Pond vs. Pondless Waterfall: What’s the Difference?

Introduction: The Backyard Water Feature Dilemma

You’ve been dreaming about adding a water feature to your backyard—a place where you can unwind, listen to the soothing sound of flowing water, and create a peaceful retreat right outside your door. Maybe you picture koi lazily swimming through a crystal-clear pond, or maybe you just want the sound of a cascading waterfall without the maintenance of a full pond.

But now that you’re seriously considering it, you’re stuck. Should you go with a pond or a pondless waterfall? What’s the real difference? Which one is best for your space, your budget, and—most importantly—your lifestyle?

At Brookside Landscape and Design, we’ve helped countless homeowners on the Kitsap Peninsula design and install water features that fit their needs.. You want something beautiful, but you don’t want to bite off more than you can chew when it comes to maintenance. The good news? You really can’t go wrong with either choice—it all depends on what you want out of your water feature. Let’s break it down.

What Is a Pond?

A pond is exactly what you are thinking it is—if rough terms a pond is a hole in the ground that holds water year round. Ponds can be small or large, natural or formal, simple or elaborate. Most backyard ponds include some combination of:

A pump, skimmer, and filtration system to keep the water clean and moving
Aquatic plants such as lilies that help with oxygenation and aesthetics
Fish (optional) like koi or goldfish
Rocks and edging to create a natural look

The best part about having a pond is that you are building and maintaining a living ecosystem. If you love the idea of watching fish swimming around through the water, frogs hopping along the rocks, and dragonflies zipping through the air, a pond might be for you.

But, there is some work involved. Ponds require regular maintenance. You’ll need to clean filters, remove debris, monitor algae growth, and possibly even winterize it if you live in a colder area.

So, if you’re willing to put in the time to care for it or use our company for regular maintenance, a pond can become the heart of your landscape—always changing, always alive.

What Is a Pondless Waterfall?

A pondless waterfall can sound a little confusing. How can you have a waterfall without a pond? Well instead of water being kept in an always visible pond, pondless waterfalls are built on either an Aquabasin or AquaBlox depending on the size of the feature. These products allows the water to remain hidden underground and is then recirculated back up to the top using a pump.

Here’s what makes a pondless waterfall different:

No standing water—water moves continuously, which means less algae or mosquito issues.
Lower maintenance—without a pond, there’s less to clean and care for.
Takes up less space—ideal for smaller yards or areas where a full pond doesn’t fit.
Safer for kids and pets—no open water means no risk of accidental falls.

Pondless waterfalls are all about the sound and movement of water without the responsibility of a full ecosystem. You will still get birds, frogs and other critters that might visit, but they just won’t stay for the long haul. If you just want to enjoy the peaceful noise or sight of running water without the extra work, a pondless waterfall might be your best bet.

Pond vs. Pondless Waterfall: Key Differences

Feature	Pond	Pondless Waterfall
Water Storage	Holds standing water year-round	Water disappears into underground reservoir
Maintenance	Requires cleaning, algae control, and filtration	Minimal maintenance, less algae issues
Space Needed	Requires more space	Can fit in smaller areas
Wildlife	Supports fish, frogs, and plants	No permanent aquatic life, just running water
Safety	Open water (supervision advised for kids/pets)	No open water (safer option)
Cost	Higher upfront cost due to added filtration elements and other materials	Lower cost due to simpler system
Aesthetic Appeal	Natural and serene, integrates with landscape	Natural and serene, integrates with landscape

How to Decide Which One Is Right for You

Now that you understand the basics, let’s talk about which option fits your home and lifestyle best.

Choose a Pond If…

✅ You want a living water feature with fish, plants, and wildlife.

✅ You don’t mind regular maintenance like cleaning filters and removing debris.

✅ You have the space for a larger water feature.

✅ You love the idea of creating a natural, serene ecosystem in your yard.

Choose a Pondless Waterfall If…

✅ You want running water without the upkeep of a pond.

