Baptismal Fonts Technical Information

PREFABRICATED/SINGLE-SOURCE baptismal fonts EQUIPMENT DESIGN SERVICE STANDARD AND CUSTOM MODELS TURNKEY INSTALLATIONS

ONE-PIECE AND SECTIONAL MODELS
WET WALLS
WATERFALLS
NOISE-REDUCING WATER FEATURES
TURNKEY INSTALLATION OPTION
HEATERS
CUSTOM DESIGNED EQUIPMENT SERVICES
ODORLESS WATER DISINFECTION EQUIPMENT

DESIGN YOUR OWN PRODUCT LINE

NO LONGER DO YOU HAVE TO COMPROMISE YOUR DESIGN FOR LACK OF A SUITABLE MODEL.
WATER STRUCTURES SPECIALIZES IN CUSTOM-DESIGNED PRODUCTS. FIFTY PERCENT OF OUR PRODUCTION IS DESIGNED BY OUR CLIENTELE.

REMEMBER...IF YOU DON'T SEE IT, DESIGN IT!

THE PROFESSIONAL'S CHOICE

Water Structures provides a single source baptismal font system that is qualitatively better than a site-produced baptismal font. By offering a single-source product, Water Structures' baptismal fonts reduce multi-trade conflicts, save time and greatly reduce the liability nightmare of a leaking baptismal font. Water Structures offers a proven equipment package including odorless water disinfection equipment, as well as pumps, fiber-optic defused lighting, filters and heaters. Professionals can relax knowing that all their clients' needs are met by one, single-source, professional company.

QUALITY: Only quality surface materials like marble, granite ot ceramic tile are used in Water Structures' baptismal fonts. Our baptismal font designs and materials reflect the churches they inhabit. Water displays are meditative and reflective. In short, a Water Structures' baptismal font can never be mistaken for a plastic jacuzzi.
SITE-BUILT baptismal fonts: The renewed interest in the baptismal font as a central architectural feature has brought about some serious construction problems. All too often, parishioners have been greeted by leaking or empty baptismal fonts that are just a few months old. The problem can usually be traced back to an indeterminent leak in a containment vessel. Usually the leaking area is covered by building materials like cement, wire, plastic, copper or tile. Finding the leak is then nearly impossible without taking the baptismal font apart. Containment materials like copper, plastic or cement are prone to undetected site damage or just plain incompetence by the many trades needed to construct the baptismal font.
THE TECHNOLOGY/THE DIFFERENCE: At the heart of every Water Structures' baptismal font is a revolutionary fiberglass/fibercement shell. A proprietary manufacturing process provides Water Structures with the ability to economically produce these superior shells in both standard and custom sizes. Waterfalls, spillways and multi-pool baptismal font designs are uni-sealed at the factory. The super-strong shells provide short term construction protection as well as long-term structural preservation. Simply put, Water Structures' superior shell technology can save a church the agony and embarrassment of a leaky baptismal font.
DESIGN FLEXIBILITY: Water Structures offers both standard and custom baptismal font designs. Our master mold makers have been building architecturally-specified products for fourteen years. Water Structures offers the design professional technical assistance as well as shop drawings and other construction documents. baptismal fonts can be tiled at the factory or on site using conventional thin-set or mud methods. Clients can optionally order shells and equipment or a complete turnkey installation.
COPING: Coping can be constructed in natural stone, cast stone or wood. Natural stone coping like marble or granite, especially with polished edges, are the most costly. Compressed stone and wood are the least expensive.
INTERIOR FINISHES: The interior of the baptismal font must be in tile or natural stone. Water Structures does not use any plastic surfaces like gel-coat. Ceramic, porcelain and glass tiles come in many shapes, colors and textures. Natural stone comes in slab or tile form. Natural stone tiles like granite, marble or limestone are usually polished, but can be ordered in different finishes like rough-sawn, sandblasted or honed. Slab stone can be fabricated to add a dimensional look to the baptismal font. Slab fabrication of natural stone is by far the most expensive.
Note: The manufacturer of the tile or natural stone should always be consulted before specifying any product for underwater use.
EXTERIOR FINISHES: The interior of the baptismal font can be finished in almost any finish desired.
Note: Room for the baptismal font's piping should be allowed for in the baptismal font design.
CUSTOM WATER AND LIGHT OPTIONS: Water Structures also offers a wide array of Water Effects. Water Structures' experienced staff will help you create a fountain or baptismal font with just the right ambient sight and sound.
Water Structures can provide commercial filtration and heating systems for baptismal fonts. Special consideration is given to noises, outer and visual effect. Water Structures can provide self-draining systems equipped with a heater, or permanently filled units with multi-function water effects. The professionals at Water Structures can make your vision a reality.
SHELL: Water Structures' shells are one-piece, factory built, installation-ready vessels, available with pre-plumbed through-wall fittings. Tile or natural stone can be installed at the factory or job site.
STRUCTURAL COMPOSITION: The outer shell is constructed of polyester fiberglass with integral; laminated supports. The interior of the fiberglass mold is chemically bonded to a fiber-cement wall 5/8" thick. Tile or natural stone is adhered to cement surface with conventional latex enhanced thinset.
INTERIOR DURABILITY: The durability of the Water Structures' baptismal font's interior is dependent on what product is chosen. Granites, some marbles and ceramic tiles have traditionally been the best interior surfaces.
PRODUCT LIFE CYCLE: Water Structures' baptismal fonts are designed so that the interior surfaces can be replaced using conventional methods without disrupting the baptismal font's watertight containment vessel. The piping in and around the Water Structures' containment shell, unlike site-produced Gunite or plastic lined baptismal fonts, can be repaired or replaced without jack hammering the font apart. The design of the Water Structures' baptismal font will afford future generations the opportunity to repair and resurface the baptismal font without starting over.

