Q: I want to replace my unattractive downspouts with something just as functional, only created for beauty¡ªboth visual and auditory. Can you tell me, what is a rain chain? Does it work as a downspout, and can I use one to collect rainwater in a basin or rain barrel?
Rain chains (kusari-doi) originated in Japan. Like with downspouts, a rain chain carries rainwater collected from the gutter down and away from the roof. Unlike a downspout, rain chains have two extra duties: elegance and melody. Not only are they beautiful, but they also sound like a day at the spa when the rain trickles down.
Rain chains come in various styles, but if you like DIY projects, these make a relatively easy project, and you can use them to collect rainwater for your garden. Read on to learn more about what rain chains are, and how to incorporate them around your home.
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I’ve always loved the idea of turning something functional into a piece of art, and rain chains do just that. When I first saw one at a friend’s house, the gentle tinkling sound during a light rain was so calming¡ªit’s like having a mini waterfall in your backyard. Beyond aesthetics, rain chains are practical for water conservation. According to the EPA, a typical household can collect about 600 gallons of rainwater per inch of rain on a 1,000-square-foot roof. That’s a lot of free water for your garden! If you’re in an area prone to drought, like parts of California, pairing a rain chain with a barrel can be a game-changer. Just make sure your gutter is clean before installing one¡ªdebris can clog the chain and mess with the flow.
Rain Chains Transform a Plain Gutter Downspout into an Aesthetically Pleasing Water Feature
A rain chain comes with an installation kit for attaching it to a gutter. Simply remove the downspout, then replace it with the installation kit at the top and connect the rain chain.
You can replace all downspouts around the house or specific ones. If you have rain barrels to collect rainwater, a rain chain will work just as well as a downspout or pipe to direct rainwater into the barrel. Or, perhaps you want to set one up in the backyard so you can hear the lovely sound it makes from the patio door when it’s raining.
It’s also possible your only desire is the aesthetic appeal, and adding charm to a garden¡ªwith basically zero maintenance needed. The main job of a rain chain is hanging and waiting for the rain. You don’t need to empty, clean, or check anything. Plus, they look pretty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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Installing a rain chain is a breeze, even for someone like me who’s not exactly a DIY pro. I swapped out a downspout in about 20 minutes with just a screwdriver and a ladder. One tip: make sure the chain is taut and anchored at the bottom, especially in windy areas, or it’ll swing around like a pendulum. If you’re collecting rainwater, position the barrel directly under the chain to catch every drop¡ªmisalign it, and you’ll lose water to splash. Also, consider your local climate. In heavy rain areas, like Seattle, cup-style chains handle larger water volumes better than link chains, which can overflow during a downpour. A quick check with your local hardware store can point you to the best installation kits for your gutter type.
There Are Many Different Styles Available to Purchase, or You Can Make Your Own
The two main styles of rain chains are cups and chains. Cup rain chains feature small containers linked together. The rain collects in the top cup and then spills over into subsequent cups in the chain. Cups move more water than chains, and you can find almost any shape you can think of, including fish, umbrellas, and watering cans.
With chains, the water sort of dribbles down the chain links, which often feature interestingly shaped links. You can find chains where each link is differently shaped and others where all links in the rain chain are of the same design. Examples of chain designs include hearts, leaves, and hummingbirds.
You can also make a rain chain if you like DIY projects and are artsy. You can make them as unusual or as plain as you like.
I got a kick out of browsing rain chain designs online¡ªthere’s everything from sleek, modern cups to whimsical links shaped like tiny teapots. If you’re crafty, making your own is a fun weekend project. I’ve seen folks repurpose old silverware or small metal trinkets into custom chains, which adds a personal touch. Cup-style chains are better for heavy rainfall since they channel water more efficiently¡ªthink of them like a series of mini buckets. Chains, on the other hand, create a softer, more delicate trickle, perfect for lighter rains. If you’re DIY-ing, keep weight in mind; too-heavy materials can strain your gutter. A local garden center once told me copper cups are a favorite because they’re both functional and develop that gorgeous green patina over time.
They Channel Rain From the Roof or Gutter Into a Rain Barrel or Decorative Basin
You can direct a rain chain into a rain barrel or decorative basin to save rainwater for later use in the garden or to service an irrigation system. A few other uses for collected rainwater:
- Cleaning outdoor surfaces
- Bathing pets
- Composting
- Filling outdoor water features
- Washing a vehicle
You don’t need to attach a rain barrel or basin to all of your rain chains. You can if you would like to, or you can only connect one or two. Using rain barrels is especially nice in hotter areas where there are water shortages. Rain barrels can come with a faucet and hose attachment at the bottom of the barrel, making it easy for you to access the water. Basins are generally small and won’t collect as much water.
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Rain barrels paired with rain chains are a match made in heaven for eco-conscious gardeners. I started using a 50-gallon barrel in my backyard, and it’s surprising how quickly it fills up during a good rain. In areas like the Southwest, where water restrictions are common, this setup can save you from hefty fines or high utility bills. A pro tip: elevate your barrel slightly on cinder blocks for easier access to the faucet, and add a mesh screen to keep out leaves and bugs. If you’re just going for looks, a decorative basin with stones or plants around it can turn your rain chain into a focal point. Just check local regulations¡ªsome places have quirky rules about rainwater collection, though most are pretty relaxed.
Rain Chains Are Durable and Weather Well
The most common rain chains are made with copper and weather into a lovely patina over time. You can also find silver aluminum chains that won’t rust or oxidize or change color over time. And for those who love color, you can find powder-coated rain chains that come in different colors.
Copper is a strong material, making rain chains durable, and it can be recycled. Aluminum is lighter than copper, so if you want a rain chain longer than the typical 12 feet, you might want to consider it over copper.
I’ve had a copper rain chain for a couple of years now, and the patina gives it such a rustic charm¡ªalmost like it’s telling a story of every storm it’s weathered. Copper’s durability is a big plus; it can handle everything from scorching summers to freezing winters without a hitch. Aluminum is a great pick if you’re worried about weight or want something low-maintenance that stays shiny. If you’re eyeing a longer chain, say for a two-story house, aluminum’s lighter weight makes installation easier. Cost-wise, copper chains typically run $50-$150, while aluminum ones can be as low as $30. Powder-coated options add a pop of color but might chip over time, so weigh that if you’re in a harsh climate.