How to Install a Rain Chain

Two things make all the difference: a secure connection at the eave trough above, and a firm anchor at the base below. This guide walks you through all three steps.

Three Simple Steps to Install Your Rain Chain

Watercolor illustration of a person on a step ladder attaching a rain chain to the gutter outlet under the eaves of a house

Step 1: Connect at the Top

The Gutter Outlet included with your rain chain connects directly to the eave trough above.

Please note: The included Gutter Outlet fits K-Style Gutters only. For Half-Round Gutters, the steps are different — see "Type-Specific Installation Methods" below.

Installation Guide for Toh, Ta-ke, Tama, Toh L, and Tama L

Installation Guide for Hamon, Migumo, and Ajiro

Watercolor illustration of a person kneeling outdoors and trimming a hanging rain chain to the correct length using wire cutters

Step 2: Adjust the Length

Once the chain is hung, check how close the bottom end sits to the ground. If it touches, trim the excess with a Bolt Cutter.

A helpful tip: Extending a rain chain after cutting requires special work. Before you order, measure from your eave trough
down to the ground — then add a little extra length to give yourself room to trim on-site.

Watercolor illustration of a person kneeling on a gravel bed to secure a circular basin at the base of an installed rain chain

Step 3: Anchor the Bottom

Without anchoring, a rain chain will sway in strong wind and may strike the building. Always secure the bottom end before use.

How to anchor your rain chain:

  • Anchor Kit: Drive an anchor into the ground and connect it to the bottom of the chain with the included wire.
  • Basin: A Basin keeps the chain stable and helps guide water smoothly to the base — for a calm, finished look.

Installation varies by Basin type. See the links below for details.

How to Attach a Basin: Toh, Toh L, Tama, Tama L, and Ta-ke

How to Attach a Basin: Hamon, Migumo, Migumo L, and Ajiro

How to Attach an Anchor Kit (All Rain Chain Types)

Rain Chain Basins

Optional Hardware

A Note on Installation

You can install a rain chain on your own. For a safer, more secure result, consider hiring a qualified professional. Either way, we are here to help — feel free to reach out with any questions.
For easy-to-understand installation instructions for DIYers, please see our guide on [How to Install a Rain Chain]

Step-by-Step Guides by Rain Chain Type

Exact steps vary by rain chain series. Choose your product below to see the full guide.

Download the Installation Instructions (PDF)