SECTIONAL baptismal fonts

Water Structures' baptismal fonts can be manufactured in sectional pieces that can be assembled on the job site. The reassembled units are sealed, bolted and fiberglassed on site. The inside joint is tiled so as to match the rest of the unit.

FIELD TEST: Water Structures has manufactured tile and natural stone custom baptismal fonts and fountains for thirteen years. Water Structures' products have performed well outside in diverse environments from the Rocky Mountains to the Middle Eastern deserts.
QUALITY CONTROL: Water Structures provides a factory tested, finished product from one source. The experienced mold makers and stone and tile setters at Water Structures have years of experience. Water Structures customers are guaranteed a baptismal font whose look and durability are unmatched in the industry.
FREE STANDING UNITS: baptismal fonts can be constructed with no connecting pipes. The disadvantage of installing a unit this way is that a hose must be used to fill and drain the baptismal font.
CONTINUAL WATER DISPLAY: In some cases it is not possible to locate the baptismal font equipment in a separate area. If water is to be left in the unit, then equipment must be installed under the skirt to prevent the water from becoming unattractive or unhealthy. Easy access is needed for this under-deck equipment. Automatic disinfection, heating and filtration equipment can all be placed under a baptismal font deck. The area needed is dependent on the amount of equipment specified. This equipment does need an electrical supply. Your local Water Structures' representative can help you design an equipment area.
Note: In some cases, mounting the equipment at the baptismal font causes noise and access problems
STRUCTURAL DURABILITY: Water Structures' baptismal fonts have no steel reinforcement that can corrode over time, like Gunite. The Water Structures' shell is construction tolerant with no plastic liner or copper panes that can be easily damaged during construction. Fiberglass has been proven to be one of the most durable products available for the containment of water. Engineers specify fiberglass when they can't afford to take a chance on leakage, as in the construction of underground gasoline storage tanks.

DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

LIGHTING, SPOTS: A baptismal font should be built in such a way as to show off its central place. Spot lights can usually serve this function. Underwater lights are available for applicable installations.
WATER EFFECTS baptismal fonts: baptismal fonts can have a number of water effects that reflect their meditative and symbolic function. The noises created by these effects should be considered when designing a system. Waterfalls and spillways can be diverted for quiet runs but this option must be planned into the plumbing. Waterfalls may be the quietest and easiest solution to noisy baptismal fonts.
LIVING WATER: A small movement can be created in a baptismal font to give it the look of moving water. This symbolic effect has the added benefit of being quiet.
WATERFALLS: A waterfall effect can be created in two ways. The first is to have water pumped into a baptismal font or collector that has a weir or spillway exiting it. Water is pumped from the lower baptismal font into the upper baptismal font or collector. The waterfall or spillway effect is created as the water cascades over the spillway lip back into the lower baptismal font. The spillway collector method demands a significant amount of water be pumped in order for the system to work properly. When water cascades over a waterfall lip, there is a tendency to have some water hug the underside of the waterfall lip. The offending water then travels down the outside wall of the upper baptismal font or collector. This can cause water problems if not planned for. This type of waterfall probably should not be run duing the service due to the level of noise.
The second method for creating a waterfall effect is by using a waterfall fixture. Waterfall fixtures are usually installed in a wall on site. The water throw of the waterfall can be regulated at the pump. Of the two types of waterfall methods, the fixture type is simplest, most efficient and least likely to cause noise level problems.
baptismal font JETS: Some baptismal fonts have been equipped with small, quiet jets that can be mounted in the center of the baptismal font or coming out from the side. These give the water some movement.
STONE OR TILE CHOICE: The ability of a particular stone or tile to maintain its look in water should be considered in choosing a material. Some marbles and tiles do not do well in water. Granites, most tiles and many marbles do well. The manufacturer of the stone or tile should be consulted before choosing a material.
WATERFALL STEPS AND WET WALLS: Waterfall steps and wet walls are quieter to operate than waterfalls. A dynamic water display can be created using these features. When designing a step or wet wall into a baptismal font, it is important to consider how these features project. The projective nature of the features should be worked into the overall design. It is also very important to make sure that the spillway or slide is completely waterproof before applying the surface material. Water Structure's baptismal fonts have a one-piece shell which prevents leakage through this transitional structure which connects the upper and lower baptismal font parts.

