One of the most frequent questions we get regarding rainchains is
if a rain chain can be successfully used without the benefit of a
gutter. The simple answer is, in most cases, they can be used. But,
all situations are different and for a rain chain to work without a
gutter, the water would have to come down from the roof in a vertical
manner to a point, such as a corner or valley of a house. The rain
chain would have to positioned or hung beneath the flow to act
efficiently and catch the rain water. Here is an example of one customer's solution:
One of our customers created his own solution to this problem that not
only looks great but also works well. Unfortunately, we do not sell
the pots or buckets, but I have seen them at local hardware stores such
as Home Depot or Lowes.
Another question we get regularly is regarding homes in the
Southwest which have canales which usually have a closed end. These
canales come in many forms; but most of them usually force the water to
go horizontally instead of vertical; which is what a rain chains needs
to work efficiently. I have customers who have successfully drilled a
hole in the canale which enabled them to hang a rain chain
successfully. The bucket system mentioned above has also been used
used by several satisfied customers. There are many different
ingenious ideas for rain chains, and they do not all have to include a
traditional gutter system.
When rain chains are used in cold, icy climates, do they have to
be removed because of ice buildup? This is another popular question
that is asked frequently. Many people choose to take them down and put
them back up in the spring. But many also choose to leave them up and
watch the beautiful ice sculptures that form on and around the chain.
While you do take a chance when there is a heavy buildup, that the
chain may break; we have gotten very few complaints regarding this.
Please go back to our testimonial link to see the beautiful ice
scuptures that several of our customers have shared with us. One lucky
lady even won our Mothers Day Contest with her interesting picture of
ice surrounding her rain chain.
Don't forget our Gift Certificates in any denomination for those
wedding, birthday, or graduation gifts this summer. Rain chains make a
perfect hostess gift while traveling this summer. Also remember
Father's Day is June 20. Surprise that man in your life with one of
our lovely rain chains!
