalls in Creek County, which resemble real streams and can be seamlessly integrated into the surrounding landscape. 

The Case for Fountains  

Visually striking, fountains add modern or classic flair for homeowners who want something a little different. Fountains are highly versatile, from small bubbling rock fountains to tall tiered ones; the selection is endless.  

Pros:  

• Compact Footprint: Best for smaller-sized yards or patios.  
• Low Water Use: Many fountains are eco-friendly, as they recirculate the same water, making them affordable and easy to maintain.  
• Variety of Designs: Pick from rustic urns to contemporary and traditional multi-tiered features.  

Things to Consider:  

• Sound Levels: Fountains produce gentler water sounds, which may be less impactful than the immersive sounds of a waterfall.
• Less Natural Look: Formal fountains do not blend well with wild, nature-inspired landscapes.  

For homeowners in Tulsa County willing to refresh their spaces, the best backyard water fountain adds charm without the maintenance burden. 

Which One Is Right For You?  

To narrow down which type of water feature makes sense for your backyard, ask yourself the following:  

1. Availability of Space  

If your backyard is wide open, a waterfall with surrounding landscaping can create a stunning centerpiece. But if your space is smaller, a standalone fountain may work better.  

2. Aesthetic Preference  

Want your space to feel like a serene woodland retreat? A waterfall—especially a pondless one—delivers that effect with minimal upkeep. Looking for a modern, compact water feature? A fountain is a great fit.

3. Schedule Preference  

Waterfalls with ponds need regular care. Luckily, Backyard Depot is trusted for the best fountain maintenance in Oklahoma, offering full-service repairs, cleanings, and seasonal upkeep.

4. Outside Noise Concerns  

If you’re located near a busy street and want to block out sound, a larger waterfall may be your answer. Fountains provide softer sounds, which can be soothing, but may not be able to block out as much noise as a waterfall.  

Backyard Depot Makes It Easy

Whether you prefer a waterfall or a fountain, Backyard Depot has you covered. We assist Oklahoma’s homeowners in designing, installing, and maintaining waterproof features that are custom-tailored and built to last.

From backyard waterfalls in Creek County to custom fountains across Tulsa, we help make your vision a reality.

And in case things do not go as planned, we have your back. Our local Oklahoma’s fountain maintenance services are quick and dependable, so you’ll have your fountains up and running in no time.  

Final thoughts  

A backyard water feature brings beauty, calmness, and increased value to your home. Waterfalls are a more dramatic and natural addition, while fountains are elegant and more adaptive to the design.  

Unsure which feature is best for your space? Call Backyard Depot. We will assist you in evaluating your options and designing the ideal setup, and we will ensure that your backyard’s waterfall in Oklahoma is seamlessly maintained for years.  

Let’s transform your backyard into a stunning retreat.