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Building a backyard waterfall can be an exciting and rewarding project for homeowners who want to add beauty and tranquility to their outdoor space. With careful planning, the right materials, and professional masonry services, you too can create a stunning addition to your yard that will last for years of enjoyment. From choosing the perfect location in your backyard to maintaining it over time, we’ll explore everything you need know about building a beautiful backyard waterfall. You don’t have to splash out on a trip to Bali to bask in the splendor of a tropical waterfall.
How to Build a Backyard Waterfall
The Top Kitchen Island Trends of 2023, According to Designers - Better Homes & Gardens
The Top Kitchen Island Trends of 2023, According to Designers.
Posted: Thu, 18 May 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]
However, you can also go big and build a waterfall that is up to ten feet tall. Obviously, the simpler designs like the flower pot and watering can ones are no longer viable when creating such a big waterfall, so you’ll have to work with rocks and maybe metal. The higher the final structure, the more attention you need to pay to its stability and safety, so simply stacking stones on top of one another may not do the job in this case. But be sure that the result of your efforts is going to be well worth all the trouble because larger garden waterfalls tend to look amazing, especially if given enough space to shine.
Backyard Waterfall Overview: Project Design
Tiered Waterfalls – Constructed to allow water to flow at different levels. A tiered waterfall can work well with a backyard stream design to create a natural looking environment. Spread the stone out near the reservoir so you can choose the size and shape you want. Stack a few stones, then pour some water over them to see how it flows.
Aquatic garden with planted rockery and waterfalls
A small pond with a waterfall is a top option for adding a water feature to your yard or landscape. Ponds with waterfalls bring a multi-sensory experience to your outdoor space by creating reflections, movement, and sound. They are an ideal solution for smaller properties that don't have space for a pool. A pond can become the focal point of a yard or outdoor room, regardless of size. Creating a backyard waterfall is an excellent way to add beauty and tranquility to your outdoor space.
Waterfalls Hiding in Pots
Lots of gardens are surrounded by plain-looking fences which aren’t the most aesthetically pleasing on the eye. However, these can quickly be transformed into a beautiful waterfall by simply adding some watering cans at various heights and angles to let the water flow seamlessly down the fence. While this might seem incredibly simple, it’s worth taking into account the design and surroundings of your pool. This is because you’ll want to design a waterfall structure that fits into the style of your garden and doesn’t disrupt the aesthetics and harmony of the space. In this article, we’ll explore the art of waterfalls design, shedding light on the intricacies of crafting a dream waterfall that complements your outdoor space.

Clean the Rocks and Trim the Liner
Similar to using a pond (see idea number 1), you can also take advantage of a pool if you already have one in your backyard. All you need to do is install a waterfall and direct it straight into your existing body of water. Everyone has some kind of junk lying around in their basement or garden shed. However, don’t be tempted to throw it away because almost anything can be put to good use for a future waterfall design.
Stairs Turn into Waterfalls
In this example, the soft flow of a small waterfall from a bamboo outlet is a tiny but impactful detail in the scheme as a whole. These more modern waterfalls are a perfect addition to this brick wall. I love that they fit so seamlessly into the brick pattern surrounding them, and that the rectangular patterns of the wall feel modern, despite their age. If you'd prefer a more subtle look for your garden waterfall, take a note from this example of a small waterfall run through an old clay pot into a pond beneath. It's whitewashed which gives it a more rustic feel, and the plants sitting on and around the piano make the instrument feel like it fits in perfectly with the rest of the garden.
Pool with small fall in a tropical garden
This cascading stream flows into a gravel bed, not a pond, so it stays clean with little maintenance. Maintaining a tiered terracotta falls feature involves regular care and protection. Ensure the terracotta pots are of high quality and frost-resistant if you live in colder climates to prevent cracking.

To bring the tropics to your own home, especially if you don't actually live near a white sand beach you'll want to combine a contemporary resort look with a more organic feel, like in this example. The border of the pool is in a dark stone instead of tile and the waterfall itself is topped with piles of mismatched stones, but the lines of the pool and the fall are clean and straight. In this example, the waterfall is designed of simple stone bricks and is surrounded by overgrown foliage to give it a more natural vibe. For a more traditional take on a Japanese garden, consider a smaller tiered waterfall that enters into a pool populated with goldfish or koi. Having fish in your pond will make the environment feel alive, and you'll find peace by sitting next to your pond and enjoying the scenery.
Let the captivating beauty of lagoon waterfalls transform your backyard into a breathtaking retreat that will leave both you and your guests in awe. With its breathtaking stone tiers and a huge array of brightly colored plants, this waterfall feels like it was taken right out of the jungle! This is a fantastic way to incorporate a waterfall element into a natural swimming pool or small pond, especially in warmer areas where tropical plants have a chance to thrive. These waterfalls emptying out into a backyard pool are the height of understated elegance and luxury. Their simple, sophisticated shape feels modern, but with a hint of Art Deco inspiration. The spotlights pointed at the waterfalls create a dramatic and romantic effect at night, but during the day they add a unique glow to the falls and draw your eye to them.
By following the step-by-step guide we provided, you can create a stunning focal point that will bring joy and tranquility to your everyday life. Caring for your backyard waterfall doesn’t have to be a burdensome task. By performing these simple tasks, you can ensure your waterfall remains a beautiful and peaceful addition to your outdoor space. But if you’re looking for simplicity, you can’t beat this approach. You basically dig a hole in the ground, line it with rubber membrane and cover it with a stack of rocks.
I especially love the detail of the bright blue clay pot because it gives just a touch of whimsy to the scene. For something truly unique, consider what you can use that you already have to build the framework of your waterfall. In this excellent example, the designer used an old piano to create a waterfall drizzling out over the keys. But that's okay since it gives you the opportunity to build a scene around it with foliage, flowers, stones, fountains, and decor to create something unique. The disappearing waterfall is the easiest waterscape to manage and maintain. You don't have to worry about frequent cleaning and filter replacement, high water consumption, and the safety of the people visiting your waterfall.
Imagine lounging by a stunning wall pool waterfall, the epitome of sophistication and style. These water features are not only visually striking but also provide a refreshing ambiance that will make you feel like you’re on a luxurious vacation in your own backyard. There's nothing like the sight of a trickling stream running down a series of stones to give a garden timeless, enchanting energy. The stones in this three-tiered waterfall have been laid out carefully in differing directions to create a more organic feel, and the overgrown plants surrounding it help to add age to the falls.
Aquatic plants help complete the overall look of any backyard water feature by creating an environment similar to what one would find in nature. Floating varieties like lilies, lotus, duckweed, hornwort and parrot feather all make great additions as they move freely with currents created by pumps installed beneath them. Rooted species such as cattails, iris and rushes offer more stability thanks to their strong root systems which helps keep them firmly planted even during heavy rains or flooding events.
The first step is to cut the 2x8s to length and nail or screw them together. Cut a square of pond liner about 2 ft. wider and longer than the inside dimensions of the frame and lay it in place. Fold the pond liner to fit the inside corners and let the extra drape down the outside of the frame.