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What is a Rain Chain?
Typically made of copper, brass, or aluminum links, rain chains divert rainwater from gutters to the ground in a controlled manner, not unlike a traditional downspout. Rain chains connect to your existing gutter system in the cutout designated for a downspout. However, you can hang them anywhere as desired.
When the showers begin, rain chains transform into an elegant landscape feature. Water flows down the chains to create a kinetic sculpture that delivers on both liquid visuals and soothing sounds.
A rain chain is an alternative to the traditional downspout. Rain chains originated in Japan, where they have been used for hundreds of years. More recently, rain chains have gained popularity in the United States, where they are used in place of downspouts. Rain chain designs range from simple to ornate. Often, if the chain is used for purely functional purposes, it is quite literally, a chain that hangs from the eave of the house. If the chain is being used as an aesthetic feature or is visible from the roadside, more elaborate designs exist.
How Do They Work?
Rain chains work using surface tension. They are connected to gutters, or eaves, usually where a downspout is traditionally placed. As rainwater collects in the gutters and begins to drain, it naturally follows the path of least resistance and follows the chain down to the ground. During this process, water is slowed down, reducing associated energy and thus reducing soil loss and erosion. If soil loss is a concern, consider cupped chains, which will reduce the amount of splashback. Plain chains or loop chains will splash more as less surface area exists to slow the water down.
Rain chains work similarly to a downspout, both direct water away from the roof to the desired location. 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. Common best practices include incorporating rain chains into a water feature or using them to direct water into a rain barrel. Water collected in rain barrels can then be used for non-potable water uses such as irrigation of landscaped beds or to fill a birdbath.
Selecting a Rain Chain
There are many different types of metals available. Rain chains made of aluminum are lightweight and can be used in protected areas with little wind. Galvanized steel is a heavier rain chain; the associated durability makes for a good selection in areas of high winds.
When selecting a rain chain, consider the cost and effort associated with diverse options. If the intention is to make the rain chain a focal point, associated time and money will be more than if the rain chain is purely functional. A rain chain that is a statement piece can be purchased or constructed but will require more resources than one that is less conspicuous.
How Do Rain Chains Work?
Rain chains direct water via surface tension. Essentially, water naturally “sticks” to the chains. This surface tension slows water down to minimize splashing that can damage the siding and foundation of your home over time. Although surface tension helps prevent the draining water from sprinkling about, it’s not as effective as a fully enclosed, impermeable downspout. Some splashing occurs just by the nature of water colliding with the chains.
Cup Rain Chains
To reduce splashing and amplify style, many rain chains feature cups that re-funnel the water as it streams down.
Rain Chain Drainage
Rain chain systems often require some form of drainage system on the ground. Many rain chain systems include a metal dish, called a basin, that collects rainwater and anchors the tail-end of the chain. To divert overflowing runoff away from the home, you may need to install additional drainage around the basin.
Some homeowners opt for rain barrels instead of basins to harvest rainwater for gardening or in-home use to conserve water.
Rain Chain Styles
Traditional, Japanese rain chains come in two main styles: links and cups. Link styles typically cost less, but cup rain chains often strike as more noticeable and upscale. Cup-style rain chains can take on any shape, but bestsellers include watering cans, lily pads, and hammered cups.
Another design choice stems from the materials used. Aluminum and steel can deliver silvery, grey, or chromatic tones, whereas copper procures its distinct pink-orange sheen. With copper rain chains, keep in mind that it patinas into greenish color over time.
Maintenance
Keep in mind that the chain and rainwater will add weight to the eave. Remember, water weighs a little over 8 lbs. per gallon. Look for signs of stress to the roof structure, if noted, remove the rain chain or provide reinforcement to avoid roof damage. Over time, the metal will age. Check the gutters for wear and tear at least twice a year (this can be done when cleaning the gutters, which should also be done twice a year). Choose a material that does not require constant maintenance or replacement. Periodically check the condition of the ground around the chain for signs of erosion; if noted, add more rock or a larger anchoring dish. Inspect the area to ensure water is draining. If standing water is noted, then additional considerations and effort are needed to direct the water away from your home.
The rain chain may not be the answer to all your water management problems, but when used with other rainwater harvesting and best management practices, it has the potential to help reduce erosion, conserve water and add an aesthetically pleasing feature to your home. Rain chains can elicit even more captivating vibes when integrated with a rain garden or ground-level water feature. That’s not to say rain chains improve looks in all cases. For those who believe less is more, too many garden ornaments give a tacky impression.
As for downspouts, we tend to forget they exist, and rightfully so. Many homeowners consider their rain gutters as a purely functional component. However, gutters can add significant flair.
Accenting colors, especially glossy copper gutters, conceivably induce just as much if not more elegance as rain chains.
Performance
An effective drainage system directs as much water as possible at a safe distance from the building.
By that metric, rain chains perform worse than downspouts because they can splash water onto windows and siding, especially during heavy rainfall.
Downspouts should not splash water, which crucially helps keep these components and the building foundation dry.
CALL OR EMAIL US TODAY FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE – 202-276-5004 FAMILY.ROOFING@YAHOO.COM
Rain chains connect to your existing gutter system in the cutout designated for a downspout. However, you can hang them anywhere as desired.
Rain chains work similarly to a downspout, both direct water away from the roof to the desired location. 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. Common best practices include incorporating rain chains into a water feature or using them to direct water into a rain barrel. Water collected in rain barrels can then be used for non-potable water uses such as irrigation of landscaped beds or to fill a birdbath.
