TROUGHS & FOUNTAINS

CARE & MAINTENANCE GUIDE


For vintage limestone, designed to live beautifully outdoors.



At Olive Ateliers, we believe in the beauty of age and authenticity. Our vintage Limestone Troughs & Fountains are crafted to live with you, to weather, and wear naturally over time. Care and maintenance are yours to choose — preserve your objects to maintain their original finish, or let them evolve into a characterful patina, reminiscent of found vintage treasures. Either way, they will remain honest to their material soul.


Below, you’ll find simple, clear guidance for ensuring your Limestone Trough or Fountain is protected during cold climates.



A majority of our vintage Limestone Troughs originate from warm, humid climates and are naturally porous. In freezing temperatures, any absorbed water trapped in the stone can expand as ice, creating the potential for surface deterioration or cracking. To prevent cold-weather damage, we strongly recommend the following precautions.


Drain & Dry Before Any Freezing Temperatures:


Always empty the trough or fountain before the first freeze.


Winter Storage & Covering:


If possible, move the trough or fountain to a fully covered or indoor location during winter. If outdoor storage is necessary, cover it with a breathable waterproof tarp to shield it from snow and ice.


Elevate to Prevent Ground Freezing:


Placing the trough or fountain on pavers or risers prevents it from freezing to the ground and cracking, as well as from drawing water from ground contact and subsequently freezing.


Failure to winterize the object properly may result in accelerated natural wear or damage, which is not covered under any warranty offered by the company. Please reach out for additional care recommendations.



FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS


How do I clean my fountain?

The simplest way to clean the fountain is with a regular full draining and rinsing of the pebbles and components. Cut power to the fountain and drain it fully. Rinse fresh water through the fountain and pebbles until it runs clear, then refill. To clear buildup, you may also unscrew the copper piping from the pump assembly and buff it with a copper polish, or clean it with a cloth and soapy water.


How do I fix the water flow of my fountain after it has slowed down?

If your fountain loses water pressure, check the filter on the submersible pump to ensure it is free of debris like moss, grass, or leaves from surrounding landscaping.


How do I adjust the water pressure or sound of my fountain?

You can control the water pressure by turning the dial on the pump filter. This adjustment will impact both the water flow and the sound volume. Additionally, using slightly less water can increase the sound of the fountain.


Does the limestone need to be sealed?

Limestone is naturally porous, so any trough converted into a running fountain is sealed before conversion to hold water. We use a liquid rubber sealant applied in multiple coats, allowing each to penetrate the surface imperfections of the stone. If you notice seepage over time, the sealant can be refreshed with an additional coat.


How do I keep algae from forming?

To keep the water clear, we recommend a pet-safe algaecide used per the label instructions. Regular draining and rinsing also helps limit buildup.


Can I run the fountain continuously?

We recommend placing the fountain on a landscape or outlet timer so it does not run around the clock. Turning it off in the evenings and during periods of non-use extends the life of the pump and reduces wear.



A FINAL NOTE ON NATURAL AGING


Outdoor environments are wonderfully unpredictable. Temperature shifts, sunlight, moisture, and even the passage of time will each leave their mark on your Olive Ateliers objects. Embrace these changes as part of the life of your furniture and accessories. Whether you choose regular maintenance or let nature take its course, your objects will continue to tell their story, season after season.



CONTACT FOR ADDITIONAL SUPPORT


For technical specifications or to consult with our material specialists, please reach out to: general@oliveateliers.com