When you visit a hardware store in your area, you shouldn't be surprised to see a selection of rain barrels for sale. These outdoor products come in different sizes and shapes, but all of them have the common goal of allowing you to gather water from your home's gutters during each rainfall. People collect rainwater for a few reasons, but the most common is to have a source of water for watering gardens and grass. You can connect a hose to the bottom of your new rain barrel, fill a watering can, and complete any watering task in your yard. Here are three specific reasons why adding a rain barrel to your yard can be a good idea.
Cost Savings
When you have a rain barrel, you'll be able to use less water from your home's outdoor tap. Over the course of the summer, this will result in countless gallons of water that you're not having to pay for. Unless you live on a property with a well, you're likely paying for your water supply. If you're an avid gardener, you might occasionally feel concerned about the cost of watering your gardens over the summer. Rainwater is obviously free, and gathering it in a rain barrel gives you a free source of water for your watering tasks.
Environmental Impact
If you try to make environmentally responsible decisions around the house, buying a rain barrel is something that you can feel good about. Many areas have water shortages, and while you want your garden to flourish and your lawn to look good, you might feel partially conflicted about using the local water supply for these jobs. When you gather water in a rain barrel and use it to water your gardens and lawns, you can take comfort in knowing that you're having a positive impact on the environment.
Erosion Prevention
Some homeowners buy rain barrels with the goal of preventing erosion. If you look at the area around your downspout, you might see that the ground is indented because the force of the water has slowly created erosion. Over time, you might need to add more soil, sand, or other materials to replenish this area. If you don't like the idea of the water that runs through your downspout causing erosion, a rain barrel can be a good solution. As the barrel fills, it's preventing water from eroding this part of your yard.
For more information, contact a hardware store near you.