Good looks and water protection are entirely possible when you choose to install durable, long-lasting rain chains with Monsters Gutters.
Gutters alone will not adequately protect your home from water damage during a rainstorm. The rain collected by your gutters must be diverted away from your home, which is the purpose of downspouts. Although downspouts serve an important function, they are something that many people find unattractive and they don’t always work in some spaces.
These days, rain chains are becoming a popular alternative to downspouts, particularly at the front of a home or business. What are rain chains, how are they installed, and why should you consider them instead of downspouts? Here is everything you need to know about rain chain installation in Folsom.
What are Rain Chains?
When we mention rain chain installation in Folsom, many of our customers are surprised because they have never heard of them. Accordingly, they often have questions, including “what are rain chains?” and “what do rain chains do?” Fortunately, we have the answers to these and other questions.
Rain chains are essentially a decorative form of downspout. They are placed where traditional downspouts would normally be, or where a regular downspout won’t work. They carry water from your gutters away from your home the same way that downspouts do. The only difference is that instead of moving water through a closed channel, the rain moves down a series of cups or bowls that are held together with chain. This provides a very aesthetically pleasing appearance, and partially gives the illusion of a cascading waterfall.
A basin or container is often placed just beneath a rain chain in order to catch excess water. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone who would like to harvest rainwater. In fact, Monsters Gutter has performed rain chain installation in Folsom for quite a few homeowners who have elected to harvest their own rainwater, now that it is legal to do so in this state.
What Types of Rain Chains are Available?
Rain chains carry a great deal of water, and must therefore be made from rust-proof materials. One of the most common materials we use when performing rain chain installation in Folsom is copper. Many homeowners enjoy the look of copper, particularly if they also have copper guttering. Copper will also develop a nice patina over time that only adds to its visual appeal.
Stainless steel is another popular option that Folsom homeowners choose. As with copper, stainless steel is rustproof and durable, and supports a number of ornate, decorative rain chain options.
What are the Different Styles of Rain Chains?
When considering rain chain installation, Folsom homeowners are often amazed at the selection they have to choose from online. In fact, many clients tell us that the most difficult part of rain chain installation was deciding which style to go with. There are too many different styles to mention; however, a few that we often encounter have features such as:
How do I choose the Right Rain Chain?
The rain chain you choose will largely come down to style and personal preference. Most homeowners are looking for a rain chain that complements their home’s exterior, yet also reflects their own personality. While looks are important, there are also a few other features to consider.
Material
The material your rain chain is made from is very important. Choose a rust-proof material such as copper or stainless steel, both of which will also be durable enough to withstand cascading water. At the same time, these materials are not excessively heavy and will not cause damage to your fascia.
PVC or vinyl downspouts are sturdy enough to carry large amounts of water straight down. However, they may crack or break when exposed to the multiple rushes of water that are common among rain chains. Accordingly, you should avoid buying a rain chain made from these materials as it will likely be very low quality and will not withstand the temperature changes that Folsom see over the course of a year.
Chain
The chain that connects the decorative cups is an equally important component of your rain chain. Ensure yours is sturdy enough to handle large volumes of water without being too heavy for your fascia. Most rain chains weigh between five and seven pounds. This makes them heavy enough to be durable without weighing down your roof.
The links themselves should be sturdily constructed. They should allow for some movement without turning too freely and causing unnecessary friction. Ensure that the links are closed completely and do not contain any gaps that might allow other links to slip through.
Aesthetically-Pleasing Folsom Rain Chains
Now that you know a little bit about these downspout alternatives, you may be wondering why you should consider rain chain installation for your Folsom home or business. The biggest reason our customers choose rain chains over downspouts is appearance. Many customers feel that downspouts give their home an industrial appearance, whereas rain chains provide a softer, more natural look.
The various styles that are available mean that you can easily pick a rain chain that you’ll enjoy looking at. Also you are not limited to only one style of rain chain for your whole home or business. If you are having a hard time choosing, you may want to install a different style along each side, to compliment the landscaping. This is something that is not really feasible when installing downspouts, apart from changing the paint color to match your siding.
Benefits of Rain Chain Installation in Folsom, California
Appearance is not the only reason our clients in Folsom and the surrounding area choose rain chains. Some other benefits include:
People often wonder about the cost of rain chain installation in Folsom. If you have always enjoyed the look of rain chains but worry that they are too expensive, you may be surprised to find they are actually very affordable. In fact, we can often install rain chains for about the same cost (sometimes even less) than what traditional downspouts would cost.
If the idea of rain chains sounds good to you but you are worried about the cost, please contact us. We’ll be glad to provide you with an estimate so that you can see just how affordable rain chains can really be.
Is Folsom Rain Chain Installation Right for Me?
Now that you know a little bit about rain chains, you may be wondering if rain chain installation is right for you and your Folsom home or business. Many California homeowners can benefit from having rain chains installed. You may want to consider them when:
In many cases, the only way to determine whether rain chains are the best choice is to do a side-by-side comparison between them and downspouts. If this is something you would like to set up, please contact us. One of our knowledgeable installers can meet with you to discuss your needs and help you make a more informed decision.
Why Professional Rain Chain Installation Folsom?
After deciding to go with rain chains, you may then wonder whether or not professional rain chain installation is really necessary. After all, the only thing that is involved is hanging a piece of chain, right?
Actually, rain chain installation is more complicated than it seems. For example, you must correctly measure each length of chain, place it at just the right location and secure it for it to receive water from your gutters. It must be securely fastened to keep it from coming loose, clattering against your property or falling out of the gutter during heavy winds.
If even one of these details isn’t right, your rain chain may not perform as well as it should. Why leave anything to chance when you can have us perform your Folsom rain chain installation for you? With our years of experience, we know all the ins and outs of installing rain chains, and will ensure the work is performed correctly. You will enjoy its great performance without having to worry about your rain chain failing when you need it the most.
We begin rain chain installation by determining the exact location where it should hang. We will remove any old downspouts or cut a small opening in the bottom of your gutter. After inserting a thin, flexible liner into the hole, we will make the necessary cuts and adjustments to provide flexibility.
Next, a hanging bar will be placed into the opening. A leaf filter may also be added at this time, to keep debris from gathering. Then, we will hang the rain chain according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once it is in place, we will cut the chain to length.
The final step involves checking your rain chain to make sure it is working at optimal performance. Using a garden hose, we will add water to your gutters and observe as it makes it way down the rain chain. We’ll see that the water flows smoothly and that an excess amount does not spill out the sides. If you have a basin underneath, we’ll make sure it sits in the right location to catch your water as it drains.
Are you wondering if rain chains would be a good investment for your Folsom home? Would you like to know more about rain chains or get an estimate? If so, please contact us at Monsters Gutters. In addition to rain chains, we provide all sorts of gutter related services such as gutter cleaning, repairs, and installation. We would like to be your one-stop shop for all things related to gutters. Give us a call today at (916) 333-0329 to find out more.