What is a casting?
A casting is made when molten metal is poured into an impression made in sand. The piece used to make the impression is called a pattern. Patterns made during the nineteenth century are considered antique and comprise a large part of Robinson Iron’s unique collection.

Are there any problems with rusting involving the cast iron pieces, particularly the fountains?
While it is true that bare cast iron will oxidize, Robinson Iron takes special care in its painting process sealing each piece from the elements. A thorough coat of Tnemec brand two-part epoxy primer is applied to prevent rusting. Additionally, any piece that is intended to be submersed receives a base coat of zinc primer followed by the epoxy primer. Depending on the final finish, the piece may receive as many as three additional coats of paint as well. Robinson Iron provides a touch-up kit upon request.

Do your fountains come assembled?
Most residential fountains from Robinson Iron come completely welded and assembled and require no bolting. These fountains include the Roman Fluted, Mediterranean, or Janney Crane styles. Some models may require anchorage. There may be assembly required on larger architectural fountains possibly involving a forklift or crane

Are your fountains self contained?
Robinson Iron's fountains are designed as overflowing, drip fountains. Each fountain is built with the intent that it will be placed in a ground basin or pool. We have reconfigured some of our larger fountains with 6' or greater lower bowls to be self-contained, but it is not our recommended use for them. As a convenience we do offer a standard line of ground basins ranging from 4' in diameter to 12'6" in diameter for use with our fountains.

What kind of pump is required?
All of Robinson Iron's residential fountains are designed to operate with a submersible, recirculating pump. The pump we recommend is the "Little Giant" brand that we sell packaged with all of the necessary tubing and valves associated with each fountain. For the architectural style fountains, a more involved system may be required. Robinson Iron can custom engineer a plumbing and electrical system to suit your individual needs.

What is your standard lead-time?
If no special pattern-making or finishing is required our average delivery is four to six weeks.

Can I customize my fountain?
Yes. Robinson Iron assembles each piece at our U.S. manufacturing facility giving us maximum flexibility.

How often should my piece be repainted?
This question depends on the piece and its use. If it is an interior piece that is not submersed, a repainting may never be needed. However, any piece that is submersed or exposed to the elements and has had its paint surface compromised severely, may need painting every 3-5 years depending on the location and quality of water. A Robinson Iron representative will be happy to assist you in writing or over the phone with your refinishing. Each Robinson Iron piece carries a one year warranty on the finish.

What should the diameter of my basin be?
There is a simple rule of thumb regarding the basin's size-the basin's width should be equal to or greater than the height of the fountain .This will minimize splash and loss of water due to wind drift.

How are your pieces shipped?
For any piece not exceeding 130" in girth and width and not exceeding 150 pounds combined with the packing weight, Robinson Iron sends via UPS. For all other pieces, Robinson uses various common carrier services. These companies can be equipped with lift gates and even additional drivers in some cases to assist in unloading. Robinson also has a limited delivery area in which they use their own trucks and personnel.

What finishes are available?
Robinson Iron has a standard line of finishes ranging from the traditional and popular Robinson Verde Gris to Gloss White, however, the staff can match any sample given to them as well. This holds true for any patina finish you may want.

Can your products come in metals other than those shown in the catalog?
Most Robinson pieces are featured in cast iron or cast aluminum, but they can be cast and assembled in a substitute metal if desired. For example, the Laurel Settee is fabricated in cast iron traditionally, but Robinson has cast some in bronze upon request.
 
Are there ways to contain algae?
Robinson Iron is licensed to sell Fountec, which is a nonabrasive algaecide, and Protec, which helps soften hard water. Both products are recommended instead of chlorine which may damage your fountain’s finish.