What we’re loving this month…

I’ve seen so many of these pop up in my neighbourhood lately and I’m obsessed! Rain chains are such a lovely, whimsical design feature for your home!

Let’s talk gutters! I’m not suggesting getting rid of all your downspouts. But I’ve noticed how downspouts are sometimes placed in the most obvious of places and how it can really detract from the overall experience of your home’s appearance. A rain chain can be a beautiful addition… all while still doing the job of a downspout.

The key is that not all your downspouts should be switched to rain chains. They just don’t handle the same amount of water flow as a normal downspout. Some are literally just chains that drop vertically - definitely not the same capacity of water flow as a normal downspout. However, you can have rain chains that incorporate cups that collect water and each one overflows into the one below it. These can be quite creative and beautiful.

All rain chains should be installed directly into your eaves so that the water runs down just the way a downspout would normally work. They should also be anchored to the ground to minimize sway in higher winds.

The other opportunity for design is where it drains into at the bottom. You’ll want to direct the water out and away from your home (just like a downspout would) or have it collect in some kind of vessel like a planter or a water feature. All of these elements just add so much to the whimsical nature of a rain chain.

Rain chains come in all sorts of designs and finishes. It’s a real opportunity to add a special design detail to your exterior. The next time you’re looking at your home from the outside, consider if a rain chain can add that little touch of whimsy and interest.

A little more here…