Even thought the temps outside are beyond chilly, it is not too early to start planning that water feature for your yard. Enhanced landscaping improves property value, and water features will make your property stand out from the rest. Water features will raise home’s values much like a deck, patio, or gazebo. The sound of a water feature will drown out noise from traffic or neighbors. In addition, water features provide an interesting backdrop for entertaining while adding aesthetic appeal to your landscape.
Nearly 20% of buyers say they consider landscaping to be a ‘very important’ factor in their decision to buy a house, according to a new study by the National Association of Realtors.
Backyard ponds create a gathering spot for family and friends, which is a magnet focal point in pulling the family together. Water features provide soothing sights and sounds that help you relax and de-stress in today’s busy world. Studies have shown that hospital patients who have a view of natural landscapes recover faster from surgery and require less pain medication. In addition, heart rate, blood pressure, and other measures return to normal levels more quickly when people view natural rather than urban landscapes after a stressful experience.
Environmental sustainability has taken center stage in today’s world, and water plays an important role as the world’s greatest resource. An ecosystem pond is self-sustaining with very little maintenance. Although it takes gallons of water to fill initially, over the long haul it requires less water than the expanse of lawn it replaced.
Landscaping can change the microclimate around a building by 20 – 25 degrees F. According to the US Department of Energy, energy-efficient landscaping can save up to 30% on home heating bills. Savings for cooling can be even more. Tests in Florida showed a 50% reduction in air conditioning costs. Most people can save at least a few hundred dollars a year by properly reworking their yard … Water also tempers heat. Even a small pond can help. Start planning now, and by spring you will be ready to “plug in” to the sound of waterfalls.
