Outdoor Decor FAQs

Outdoor Decor FAQs2025-01-17T13:15:42-08:00
What kind of metal is used to make these products?2025-01-22T14:25:09-08:00

ALUMINUM: Our .090 Marine Grade Aluminum (3/32″ thick) is guaranteed to never rust, making it the perfect maintenance-free solution for your outdoor needs. Lightweight yet incredibly strong—aluminum is half the weight of steel and twice as durable—this material is ideal for projects where weight is a concern or where exterior planting takes place in unique environments. Whether for rooftops, decks, sensitive porous surfaces, or coastal locations, aluminum is the ideal choice. Available in a wide array of powder coat colors, aluminum ensures versatility and customization. If a finish other than natural rust is required, then aluminum is what would be used, as it will not rust, even in harsh conditions.

CORTEN : Corten steel, also known as weathering steel, is a type of steel alloy designed to form a stable, protective rust-like patina when exposed to outdoor elements. Once the protective patina has fully developed, corten steel requires little to no maintenance. This makes it a practical choice for outdoor projects requiring a rusted patina, and where upkeep needs to be minimal.

How do your metal planter containers drain?2024-07-03T18:17:00-07:00

All of our containers come with drain holes and intend on being directly planted in. It is not necessary to use grow pots, however some of the designs have been fit with interior shelves to hold grow pots and saucers or to reduce the amount of soil needed to fill the containers if one chooses to do so. Containers can be provided without drain holes. Requests need to be made at time of order.

Drainage Fittings: All containers that drain onto the surface can create Tea-staining. This is a process in which the soil minerals stain the drainage water and the surface below. At an additional charge, Yard Art can customize special fittings hidden in the pots interior to plumb drainage off and away of these sensitive surfaces and eliminate standing water.

What is a Natural Rust finish?2025-01-22T13:52:34-08:00

The natural rust finish begins at the time the product is created and will continue to oxidize/rust to its own unique finish depending on its environment. At first the rust appears powdery on the surface, but over time the rust will penetrate into the steel and evolve into a hard scale texture that is actually etched into the surface of the metal. During this transition some color transfer of the rust can take place. Therefore we do not recommend placing our non powder coated metal garden products on porous light colored surfaces, but it depends on the individuals sensitivity to this process. We would however, recommend the powder coat rust finish. It is made up of a 4 color matte finish, depicting a believable faux rust appearance.

What is powder coating and why do you use it?2025-01-22T13:51:53-08:00

Powder coating is the best method available for coating metal. It is a static electric process in which color, in a powder form is charged and transferred onto the prepared metal which is then heated and cured in a sealed precision oven that emits no VOCs into the atmosphere creating a sustainable durable finish.

What is the oxidized zinc finish?2025-01-22T13:51:34-08:00

The oxidized zinc finish is a natural patina that alters the aluminum to create a zinc finish. This patina will continue to oxidize creating the familiar aged zinc characteristics.

Are more powder coat colors available, or just the ones shown on the color palette?2025-01-22T13:50:33-08:00

Yes, there are more colors available, at an additional charge we can match just about any powder coat if given a sample. You can also go to ralcolor.net and select from the RAL Color Chart

Do you provide custom sizes to fit my specific needs?2025-01-22T13:51:21-08:00

All of our containers, benches, elements, and fire pits can be custom made to meet a specific size at an additional cost. If you know the dimensions you need, you can email us at help@uniquegardendecor.com , or you can call us at (925) 234-3153.

How do I remove and prevent algae from growing in my fountain?2023-06-14T13:55:29-07:00

To remove and prevent algae from growing in your fountain, you can use a tablet called “Fountain Block”. You should be able to find in your local home improvement store or nursery.

What can I do to protect my fountain from heavy winds?2023-06-14T13:55:29-07:00

You can seal the top of the fountain to the basin if you have heavy winds in your area. You can use the sealant, Silicone II, which is sold at Lowes or Home Depot.

  • Step 1) Level your fountain first.
  • Step 2) Silicone the bottom of the top piece by tipping the fountain gently and then filling all the openings with silicone when you set the fountain down. Silicone II acts as an adhesive and has been proven to hold 800 lbs of water.
My fountain is not holding water, what should I do?2023-06-14T13:55:29-07:00

If the base leaks without a visible crack, please let the fountain sit for one week and the crack will appear white. This is to test that a crack exists. Always keep the water 3/4 full as it does evaporate! A pinhole leak can be covered up with Clear Silicone II on the inside of the piece.