✅ You have a smaller yard or don’t want to dedicate too much space to a water feature.

✅ You’re worried about safety and want something child- and pet-friendly.

✅ You want a low-maintenance, visually striking addition to your landscape.

Common Questions About Ponds and Pondless Waterfalls

Will a pond attract mosquitoes?

Yes and no. Still water attracts mosquitoes, but a properly maintained pond with a pump and fish will keep mosquito populations in check. Pondless waterfalls, on the other hand, don’t have standing water, so they are less likely to attract bugs and mosquitoes.

Can I switch from a pond to a pondless waterfall later?

Yes, but it’s not as simple as flipping a switch. Converting a pond into a pondless waterfall would involve some excavation to thee underground reservoir and some reworking of the plumbing. If you think you might want to switch later, it’s better to start with a pondless waterfall first.

Do pondless waterfalls need a filter?

No. Since there’s no standing water, you don’t need a filtration system like you do with a pond. However, you do need a pump to keep the water circulating properly. If you wanted to add filtration, there are things that can be added to pondless waterfalls like Biofalls and Spillway bowls that allow for the addition of biological filtration.

Which one costs more?

A pond generally costs more than a pondless waterfall because of the added filtration, excavation, and potential for fish and plant life. If you’re looking for a lower-cost water feature, a pondless waterfall is usually the way to go.

Final Thoughts: Which One Will You Choose?

Both ponds and pondless waterfalls bring the beauty and movement of water into your backyard, but they serve different purposes.

If you’re looking for a vibrant, living feature with fish and plants, a pond is the way to go. But if you prefer a low-maintenance, visually striking waterfall without the responsibility of a full pond, a pondless waterfall is a fantastic option.

At Brookside Landscape and Design, we specialize in helping Kitsap Peninsula homeowners create custom, lasting water features that match their lifestyle. Still not sure which one is right for you? We’re happy to talk through your options and help design a feature that fits your space, budget, and vision.

Ready to bring the sound of water to your backyard? Contact us today to get started!

Sustainable Luxury: Discover Eco-Friendly Water Features for Your Home

Luxury is being redefined in a world where environmental conscience is becoming increasingly important. These days, it’s all about making the world a lovely and compassionate sanctuary rather than just using lavish materials and exaggerated grandeur. Including environmentally friendly water elements in your home’s design is one method to do this.

The aesthetic value of water features in Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, Kingston, and surrounding areas, which bring the peace and serenity of nature within, has long been appreciated. But they may also be a sustainable addition to your house if they have a well-thought-out design and use water-efficient technology.

Benefits of Eco-Friendly Water Features for Your Home

Eco-friendly water features in Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, Kingston, and surrounding areas offer many benefits beyond aesthetics. Here are a few key reasons to consider incorporating one into your home:

1. Reduced Environmental Impact

Imagine a water feature that graces your home while minimizing its environmental footprint. Brookside Landscape & Design prioritizes sustainability. We incorporate recirculating pumps that cycle water within the feature, eliminating the constant need for refilling. Additionally, we design features with low-evaporation surfaces, further reducing water consumption. This eco-friendly approach is particularly impactful in drought-prone areas, where water conservation is crucial.

2. Enhanced Ambiance

Close your eyes and picture a gentle cascade or the soft trickle of a fountain. Studies have shown that the sound of water is a stress reliever, promoting relaxation and lowering cortisol levels. Imagine incorporating this tranquility into your daily life. A well-designed water feature by Brookside Landscape & Design becomes the soundtrack to your sanctuary. The calming murmur of water creates a serene atmosphere, suitable for unwinding after a long day or fostering a peaceful reading nook.

3. Improved Air Quality

Dry indoor air can exacerbate allergies and respiratory issues. Here’s where water features in Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, Kingston, and surrounding areas come in as unexpected allies. As water circulates in your feature, it releases moisture into the air, increasing humidity levels. This can be particularly beneficial in drier weather or winter when heating systems further dry the air. Improved air quality translates to better breathing and potentially fewer allergy symptoms.

