Hey there, fellow art and craft enthusiasts! Robert Kline here, your trusted guide in the world of handmade creations. Today, we’re diving into a project that’s as much about crafting an ambiance as it is about crafting a structure: a stunning DIY outdoor water wall.
Imagine the gentle trickle of water, the play of light on cascading glass, and the sense of tranquility that washes over you as you relax in your outdoor space. Sounds magical, right? Well, the good news is, you don’t need a professional’s touch or a hefty budget to make this dream a reality. With a little creativity, some elbow grease, and my step-by-step guide, you can build your very own backyard oasis without breaking the bank.
Why Build a DIY Water Wall?
Beyond the aesthetic appeal, a DIY water wall offers a unique sense of accomplishment. It’s about transforming your outdoor living space with your own two hands, using readily available materials and a dash of ingenuity. Plus, the satisfaction of creating a functional and beautiful water feature yourself is incredibly rewarding.
Gathering Your Water Wall Supplies
Before we jump into the construction phase, let’s gather our tools and materials. Remember, the beauty of a DIY project lies in its flexibility. Feel free to adapt the materials based on your style, budget, and what’s available locally.
Tools:
- Table saw
- Compound Mitre Saw
- Power Drill
- Pneumatic Nail Gun
- Small Compressor
- Staple Gun
- Tape Measure
- Level
Materials:
- Pond Pump: Ensure it’s rated for the height of your water wall.
- Pond Liner: A small sheet, approximately 5′ x 5′, should suffice.
- Tempered Glass: Safety first! This is non-negotiable. Source this from a salvage yard for a budget-friendly option.
- Water Tubing: Flexible plastic or copper tubing, about 10 feet.
- Lumber: 2″ x 2″ x 8′ (approx. 12 pieces), 1″ x 6″ x 8′ pressure-treated (2 pieces), 1″ x 6″ x 8′ cedar fence boards (approx. 14 pieces)
- Plywood: 1/4″ or 3/8″ for the water trough (approx. 4′ x 4′ sheet)
- Cedar Closet Liner: 1 package of tongue and groove style.
- River Rock: 3-4 bags for a visually appealing base.
- Wood Screws: 3-inch for the base frame, 1 1/2-inch for everything else.
- Construction Glue
- Staples
- Solar Spotlights: For a touch of nighttime magic.
Building Your Outdoor Water Wall: A Step-by-Step Guide
This guide is your roadmap, not a rigid blueprint. Feel free to adjust dimensions and techniques based on your chosen materials and design preferences.
Step 1: Building the Base
- Construct a sturdy frame for the base using the 2″ x 2″ lumber.
Step 2: Crafting the Water Trough
- Build a plywood box to fit snugly inside the base frame. This will house the pond pump, secure the glass, and hold the water.
Pro Tip: For a simpler approach, consider lining the inside of the base with plywood directly instead of building a separate trough.
Step 3: Assembling the Base
- If you opted for a separate trough, insert it into the base frame. Elevate it slightly from the bottom using 2″ x 2″ lumber to create a shallower trough, reducing the water volume needed.
Step 4: Installing Glass Supports
- Attach wooden slats to the trough’s bottom to secure the tempered glass panels.
Step 5: Lining the Water Trough
- Line the trough with a pond liner, securing it only at the top with staples.
- Do a test run with some water to check for leaks.
Step 6: Erecting the Water Wall Uprights
- Attach the 1″ x 6″ x 60″ pressure-treated deck boards to the base’s outer center on each side. These will serve as the water wall’s uprights.
Step 7: Enclosing the Base
- Use a pneumatic nail gun to install the cedar tongue & groove closet liner around the base’s exterior.
Step 8: Adding the Base Trim
- Trim the base using ripped cedar fence boards and 1″ x 1″ wood slats for a polished look.
Step 9: Preparing for the Pump
- On the back of the base, where the pump will go, cut a small piece of trim. This will be attached later to conceal the pump’s electrical cord.
Step 10: Installing the Tempered Glass
- Enlist a helping hand for this step.
- Mark the center of the uprights at the top.
- Secure a 2″ x 2″ piece on the backside of your mark.
- Position the glass between the base grooves, resting the top on the 2″ x 2″.
- Secure the front 2″ x 2″ to hold the glass firmly.
Step 11: Installing the Water Tube
- Place the pond pump in the trough.
- Attach the flexible plastic tubing with couplings and clamps inside the upright’s center.
- Fix an elbow at the top.
- Drill 3/16″ holes about 1-inch apart in the top piece of the tubing. These holes control the water flow strength.
- Important: Drill the holes on the side of the tubing that sits against the glass for a downward water flow.
- Test the flow with the pump submerged in a pail of water, adjusting hole size for desired flow.
- Seal the tube’s end with silicone.
- Secure the tubing to the top 2″ x 2″ using screws and washers.
Step 12: Concealing the Water Tubes
- Box in the uprights using cedar fence boards to hide the tubing.
- Remember that small trim piece from Step 9? Attach it now to conceal the pump’s cord.
Step 13: Adding the Finishing Touches
- Apply two coats of your chosen stain. I recommend a semi-transparent stain that complements your outdoor décor.
- Place paving stones or lightweight pool noodles at the trough’s bottom to prevent liner damage.
- Fill the remaining cavity with river rock.
- Sound Preference: If you prefer a more pronounced water sound, skip the paving stones and let the water cascade directly into the trough.
- Fill the trough with water.
- Plug in the water wall, and watch the magic unfold!
Illuminating Your Water Wall
For an added layer of enchantment, install solar spotlights at the back, angling them upwards to illuminate the cascading water. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, but it also adds a touch of magic to your nighttime ambiance.
Maintaining Your Water Wall
Your DIY water wall is a long-term investment that requires minimal upkeep. Regularly check the water level and replenish as needed. If you live in a colder climate, winterize the pump by storing it indoors during freezing temperatures.
Sharing the Joy of Creation
There you have it! Your very own DIY outdoor water wall, a testament to your creativity and craftsmanship. Now, it’s time to sit back, relax, and let the soothing sounds of your creation wash over you.
Don’t forget to share your experience! Post pictures of your stunning water wall in the comments below or tag Robert Kline Art on social media. And if you’re looking for more handmade inspiration, be sure to explore the unique craft projects and gift ideas on our website.
Happy crafting!
Robert Kline