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Can I custom-order a rain
chain that is a particular length?
We currently offer many standard lengths of rain chains
but are unable to accommodate requests for specific lengths.
You may customize the length by adding or taking away links.
There may be a need to purchase additional chains to accomplish
this (such as if you needed to purchase a second rain chain
to connect with another chain). Most of the rain chains
we offer are approximately 8’ to 8.5’ in length
and will not need to be adjusted.
How do I hang a rain chain from my gutter?
Rain chains come with either a thick, rigid V-shaped gutter
attachment piece or a softer, more flexible one.
The first step is to locate the downspout that is to be
replaced. Secure the rain chain to the gutter attachment
piece – included with the rain chain – by pulling
the handle from the top cup of the rain chain into the point
of the "V" on the gutter attachment piece. Remove
the downspout and replace it with the gutter attachment
piece. The two flared ends of the gutter attachment piece
will hold the rest of the rain chain in place. For the best
results, bend the two ends on the inside of the gutter outward
– by hand or with pliers – to secure the attachment
piece in place.
Once finished, stand back and enjoy your new rain chain!
As an added touch, we also offer a hammered
copper basin and various other basins to catch the
rain water as it cascades from your rain chain to the ground.
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Do I have to have a gutter system to use a rain chain?
Not necessarily. Though they are designed to hang in the
downspout opening of a gutter, if you have a place where
the roof line closes to a point, you can devise a way to
use one there, and may require some modification of the
area for it to work properly.
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Where did rain chains come from?
The rain chain, or kusari doi, first originated
in Japan hundreds of years ago and was developed primarily
out of need. These beautiful ornaments serve a more practical
use very similar to our common downspout. The rain chain
was created as a style of downspout to guide rainwater into
large pots for garden and household purposes. As the fresh
water collected; it was used to wash clothes, dishes, and
to cook. Even today, these decorative rain chains are found
on homes, temples and business throughout Japan for not
only their function and visual gratification but also their
feng shui appeal.
Rain chains are normally crafted of copper, including the
actual links and the hardware, providing for durability
and simple assembly. Copper is the most popular material
for fabrication due to its initial visual appeal and the
beautiful way in which it ages into a verdigris patina.
Among popular chain styles is the kiku chain, inspired
by the chrysanthemum flower. This has special importance
in the Japanese garden for it is the official crest and
symbol of the Japanese imperial family. There is also a
scalloped square chain which has a box-like shape featuring
scalloped tops and bottoms, and different styles of interlocking
chains.
Over the past several years the rain chain has been taking
the outdoor garden and patio market by storm. Since its
introduction to the American consumer in the late 1990s
and during the 2000 Olympics hosted by Japan, these uniquely
crafted chains are quickly becoming a garden staple in homes
all over the United States.
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What about the area beneath my rain chain? What can I use
to collect the rainwater or help guide the water away from
my home?
We
offer a large collection of rain
basins that will work wonderfully, or you can also
use something as simple as a small pool of rocks leading
away from your home. You may want to construct an aesthetically
pleasing path or a creative drainage structure to direct
the flow of water. Your imagination is the limit!
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How will my rain chain change over time with exposure to
the weather?
Our rain chains are available in copper and brass. Copper
rain chains turn into a patina over time as the
copper is exposed to air. Brass
rain chains will darken over time.
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What should I do if my rain chain falls and is damaged?
Rain chains are constructed of a durable, malleable metal
and can be easily bent back into its original form with
little to no lasting effects.
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What do rain chains sound like?
Because of the variations in shape, density, direction of
water flow and size of rain chains, each chain will sound
different while channeling water. Some will be softly soothing
like a bubbling brook while others as dramatic as a waterfall.
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Does Outdoor Decor manufacture the rain chains?
We are a retail company, and while we do not manufacture
the products we carry, we are very selective and proud of
the products we offer.
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What is the warranty on my rain chain?
Each rain chain comes with a 1-year warranty against workmanship
defects.