DECK SHELL INTERFACE

SHELL INSTALLATION: The piping that surrounds the outside of a baptismal font makes it almost impossible to "drop in" a shell. The shell should be set in place and leveled before the deck is built. If a platform is being poured before the shell is on site, a call should be made to Water Structures to get the exact height of the unit. Remember, it is much easier to bring the baptismal font or fountain shell up than it is to lower it.
SHELL TOP LIP, UNFINISHED: The top of the untiled Water Structures shell has a fibercement lip which usually measures 3 1/2" in width from the inside of the unfinished shell to the outside of the lip. Tile or slab stone can be directly set on this lip. The rough lip can interface with the deck in a number of ways. See your Water Structures representative for details. Dimensional tolerance should be allowed for in the shell deck interface. The shell should be set, leveled, plumbed and tested before decking is built.
SIDE PANEL DECKING: When designing a side panel decking system, the pipe which protrudes from the outside of the shell and its rough lip should be taken into consideration. Try to allow for at least a 5" space from the outside of the shell to the inside of the panel. This space should allow for the throughwall plumbing fittings. The side wall of the untiled shell measures approximately 1", with the exception of the lip area which is approximately 3 1/2" wide by 4" deep. The shell's entire weight must be supported from the bottom. Large baptismal fonts should have their lips supported every 3 feet to prevent movement.
baptismal font DIMENSIONS: Water Structures' baptismal fonts are often built to meet specific design needs. The size of the lip and floor may vary from application to application. Tolerance for dimensional variation should be built into the unit's design. Consult your local Water Structures representative for assistance.
OVERFLOWS: Overflows can be used on baptismal fonts, however, local authorities should be consulted. Overflows are mandatory if an auto fill system is to be used. The fill rate of the auto fill system should be well below the ability of the overflow to dispense with water.
Note: Some churches require a separate dry well be used to drain baptismal font holy water.
DIRECT WATER FILL CONNECTIONS: Most local codes prohibit a direct connection between the baptismal fonts and the portable water system. Some localities will accept direct fill connections if certain types of back flow preventers are used. Some inspectors will only accept a fill system that has a gap between the top of the unit and the fill spot. Though less convenient, a conventional hose fixture with a backflow preventer can be an inexpensive solution.
PIPING REQUIREMENTS, SEPARATE EQUIPMENT: If the recirculation and water effects equipment is to be separate from the baptismal font, piping should be run and tested before the floor is poured. Pipe sizes vary greatly from job to job, but even a small baptismal font should have a minimum of two 1 1/2 " PVC Schedule 40, or better, pipes. Equipment can be placed under the baptismal font decking, which would negate the need for recirculation piping, but would necessitate an electrical feed. Copper pipes do not usually last as long as PVC. An additional pipe will be needed if a controller or lighting system is used at the unit. Often larger pipes are needed as when a water effect is incorporated into the project. Piping requirements can vary greatly from job to job. A Water Structures representative should be consulted before producing piping specifications.
MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS: baptismal fonts need to be maintained. Water must be added due to evaporation. If the system does not have an automatic disinfection system, then a chemical disinfectant must be used. Even systems with automatic disinfection equipment need to have their PH and hardness adjusted occasionally.
SAFETY: The safety of the baptismal font should be considered when designing the unit. Local codes and authorities should be consulted.
EQUIPMENT: baptismal fonts need a designated area to put their equipment. Some fonts can have the equipment installed at the factory. The size of the equipment area can vary greatly. Equipment areas should always be accessible and, whenever possible, be on the same grade or below the baptismal font or fountain. Your Water Structures' representative should be consulted before laying out the room.
FILTRATION: baptismal font water should be filtered every day. Filters should be cleaned when the water is changed.
HEATERS: Some baptismal fonts have heaters that can be turned on when needed. Smaller baptismal fonts may be able to use the domestic hot water. A thermostatic valve would make this process easier and safer.
ODORLESS WATER DISINFECTION: baptismal fonts can be equipped with odorless disinfection systems that operate when the filter pump is on. baptismal fonts and fountains without automatic disinfection systems should be chemically treated.
WATER SUPPLY: baptismal fonts need to be filled frequently due to evaporation and water changes. Direct connection made to the plumbing should not be done unless a back flow preventer is used and the local plumbing inspector is consulted. The control valve for the water fill should be within sight of the baptismal font, if possible.
DRAINAGE: baptismal fonts can be drained or pumped out. The local plumbing inspector should be consulted before any hook ups are made. NOTE: The Church may want baptismal font water to be drained into a separate dry well.
SAFETY: The safety of the public should be considered when designing a baptismal font. When possible, the water depth should be kept down or a safety barrier should be built.

