What Are Rain Chains?
If you have ever sat and watched a rainstorm out of a window, seen the deluge of water flowing from your gutters and downspouts, and thought about the effects of all that water and pressure on the garden or landscape below, then perhaps it is time you considered an alternative: the rain chain. The rain chain, while gaining a great deal of popularity in recent years, is not a new invention, but it has endured for centuries as both a decorative and utilitarian tool. Does this Spark an idea?
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Definition
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A rain chain is an alternative to traditional gutter downspouts, and it is a device that collects rainwater and diverts it down a chain toward the ground. Typically, rain chains consist of a series of small receptacles placed along a chain that hangs vertically from the corner of the roof line by the edge of the gutters.
History
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Rain chains have been used for centuries as a method of collecting and diverting the flow of rainwater away from houses and other structures. They originated in Japan.
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Benefits
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As opposed to a traditional gutter spout--which allows rainwater to pour down in a flood upon the ground below, frequently causing damage to the landscape, and foundation of the structure--the rain chain diverts rainwater in a series of small cups, buckets or other receptacles spaced along a chain. It does this so that the water does not erode the ground with the force exerted by traditional downspouts.
Materials
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Rain chains are most frequently made from copper. Other metals are occasionally used; so is glass. The small water receptacles are an opportunity for artistic expression, and they are sometimes made in the shape of flowers and other decorative designs.
As Water Features
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In addition to preventing erosion, rain chains provide a decorative water element to an outdoor landscape, creating a small waterfall pleasing both to the ears and the eyes.
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