Braided lengths of chain can create visually pleasing rain chains.
A rain chain is a centuries-old practice of channeling rainwater from roofs along suspended chains into catch basins and stone pots. The process originated in Japan, according to the Rainchain.com website, where users combined the device's functionality with the soothing sight and sound of cascading waters to create an aesthetically pleasing point of architecture. Commercially manufactured rain chains are available at many garden centers, but it's easy and inexpensive to make and install your own rain chains and water collection systems. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Dismantle the vertical downspout where you plan to hang your rain chain. Leave the horizontal gutter in place.
2. Clear the molded vertical opening that connected the gutter to the downspout. Use heavy-duty work gloves to clear debris that may have accumulated.
3. Run a garden hose along the gutter. Turn on the tap. Water should run clear through the gutter and out through the drain hole in the gutter.
4. Install a sturdy metal rod across the opening horizontally. Be sure the rod extends several inches on both sides of the drain hole or opening.
5. Attach a large S-hook to the rod where it crosses the drain hole. Secure the S-hook with florist's wire wrapped around the hook at its point of contact with the rod.
6. Slip the top links of three chains through the end of the S-hook. Allow the chains to hang down in place of the downspout.
7. Braid the chains together until about 6 inches of unbraided chain hangs from the bottom. Tie the bottom together with florist's wire.
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