Want to keep your house dry and save the planet at the same time? Here are some ideas to make the rain and your gutters work for you.
Rain gutters are designed to prevent water from pooling on the roof. A well-designed roof should be sloped to lead Mother Nature’s gifts of moisture off the rooftop and toward the waterspouts. A “green” and ecologically savvy way to utilize this moisture is by harnessing it by catching it with rain barrels. Not only does this keep the roof dry and the house beneath cozily waterproofed,
it’s also a wonderful way to collect water for the garden. Here are some things to think about:
Moisture from clouds vs. the tap:
The H2O that falls from the sky is better for the garden plants than the fluid dripping from the tap. City water has an assortment of additives such as chlorine. While some chemical additives are helpful to prevent the buildup of bacteria and the spread of disease, tomato plants and rose bushes will be healthier with natural rainwater.
How much can be saved?
Many homeowners may wonder just how much liquid can be saved with a barrel. The answer is surprising in that for 1,000 square feet of rooftop, 600 gallons of water can be harnessed from one inch of rain. That’s a lot of drink-ability for those plants!
What materials are needed?
A drill, a couple of washers, a spigot and a plastic trashcan will be enough to create a simple water catcher. Attaching the spigot to the side of the garbage receptacle is important so that the H2O can be transferred from the barrel to a pitcher or dispenser. Pitchers and watering cans are transportable to spots around the yard and thirsty garden plants.
Where to place barrel:
The rain gutters should be positioned to catch the liquid from the rooftop; this harvesting device should be placed directly under the spout. Every time a downpour occurs, free H2O will become available.
A few thoughts about installing gutters:
Proper installation will always make everything flow more successfully. Typical gutter materials may be vinyl or aluminum. Vinyl is the best material for the DIY individual while aluminum is one better left to the professionals. Vinyl is sturdy, easy to work with and can be painted. Aluminum dents easily and requires specific expertise and equipment to produce a sleek, leak-proof apparatus. It’s important to remember that a wider spout will remain clog-free longer.
Size of spouts and gutter:
Downspout sizes should be determined after considering the square footage of the rooftop, how much annual rainfall is expected in the region, and what the pitch of the structural components and shingles are. If in doubt, asking a pro at the local building supply shop should answer any questions.
Proper installation of rain gutters will keep the structure beneath the roof dry and protected. In order to keep flowers and vegetable plants in the yard healthy, save cash on the water bill, and protect the planet’s natural resources, installing rain barrels is the green thing to do. It only takes a short time to complete this project and is a win-win for all.
