If you're looking for a way to collect the rainwater that flows through the downspouts of your home's gutters, your best option is to buy a rain barrel. This is a device that is easy to set up on your own, and can be ideal if you also have gardens that you're constantly needing to water. You can find a large selection of rain barrels at a hardware store in your area, which will give you the ability to browse your options and choose the right rain barrel for your yard. There are a number of factors to consider as you check out the different rain barrels for sale, including these three.
Volume
You'll quickly notice that rain barrels can vary in volume, so you'll need to think about what size will best suit your yard. Some people favor buying the largest-capacity rain barrel they can, as this will give them the most water to use in their gardens. However, if you only have a small garden, a lower-volume rain barrel may be sufficient. It's also worthwhile to assess the amount of physical space that is available near your downspout. Lower-volume barrels have smaller footprints, and a smaller size may be necessary if you lack open space in the area.
Material
Rain barrels come in several different materials, and your local hardware store may have a number of options for you to consider. Plastic rain barrels are very popular, given the affordability of this material. Many people prefer plastic because this material is light, making the rain barrel easy to move around before it's full of water. If you want something that looks a little more stylish in your yard, a rain barrel that is made of wood, terra cotta, or even a stone veneer product may be a better option for you.
Shape
When you think of a rain barrel, you might think of a standard barrel shape. You might be surprised to know that rain barrels are available in several other shapes. You'll see some that are shaped like a rectangle, which can offer a tidy and modern look in certain yards. Some rain barrels are shaped like a large planter, slightly tapering toward the bottom, which certain people favor. Take your time to thoroughly assess each of the available shapes to determine which is the best one for you and your style.
Visit your local hardware store to learn more about rain barrels.