Build Your Own Rain Barrel In 10 Easy Steps

As the effects of climate change become increasingly apparent, with more frequent droughts and reduced water availability, the need for water conservation has never been greater. This is particularly true for those who are environmentally conscious and seek sustainable practices.

One effective way to conserve water is by collecting and reusing rainwater, which can significantly reduce your dependence on city water supplies. Additionally, rainwater is soft, clean, and free of chlorine, making it ideal for garden irrigation.

By building your own rain barrel, you can easily collect and store rainwater, providing you with a sustainable source of water for your plants. The best part is that constructing a rain barrel is a simple, cost-effective project that you can complete with basic tools and materials. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of building your own rain barrel in 10 easy steps.

Drum It Up

The first step in building your rain barrel is finding a suitable container. A 55-gallon plastic drum or barrel is ideal for this purpose, as it can hold a substantial amount of water while being durable and weather-resistant. To obtain a drum, consider reaching out to local food companies, brewers, or beverage manufacturers, as they often have surplus drums available.

These food-grade containers are perfect for collecting rainwater once they have been thoroughly cleaned. If you can’t find a free or cheap barrel locally, they are also available for purchase at hardware stores or online. Make sure the drum you choose is free of any harmful chemicals or residues, as you want to ensure the water remains safe for your plants.

Mark Your Entry Points

Once you have your barrel, the next step is to mark the locations where you will cut openings for water entry and drainage. Using a pencil, mark two spots on the top portion of the barrel. The first opening should be a smaller circle about 6 inches from the top edge, where the downspout from your gutter will enter. This hole should be large enough to accommodate the downspout but small enough to prevent large debris from entering the barrel.

The second opening, slightly larger and around 3 inches in diameter, should be placed a few inches below the first. This will be where you install a screen to filter out debris. Additionally, mark a 3/4-inch hole near the bottom of the barrel where the rainwater spigot will be installed. This spigot will allow you to easily access the collected water.

Cut Holes with Precision

Now that you’ve marked the entry points, it’s time to cut the holes. To do this, you’ll need a drill and a set of hole saws with diameters that match the size of the holes you’ve marked. Begin by drilling into the marked spots, and then carefully use the hole saw to cut out the openings.

It’s important to go slowly and maintain a steady hand to avoid creating jagged edges or burrs in the plastic, as these can interfere with the proper functioning of your rain barrel. If any rough edges remain after cutting, use a utility knife or sandpaper to smooth them out. Taking the time to make clean cuts will ensure a better fit for the components you’ll be installing later.

Install Screen Filter

The screen filter is a crucial component of your rain barrel, as it prevents leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering the barrel and contaminating the water. To install the screen, cut a square piece of aluminum mesh screening that is slightly larger than the 3-inch hole you cut earlier. Place the mesh over the opening, making sure it is centered and taut.

Next, secure the screen in place using a hose clamp, heavy-duty tape, or a bead of waterproof caulk around the edge of the hole. The goal is to create a snug, secure fit that will keep debris out while allowing water to flow freely into the barrel.

Add Rain Water Spigot

With the screen filter in place, the next step is to install the rainwater spigot near the bottom of the barrel. This spigot will serve as the primary outlet for the water you collect. Start by wrapping the threads of an exterior-grade faucet or spigot with a plumber’s tape to ensure a tight, watertight seal. Then, insert the spigot into the 3/4-inch hole you cut earlier.

If necessary, apply a small amount of outdoor caulk around the base of the spigot to further prevent leaks. For durability and longevity, consider using a brass spigot, as it is resistant to corrosion and will hold up well over time.

Drill Overflow Outlet

To prevent your rain barrel from overflowing during heavy rainstorms, it’s important to install an overflow outlet near the top of the barrel. This outlet will allow excess water to drain away safely, preventing damage to your barrel or your home‘s foundation. Start by drilling a 3/4-inch hole a couple of inches below the top edge of the barrel.

Next, install a male-threaded PVC pipe fitting or a bulkhead fitting into the hole, securing it with a waterproof sealant to prevent leaks. Once the fitting is in place, attach a drainage tube to direct the overflow water away from your house. You can run this tube into a nearby garden bed or grassy area where the extra water can be absorbed into the ground.

Build a Raised Base

For easy access to the spigot and to allow gravity to assist with water flow, it’s important to raise the barrel off the ground. To do this, build a sturdy base using materials like concrete blocks, landscape timbers, or surplus bricks.

Stack the materials to create a platform that is 18-24 inches high, making sure the top is level. A level base is crucial, as it will prevent the barrel from tipping over when full. Additionally, consider beveling the top course of bricks or timbers slightly to ensure the barrel sits securely on the base.

Position Below Downspout

With your base complete, it’s time to position the barrel beneath one of your home’s gutter downspouts. Carefully move the barrel onto the raised base, aligning the downspout with the screened opening at the top of the barrel. If the downspout doesn’t line up perfectly, you may need to cut it or use a flexible downspout extension to bridge the gap.

The goal is to ensure that rainwater flows directly from the downspout into the barrel, maximizing water collection efficiency.

Conceal and Decorate

While the functionality of your rain barrel is important, its appearance can also impact your yard’s aesthetics. To make the barrel blend in with your landscaping, consider concealing it behind decorative fencing, lattice screens, or potted plants. You can also get creative and paint the barrel with outdoor-grade stains or paints that match your home’s exterior or garden color scheme.

Adding a touch of personalization not only enhances the look of your yard but also makes the rain barrel a more attractive feature in your outdoor space.

Maintain and Water Wisely

Your rain barrel is now complete, but proper maintenance is key to ensuring it continues to function effectively. In areas with freezing winters, it’s essential to disconnect the downspout and fully drain the barrel before the first frost to prevent cracking.

During the warmer months, periodically check the barrel for any signs of wear or leaks, and clean out any sludge or debris that may have accumulated inside. Use a long-handled brush to scrub the interior as needed. When it’s time to water your garden, you can either connect a soaker hose for low-volume irrigation or use the spigot to fill watering cans as needed.