Built for Lightweight Fountains
The broad hex footprint and supported deck are intended for Blue Thumb GFRC and other compatible lightweight fountain pieces with properly distributed loads.
Large GFRC Hex Fountain Basin
$549.99
PROUDLY MADE IN THE USA!
Important: This molded fountain basin is designed to support compatible lightweight fountain features, including Blue Thumb GFRC fountains. The basin itself is not made of GFRC.
- Basin dimensions: 40" × 46" × 14"H
- Reservoir capacity: Approximately 82 gallons
- Recommended use: Compatible GFRC and other lightweight fountain features
- Maximum static load: 850 lb.
- Warranty: Lifetime Manufacturer Warranty
Compatibility note: Heavy fountain pieces and concentrated point loads—including many vase and real-stone fountains—may require an AquaBox® basin instead.
Concealed reservoir for lightweight fountain installations
Large GFRC Hex Fountain Basin
Build a serviceable recirculating fountain around Blue Thumb’s large hex basin. The low-profile reservoir is designed for compatible GFRC and other lightweight fountains, with a supported top deck, recessed plumbing channels, a manifold pocket and convenient pump access built into the layout.
Important: This listing is for the basin assembly—not a complete fountain kit. The fountain piece, pump, plumbing and decorative finish are selected separately.
40" × 46" × 14"HOverall basin dimensions
Approximately 82 gal.Reservoir capacity
850 lb.Maximum static load
Up to 36"HLightweight-fountain guidance
Designed around practical installation and ownership
Why Choose the PB1960 Basin?
Service Access Stays Within Reach
An easy-access pump chamber and cover help keep routine pump inspection and seasonal service from becoming a full fountain teardown.
Cleaner Equipment Routing
Recessed channels provide a planned path for fountain hose, while the manifold pocket supports multi-outlet layouts when the fountain system requires them.
Know what arrives—and what still needs to be selected
Basin Assembly and System Components
Included with the Basin
- Large hex reservoir with single-piece molded construction
- Flat, supported top deck
- Recessed plumbing channels and manifold pocket
- Pump-access chamber with cover
- Integrated Auto Fill Spinweld connection
Not Included
- Fountain piece or sculpture
- Pump, tubing, fittings or manifold
- Auto-fill valve or water-supply connection
- Decorative gravel, stone or polished pebbles
- Electrical service, site preparation, base, backfill, landscaping or labor
Optional Water-Level Control
The built-in connection can accept the separately sold Fountain Basin Auto Fill Kit - 1/2". Add the 30 PSI Regulator when incoming supply pressure exceeds 30 PSI.
PB1960 technical details
Core Specifications
Product name: Large GFRC Hex Fountain Basin
SKU / item number: PB1960
Overall dimensions: 40" × 46" × 14"H
Reservoir capacity: Approximately 82 gallons
Maximum static load: 850 lb.
Recommended application: Compatible GFRC and other lightweight fountains
Fountain-height guidance: Up to 36"H for a compatible lightweight fountain
Basin shape: Hexagonal
Auto-fill connection: Integrated Spinweld; valve sold separately
Manufacturing: Designed and manufactured by Blue Thumb in Saginaw, Michigan, USA
Choose for footprint, water return and fountain compatibility
Compare Blue Thumb Lightweight Fountain Basins
Use the exact fountain or kit specification as the final selection guide. Moving to a different basin changes the reservoir capacity, collection footprint and support profile.
| Basin | SKU | Dimensions | Capacity | Max. static load | Selection guidance |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mini Fountain Basin | PB1946 | 16" × 16" × 16"H | 12 gal. | 250 lb. | Small lightweight fountains up to 12"H |
| 2×2 Fountain Basin | LA2000 | 25" × 25" × 8"H | 12 gal. | 250 lb. | Small fountains with minimal water movement |
| 4×4 Fountain Basin | LA4000 | 49.5" × 49.5" × 12"H | 70 gal. | 750 lb. | Small fountains with low water activity |
| Medium GFRC Basin | PB1953 | 30" × 34" × 14"H | 41 gal. | 500 lb. | Compatible lightweight fountains up to 24"H |
| Large GFRC Basin | PB1960 | 40" × 46" × 14"H | 82 gal. | 850 lb. | Compatible lightweight fountains up to 36"H |
Mini Fountain Basin
SKU: PB1946
Dimensions: 16" × 16" × 16"H
Capacity: 12 gal.
Max. static load: 250 lb.
Best fit: Small lightweight fountains up to 12"H
2×2 Fountain Basin
SKU: LA2000
Dimensions: 25" × 25" × 8"H
Capacity: 12 gal.
Max. static load: 250 lb.
