A natural stone water feature project adds real value to your property. Whether you want a stone fountain greeting guests at your front entry or a waterfall anchoring your backyard, the right water feature turns unused space into the best part of your yard.
We build custom water features that central Iowa homeowners count on for years. Every project starts with your property, your goals, and the specific conditions of your yard. We then choose the right stone, map the water flow, and place every element so the finished feature fits your outdoor living space naturally.
A professional build also protects your investment. If you cut corners on materials or installation, then you end up paying for repairs before the feature is even a few years old. Ted Lare builds it right the first time, so you never pay twice for the same project.
Ted Lare Design & Build has spent over 40 years creating natural stone water features that transform Central Iowa properties. We design and install everything from standalone fountains to full-scale pond and waterfall systems, all tailored to your landscape and Iowa’s demanding climate. Our team handles every detail so your water feature performs from day one.
We have built every type of water feature there is for home owners of Des Moines, Waukee, Urbandale, Clive, and Surrounding neighborhoods. Every waterfall and pond is built from scratch with special attention to material choices and placement of each stone. Here are some of our offerings:
The natural stone fountains Des Moines properties benefit from add a clean, polished look to patios, entryways, and courtyards. We hand-select each stone and carefully control the water flow to create an architectural feature that draws attention without overwhelming the space. These natural stone fountains can be constructed from a large single stone or a carefully selected arrangement of stones, forming a tiered waterfall.
Large vertical specimen stones can create a grouping of fountains for dramatic effect as well, such as these large basalt stone columns that weigh over 10,000 lbs each.
We have been fortunate to have many Des Moines home owners trust us to build amazing backyard waterfalls with large attached ponds. These large water systems can include ecosystem ponds and koi ponds that evolve naturally in your existing landscape. We design each pond to blend with the terrain and give your backyard a private, relaxing feel.
Our waterfall installation crews use natural rock and your yard’s elevation to build waterfalls with real presence and sound. If you want the look and sound of flowing water without the upkeep, a pondless waterfall is the way to go here in Central Iowa. By eliminating the standing water in a pond, you dramatically reduce the amount of maintenance needed to keep algae under control.
Iowa winters are hard on everything outdoors. That is why proper outdoor water feature installation requires the right foundation from the start. We handle excavation, drainage, and pump system placement so your feature holds up through every freeze-thaw cycle.
As experienced residential water feature contractors that Iowa homeowners depend on, Ted Lare Design & Build brings 40+ years of field knowledge to every build. We craft structural bases that handle harsh winters and hot summers without cracking or shifting.
Our crew controls every step, from stone sourcing to final plumbing, so your natural stone water feature performs for years to come. That level of detail is why our water features still look and run like new ten years after installation. We bring this same standard of work to commercial properties across the metro, building features that hold up under heavy foot traffic and year-round exposure.
They do take some maintenance to keep algae under control during warm months. We build every system for long-term performance, but routine cleaning is needed seasonally. We do offer maintenance packages to help you keep your water feature clean and we are happy to train you on anything needed.
Yes. We build every water feature to handle Iowa’s freeze-thaw cycles. Proper excavation depth and flexible liner systems to protect your investment through the coldest months. We also walk you through seasonal shutdown and startup, so nothing gets damaged.
Most residential water features take one to four weeks, depending on size and complexity. We provide a timeline during your consultation so you know what to expect.
Absolutely. Iowa homeowners have loved our Pondless waterfalls, as they provide the beauty and sound of running water with almost no maintenance. Water recirculates through a hidden reservoir, that way, there’s no standing water to manage.
Have more questions? Reach out to our team for answers.
Your landscape deserves a natural stone water features centerpiece built by the best team in Des Moines and Central Iowa. With 40+ years of premium craftsmanship behind every project, Ted Lare Design & Build delivers water features that perform and impress for years to come.
Schedule your landscaping consultation today and let us bring your vision to life.
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