About Decorative Gutter
Chains
Decorative gutter chains, or rain chains, are a whimsical way to add curb appeal to a home. Gutter chains are typically made from copper and provide a beautiful alternative to the traditional downspouts. The gutter chains attach to gutters and carry the water down the chain to the ground or a waiting receptacle. The melody created by the falling rain and the tinkling copper is a very pleasant addition to any home. Does this Spark an idea?
Function
Decorative gutter chains replace traditional metal downspouts as they transport the rainwater from the roof to the ground. Many people choose to collect the rain water in a receptacle at the end of the rain chain for household and landscaping uses. The gutter chain link design simply runs the water downward, while other, more decorative cup, flower or basin designs look whole, but have openings in the bottom so that the rain can flow to the ground.
Selection
Decorative gutter chains come in a variety of styles from a large, link type design to all shapes and sizes of cups, bells, flowers and birds. Copper is a popular choice of both color and material, but you will find decorative gutter chains made from other metals like brass, aluminum and iron. Prices vary by manufacturer, but the chain styles are usually sold by the foot while the more decorative styles are sold in standard 8 ½ feet lengths.
Installation
Installing your decorative gutter chains is a simple, straightforward process. They hang from the downspout hole using the gutter piece included with the chain. The purpose of a gutter chain is to carry the water to the ground, so you want your chain to come as close to the ground as possible. If you prefer to collect your rainwater, you may want your gutter chain to fall just inside of the collection receptacle. You can always remove links or cups from the decorative gutter chain if it is too long for your purposes.
Considerations
Selecting your particular style of decorative gutter chain may depend on the amount of rainfall you typically receive. Though all of the gutter chains are designed to handle the flow of rainwater, decorative cup designs actually focus the water into the cup beneath it, so that the flow of water is more concentrated than with the link design.
Benefits
Decorative gutter chains add curb appeal to your home with a touch of style to an otherwise dreary downspout. Functional beauty with the added impact of pleasant sounds during a rain storm will make you wish you had more downspouts to replace.
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