How do rain chains work 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.

Also to know is, how does a rain chain work?

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.

Additionally, what can you use instead of gutters? Most homes use regular gutters, you don’t have to use them. Perhaps you don’t like the look of them or the maintenance or you simply want to try something different.

  • Rain Chains.
  • Rain Dispersal Systems.
  • Grading.
  • Drip Edge.
  • Ground Gutter or French Drain.
  • Drip Path.
  • Built-in Gutters.

Then, how do you attach rain chains to gutters?

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.

What’s the point 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.”

13 Related Question Answers Found

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.

Do rain chains work in heavy rain?

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.

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.

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.

Are rain chains better than downspouts?

Advantages. Rain chains are usually more beautiful than downspouts, and they can ease pressure on storm drains. In fact, some municipalities offer incentives to homeowners who disconnect their downspouts from the storm drain. In addition to catching the downward flow of water, it can also serve as a birdbath.

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.

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.

Do you have to have gutters to use a rain chain?

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.

Where should rain chains be placed?

To install a chain, first remove your downspout. Then measure the distance between the bottom of the gutter and the ground to determine how much chain you need. If you’re using a gutter clip, simply attach it to the chain and hang the chain from the gutter.

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?

Yes. 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 a rain chain and how does it work?

Rain chains are a beautiful and functional alternative to traditional, closed gutter downspouts. Guiding rain water visibly down chains or cups from the roof to the ground, rain chains transform a plain gutter downspout into a pleasing water feature.

What is a chain drain?

Rain chains (Japanese: ??, 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.

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