Do I need to do anything to take care of the fountain pump?2023-06-15T15:48:02-07:00
  • The pumps are submersible. Please keep pump completely submersed in water to prevent a pump “burn out”.
  • To prevent the “burn out”, please keep the basin of the fountain 3/4 full of water. Filling it will depend how much you run the fountain and the location of it. Don’t forget water evaporates!
  • To prevent dirt from getting into your pump, a suggestion would be to wrap the pump in a mesh screen.
  • To fit our Model 2000 pump in the Cresere & Liveo Fountains, please remove the filter. Rubber Plug: When inserting the black rubber plug, please fill it up with plumbers putty for a secure fit.
Why is the water on my fountain beading up?2023-06-14T13:55:29-07:00

If the water is repelling off the fountain, it is the sealer. You can remove it by wiping the sealant off with a damp terry cloth towel.

Can I leave my fountain out during the winter months?2023-06-14T13:55:28-07:00

Although both our Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete and Cast Stone products are extremely durable proper maintenance is recommended to protect your product from the freeze-thaw cycles that occur in winter. Any piece which can hold water, snow or ice, such as a planter, fountain top or shell, and any piece which is placed directly on the ground surface, such as a statue, fountain base, planter or bench leg, can be damaged by the winter freeze-thaw cycles. To minimize any possible winter damage, please follow the simple suggestions listed below.

  • We suggest that fountain tops not be left outside in the winter. Once the top fills with water/snow and freezes, the top may crack.
  • All fountain bases, bench legs and statuary should be raised up off the ground in winter so they will not freeze to the ground surface.
  • Ideally, a fountain should be stored indoors in the winter away from the elements. However, if a fountain bowl must be left outside, remove all pumps, rubber stoppers, drain pipes, finials and small components, and cover the top, making sure that water does not accumulate in the basin and freeze. Fountain pumps, finials, and other small components should be stored indoors.
  • Check the fountain periodically to insure that the cover is secure and water is not accumulating in any fountain component.

Yard Art or any of our associated manufacturers can not be held responsible for damages to any product related to weather.

What are your brass fountains and garden statuary made of?2024-06-25T19:38:00-07:00

All of our brass fountains and garden statuary are made of solid brass.

How many brass finishes do you have?2024-06-25T19:37:52-07:00

We offer some of our products in two patinas: Verdigris(green-gray) and bronze. Each piece is individual and actual color may vary.

Can I special order a brass finish?2024-06-25T19:37:45-07:00

Because of the difficulty of working with solid brass and the finishing materials, we do not offer custom finishes.

Does brass rust?2024-06-25T19:37:40-07:00

Brass will not rust. Some of the smooth surfaces may loose some of the verdigris finish and turn a dark brown color. Any exposed surface where moisture can accumulate will turn more verdigris.

How long does brass last?2024-06-25T19:37:35-07:00

We like to think of these pieces as “heirlooms of tomorrow” since brass will not decay or rust, you will enjoy your fountain or garden sculpture for many, many years.

Can I use brass products indoors?2024-06-25T19:37:31-07:00

Yes! All of our pieces have been designed to enhance the beauty of your house inside and out.

How does brass weather the outdoors?2024-06-25T19:37:26-07:00

Brass will not rust. Moisture on brass causes a chemical reaction that gives brass its verdigris patina. An outdoor setting will only enhance the finish of your piece.

What does saltwater do to brass?2024-06-25T19:37:21-07:00

Nothing. Moisture of any kind will add to the beauty of your piece.

How do I clean my Brass fountain or sculpture?2024-06-25T19:37:16-07:00

Wipe off the water spots with a coarse cloth or by brushing the spots with a very soft brass-bristled brush. A Lint brush works very well. After you are done removing the water spots, you should apply a light coat of paste wax (Minwax, a furniture wax, works very well). Buff with a clean cloth.

What kind of options for firepits are available ?2025-01-22T14:35:22-08:00

Some additional fire pit options include : Lava Rock, Fire Glass, Lid, Cover, Propane Enclosure, Glass Surround, Electronic Ignition, Timer, Emergency Stop, Granite Top

Why is aluminum a good material for a fire pit ?2025-01-22T14:33:32-08:00

Aluminum is an excellent choice for fire pits due to its combination of durability, lightweight nature, and corrosion resistance. They often feature sleek, minimalist designs that complement modern and contemporary outdoor spaces.

Why is GFRC good for Firepits ?2025-01-22T14:34:07-08:00

GFRC firepits are highly resistant to cracking, chipping, and weathering, making them a long-lasting investment for outdoor areas exposed to the elements.

What does fire pit include ?2025-02-05T16:04:12-08:00

Your firepit will include a burner, and all plumbing necessary to connect to your gas stub, or propane tank.

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