How to Install a Rain Chain
A rain chain is a beautiful alternative to downspouts and attach easily to existing gutters. Water runs through the gutters and the rain chain directs the water to the ground or into a drain or rain barrel. In addition to the pleasant sound of rain cascading down the rain chain, they shine in sunlight and are a lot nicer looking than a plain downspout. They also eliminate the risk of debris becoming stuck in downspouts, which saves time on home maintenance. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Screwdriver or screwdriver bit
- Gloves
- Drill
- 1/8 inch drill bit
- 1 ½ inch exterior screws
- Metal snips
- Tent stake
- Wire or rope
Instructions
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1
Use a screwdriver to remove the screws from the existing downspout.
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2
Remove the downspout and store or recycle. Wear gloves while removing the downspout since the edges of the downspout are very sharp.
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3
Use the drill with the 1/8 inch drill bit to drill 2 pilot holes through the back of the gutter and into the fascia board. Place one approximately even with the sides of the downspout opening.
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4
Use a screwdriver or drill with a screwdriver bit to slowly screw in each screw. Do not screw in so far that they pull the gutter out of position. These screws increase the amount of weight that the gutter can hold in the event of heavy rains or the added weight of ice on the rain chain during winter.
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5
Push the prongs on the top end of the rain chain into the downspout opening to mount the rain chain to the gutter.
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6
Spread the prongs onto the gutters to hold the rain chain in place.
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7
Secure the rain chain to the ground with a wire or rope tied to a tent stake.
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8
Use metal snips to cut the rain chain to the desired length.
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1
Tips & Warnings
The rain chain can be placed in a rain barrel for water collection. The end may also be attached into a drainage pipe previously used by a downspout. The end may also be secured in a bowl or flower pot placed in a gravel bed to help slow water and divert the water away from the house. There are many ideas to secure the end of the rain chain, consider your landscaping to decide which way will work best for your home.
Rain chains become very heavy when they are covered with ice. Use warm water to remove the ice if it appears as though the weight may pull down the gutter.
