Not every space has room for a freestanding fountain. Water curtain and wall fountains go vertical. They turn a wall, a corner or a room divider into a moving, glowing feature while using very little floor space. They suit modern architecture, tight urban patios, courtyards, entryways and commercial interiors.
Here's an overview of the main types and what to think about before choosing one.
What's the difference?
Wall fountains mount on or stand against a wall. Water flows down a decorative face, such as stone, metal or resin, into a basin or trough at the bottom.
Water curtain fountains create a thin, continuous sheet of falling water, often from a frame or spillway. The result looks like a transparent curtain. Some designs are freestanding and can be seen from both sides.
Both types recirculate water with a pump, so they don't need a permanent water line.
Types and materials
Our collection includes several vertical designs. Here are the materials listed on each product page:
- Granite. The Luxury Granite Wall Fountain is crafted from real granite stone with built-in LED lighting, and its product page says it comes as a full kit.
- Powder-coated galvanized steel. The Modern Square Water Curtain Fountain has a clean, geometric frame.
- Laser-cut steel. The Laser-Cut Steel Wall Water Fountain – 4 ft x 6 ft combines cut-out artwork with integrated LED lighting.
- Polyresin. The Modern Polyresin Wall Fountain has multiple spouts, LED lighting and a rectangular basin. Its product page says it is designed for indoor and outdoor use and includes a pump.
- Textured stone styling with LED. The Luxury LED Water Wall Fountain is listed at 68" H × 48" W × 14" D.
The Z-shaped water curtain
For a more sculptural look, our Modern Z-Shaped Outdoor Water Curtain Fountain folds the water curtain into a zig-zag profile. Its product page lists black, rustic, white and gray finishes, built-in LED lighting, custom sizes and an included pump and water circulation system.
Lighting
Lighting changes how a wall fountain looks after dark. Many of our vertical designs have integrated LED lighting, according to their product pages. Light shining through falling water or across textured stone can make the feature the centerpiece of an evening space.
Indoor or outdoor?
Some wall fountains are designed for both indoor and outdoor use. Others are better suited to one or the other. Check each product page. For indoor installs, think about:
- Splash and humidity. Even a gentle flow can splash. Plan for floor protection and good ventilation.
- Weight. Stone and large metal pieces are heavy. Make sure the floor and any wall attachment can support them.
- Access. You'll need to top off water and reach the pump for cleaning.
Planning the installation
Vertical features often need more planning than freestanding fountains:
- Structure. Wall-mounted pieces need a wall that can carry the weight. Freestanding pieces need a level, solid base.
- Power. Plan a GFCI-protected outlet nearby. Our Fountain Installation Guide recommends GFCI protection for fountain pumps.
- Water level. Keep enough water in the basin to cover the pump. Low water can cause splashing or let the pump run dry.
- Leveling. A water curtain needs a level spillway so the sheet of water falls evenly. Small leveling errors can cause gaps or uneven flow.
The Modern Z-Shaped Water Curtain Fountain's product page notes that it is "ready for professional installation." We sell and deliver across the US and internationally, and we install within 100 miles of Anaheim. Outside that area, a qualified contractor can handle the install.
Where vertical features work best
- Narrow side yards and courtyards, where a freestanding fountain would block the path.
- Patio walls, to give an outdoor dining or lounge area a focal point.
- Entryways and lobbies, where a wall of moving water makes a strong first impression.
- Poolside areas, where the sound of falling water adds to the setting.
- Room dividers, where a freestanding curtain can separate spaces while still letting light through.
Think about where people will sit or stand, and how the feature will look both in daylight and lit at night. A wall fountain placed where it is seen from inside the house through a window can be enjoyed year-round.
Custom sizes
Several of our wall and curtain fountains are offered in custom sizes, shapes and colors, as noted on their product pages. That can help when you need a feature to fit a specific wall or opening. Most pieces are built to order, and production usually takes 2 to 8 weeks.
Care
Wall and curtain fountains benefit from regular attention:
- Top off water as it evaporates.
- Clean the pump filter regularly. Our FAQ recommends monthly for our fountains.
- Wipe spillways and faces with a soft cloth to keep water flowing evenly.
- Clean with hot water, and use a calcium cleaner on mineral deposits. Avoid other harsh chemicals.
- Drain and protect outdoor pieces in freezing weather.
For algae tips, see how to prevent algae and oxidation in your outdoor fountain.
Explore vertical water features
Browse our Modern Fountains collection and Waterfalls collection, or contact us at info@fountain-flora.com or (714) 210-1414 to discuss a custom size.
