What Homeowners Should Know About Rain Barrels

Abstract

Here's what to know if your clients want to add a rain barrel or spruce up an existing rain barrel before a home resale. Benefits of Rain Barrels Interest in rain barrels is rising, but as with many green concepts, the learning curve is still vast. Rain Barrels Conserve Water "One of the most important things everyone should be looking at right now is ways to retain any rainwater that falls on our properties and not send it out into the street. Is one rain barrel the solution to our drought problem? No, it is not. However, it does help," Corra says. "Trees, especially, will always need more water, and they are in danger right now as more and more people are turning off their irrigation." Peet uses rain barrel water to keep her raised vegetable gardens lush. Twelve percent of homeowners cite green home features as a reason for purchasing their current home, and 10% consider "Landscaping for energy conservation" to be "Very important." Rain barrels can play a small but important role in sustainability and water conservation. How to Prevent Problems With Rain Barrels Conserving water is excellent, but homeowners also need to keep their rain barrels from becoming problematic. "The ones I've purchased look like bourbon barrels, and I think they add a nice charm to my Craftsman-style home." With an increase in demand comes an increase in options, so homeowners are likely to find a rain barrel that fits the aesthetic of their home.