4. Increased Property Value

Imagine potential buyers stepping into your home and being greeted by the sight and sound of a beautifully designed water feature. A well-crafted water feature adds a touch of luxury and sophistication to any space. This visual appeal is a recognized factor that can increase your home’s value. A thoughtfully designed water feature from Brookside Landscape & Design becomes more than just an aesthetic addition; it’s an investment that elevates your property and enhances its market appeal.

5. A Connection to Nature

The human connection to nature is undeniable. Studies have shown that exhibiting natural elements reduces stress and improves mood. A water feature, even a small one, can bring the sights and sounds of nature indoors. Imagine the gentle gurgle of a tabletop fountain or the sight of vibrant koi gracefully gliding through a pond. These elements create a calming and therapeutic environment, fostering a sense of peace and tranquility within your home. Brookside Landscape & Design can craft a water feature that seamlessly blends the beauty of nature with the comfort of your living space.

How to Incorporate Water Features into Your Home Decor

There are many ways to incorporate eco-friendly water features in Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, Kingston, and surrounding areas into your home decor, regardless of style or budget. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Unveiling the Charm of Eco-Friendly Water Features: A Look at Different Options

Tabletop Fountains

Imagine a miniature oasis nestled on your desk or bookshelf. Tabletop fountains offer a compact way to infuse any room with tranquility. Brookside Landscape & Design prioritizes sustainability, crafting these features from eco-friendly elements such as recycled glass and bamboo. The trickle of water creates a calming ambiance, perfect for a home office or a serene reading nook.

Indoor Ponds

Yearn for a captivating centerpiece that breathes life into your home? Look no further than an indoor pond. Imagine a lush miniature ecosystem teeming with vibrant plants. These plants add an aesthetic touch and play a vital role. Oxygenating the water helps reduce the need for mechanical filtration, making the pond even more eco-friendly. Brookside Landscape & Design can create a customized indoor pond that transforms your space into a tranquil haven.

Water Walls

Embrace a modern aesthetic with a dramatic water wall. These vertical marvels can be crafted from various materials, including natural stone, sleek metal, or innovative recycled plastic. The cascading water creates a captivating visual element, perfect for a contemporary living room or a luxurious outdoor patio. Brookside Landscape & Design understands the importance of customization, offering water walls that seamlessly blend with your existing design scheme.

Disappearing Waterfalls

Limited space should be open to your water feature dreams! Disappearing waterfalls offer a space-saving solution, creating the illusion of cascading water down a wall. The secret lies in a hidden reservoir that efficiently recirculates the water. This makes it practical for smaller areas and reduces water consumption. Brookside Landscape & Design can design a disappearing waterfall that adds a touch of magic and serenity to your compact space.

Birdbaths

Extend a helping hand to feathered friends while adding a touch of elegance to your outdoor space. Birdbaths are not just aesthetically pleasing; they provide a vital water source for birds, mainly during hot summer. Choose a birdbath crafted from durable and sustainable materials like stone or ceramic, ensuring beauty and longevity. Brookside Landscape & Design can help you select the perfect birdbath that complements your garden aesthetic and attracts various avian visitors.

Maintenance Tips for Eco-friendly Water Features

Once you’ve installed your eco-friendly water feature, it’s crucial to maintain it well to ensure its longevity and efficiency. Here are a few tips:

Pump and Filter TLC

Just like any hardworking appliance, your water feature’s pump and filter need regular cleaning. This prevents the buildup of algae and debris, which can decrease pump efficiency and lead to water quality issues. Think of it as a spa day for your water feature! A simple cleaning routine ensures smooth operation and crystal-clear water.

Mind the Water Level

Evaporation is a natural phenomenon, but it can leave your water feature feeling a little dehydrated. Regularly top up the water level to keep things running smoothly. Opt for filtered or rainwater whenever possible. This not only conserves tap water but also minimizes the introduction of unwanted chemicals into your eco-friendly haven.

