how do you install a rain chain without gutters

How do you install a rain chain without 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.

Full Answer

How do you install a rain chain?

Steps for Installing a Rain Chain:

• 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.
• Flip the pot upside down and drill a few drainage holes with a masonry drill.

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How effective are rain chains?

What do you put at the bottom of a rain chain?

1. | Rain chain basin. A rain chain basin ( like this one *) is a large bowl usually made out of cement or metal that catches the water at ...
2. | Rain barrel. I use plastic rain barrels to catch the water runoff. ...
3. | French drain. You can also build a large basin (or french drain) into the ground. ...
4. | Water feature. ...

Do rain chain downspouts work?

How do Rain Chains Work? A rain chain does exactly what a regular downspout does. It controls the flow of rainwater and directs it from the roof to the ground. You can use it to channel the water away and protect the foundations of your house. You can also use it to gather the water in a rain barrel.

Are rain chains effective?

The rain chain is an attractive and effective alternative to the traditional drain pipe – a major component of every rainwater harvesting system. The rain chain is simply a series of interlocking metal links which carry water from the roof gutters down into the storage container or rain barrel during rainwater harvesting.

Can you use rain chain without gutters?

Can you use a rain chain without gutters? Yes, you can use a rain chain without a gutter, but you do want your rain chain to be able to capture enough water to be able to function. Cup-style rain chains can often handle more water than link-styles, so choose according to your home's needs and local climate.

How do you divert rainwater without gutters?

Louver system. Try a louver system if you have an overhanging roof. These metal sheets have divots in them that collect water and direct it away from your home. Attach these directly to the siding of your house just underneath your roof, then watch as the rain droplets get pushed out and away from your foundation.

What goes under a rain chain?

A ceramic or cement jar at the bottom of the chain can also be used to accomplish the same thing. While these options look very pretty, they aren't always big enough to hold all of the water if you happen to have a heavy rain storm. So you'll need to make sure there is a way for the overflow to drain properly.

How do I install rain chain in this old house?

Steps for Installing a Rain Chain: 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. Flip the pot upside down and drill a few drainage holes with a masonry drill. Put the pot in place on top of the hole filled with stone.

What can I use instead of gutters?

9 Gutter Alternative Ideas You Should Consider for Your HomeDrip Path.Ground Gutters.Box Gutters.Drip Edge.Copper Gutters.Underground Rain Chain.Above Ground Rain Chain.Grading.More items...•

How can I direct rainwater away from my house?

How To Divert Water From The HomeClean Your Gutters. This task is both simple and free. ... Extend Your Downspouts. ... Create A Rain Garden. ... Install A Rain Barrel. ... Seal The Driveway. ... Install A French Drain. ... Improve The Grading. ... Install A Sump Pump.

How do you anchor a rain chain?

0:505:41How to Install a Rain Chain | Ask This Old House - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipDown when it rains the water through surface tension is just gonna hold on here travel all the wayMoreDown when it rains the water through surface tension is just gonna hold on here travel all the way down to the ground. Comes in different shapes.

Are rain chains better than downspouts?

Rain chains are less sturdy, and less high-capacity, than traditional downspouts. If you live somewhere with heavy weather and high winds, you'll need to install backup downspouts to handle your rainfall, because rain chains alone won't be able to do the job.

What is the point of a rain chain?

Rain chains help to direct water to rain barrels, landscaped beds, or other water features. It is critical to make sure the water flowing from the chain is flowing away from the foundation of your home; rain chains offer little benefit otherwise. Consider how water channeled with a rain chain will be used.

How to test gutterless rain chain?

You can pre-test your gutterless rain chain to be sure it is positioned properly. Spray a garden hose up to your rooftop in the general area of the crease. Let the water run down into your rain chain for about 10 minutes. Adjust your bucket position if necessary. Divert rainwater without gutters or downspouts with a rain chain.

How to attach a metal rod to a bucket?

Lay the metal rod across the bottom of the bucket. Attach the S-hook to the metal rod. Position the rod and hook so that the S-hook dangles through the hole in the bucket.

Can you divert rainwater without gutters?

Divert rainwater without gutters or downspouts with a rain chain. Most sloping roofs can accommodate a rain chain even without a gutter. Since roof slopes will vary from home to home, so will the trajectory of the water that streams from a roof through a crevice or crease during a storm.

What is a rain chain?

Rain chains are beautiful, functional chains that hang from your rain gutters, and in some instances, your roof. They guide rain down from the gutter to the ground and magically turn a rain downpour into an impromptu, stunning water display that you can watch.

What is the purpose of 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. Originating in Japan, the Japanese rain chain is referred to as "kusari doi" which means "chain gutter.".

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. Click to see full answer. Consequently, how does a rain chain work?

How much does a rain chain cost?

Rain chains usually cost about $40 to $50 depending on which metal you choose. If you have a large roof, you may need more than one rain chain. If you get a lot of freezing weather, stay away from rain chains. The heavy ice can do damage to your gutters.

What is a rain chain made of?

Rain chains can be made of copper or aluminum, and they’re usually long, chain-like structures as tall as your home. Hook a metal rain chain onto the side of your home where the water collects the most. As it rains, the water will run down the chain and into the grassy or planted area at the end of the chain.

What to do if you get a lot of freezing weather?

If you get a lot of freezing weather, stay away from rain chains. The heavy ice can do damage to your gutters.

How much does it cost to install a French drain?

The price of a French drain varies, but it usually costs between $2,000 and $3,000 for a full installation.

Can you install drip edges on a house?

Drip edges can be a little tough to install if your house is already fully built. However, you can hire a professional to do it for you.

Do French drains need to be installed?

You may need a professional to help with installation. French drains must be installed properly, otherwise, they won’t work.

Why install a rain chain?

For the most discerning homeowners, installing a rain chain is a great opportunity to protect your home without sacrificing curb appeal. These chains turn purely utilitarian gutters into true water features that add a new focal point to your home. Talk about a win-win!

How to make a rain chain?

Then, set up your rain chain for successful draining by following these steps: 1 Stake the end of your chain to the ground so it is not susceptible to high winds 2 Add a basin, copper rain barrel, or rain chain receptacle to harvest and reuse rain water 3 Decorate your receptacle with stones, rocks, floating plants, and whatever else you wish to complete the look!

Why are rain chains important?

And because they’re one of the more unique pieces of garden decor available, they make an incredibly special gift. 2.

What are rain chains made of?

Many rain chains are made of copper, an already-gorgeous element which famously develops a unique patina over the years. Others are made of steel and finished to stay copper-colored forever. 7. Rain Chains Can Also Be Purely for Decoration.

How much does a rain chain cost?

Rain chains are reasonably priced and can boost your garden’s wow factor for less than you think. You can purchase a high-quality rain chain starting at around $50— a small price to pay for an item that’s as pretty is it is effective. 4. Rain Chains Are Less Likely to Clog.

Why are rain chains used today?

They are still used today to keep water runoff away from the roofs of both homes and religious temples. Like many items that hail from Japan, rain chains are a perfect mix of functionality and beauty.

What color is a rain chain?

You can find a rainchain in just about any color and every theme, although the copper-colored variety are definitely the most popular.