THE BAPTISMAL FONT

The following excerpts were taken from a pastoral letter to the congregation of St. Mary of the Hills, Boylston, MA.

The nature of a baptismal font is described this way in the official documents of the Church.
"A baptismal font separated from the body of the church is to be worthy of the sacrament celebrated there and is to be set aside exclusively for baptism, as befits the place where from the womb of the Church, so to speak, Christians are reborn through water and the Holy Spirit."
The Pastor asked Kim Noble, a representative of Water Structures, to give us a written description of its workings.
"St. Mary of the Hills new baptismal font was designed by the Church's Architects, Keefe Associates of Boston. The baptismal font was placed in the entry of the church so as to incorporate it centrally in the Church's activities. The design reflects other forms in the church as it balances the Altar and Tabernacle.
The water from the top and bottom baptismal fonts is circulated through a filtration and disinfection system. An ultraviolet germicidal disinfecting unit has been used because it has no chemical odor. The top and bottom baptismal font can be quickly filled with thermostatically controlled warm water before Baptisms. Both baptismal fonts have a central flume of water to continually "move the waters" reflecting the Bible's "living water" passages. A timer controls the filtration and disinfection of Baptismal water.
The lower baptismal font is constructed of hand cut Golden Travertine Marble that is from the same vein as the Altar. The Upper baptismal font is manufactured from spun bronze. The Lower baptismal font and the equipment was manufactured and installed by Water Structures. The floor of the baptismal font has been hand cut in an octagonal pattern to reflect the overall design motif. The Marble used is the remaining marble from the two Altars given by the Jesuits of Holy Cross College. The lower baptismal font rests in a custom fiberglass mold to safely contain the lower baptismal font's water.

The success of the project is largely due to Father Tougas' strong sense that Baptism should be a central and continuing part of a living Church. It is hoped by all involved that St. Mary's baptismal font will be just that."

DISCUSSION OF SITE-BUILT PRODUCTS

Custom built baptismal fonts have often been constructed using protective pans made of copper, metal sheet or plastic liner. Wven with these protective pans, water would too often work its way past the interior surfaces, causing a major leak. There are some historical problems with metal and liner pans which are discussed below.

HIDDEN LEAKAGE: Copper, vinyl, or metal sheet liners are easily damaged during the construction process. These liners are made of thin material with weak joints. Hidden damage can occur well after a liner and its piping are tested. Liner pans are labor intensive to install with many different contractors working on the unit. Damage occurring to the pan is not usually visible so it is impossible to tell which sub-contractor was working on the unit when the damage was done. A leak in a liner or pan does not appear until the water migrates past the surface, a process that usually take 6 months or more, long after the sub-contractors have been paid. These liners are impossible to repair without destroying the baptismal font and starting over!
PIPING: The weakest point in a metal pan or liner is the place where a pipe passes through it. These pipes can be drains or recirculation fittings. The more through-wall connections the more likely a leak. Through-wall connections can be easily damaged during construction. Piping connection leaks are usually hidden and can not be fixed without destroying the font which surrounds them.
LONG TERM: Copper, stainless steel, and vinyl can be damaged over time due to the caustic environments they occupy. Copper and stainless steel liners can be eaten by the chemicals in cement. Plastic liners can be stretched due to the heat and chemicals in the water.
WATER STRUCTURES FIBERGLASS/FIBERCEMENT SHELL: Water Structures manufactures a uni-bodied fiberglass/fibercement shell which is far superior to any site-built product. The Water Structures' shell is made from reinforced fiberglass. The exterior is chemically bonded to a fibercement interior surface in the molding process. Because the interior of this uni-boded product is Portland fibercement, it will accept tile adhesive easily. The exterior of the shell is made of fiberglass which is both durable, waterproof and allows for the double manifolding of through-wall pipe fitting.
WATER STRUCTURE PROVEN DEPENDABILITY: Water Structures' staff has thirteen years of experience building custom baptismal fonts, fountains and other water features. Each Water Structures' baptismal font is handcrafted by our experienced craftsman. When you order a Water Structures' baptismal font you get the advantage of a single-source product from an experienced manufacturer. Each shell comes with a Water Structures Limited Ten-Year, No-Leak Warranty.
LIABILITY REDUCTION: The labor and material that go into making a custom tile or natural stone baptismal fonts can be substantial. The cost to remove a custom baptismal font and replace it is even higher than the original cost. Water Structures' baptismal fonts provide you with the best protection possible from indeterminate leakage.