Best fit: Small fountains with minimal water movement
4×4 Fountain Basin
SKU: LA4000
Dimensions: 49.5" × 49.5" × 12"H
Capacity: 70 gal.
Max. static load: 750 lb.
Best fit: Small fountains with low water activity
Medium GFRC Basin
SKU: PB1953
Dimensions: 30" × 34" × 14"H
Capacity: 41 gal.
Max. static load: 500 lb.
Best fit: Compatible lightweight fountains up to 24"H
Large GFRC Basin
SKU: PB1960
Dimensions: 40" × 46" × 14"H
Capacity: 82 gal.
Max. static load: 850 lb.
Best fit: Compatible lightweight fountains up to 36"H
Plan before excavation
Installation Overview
Review the official installation guide and the fountain-specific instructions before digging. The sequence below is a planning overview, not a substitute for the complete manuals.
Choose and Mark the Site
Select a viewing location with practical water and electrical access. Confirm the fountain layout and avoid underground utilities before excavation.
Excavate for the Full Basin
Excavate slightly wider than the basin and to the required depth, removing sharp rocks and roots. If a splash apron is planned, the guide calls for setting the basin about 1.5 inches below grade.
Orient Service Access
Position the pump-access opening, cord notch and optional auto-fill connection where they can be reached after the surrounding landscape is finished.
Level and Backfill
Check the basin side to side with a 2- to 4-foot level. Carefully backfill around it only after the basin sits at the planned elevation and remains level.
Connect the Fountain System
Install the separately selected pump, hose, valve and fountain according to their instructions. Route the hose through the molded basin channel and keep pump access clear.
Fill, Test and Finish
Fill the basin, test the pump and adjust flow to limit splash before adding the final decorative stone and landscape finish.
Protect water level and equipment access
Routine Care and Cold-Weather Planning
During the Season
Replace water lost to evaporation and splash so the pump remains properly submerged. Keep the pump intake and access area clear, and reduce excessive splash with the system’s flow-control valve.
For Prolonged Freezing Conditions
The Blue Thumb guide recommends removing the pump and storing it in a bucket of water where it will not freeze. For an in-ground basin, do not drain the basin for winter; follow the guide and the fountain-specific instructions.
Spring Start-Up
After thawing, drain and clean the basin, refill it with fresh water, reconnect the serviced pump and test the complete fountain before replacing the access cover and finish materials.
Keep these documents with the project
Product Resources
Optional accessory installation
Fountain Basin Auto Fill Kit Video
This official Blue Thumb video demonstrates the separately sold ABDAUTO 1/2-inch auto-fill kit. The auto-fill kit, regulator and water-supply connection are not included with the PB1960 basin.
“Fountain Basin Auto Fill Kit - 1/2" Step by Step Installation (ABDAUTO)” — courtesy of Blue Thumb.
Want Blue Thumb to Confirm the Fit?
Have the fountain dimensions, total operating weight, base or contact area, desired flow pattern and installation plan ready. The Sales/Tech Team can help review whether PB1960 is the appropriate reservoir before you order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is PB1960 a complete fountain kit?
No. This listing is for the large hex basin assembly. The fountain piece, pump, hose, fittings, optional manifold, electrical service, decorative stone and site-preparation materials are not listed as included.
What type of fountain is this basin designed for?
Blue Thumb identifies PB1960 for compatible GFRC and other lightweight fountains, with guidance for pieces up to 36 inches high. Confirm the specific fountain’s footprint, load distribution, water pattern and required flow before pairing components.
Can I use this basin for a vase or real-stone fountain?
Blue Thumb notes that heavier fountains and concentrated point loads may require an AquaBox® basin. Ask the Sales/Tech Team to review the exact fountain and installation.
How much water does the PB1960 hold?
The reservoir capacity is approximately 82 gallons. Actual operating water level depends on the installed pump, plumbing and fountain system.
Is a pump included?
No. Select the pump, tubing, fittings and flow controls according to the fountain’s required flow and lift—not the basin size alone.
Does the basin include an automatic fill valve?
No. The basin includes an integrated Auto Fill Spinweld connection, but the Fountain Basin Auto Fill Kit and water-supply connection are sold separately. A 30 PSI regulator is required when incoming pressure exceeds 30 PSI.
How much space should I allow for installation?
Plan around the full 40-by-46-inch basin footprint and 14-inch height, plus working room for excavation, leveling, backfill, plumbing, electrical access and the surrounding landscape finish.
How should the basin be handled in freezing weather?
For prolonged freezing conditions, the installation guide recommends removing the pump and storing it in water where it will not freeze. For an in-ground installation, leave water in the basin during winter, then drain, clean and refill it after thawing. Follow the fountain-specific instructions as well.
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