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Gutterman of TN's Blog

Time for a Rain Barrel?

A Rain Barrel in actionAt The Gutterman, we are all about protecting the ground around your house from excess water as it can lead to basement flooding and foundation damage. We also know the importance of conserving water. A rain barrel can help with both of these tasks at once. The Gutterman loves installing rain barrels to collect rainwater from gutter downspouts. This rainwater is recycled by using it to water your lawn and garden during a dry patch. We would like to tell you more about these environmentally-friendly rain barrels and how they can save both water and money.

What exactly is a rain barrel?

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a rain barrel is usually made from a 55-gallon plastic drum with spigots installed at the base of the barrel. These spigots allow the rainwater to be used through a hose or watering can. The rain barrel is installed under a gutter downspout to collect the rainwater for later use.

Why should I use a rain barrel?

The main reason to use a rain barrel is to collect rainwater for use in your garden during dry days. Owning a rain barrel will lower your water bill, lessen the amount of fossil fuel used to supply the potable hose water, and cut down on the amount of water wasted.

What are other benefits of having a rain barrel?

Used as a stormwater management tool, a rain barrel reduces the total volume of stormwater runoff that enters the sewer system. This allows the water treatment facility to reduce their costs and energy since they will be dealing with a smaller volume of stormwater. Rain barrels are also highly visible to your neighborhood and community. Your rain barrel tells your neighbors you are making an attempt to reduce the impact of rainwater on your property. This can start a chain reaction of environmental responsibility in your neighborhood and community.

What are the design considerations when installing a rain barrel?

First, the best downspout for the rain barrel should be determined. Since different downspouts drain rainwater away from different areas of the roof, you may need a small or large drainage area. This depends on how much rain you receive in your area. Next, your rain barrel must be equipped with an overflow pipe. This overflow pipe should extend from the rain barrel to an existing storm drain to move the excess rainwater when your barrel is full. The purpose of the overflow pipe is to keep that excess rainwater from overflowing and just sitting on the land surface. You will also want to have your rain barrel close to your garden, for convenience’s sake. Making sure the rain barrel is on flat ground will keep it from spilling over when full. The Gutterman takes all of these things into consideration when installing rain barrels.

Is it time for a rain barrel at your house? Contact The Gutterman today for more information about our rain barrel service.