Are Rain Chains Better than Downspouts?

May 25, 2022

Every building has its own draining system that's adapted to the edification and its surroundings. Rain gutters are a key part of this system, catching the rainwater from the roofs and preventing pools of water around the property. A Rain Gutter Installation Service often includes the downspouts, since they need to complement the gutters in all ways to direct the water properly to its destination. Downspouts are the most common option for most households, but this doesn't mean they're the only option available.

If you live anywhere in South Florida, chances are you're familiar with downspouts and rain chains. Even when the former represents the traditional approach in houses and commercial establishments, it's not exactly rare to see rain chains adorning a household, and their appeal is obvious for those familiar with both drainage options.

What Are Rain Chains?

Originated in Japan hundreds of years ago, rain chains are basically a string of metal links pierced together, running vertically from a home's roof to the ground. They're known for providing a pleasant sight that can cheer up your outdoor spaces.

Rain chains are connected to the ends of a guttering system, hanging from the roof at the sides that a downspout would usually occupy. The water falls from the gutter to each link in the chain until it reaches the drainage on the floor and follows the rest of its path below ground level.

Rain chains are available in countless designs and different types of metals, like aluminum, copper, and brass. Aluminum rain chains, for instance, allow many color options while copper rain chains bring a stylish visual appeal through the patina that forms over time.

Because of their looks and versatility, rain chains are also common in areas where there's not much rain throughout the years, with homeowners covering all their needs even without a rain gutter in place. In areas with rainy climates, however, is common to install rain chains as an addition to the downspout to help its performance.

Rain Chains vs. Downspouts

Downspouts are the go-to option, and that has mostly to do with practical factors. Some rain chains can splash water on the walls due to their design, dimensions, and the distance between them and the sides of the home. With downspouts, this is a non-issue as they keep the water enclosed from all sides.

Of course, if there's a misalignment, the seams between the gutter and the downspout are among the most likely spots for clogs. As such, you shouldn't be overconfident when it comes to installing new downspouts or if you want to adapt your existing downspout to a new guttering system.

There's also the matter of pricing. Downspouts remain the most affordable option because they don't involve a complex design that will raise the manufacturing costs. In some cases, the difference in costs between rain chains and downspouts can span over $200.

When it comes to maintenance, both options have their caveats. When it comes to downspouts, finding clogs and other issues isn't the easiest thing to do when there's no opening to see their entire structure from the inside. Some rain chain profiles, on the other hand, are a magnet for debris, frozen water, and other elements that could turn regular maintenance into a much longer chore.

In both cases, however, you should protect your investment by hiring a professional cleaning service every year. This will also save you a lot of stress during your own cleaning sessions.

Which Is the Best Option?

Ultimately, both downspouts and rain chains are similar when it comes to their main function: they redirect the water from the gutter to the drainage following a vertical course that starts at the edge of the roof. We can also deem them both equally effective depending on what format you choose and how fitting it is for your home. Still, downspouts are the most accessible option in many ways, from their practical advantages to their cost-effectiveness.

Rain chains are an obvious asset for your home's esthetic value, to the point that your choice can add a unique touch that no other property can replicate. Still, you need to make sure that the rain chain's usefulness extends to its water-holding capacities during a storm.

If you go for looks and no substance, your home's entire draining system will suffer, and you'll have to spend more money on replacements along the way.

In many cases, you may install a perfectly functional rain chain that's just not meant to withstand the intense storms that some parts of the state are known for. Still, you have the option of having a rain chain and a downspout work in tandem to reinforce the effectiveness of your drainage system, with the additional boost that rain chains bring to your home's landscape.

Whatever your choice, you can contact Rain Gutters Solution to provide the most durable accessories to enhance your gutters' performance. Our specialists can craft the most sophisticated rain chains out of the most durable materials. Moreover, their knowledge of Florida's climate allows them to provide valuable insight into the best option to keep your home's draining system in perfect condition through the rainy season.

The specialists at Rain Gutters Solution are always ready to provide the best installation services for your home. We guarantee long-standing results no matter what you choose for your gutters and the rest of your draining system, so don't hesitate to ask for more information about our services. You can call (305) 270-7779 or fill out the contact form on this website to schedule an appointment with our team, and we'll strive to surpass all your expectations.

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