How long can a rain chain be?

A standard 8.5' length of rain chain ranges from 5-7 pounds, although the water in the chain during rainfall does add a little to that. Long drops (20+ feet) may require some additional gutter reinforcement.

People also ask, how long does a rain chain need to be?

Standard length (8 to 8.5 ft) rain chains average between 5 to 9 lbs depending on the style and length of the chain. They are compatible to be hung from most rain gutters. Installation kits are an excellent accessory to hang your rain chain and will bear more weight than a simple v-hook.

Also, are rain chains a good idea? No Blockages. A rain chain eliminates the possibilities of blockages in downspouts. In fact, during winters, when the water freezes the rain chain can turn into a visual spectacle. A rain chain can make your garden, backyard, or outdoor living area come alive with beautiful visuals and pleasant sounds.

Furthermore, can a rain chain replace a downspout?

Rain chains fulfill the purpose of the downspout by acting as the conduit through which water travels from the gutter lining the roof to the ground or catchment system below. Downspouts of course solve this problem. Rain chains fulfill the same purpose but also with some added benefits as well.

Why have a rain chain?

The purpose of a rain chain is to control roof runoff. Installed in place of downspouts, the chains slow the water and direct it to the ground. The chains come in three basic types: links, cups and funnels.

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How much rain can a rain chain handle?

(that's about one inch on 535 sq. ft.), a total of 1,250 litres (1.25 cu m, or 275 gal.) will hit, run down, and escape the impervious surface. It can be channeled along a gutter to a downspout — or rain chain — which directs it to ground level.

How do you anchor a rain chain?

Decorative rocks can also be added around the bottom of the chain, whether it is cascading into a receptacle or just going to the ground. The rocks give it a finished look and help anchor the chain. Fishing line or tent-like stakes can also be used to anchor the rain chains at the bottom, if there is a need.

What is a rain chain basin?

A rain chain attaches to a gutter's downspout opening and works to to slow and control water runoff from the roof and direct it to the ground. A rain chain basin is a decorative basin designed to catch water from a rain chain; however, any suitable container will work.

Are rain chains better than downspouts?

Rain chains are less sturdy, and less high-capacity, than traditional downspouts. The obvious advantage, of course, is that they're much more attractive than most downspouts. They come in a variety of styles and finishes, including copper, which can patina over time to create a beautifully weathered look.

What is the best material for a rain chain?

Most Popular Materials:

Copper: This is the traditional material choice of rain chain artisans.
Steel: This is another traditional metal.
Stainless steel: This corrosion-resistant metal is often used by itself or in a rain chain design with copper.

Can you use a rain chain without gutters?

Rain chains can be used without gutters, but they do depend upon a vertical water source to function most efficiently. If water is arching off the roof, the chain may or may not catch or transport all of the water in both light and heavy rainfall conditions.

Can you hang a rain chain from a tree?

Rain chains do not have to be solely hung from gutters. They can also be hung from trees or used in conjunction with fountains or water wells.

Do rain chains make noise?

Rain chains are decorative alternatives to traditional downspouts connected to your roof gutters. Even though some people fear rain chains will be noisy as they catch and filter precipitation, most designs sound quite peaceful.

How do you keep water away from your house?

Proper drainage is the best way to keep water away from your home's foundation. Install a French drain system around the house foundation – Dig a trench around the foundation, line it with gravel, and place a drain with perforations in it to pull the water away. Cover the drain with gravel and add soil over it.

Why do houses have chains hanging?

Rain chains hang from the hole where the downspout was, using the gutter attachment piece provided. When there is a mismatch because the hole is larger than the chain, a separate Installation Kit (RCR-1) is used to reduce the hole and focus water downward onto (or into) the chain.

Do rain chains work in winter?

Rain chains hold up fine in the winter, even in very cold and freezing climates. The only caution here is that the weight of the ice on the rain chain does not become too heavy for the stock hanging hook.

What is the purpose of a downspout?

A downspout exists to collect excess rainwater, carry it from the roof, and direct it away from the foundation. This piece prevents disastrous basement flooding and consequently, damage. On average, one downspout can drain up to 50 of gutter carrying rainwater.

How do you make a rain chain out of wine bottles?

Just take some wine bottles, cut the bottoms off, turn them upside down, and then string some chain through them. You'll need to get some glass cutting tools and sand the raw edges for safety. Here is an article with a boil and freeze technique to make the bottoms pop off.

Decide how long you want the rain chain to be.
Remove the bowls from a dozen or so spoons.
Drill holes in the end of each spoon handle, including the handles without bowls.
Put two spoons together back to back so the bowls are facing outward.

How do you install rain chain gutters?

Steps:

Decide where the rain chain will be hung and install a downspout outlet in the gutter in the desired location.
Dig a hole slightly wider than the width of your pot and at least 6” deep directly underneath the downspout outlet.
Fill the hole with the ¾” stone.