Rain Chains are cups or chains attached to a rain gutter. The Japanese have been using them for centuries to channel rainwater downwards, collect it, and reuse it.
Replacing your downspout with an elegant rain chain will make a huge difference in your curb appeal. They’re also used to prevent puddles of mud from forming, which may damage the foundation of your house and drown your plants.
In this article, we’ll tell you how to choose the best rain chain, and we’ll show you a list of the best extra-long rain chains.
How to Choose the Best Rain Chain
When buying your rain chain, there are a few things that you need to look for.
Material
You should look for high-quality material. Rain chains are exposed to rain, wind, and sunlight. Don’t buy one that’s made of cheap, low-quality material. Plus, try to choose recyclable, eco-friendly material, like copper.
Functional Design
If your rain chain location is near windows, walkways, or the patio, you need to choose a cup rain chain design. Cup rain chains tend to splash less water than link rain chain designs.
Also, pick a rain chain that has a wide cup opening to avoid clogging.
Matching Outdoor Decor
If you’re into classic designs, go for copper rain chains that will develop a patina over time. If you opt for a more contemporary look, there are stainless steel or aluminum rain chains that’ll add a simple, modern touch to your decor.
Our List of the Best Extra-Long Rain Chains
In this section, we’ll show you a bunch of extra-long rain chains that’ll suit your needs and preferences.
Most Durable: Medium Matte Black Square Cup Rain Chain
These medium squared cups are handmade and powder-coated with an elegant matte black finish. Powder coating enhances the durability of the chain, which makes it perfect for use in heavy rain.
The cups are welded by hand, and they’re made of high-quality aluminum. This makes them both durable and lightweight.
A Little assembly is needed. However, you won’t need to use tools. Installation is a breeze, as they come with V gutter hooks.
The standard 8.5 ft chain has 20 cups, but you can make customized orders for different lengths.
Specifications:
- Chain length: 8.5 ft (Available in Extra-Long)
- Cup width: 3 ¼”
- Cup bottom opening: 1 ⅝”
- Cup height: 3″
Things We Like:
- Sleek design that complements almost any decor, modern or classic
- Durable Material
Best on Budget: Bronze Tapered Square Cup Rain Chain
These bronze, tapered rain cups add a modern hint to the look of your house. They’re made of galvanized steel and powder-coated with a bronze color. Galvanized steel is known for its reasonable price and durability.
The cups are large, so there’s no need to worry when it’s pouring outside. Each 8.5 ft chain has 12 cups. The chain features a V-shaped hook and assembly is simple. Orders can be customized to your preferred length.
Specifications:
- Chain length: 8 1/2 ft (Available in Extra-Long)
- Cup width: 3 ½”
- Cup bottom opening: 1 ⅝”
- Cup height: 4 ⅛”
Things We Like:
- Larger cups for a larger capacity
- Affordable choice
Classic Lovers Pick: White Flared Aluminum Cups Rain Chain
This chain has a charming design. The cups are made of high-end aluminum. They’re powder-coated with a white finish. For a smooth water flow, the cups are designed with folded lips to allow.
The pretty design coupled with a relaxing waterfall sound will have a positive impact on you on rainy mornings. The chain has 19 cups, and a free V-hook is included.
Specifications:
- Chain length: 8 1/2 ft (Available in Extra-Long)
- Cup width: 3 1/4″
- Cup bottom opening: 1″
- Cup height: 3 ⅜”
Things We Like:
- Chic, classic design
- Larger cups to withstand heavy rain
- Folded lips for better water flow
Largest Rain Chain Cups: XL Scallop Aluminum Matte Black Cups Rain Chain
This rain chain has extra-large cups that can handle very heavy rain. The cups are made of thick aluminum, and they’re powder-coated with a black matt finish.
The shape of the cups resembles a pretty flower, which adds a pleasant touch to your yard.
The chain features stainless steel connecting wires for maximum durability. Each 8.5 ft chain holds 13 cups. Assembly is required and a V gutter hook is included.
Specifications:
- Chain length: 8 1/2 ft (Available in Extra-Long)
- Cup width: 4 1/4″
- Cup bottom opening: 1 ½”
- Cup height: 5 ½”
Things We Like:
- One of the largest cups on the market
- Pretty design
- Durable connective wires
- Lightweight structure
Best Overall: Kumo Copper Cups Rain Chain
Kumo is a Japanese word that means “cloud”. The chain features copper cups linked by 3 small loops. So, it has the benefits of the cup and the link designs. The cups are made of copper-plated stainless steel.
Durability is guaranteed thanks to the use of stainless steel. Beauty comes with the original look of copper. Each chain includes 11 cups and comes with a V gutter hook.
Specifications:
- Chain length: 8 1/2 ft (Available in Extra-Long)
- Cup width: 3 ½”
- Cup bottom opening: 1″
- Cup height: 3 ½”
Things We Like:
- Durable material and authentic finish
- Reasonable price
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use a Rain Chain in Windy Areas?
It’s uncommon to have difficulty using rain chains in the wind. But if you do, you can try to connect the chain to the ground or an anchoring basin.
Where Should I Hang My Rain Chain?
If your rain chain splashes, you should place it away from walkways, the patio, or wherever people may get wet by water splashes.
Also, you need to consider the scenery. You want to show off this beauty, and you want it to be visible from the inside and outside of the house.
In a Nutshell
Rain chains are used to add beauty to your house. They help you preserve and reuse rainwater and prevent it from damaging your house foundation. There are plenty of options out there. But choosing the best one becomes easy once you know what to look for. After reviewing the best extra-long rain chains, we found that the Kumo Copper Cups Rain Chain has it all. At a reasonable price, you get a durable, nice-looking rain chain.