Algae: Less is More

A bit of algae growth is perfectly normal in any water feature. However, excessive algae can be an eyesore and clog your pump and filter. The key is moderation. If you need to address algae buildup, choose a natural and eco-friendly algaecide. Harsh chemicals can disturb the delicate balance of your miniature ecosystem, so a gentle approach is best.

Keeping an Eye on Water Health

Like a swimming pool, regular water quality checks benefit your water feature. Test the pH and chlorine levels periodically. Maintaining the proper balance ensures a healthy environment for fish or plants that call your water feature home. Regular testing helps you identify and address potential issues before they arise, keeping your eco-friendly oasis sparkling and thriving.

Choose Brookside Landscape & Design for Your Water Features Services

Adding a water feature to your home is a great way to create a sustainable and luxurious oasis. However, choosing a qualified professional to design and install your water feature is important to ensure it is functional and beautiful.

Brookside Landscape & Design is a team of experienced professionals specializing in creating sustainable and water-efficient water features in Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, Kingston, and surrounding areas. We can help you select the best water feature for your home and ensure it is installed and maintained properly.

Contact Brookside Landscape & Design today to learn more about our water feature services.

Living Sustainably with Water Features: Lasting Beauty and Environmental Benefits

Eco-friendly water features in Bainbridge Island, Bremerton, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, Kingston, and surrounding areas are a beautiful and sustainable way to enhance your home. By incorporating water-efficient designs and low-maintenance materials, you can create a water feature that is kind to the planet and adds a touch of luxury to your home. Is the sound of a babbling brook or a cascading waterfall calling your name? If you want to add tranquility and eco-friendly luxury to your home, consider incorporating a water feature designed by Brookside Landscape & Design.

We understand the vitality of creating a sustainable oasis, and our crew of experts can help you choose the best water feature for your space, budget, and environmental goals. We offer consultations to discuss your vision, utilize cutting-edge water recirculation systems and source beautiful, durable materials that minimize environmental impact.

Let Brookside Landscape & Design transform your home into a haven of peace and natural beauty. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and discuss how we can bring the serenity of water into your life. Remember, a well-designed water feature is an investment that will add value to your home and provide years of enjoyment. Don’t wait any longer to create your sustainable sanctuary. Contact Brookside Landscape & Design today!

Hiring a Professional Landscaper vs. DIY Water Feature Installation

Introduction

We live in a world where we’re convinced we can do everything ourselves, watching tons of videos that enable us to become DIY stars. So, it’s only natural if you’re considering giving your old landscape a spin by attempting a DIY water installation project.

But before you can get started, let’s explore some considerations of doing your own landscape design and installation versus hiring a professional landscape contractor in Silverdale, Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and nearby Washington areas.

Professional Landscaper vs. DIY Project

To help you choose properly and make an informed decision, we’re listing some differences between hiring a professional landscape contractor in Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, WA, and a DIY water feature installation.

1- Effort:

Although DIY water feature installation is doable, it can certainly be intimidating and complex. If you attempt to do it yourself, you’ll require assistance as it involves a lot of work. In contrast, if you hire a professional landscaper in Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, and Gig Harbor, WA, you won’t have to lift a finger or do any leg work. From the design to the actual process of transforming your yard into something magical, everything will be done for you.

2- Equipment And Materials:

A professional landscaping project in Bainbridge Island requires specialized equipment and materials that the average homeowner may not have access to.

Expert landscape contractors in Port Orchard have access to heavy-duty equipment and specialized tools like bobcats, excavators, stump grinders, hedge trimmers, and sod cutters required for some aspects of the project. In contrast, you might only have basic tools, equipment, and materials, which can limit the scope and quality of the project.

3- Time:

With the help of a professional landscaper in Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Silverdale, WA, your outdoor water feature installation will only require around 2-4 days of work, depending on the size of your property.

However, for a DIY project, you can expect to work for more than a week(possibly longer), and this timeline doesn’t include the rest you need in between tasks.

