7 Best Materials For A Durable Bird Bath That Will Last

While there is no guaranteed way to attract birds to your yard, bird baths sure come close. To get the most out of your bird bath, however, you'll often have to invest some elbow grease, from cleaning out any gunk that builds up to repairing those cracks that turn your bird bath into an empty basin — and some bird baths simply require more work than others. Fortunately, there is a way to cut down on the labor involved in maintaining a bird bath. It comes down to choosing one that's made with a reliable and durable material that can withstand wear and tear, thereby reducing the need for repairs or replacements.

When you opt for more durable materials, like stone or metal, that offer resistance to the elements, you can spend more time watching birds and less time tackling a to-do list of chores to keep your bird bath beautiful. Of course, there is no one-size-fits-all solution for bird baths. Instead, even among some of the most durable materials, you'll find that each option has its own pros and cons. As a result, durability is only one feature to consider; it's also important to decide what's a priority for you among cost, aesthetics, and other factors. And, one of the best ways to develop a checklist for what you're looking for is to know what's available.

Durable, resistant to the elements, and sturdy — stone checks all the boxes for what makes a bird bath long-lasting. Due to the natural weight of stone, you don't have to worry about a heavy gust knocking over these bird baths and causing damage. However, for that very same reason, one major con of stone bird baths is that they can be difficult to move. Their porous surface also requires regular cleaning. Despite needing a bit more work on your part, stone is one of the most popular materials for a sturdy bird bath that lasts year after year.

If you like the idea of a heavy, reliable stone bird bath but want something more budget-friendly, concrete is a viable alternative. Concrete bird baths have durability, weather resistance, and care requirements similar to those of stone bird baths. They even offer the same natural aesthetic, with the option for intricate, engraved details that make them as beautiful as they are functional. However, while concrete can withstand harsh weather, it does require some additional steps to reach peak durability. This includes sealing to prevent cracks. Sealing can also aid in cleaning and reducing algae growth.

Copper is just one of the many types of metal that can be used for a bird bath. You don't need to worry about chips or cracks with metal bird baths, and they can handle regular exposure to the elements. They're also lightweight. Copper bird baths, in particular, also sport natural antibacterial qualities. Have you ever heard the old hack of adding pennies to your bird bath to reduce algae? Investing in a high-quality copper bird bath can work in a similar way. Just keep in mind that copper and other metal options can get hot when placed in full sun.

Cast iron may not be the first material that comes to mind when considering bird baths, but it offers several benefits. These include superb durability, no matter the season. During the summer, they hold up well to wind and rain, and as winter rolls around, they accommodate water heaters well. However, their durability does require some effort on your part. Much like the cast-iron pan you might have in your kitchen, maintenance is needed to prevent rust and keep your bird bath in good shape.

With most metal bird baths, there is a risk of rust or corrosion. Thankfully, that's not a problem with stainless steel. Stainless steel bird baths fare well with regular exposure to the elements, and their sturdy exterior means that chips and cracks don't occur often. They're also low maintenance since you don't need to worry about rust with the right care. Just remember that, like other metals, stainless steel bird baths can get hot when placed in the sun, so opting for a shaded area may be better for your backyard birds.

Plastic bird baths can withstand weather and temperature changes well. Plus, while they tend to be more budget-friendly than stone or metal baths, they still come in a variety of aesthetically pleasing options. After all, affordability doesn't have to mean boring. Plastic bird baths are resistant to freezing, meaning that they are not affected by the cold. However, they are considered less durable than stone, and their lighter weight can make them less stable. They may also fade or become brittle over time if left in constant full sun.

If you're a fan of DIYs, then you may know that you can use terracotta pots to make a charming bird bath. While it is true that ceramic bird baths can crack during the freeze-thaw cycle, it's still a surprisingly durable material. After all, like when used in planters and pottery, ceramic can hold up to the elements and regular exposure to water. As a result, if you want a durable bird bath that will last and you live somewhere with mild winters, ceramic can be a solid choice.