How to Build a Rain Barrel for $40 | Ask This Old House

Поделиться
HTML-код
  • Опубликовано: 29 сен 2024
  • Ask This Old House general contractor Tom Silva shows a homeowner how to make her own rain barrel on a budget. (See below for a shopping list, tools, and steps.)
    SUBSCRIBE to This Old House: bit.ly/Subscrib...
    Shopping List for How to Build a Rain Barrel for $40:
    - Reclaimed food-rated barrel
    - Boiler shutoff valve
    - Thread-sealing tape
    - Rain diverter, hose, and tap
    Tools for How to Build a Rain Barrel for $40:
    - Power drill
    - 1-inch hole-saw bit
    - Hacksaw
    Steps for How to Build a Rain Barrel for $40:
    1. Drill a 1-inch hole at the bottom of the barrel using a power drill and a 1-inch hole-saw bit.
    2. Wrap thread-sealing tape several times around the boiler shut-off valve threads and screw it into the hole.
    3. Drill a 1-inch hole into the cap of the barrel using a power drill and a 1-inch hole-saw bit.
    4. Attach tap to hole in the cap of the barrel.
    5. Cut downspout using a hack saw into two pieces.
    6. Attach diverter to downspout using a power drill and screws.
    7. Connect hose to diverter and tap in cap of barrel.
    About Ask This Old House TV:
    Homeowners have a virtual truckload of questions for us on smaller projects, and we're ready to answer. Ask This Old House solves the steady stream of home improvement problems faced by our viewers-and we make house calls! Ask This Old House features some familiar faces from This Old House, including Kevin O'Connor, general contractor Tom Silva, plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, and landscape contractor Roger Cook.
    Follow This Old House and Ask This Old House:
    Facebook: bit.ly/ThisOldH...
    Twitter: bit.ly/ThisOldH...
    bit.ly/AskTOHTw...
    Pinterest: bit.ly/ThisOldH...
    Instagram: bit.ly/ThisOldH...
    bit.ly/AskTOHIG
    Tumblr: bit.ly/ThisOldH...
    For more on This Old House and Ask This Old House, visit us at: bit.ly/ThisOldH...
    How to Build a Rain Barrel for $40 | Ask This Old House
    / thisoldhouse

Комментарии • 544

  • @intolerant_left
    @intolerant_left 3 года назад +258

    Our county has a program that costs $20 and you go to an hour long class on rain barrels, then the hands-on portion is where you put most of the setup together. Then you get to take the entire barrel project home!

    • @TrueBlue342
      @TrueBlue342 3 года назад +18

      How cool! Must be a very community-oriented county!

    • @ibeattheleaves5005
      @ibeattheleaves5005 2 года назад +4

      What did they teach you? Or was it just building it?

    • @intolerant_left
      @intolerant_left 2 года назад +10

      @@ibeattheleaves5005 they taught the legality of rain capture, and how to utilize captured rain on your property. Then, just putting the barrel together and tips for winter storage

    • @ibeattheleaves5005
      @ibeattheleaves5005 2 года назад +1

      @@intolerant_left was it pretty much like it was shown here?

    • @aguyandhiscomputer
      @aguyandhiscomputer 2 года назад +3

      OUR COUNTY!!!! WOO HOO!!!!

  • @The-sn7no
    @The-sn7no 2 года назад +1

    What about overflow when the barrel fills up?

    • @kenmore01
      @kenmore01 Год назад

      It pours on the ground. Much like it would do if there was no barrel.

  • @steven-sl7jv
    @steven-sl7jv 4 года назад +6

    All these vids have beautiful housewife’s.

  • @tigerbear3038
    @tigerbear3038 3 года назад

    How do you clean the inside of the barrel? Even with the diverter and a filter, the barrel will bound to get dirty over time

    • @siobhanmacleod7957
      @siobhanmacleod7957 Год назад

      I put some water and bleach inside, put the barrel on the side and push it around my yard. You clean it and exercise at the same time.😊

  • @TheRainHarvester
    @TheRainHarvester 5 лет назад +1

    Nice info!

