A rain chain at workAs The Gutterman of TN, I understand the desire for combining beauty and style with function when it comes to the look of your home. One way to improve the aesthetics of your gutter system is to install rain chains to protect the foundation of your home from soil erosion by diverting rainwater runoff from your gutters. Widely used in Japan for hundreds of years, installing a rain chain can add a bit of Eastern decor to your house. Rain chains can also play a creative yet important part of a rain collection system. I would like to tell you more about these attractive alternatives to downspouts.

Add a Bit of Zen to Your Garden

Often mistaken as wind chimes, rain chains are generally made from durable copper that will become even more attractive as it ages with that classic green patina. Most commonly, rain chains consist of a series of cups or links chained together, and the rainwater travels downwards through the hole at the bottom of each cup or around the links. One of the benefits of a rain chain is the soothing, meditative sound it creates as the water cascades down the chain through each cup or link.

Conserve Water By Installing Your Rain Chain Above a Rain Barrel

The Japanese use rain chains as a pathway to a rainwater collection container, such as a decorative basin or a rain barrel. By diverting water directly to a catchment device, a rain chain serves an essential function. If you do not have a rain barrel or other container for collecting rainwater runoff from your gutters, you can arrange for the water to go straight into a planting area. The Gutterman has experience with installing rain barrels with rain chains, and we know the best places to put your rainwater collecting system.

Explore the Design Options When Choosing a Rain Chain 

As the popularity of using rain chains as downspouts is growing in our country, you can find different types of rain chains, other than the traditional Asian minimalist style. Cups can be found in shapes such as umbrellas, watering cans, and flowers, according to the Mother Nature Network. When shopping for a rain chain, you will also see a variety of materials, including stainless steel and bamboo, being used to create the chains. Whether you prefer the look of a traditional copper cup chain or a whimsical, fun, and modern creation, you should consider all of the options you have when looking for the perfect rain chain for your home.

Understand the Importance of Proper Installation

The reason why The Gutterman of TN recommends we install your rain chains is to prevent drainage problems due to installation mistakes. When rainwater is not diverted away from your home, the water begins to pool around the foundation. This can cause mold, mildew, a breeding ground for mosquitoes, and possible cracks and other damage to your home’s foundation. We know the best ways and locations to install rain chains to save your house from drainage issues.

If you would like to know more about rain chains and rain barrels, contact The Gutterman of TN today. We will be happy to teach you about this way of conserving water and protecting your home from drainage problems.