4- Landscaping costs:

You might think the most attractive part of a DIY water feature in Silverdale is saving money for the service. But in the long run, even one simple mistake, whether they are apparent right away or even one year later, can double your initial costs.

While professional landscape contractors in Bremerton have experience installing these water features on different types of local yards, soils, and elevations and ensure your costs stay within your budget.

5- Expertise and experience:

Professional landscape contractors in Hansville have the expertise and experience required for installing different water features. They understand the different soil types, plants, and weather conditions and how to use them to create a landscape that will thrive in your specific location.

They also have the experience to foresee and solve problems before they become significant issues. Obviously, a DIY homeowner doesn’t have the same level of knowledge and proficiency, which can significantly hamper the installation.

6- Fresh Ideas:

When you consider different water features in Gig Harbor for your yard, you probably have some ideas and a sense of the materials or look in your mind. But since you lack experience, you might not know all of the possibilities that can come with a great installation.

In turn, your landscape can suffer with your one-sided vision, but a professional landscape contractor in Poulsbo can have an endless library of landscaping ideas and plans and show you the pros and cons of each, laying out different options.

7- Warranty and Guarantee:

Lastly, the most important consideration when choosing between a professional landscaper in Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, WA, and a DIY project is the warranty and guarantee.

Experienced landscapers provide a guarantee and warranty on their work, which provides peace of mind for the homeowner.

In contrast, a DIY project has no scope for any warranties and guarantees, and if there are any problems with the installation, you’ll be the one responsible for fixing it.

Steps Involved in a Professional Water Feature Installation

Here’s a quick breakdown of all the steps included in a professional water feature installation process in Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, Gig Harbor, Hansville, Port Orchard, Poulsbo, and Silverdale, WA,

Digging out a hole and then adding builders’ sand to help create a level base.
Ensure that the base is fairly level so no water is lost unnecessarily.
Once content with the levels, insert the reservoir and pump.
Attaching a hose to the top of the pump and then attaching a hose using a Jubilee clip.
Place the lid on top so that the cut-out is over the pump, and then feed the hose up through the central hole in the plastic lid.
Placing the desired water feature centrally over the reservoir, with a cored-out hole parallel to the central hole in the reservoir lid.
Feeding the hose up through the cored-out hole in the slate feature.
Filling the reservoir with water.
Switching on the pump.

Experience Installation With a Professional Landscaper in Washington

We understand that you want beautiful water features that enhance your curb appeal and are functional. But, the only way to ensure that they won’t require a lot of regular repairs and maintenance is to get help from a credible and reputed landscape contractor in Port Orchard, Poulsbo, Silverdale, and surrounding Washington areas.

Our team at Brookside Landscape and Design will be happy to help you get the beauty and serenity of flowing water using our experience in designing beautiful water features. We’d be happy to show you some ideas on how you can enhance your outdoor space with different water features and professionally install it for you, giving you the confidence that your investment will last.

Conclusion

So, have you been looking for enchanting water features in Bremerton, Bainbridge Island, Gig Harbor, and Hansville? Your search ends here. Our skilled contractors at Brookside Landscape & Design can help you transform your Washington landscape with different charming water features, including ponds, lakes, and fountains.

Upgrade Your Landscape with Stunning Water Features

Are you ready to start on an adventure that will transform your outdoor space? Brookside Landscape and Design, situated in Bremerton, WA, is the best outdoor space/garden/terrace landscape contractor. They can help you discover the captivating potential of water features in Silverdale to transform your landscape into a mesmerizing refuge with their experience and ingenuity. In this blog, we welcome you to explore the fascinating world of water features and the limitless possibilities they provide. From tranquil fountains to meandering streams, prepare to let your creativity go wild and build an outdoor oasis that will impress your friends and neighbors.

What is a Water Feature?

Nature’s gift to outdoor design is water features. They are creative constructions that bring the beauty and serenity of water into your landscape. These features, which range from small, complex fountains to large ponds, give a touch of elegance and a feeling of wonder to any outdoor setting. You may create a wonderful environment that captivates the senses and transports you to a world of calm by harnessing the power of water.

