top of page

A Guide to Water Features in Desert Landscapes: From Pre-Fabricated to Custom Builds


After spending over three decades installing water features across the Valley of the Sun, I've learned there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Today, I want to break down the three main types of water features we commonly install, along with real costs and maintenance requirements. Trust me, I've installed hundreds of these, and each type has its sweet spot.


Prefabricated Water Features: The Quick Install and Budget-Friendly Option


Let me start with a confession: I used to turn my nose up at prefab features. But

manufacturers have seriously stepped up their game in recent years. Today's prefabricated water features and wall fountains can look absolutely stunning when properly installed and positioned.


Stone wall pre-fabricated water fountain with cascading water, flanked by lush green palms on a tiled patio. Calm, serene ambiance
Pre-fabricated three tiered wall fountain

When looking for a prefab water feature, I recommend that you look for a high-quality piece that is crafted from durable materials like metal, stone, acrylic, concrete or glass. While fountains made from materials like poly-resin and fiberglass may be budget-friendly, they often lack the longevity of premium materials. Of course, there may be some exceptions but in my experience, if you're looking for a long-term addition to your outdoor space, you can't go wrong investing in superior materials and construction that is made to last.


Depending on the size, style and materials, you're probably looking at $2,000 to $8,000 for the unit and installation, though I have seen some really nice custom pieces go for even higher. A higher quality resin or fiberglass piece will start around $2,000, while cast stone or concrete pieces typically range from $4,000 to $8,000.


Some key advantages of prefab features:

  • Quick installation of usually 1-2 days (once the piece is available)

  • Lower upfront costs

  • Less risk of leaks when properly installed

  • Customize size, shape, color, material


Some things to take note of:

  • Custom ordered pieces can take as long as 4-12 weeks to come in so plan accordingly

  • Pre-fab units can be very heavy to move so you may need to hire out for this part

  • Some materials may be more conducive to algae attachment and growth


Maintenance tip: Prefab features typically need cleaning every 3-4 months. Budget about $200-300 annually for maintenance if you're hiring it out. The pumps usually last 2-3 years in our climate and cost $150-500 to replace, but can last longer if well maintained.



Natural Pond Features: The Boulder-Based Beauty


Now, this is where things get really interesting. Natural pond features, built with boulders and rocks, create that authentic desert oasis feel. I absolutely love designing these, though they do require more planning and investment.


Typical costs for boulder water features range from $5,000 to $20,000+ for most standard home lots, depending on size and complexity. For larger properties, these can run upwards of $50,000 or more. As and example, a basic 8x10 foot feature with a single waterfall typically starts around $8-10K, while larger features with multiple waterfalls can easily exceed $50,000 for larger application.


Natural stone waterfall and glowing lights, surrounded by cacti and a tree. Travertine paver path and overcast sky create a serene ambiance.
Multi-tiered natural stone waterfall and travertine paver patio and pathway

Here's what impacts the cost:

  • Boulder selection and quantity ($500-1,500 per ton installed)

  • Excavation depth and complexity

  • Filtration system requirements

  • Additional landscaping around the tiers or levels


One of my favorite recent projects was a 10x15 foot natural pond feature in Gilbert. We used about 5 tons of hand-selected desert boulders and created two separate waterfalls along with smaller rocks in the bottom. The final cost was $21,000, but it completely transformed that side of the backyard into a tranquil l and relaxing retreat for the homeowner.


Maintenance requirements are higher with natural features. You're looking at:

  • Monthly water testing during summer

  • Monthly filter cleaning

  • Once to twice year deep cleaning

  • Annual maintenance costs of $600-1500


Custom Masonry Water Features: The Ultimate in Personalization


This is where we really get to flex our creative muscles. Custom masonry water features offer unlimited design possibilities, from modern wall fountains to elaborate Mediterranean-style tiered features.


