How to Use a Weir Box

Use a weir box for an artificial waterfall, among other purposes.

For backyard waterfalls and landscapes, a weir box can be a beautiful touch. A weir box is a simple contraption with one side lower than the other three and a lip on the lower side. This way, the liquid drains to a specific side and creates a pleasing flowing motion.

Things You'll Need

• Pump or hose
• Bricks or cinder blocks
• Soil
• Flexible tube
• Tub or drain

Instructions

1. Find a landscape with a preinstalled pool, manufactured pond, tub or drain. Without a source to distribute the water, the weir box could create a big mess.

2. Place the weir box in an elevated position. In a landscape, that means placing it at the top of a hill. Place bricks or cinder blocks under the weir box and cover the base with soil for aesthetic purposes.

3. Hook a pump or hose from the drain or pond below to the elevated position above the weir box. Connect a flexible tube from the pump into the box by firmly securing both ends to create a water tight seal.

4. Install the weir box by opening the screen facing the drainage area. If there is no screen and merely a lowered lip on the box, just make sure that the area is facing the drainage area as well.

5. Turn on the pump and watch as the weir box helps to create a beautiful, continuous flow of water.

References

• Tracom: Weir Box Specification
• Free Flow Inc.: Photographs of Free Flow Weir Boxes