Benefits of Water Features

The allure of water features on Bainbridge Island extends beyond their aesthetic appeal. Here are some of the benefits they bring to your outdoor environment:

Relaxation and Tranquility

The relaxing sound of running water calms both the mind and the body. It fosters a calm environment that makes relaxing after a stressful day easier. Imagine taking your morning coffee while sitting by your pond and listening to the calm flow of water. Or, picture spending a quiet evening in the tranquil setting of a waterfall.

Improved Air Quality

Water features in Bremerton add moisture to the air naturally, acting as humidifiers. It promotes a better environment for you and your plants by assisting in the purification and humidification of the immediate surroundings. In arid climates, the increased humidity can help your garden by keeping the soil from drying up too rapidly.

Increased Property Value

Well-designed water features in Gig Harbor can greatly increase the value of your home. They enhance your home’s appeal to purchasers and provide a unique selling factor. A masterfully designed water feature gives your outdoor area a touch of luxury and sophistication and sets it apart from the competition.

Wildlife Attraction

Wildlife like frogs, butterflies, and birds are drawn to water features. Including a water feature in Hansville in your landscaping gives these lovely critters a home and lures nature to your front door. Your outdoor experience is enhanced by seeing birds splash in the fountain or dragonflies gently skim the surface of your pond.

Visual Delight

The mesmerizing sight of water in motion gives any outdoor environment a sense of beauty and sophistication. It establishes a focal point that grabs attention and engages visitors in dialogue. Your landscape will look even more beautiful because of the interaction of the sun’s rays with the water’s surface, its shimmering reflections, and the interactions between the water and its surrounding vegetation.

Types of Landscape Water Features

Brookside Landscape and Design offers many water features in Poulsbo to suit your taste and space requirements. Here are a few popular options to consider:

Ponds and Water Gardens

Your landscape will feel peaceful and beautiful with a pond. It can be ornamented with fish, aquatic plants, and water lilies to create an environment that can support itself. Ponds can be created in various sizes and shapes to complement the surrounding hardscape and vegetation. Imagine how delightful it would be to watch vibrant koi fish swim by or to take in the beauty of water lily petals floating on the surface.

Waterfalls and Cascades

A cascading cascade is the best way to capture the essence of nature. Your outdoor area will have a subtle sense of drama and serenity thanks to the sound of water flowing over rocks. Waterfalls can be built as freestanding elements or integrated into already-existing retaining walls to create a magnificent focal point. You are immediately drawn into the mesmerizing and immersive experience of water falling down a rocky slope, which transports you to a serene paradise.

Fountains

Fountains are adaptable water elements that may be designed to match any aesthetic, from traditional to modern. They are available in various styles, such as wall-mounted, spouting, and tiered. Fountains offer aesthetic appeal and produce a relaxing background noise that muffles obtrusive sounds. A mesmerizing and charming spectacle is produced by the sight of water smoothly rising into the air and falling back down.

Contact Brookside Landscape and Design for your Water Feature

If you want to add a beautiful water feature in Port Orchard to your landscape, go beyond Brookside Landscape and Design. They will bring your concept to life with their expertise in developing outdoor areas and devotion to client satisfaction. Your experience will be seamless and joyful as you proceed through the process from conception to completion, thanks to their professionals’ advice. Contact Brookside Landscape and Design right now to discuss your project and get started on upgrading your outdoor space.

Final Takeaway

A well-created water feature in Silverdale can enhance any outdoor area, bringing beauty, serenity, and a little nature to your door. You may transform your garden or terrace into a beautiful retreat that represents your taste and individuality with the help of Brookside Landscape and Design. Why then wait? A gorgeous water feature in Hansville may transform your outdoor space, and the flowing water’s tranquil sound can take you to a peaceful place. Prepared to upgrade your outside area? Meet with Brookside Landscape and Design by calling 360-434-6102 to realize your water feature ambitions.

Category: <span>Water Features</span>