3 Tips For Getting The Most Out Of Your Home's Copper Rain Chains
If you have decided to change the appearance of your home by replacing some of your old, ugly downspouts with copper rain chains, you may wonder if there is anything you can do to make the chains more functional while maintaining their delicate beauty. If so, use the following tips for getting the most out of your home's rain chains.
Intertwine Two Chains on Heavily Drained Corners
Before you take down your old downspouts, observe the amount of water that runs through them during a hard rain. If you notice that some corners drain more water than others, plan on hanging two chains in these areas so they can handle the extra flow.
While hanging two chains can help drain away the additional amount of water, you can take advantage of this situation by intertwining two ornamental copper chains to give them an additional creative touch. For example, you can twist together a chain featuring flowers with one highlighting hummingbirds to create the illusion that the birds are feeding off of the flowers.
Place an Ornamental Bowl with Spout under the Chains
After you have hung up your rain chains, consider placing an ornamental bowl with a spout underneath them to catch the water. Not only does this increase the decorative appeal of the drain system, but the bowl can keep the water from splashing in one area, creating a muddy mess. The bowl collects the water while the spout directs the water away from your home's foundation.
When selecting your bowl, try to match the overall pattern or scheme of your copper chains. If you have delicate flowers and hummingbirds, choose a bowl that is intricately painted with flowers or greenery that extends the pattern.
Line a Drainage Ditch with Small Pebbles
Once you have selected your bowl and found the ideal position for it, create a drainage ditch through which the spout's water can flow to direct it away from your home. However, if you do not want to have a bare, ugly mess of mud that takes away from the decoration, line the ditch with small, smooth pebbles.
However, the pebble-lined ditch does not only add a natural, aesthetic touch to your rain chain system. The pebbles also direct the water away from the base of your house, keeping it from damaging your foundation or leaking into your basement.
Using the above tips when installing your copper rain chains can help make them as functional as they are aesthetically pleasing. If you have any additional questions, speak with a representative from the home and garden business from which you purchased the chains to see if they have any further advice.