How to Stop a Leaking Rain Barrel

Rain barrels collect water from drain spouts and it is cleaned and used in the home.

Rain barrels are widely used in dry areas of the country in order to save and preserve water. When you live in a dry area, such as a desert, your water consumption is regulated. This includes water that you drink, use to wash dishes, take showers and water your lawn. Many people opt to use rain barrels during the rainy seasons to collect water to use during dry seasons. This way, they don't have to be as frugal with their water as they might have to be without the rain barrel.

Things You'll Need

• Aquarium caulk
• Caulking gun
• Paper towels
• Garden hose

Instructions

1. Fill the rain barrel up with water if you don't already know where the leak is. When it is filled all the way up, turn off the hose and let the water leak out. This may take several hours if there is a tiny hole.

2. Search around the water line after the water has leaked as much as it will go. Find any and all holes or cracks that are the cause of the leaking problem.

3. Put the aquarium caulk into the caulking gun after puncturing the tube where instructed.

4. Caulk the holes and cracks that you found that are causing leaks. Wipe away excess caulking with paper towels to keep the rain barrel looking neat.

5. Allow 24 to 48 hours for the caulk to dry. Do not use the barrel before the caulk is completely dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Find an aquarium caulk that will dry clear to keep the rain barrel looking new. This method will only work for the smaller holes and cracks. If there are extremely large holes and cracks, replace the barrel.

References

• Austin City Connection: Rainbarrel FAQ
• Rain Barrel Guide: How to Use Rain Barrels to Harvest Rain Water at Home