Rain chains originated in Asia and are becoming more popular as a result of the green gardening movement. I’d never heard of rain chains until the other day, then, suddenly I saw them everywhere--at least in catalogs. Truth be told, I haven’t seen one of them in person. What are rain chains? That’s an easy question to answer: Rain chains are artistic alternatives to traditional downspouts. But they’re not just works of art, they really do work well at collecting water.
There are several different styles of rain chains including the traditional single loop chain pictured above, as well as chains with cups in the shape of lily flowers, miniature pineapples, lotus flowers
, funnels, and tulips that catch and hold water as it falls. There are about 16 cups on a rain chain, which are about 7 to 8 feet in length including attachment pieces. Add or remove cups to adjust the length.
Rain chains are made from metal, typically solid copper or sometimes brass. High quality rain chains should be smooth to the touch and water should flow smoothly and softly down the chain when it rains. They are easy to install to an existing gutter system.
Photo source: www.stanwoodimports.com