Rain Chains – What You Need to Know
If you are on the fence about installing rain chains as part of your gutter system, our insights will help you make a sound decision.

Rain chains are a functional and inexpensive way to transform your curb appeal. When it rains, water trickles or streams down the rain chain, giving your outdoor space a multi-sensory experience; but there are positives and negatives to this rain gutter downspout swap decision. Here’s our 4x4:
Benefits:
1. Low Cost, High Value – Rain chains are affordable. A high-quality rain chain kit averages around $50. For that price, you get a boost to your curb appeal and rainwater runoff support for your home. Know, though, that the price of a rain chain is comparable to a typical downspout. Some rain chains are better than others, so be sure to look for quality or price, strong online reviews, or better yet, ask rain gutter experts like us about the best make and style for your home.
2. Aesthetically Pleasing – There’s no doubt about it, rain chains were meant to be showcased, not disguised. From simple to ornate, natural in color or bursting with patterns, rain chains add a bit of whimsy and charm to your home. Plus, they make for great gifts—anniversaries, holidays, housewarming, and more!
3. Functional and Flexible – If you like the look of rain chains but don’t feel comfortable forgoing your traditional rain gutter downspouts, have no fear! You do not have to choose one over the other. Rain chains can be used purely for looks; you can hang them from your front porch or in a garden area while maintaining your existing gutter infrastructure. Although, we do recommend a “cup style” rain chain to help with splashing (see drawback #2 below).
4. Easy Installation – Rain chain installation is relatively simple. Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is available to help you as you need it. We install rain chains using a lag bolt and hook, connecting the chain directly to the fascia board. That way, when the chain freezes during cold winter months, your system is better protected from the added weight of ice—and less likely to rip off the rain gutter - it sounds dramatic, but it can happen.
Drawbacks:
1. Great Function—But Clogging Still Occurs – Rain chains may seem like a cosmetic addition to your home, but they serve a powerful and impactful function—helping to direct water away from your house. By design, rain chains are less likely to clog with the everyday debris that often find a way into traditional gutters and downspouts. But clogs do occur, so annual cleaning is required.
2. Heavy Splash – Rain chains are known to sound great, but the water flow often leads to major splashing. As water flows, small puddles form at the base of a rain chain, and as more water comes through, the splashing radius of 2-4ft can become a problem for siding, sidewalks, decking, etc.
3. Additional Costs – To help support proper water flow, drainage, and splashing, you may want to consider covering the area directly below and surrounding the rain chain with assorted stones or pebbles. This is an added cost, but worth the investment to keep water flowing away from your home.
4. Self-Install May Void Gutter Warranty – Just because you can install rain chains on your own doesn’t mean you should. If any damage occurs in the installation process or later due to an issue with the rain chain, your rain gutter warranty is void.
Are you curious about rain chains? Take a look at our 3 tips for choosing the perfect rain chain.
The crew at Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters is here for you. Founded in 1992, our family-owned business employs a team of tradesman and experts who offer over 100 years of combined and accumulated experience, industry-knowledge, and local support. As lifelong residents of the Spokane area, we take pride in the service and products our team provides. If you have questions about gutters, we have the answers. Contact Rainman Seamless Rain Gutters for more information.









