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.

Similarly, what is the purpose of a rain chain?

?, kusari-toi or kusari-doi, literally "chain-gutter") are alternatives to a downspout. They are widely used in Japan. Their purpose is largely decorative, to make a water feature out of the transport of rainwater from the guttering downwards to a drain or to a storage container.

Secondly, do rain chains splash? While rain chains are beautiful, they do not have quite the utility of traditional downspouts. Since they are open, water can splash from the cups during heavy rain, which means you will want to hang the chains away from exterior walls.

Similarly, 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.

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.

26 Related Question Answers Found

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.

What do rain chains drain into?

Like a downspout the water flow from your rain chain can go directly into your drainage pipe or you can purchase a basin. The basin allows you to use the collected water for plants, flowers or other uses where water can be utilized.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 best rain chain?

Best Sellers in Rain Chains

Marrgon Copper Rain Chain – Decorative Chimes & Cups Replace Gutter Downspout & Divert Water…
U-nitt 8-1/2 feet Rain Chain for Gutter Embossed Medium Cup 8.5 ft Length.
Iron Dragonfly Decorative Rain Chain for Gutters | Unique Downspout Extension Home Décor |…

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.

Where do you hang a rain chain?

Cut a Hole in the Gutter

Using the hole saw, drill a hole in the gutter where you want the rain chain to hang. If using an existing downspout, remove the downspout from the exterior of the house and paint exposed coupling to match the gutter, if necessary.

How do chain downpipes work?

The rainwater that falls on a roof must be managed so that it falls off of the roof in a controlled manner. 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.

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 install a rain chain without a downspout?

How to Use a Rain Chain Without Having Gutters

Select a corner of your roof that sheds rainwater in a vertical stream.
Drill a hole in the bottom of the bucket.
Screw the eyehook into the soffit under the roof crease where you'll hang your rain chain.
Remove the handle from the bucket.
Lay the metal rod across the bottom of the bucket.

How do you make a rain chain with spoons?

Step-By-Step Instructions:

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.

Can you use a rain chain without a gutter?

No. Although rain chains work best when attached to a rain gutter they can also be used wherever the water flows off of your roof, awning or shed. Without a gutter, water pours off the "valley" where two roofs join.