Cost ranges for custom masonry features in a residential application typically run:

  • Small wall fountains (4-8 feet: $4,000-12,000

  • Medium features (8-12 feet): $8-15,000

  • Large or complex features: $20,000-70,000+


Stone wall fountain with three water streams into a lit pool. Dark setting, illuminated by soft lights, creating a tranquil ambiance.
This contemporary wall water feature creates the perfect place for a relaxing foot soaking

I recently completed a contemporary water wall feature for a home in Queen Creek. The 4-foot-tall, 12-foot-wide feature included LED lighting and three scuppers. The basin of this feature is 6x8 and is actually large enough to soak your feet in on those hot summer days. The clients had no interest in a swimming pool for their property so this was the perfect solution. The total cost: close to $15,000. That may sound steep but it's now the focal point of their entire landscape design.


What makes these features special:

  • Completely customizable designs

  • Can be perfectly matched to home architecture

  • Ability to incorporate unique materials

  • Option to include fire elements

  • Can include in-ground design or above ground only


Maintenance on custom features varies based on design complexity. Generally budget:

  • Quarterly maintenance checks ($100-200 per visit)

  • Semi-annual deep cleaning ($300-500 per service)

  • Annual maintenance costs of $1,000-1,800



Modern patio with a stone waterfall, fire feature, and pergola. Evening sky, manicured lawn, and a pool with fence in the background.
Custom contemporary water and fire feature with grey stacked stone and pergola overhead.

Scale Considerations for All Types


Here's something crucial I've learned: scale can make or break a great water feature. You want your water feature to make a nice statement but if it's too small compared to the space allowed, if will get lost and forgotten. If it's too large, it may dominate the area allotted and not leave any room for outdoor cooking, dining, relaxing, or other uses.


For reference:

  • Small spaces (under 500 sq ft): Stick to features under 4 feet tall

  • Medium yards (500-2000 sq ft): 4-8 foot features work well

  • Large properties (2000+ sq ft): Features up to 12 feet can work


Water and Power Usage


The power usage and associated costs are going to depend largely on the size of the pump or pumps used on the water feature and how many hours out of the day they run. Smaller fountains and water features will use less power, larger or more complex water features will use more.


Let's talk running costs – because this matters in our desert climate:

  • Prefab features: Usually 100-300 watts, $10-30 monthly in power

  • Natural ponds: 500-1500 watts, $50-150 monthly

  • Custom features: Varies widely, but typically 200-1000 watts


Water loss through evaporation is another consideration. Plan on:

  • Small features: 2-5 gallons daily

  • Medium features: 5-10 gallons daily

  • Large features/ponds: 15-30 gallons daily


Making the Right Choice


After all these years, here's my advice for choosing between these options:

  • Go prefab if: You want quick installation and lower maintenance. Just remember, if you choose a piece that needs to be custom ordered, you may have a long lead time of up to 4-12 weeks.

  • Choose natural if: You're after that authentic desert oasis feel. Be aware that your maintenance requirements will be higher than prefab and if this isn't something you want to deal with yourself, you'll need to find a good maintenance person or company to help.

  • Pick custom if: You want something unique that perfectly matches your home or a statement piece that includes additional features like planters, fire elements, or even a ramada or pergola on top.


Remember, any water feature can look amazing or terrible – it's all in the execution. The key is choosing the right type for your space, budget, and maintenance comfort level. Whether you spend $2,000 or $50,000, proper installation and regular maintenance will keep your water feature looking and sounding beautiful for years to come.


Ready to transform your outdoor space with the soothing sounds of flowing water?

As someone who has been selling, designing and installing these for over 30 years, my team and I work closely with you to understand your vision, space, and budget to create the perfect water feature for your landscape. From a simple pre-fabricated fountain to a custom-built waterfall, we're here to help bring tranquility to your outdoor sanctuary. Contact us today for a free consultation and let's discuss how we can make your water feature dreams a reality.





Recent Posts

See All
bottom of page