It's hard to look past the aesthetic qualities of a rain chain, the ornamental garden staple that serves a purpose beyond its good looks.
If you've asked yourself, 'what is a rain chain?', it is likely that you've read up on its function – which is to collect rainwater from your roof and gutters – and channel it down into your borders. However, while you may know what a rain chain is and does, its efficiency may feel slightly less explored.
In all their beauty, it is hard to believe that a rain chain is as practical as its less aesthetic alternatives – the most prominent being a gutter downspout.
Therefore, we asked experts, should you trust your rain chain? And are they better (or even as effective) as a downspout? Here's what those in the know what you to know.
Are rain chains better than downspouts?
'Rain chains have generally been viewed as a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to downspouts, but they’re also incredibly efficient,' says Des Brosnan, a gardening and home maintenance expert at Brosnan Property Solutions (opens in new tab).
The most obvious benefit of a rain chain is how they look.
'The main appeal of a rain chain is its look, they come in a wide variety of different styles, materials, and colors. If you live in a colder part of the world, they can also freeze, leaving you with a free ice sculpture,' Des Brosnan says. However, there are more hidden benefits to choosing this method.
'Rain chains are also far quieter than regular downspouts,' Des says. 'More upmarket chains [such as this one on Amazon (opens in new tab)] will come equipped with small cups which help to slow down the flow of water as it travels down the chain. This creates a trickle effect as opposed to that gushing sound you get during a downpour from regular drainpipes. It also helps the surrounding areas around the chain.'
Because the water travels slower down a rain chain (in comparison to downspouts), it loses its energy, which, in turn, reduces erosion and damage to the soil around the chain. So, if you're tired of clearing out clogged drains and downspouts, Des Brosnan suggests that a rain chain could be for you. 'There’s nothing to clog, so they’ll just keep ticking over,' he adds.
I installed a rain chain and will never water my plants with tap water again – so I know it's the most sustainable option – and is a surprising way to save money at home, arguably, one of the most significant advantages of this therapeutic tool.
However, it is vital to note that you should not replace all your downspouts, as this method is a stronger way of collecting rainwater. This is especially important if you live in an environment with notably heavy downpours or high winds.
'We’d advise using rain chains to the front of the house or more visible areas as you’ll get the best of both worlds – a beautiful water feature that’s also practical while your downspouts are doing the bulk of the heavy lifting in the background,' Des concludes.
While there are many advantages (as discussed above), it is hard to rival their decorative benefits. 'Rain chains, even if they are just ornamental, may improve the visual attractiveness of a home’s exterior,' says Terrence Thompson from Cut Above The Rest Seamless Gutters (opens in new tab).
'They are one of the most unusual gifts you might give someone because of how unique they are as garden ornaments.' So, while a downspout is stronger, this alternative unrivaled when it comes to adding the most curb appeal.
This cupped rain chain is among our most stylish picks, but of course, it is admired for more than its good looks. The chain uses its large cup sizes to effectively channel the flow of rainwater to where you want it to be in your garden. We love it because each cup is individually hand-hammered to capture as much rainwater as possible. Meanwhile, its contemporary, pewter finish creates a simple but modern look that will look good in every garden.
There's a lot to love about this skillfully crafted rain chain, but its rustic, handmade aesthetic is perhaps the most beautiful element of all. The chain is hand painted in a beautiful Antique Bronze brush-color, meaning each brush stroke is entirely unique. It also promises to make therapeutic sounds every time it rains. We're ready for the rainy winter ahead.
For yet another aesthetic rain chain option, you could do far worse than this unique option that draws inspiration from an
exotic lotus flower. The cups have a wide flared mouth to capture most of the rainwater, while the defined petals distract from its primary use and make the product more ornamental than functional.
What is the advantage of a rain chain?
While there are many advantages (as discussed above), it is hard to rival their decorative benefits. 'Rain chains, even if they are just ornamental, may improve the visual attractiveness of a home’s exterior,' says Terrence Thompson from Cut Above The Rest Seamless Gutters (opens in new tab).
'They are one of the most unusual gifts you might give someone because of how unique they are as garden ornaments.' So, while a downspout is stronger, this alternative unrivaled when it comes to adding the most curb appeal.
Best places to buy rain chains
- Wayfair outdoor rain chains (opens in new tab)
- Amazon rain chains (opens in new tab)
- Home Depot rain chains (opens in new tab)
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