Rain Chain Frequently Asked Questions
[click here to order rain chains]
Do they really work?
Yes, they do. Rain chains channel water from the gutter to the ground, just like a downspout. They work well for light or heavy rainfall. (We live in Oregon, so we know something about rain!)
Check out the video of our rain chains in action:
• link
chain • cup
chain
Cobre is proud to offer an unconditional guarantee on our copper rain chains. If you are dissatisfied with your rain chain's performance, we will be happy to take your return.
Will the appearance of my rain chain change over time? Will the copper turn green?
Within a month, the shiny copper will oxidize into a rich chestnut brown patina. Your copper rain chain will not turn green.
How do I install the rain chain?
Your gutter needs to have an opening at least 2.5 inches wide. Pull the top of the rain chain through the opening, and then thread the gutter clip (included) through the top link. The gutter clip will hold the rain chain in place.
If you have an opening larger than 2.5 inches, you should use a funnel adapter for optimum performance of your rain chain. Upon request, we will supply this adapter at no charge.
How heavy is a rain chain? Will my gutter support it?
9 feet of copper link rain chain = 5 pounds, 10 feet of copper cup rain chain = 7 pounds. A normal gutter is designed to hold much more weight than this. Remember that each gallon of rainwater weighs 8 pounds, and your gutter, when full, will be supporting many gallons.
How many feet of rain chain do I need to order?
The length of your rain chain is a personal preference. Some people order a chain long enough to touch the ground, while others like to leave the end hanging a foot or two above the ground so they can see the water run off the rain chain.
The winters are very harsh where I live. Do I need to take my rain chain down?
If you live in a climate with lots of snow, ice and freezing temperatures, we recommend that you take your rain chain down before winter sets in. It's easy to take rain chain down: just remove the clip from the chain. In the spring, you can re-install it just as easily.
Should I secure the end of the rain chain?
If you live in a windy climate, we do recommend securing the end of the rain chain. The simplest way to do this is to order an addition 1.5 feet that can "pool" on the ground. Otherwise, you can anchor the end with some kind of pin or hook. Check with your local hardware store or contractor to get a recommendation.
How do a I get a rock like the one in the picture?
A garden store or statuary outlet is the best place to find a rock that you can use as a rain chain terminal. Some of our customers have simply found rocks and brought them home.
Where should the rain chain drain?
Your rain chain functions just like a downspout and will drain anywhere a downspout would: a river, a basin, a rock, or whatever you choose.
Will my copper rain chain cause electrolysis damage to my aluminum gutter?
If your gutter is painted, there is no cause to worry about electrolysis. If your gutter is unpainted, you need to laquer the gutter to prevent electrolysis.
