Water is the source of life. It can also be a source of a major headache when it is pouring down on your expensive siding and flooding your basement. That is why people have come up with rain gutters that collect the water rolling down the roof and directs it away from the house right to the underground drains through the pipes, called downspouts. Rain gutters come in a variety of types and materials, each having their unique advantages but all sharing the same problems. Rain gutters are notorious for getting clogged with leaves and all kinds of debris. In order to prevent that from happening, you need to clean your gutters at least 3 times a year. And if you live in a cold region where winters are particularly snowy, prepare to deal with “ice dams.” These accumulations of melting snow can weigh the gutters down to the point of breaking it. And then, of course, there is the aesthetic component. Do you think that the gutter you installed doesn’t compliment your house? Well, you are certainly not alone! Most people find rain gutters rather unappealing. Fortunately, there are a few gutter downspout alternatives that can not only partially solve the problems with clogging but also actually beautify your home. In this article, we will share with you the three easy and cheap ways to switch the downspouts for something more functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Rain chains are hardly a novelty. In fact, they have been in use for hundreds of years in Japan. Kusari doi, as they are called there, are literally regular chains that you can easily pick up in any hardware store nearby. Any 1/4 inch sized chain will do the job perfectly! Make sure you get all the measurements right before you shop. In order to be functional, a rain chain must reach the drain in the ground. It is better to buy more and cut to the desired length on the site than end up with a chain that is too short. To avoid dealing with rust, buy a zinc-plated chain – it is low-maintenance and remains shiny for years.

Though a single rain chain gutter looks very nice and neat, it is not as effective in directing water downward as multiple chains are. The more you install – the more efficiently they will work. However, keep in mind that gutters are usually made from rather thin sheet metal, so loading them up with too many chains would not be such a good idea. Anchor them securely at the ground level to prevent any swaying! Also, try replacing your regular drain with a barrel to add extra rustic charm to your backyard.

Another example of beautiful downspout alternatives is rain chain cups. These are also very popular in Japan. You are unlikely to find rain cups in your local department store, but you can easily purchase them online in various designs and materials. We recommend that you get the copper ones to ensure perpetual shine without rust. Rain cups can be expensive, but they are so worth it! Out of all of the rain gutter downspout alternatives, they are the best at controlling the water flow while wowing your guests at the same time.

Though it is entirely up to you, experts are unanimous in the opinion that proper rain gutters with a downspout are a must for protecting your property in the long term. However, if you live in a particularly dry area where it doesn’t rain often, you can safely go with any of the downspout alternatives listed above.