An artificial boulder is a convenient, quick, and simple solution for masking manholes and septic tank openings. These boulders have a hollow interior that matches the external contours of the stone, with the inner volume reduced only by the thickness of the walls, which is 5-7 mm. As a result, the weight of the seemingly massive boulder ranges from 3-4 kg to 10-15 kg, depending on its size.
If a manhole cover or septic tank opening ends up on a lawn after landscaping, decorating it is as simple as placing the boulder over the cover or other object to be concealed. It may be helpful to rotate the boulder slightly to ensure it blends harmoniously with the surrounding landscape. There are no strict rules for such a creative process. However, it is generally recommended to orient the sloped surface of the boulder toward a path, porch, or, in general, the direction from which the boulder will be most frequently viewed. This positioning gives a "softer" appearance when the boulder is in view. This principle mainly applies to boulders with distinctly vertical sides on one or two faces.
Installing a hollow artificial boulder over a manhole on a paved surface can be more challenging. While it is possible to simply place the boulder over the cover in such cases, achieving a harmonious integration of the boulder into the landscape might require additional effort to prepare the site.
One potential approach is illustrated in the accompanying photo: the paving around the manhole was removed, framed, and elevated with fill soil. The result is a design that looks as if a natural boulder was left in front of the garden swing, with the paving adjusted around it. This solution emphasizes the natural appearance of the boulder, giving the impression that it has been there for centuries and was skillfully incorporated into the landscape.
If your manhole was initially level with the paving and you later discovered the possibility of decorating it with hollow artificial boulders, do not be deterred by the prospect of dismantling part of the paved area around the manhole. Paving stones are typically tightly laid on a sand base and are easy to remove. The cleared space can be covered with geotextile and filled with soil level or slightly above the paving—this is more an aesthetic choice than a technical requirement.
In any case, a stone boulder on a grass-covered surface will look more natural than one placed directly on the paving.
A separate topic worth discussing is the installation of an artificial boulder with soil filling. This method is often useful for masking elevated manholes. As with manholes on paved surfaces, there are small tricks that can simplify installation and improve the final result. Additionally, soil filling often allows for cost savings when purchasing an artificial boulder, enabling you to opt for a more durable product within the same budget.
We will address the details of soil-filled installations in upcoming posts. You can purchase artificial boulders with delivery to your location. Orders can be placed through our website or our business page on Facebook, with payment options including bank cards, transfers, or other convenient methods.