A downspout is a crucial part of your gutter system, but it’s not necessarily the most attractive. If you’re looking for a more aesthetically pleasing way to channel water away from your home exterior, a rain chain offers an appealing alternative. Below are a few of the many benefits of these tools. 

What Are They?

Rain chains have been used in Japan for hundreds of years, and they are now catching on in the United States. Traditionally made from copper, a rain chain is a series of cups or bowls connected by chain links, often in decorative shapes such as flowers or fish. They attach to your gutters, taking the place of downspouts. Each cup has a hole in the bottom, so as water runs out of the gutter, it flows from one vessel to the next down the chain toward the drainpipe.

What Is Their Purpose?

For eco-conscious homeowners, a rain chain can be an attractive part of a water conservation system. When the water reaches the bottom of the chain, it can be directed into a rain barrel or basin. The collected water can be used to water potted plants, vegetable gardens, and flower beds, or it can help with cleaning tasks, like washing your car. This type of system comes in handy in areas where rainfall is scarce, or anywhere during times of drought, and it can reduce your water bill as well. 

Why Choose Rain Chains Instead of Downspouts?

Besides performing the basic functions of a downspout, a rain chain adds visual interest to your outdoor area. As the water moves through the vessels, it creates a soothing sound, much like a waterfall. Watching rainwater flow down the chain can be meditative, and in cold weather, a frozen rain chain creates beautiful icicles. You can even incorporate them into your landscaping, directing the water into other decorative elements, such as a bird bath or koi pond.

Based in New Braunfels, TX, Gutters Unlimited is a family-owned and -operated company with over 25 years of experience in gutter repair, replacement, and installation. Whether you’re interested in a rain chain or a more traditional system of downspouts and aluminum gutters, their team has the knowledge and skill to get the job done reliably and affordably. Call (830) 907-3511 to schedule an estimate, or visit their website for more information about the company and their work.