  • @bill16157
    @bill16157 4 года назад

    Gonna need a vent...

  • @kckcmctcrc
    @kckcmctcrc 2 года назад +57

    Two tips. If you have a barrel of this size you’ll perhaps want a larger diameter out flow…. And two, you may want to consider painting it black to help block out the sunlight to reduced the growth rate of algae.

    • @ranjit3o
      @ranjit3o Год назад

      paint inside or outside?

    • @zackmerritt2408
      @zackmerritt2408 Год назад +4

      @@ranjit3ooutside, it’s just to block the sunlight so algae won’t grow in the water inside the barrel.

    • @comewheelinwithjohnandchristie
      @comewheelinwithjohnandchristie 5 месяцев назад +1

      Won’t black encourage heat?

    • @Poyshneck
      @Poyshneck 19 дней назад

      ​@@comewheelinwithjohnandchristie algae needs sunlight to grow, it has nothing to do with heat

  • @doriantwedt
    @doriantwedt 4 года назад +176

    When Tommy shows up to fix your problem in his street clothes and without his tool belt, you'll know you probably could have done it yourself.

    • @seanadams3551
      @seanadams3551 2 года назад +12

      That's what the basis of this show is about though I think.

    • @Anthony-hu3rj
      @Anthony-hu3rj 2 года назад +6

      He makes everything look far easier than it would be any first-time maker of a one-time thing.

  • @adam_loooong1735
    @adam_loooong1735 4 года назад +196

    They should preface: “we got a smoking deal on an old soda factory barrel that you probably won’t get”

    • @AbbyBurkle
      @AbbyBurkle 4 года назад +4

      😂 right?!

    • @sminthian
      @sminthian 4 года назад +7

      I've seen used food grade drums on craigslist before, they usually go for around $50.

    • @anthonymichlik4283
      @anthonymichlik4283 4 года назад +8

      Not $5, but I just got 2 for $15 each.

    • @JLJohnson
      @JLJohnson 4 года назад +5

      I just paid $25 for a 65 gallon one and considered myself lucky

    • @adam_loooong1735
      @adam_loooong1735 4 года назад

      @@JLJohnson Nice find man! Congrats!!

  • @wgreenbay
    @wgreenbay 4 года назад +247

    Tom: What do you think it was used for? Take a whiff of that...
    Elise: *takes a whiff* uh..chloroform?
    Tom: Yup! Pretty good!

  • @cindycleland7026
    @cindycleland7026 2 года назад +12

    I do believe that a "how to" video should give all the details. I called my local recycling center for a barrel, they said they do get them in but they don't give them out but they would sell me an already assembled rain barrel for 40 bucks. So save yourself the time drilling, buying looking for a hole saw and call the recycling center! Also: so many comments about horrible "toxic roof water " all the plants are getting run off from the streets, decks all the rooftops in the neighborhood as well as the pesticides you neighbor sprays. Just one roof sounds pretty good!

  • @dkeller33
    @dkeller33 2 года назад +14

    When he attached the bottom of the diverter to the downspout below he placed it OVER the downspout. This will cause leaking. Having installed miles of spouting in my life, you ALWAY place a piece of downspout inside a lower piece so water can't hit the joint and leak out. The way this was done is incorrect. I know I'll hear it could be sealed with gutter seal etc. These sealants all expand and contract with temperature variation and will eventually fail. Bottom line, this installation is incorrect.

    • @bryguy8203
      @bryguy8203 2 года назад +1

      A white diverter would be better also.

  • @chooisc5297
    @chooisc5297 7 лет назад +175

    wanna hold my belt...He just couldn't resist...:-)

    • @d3ve316
      @d3ve316 5 лет назад +2

      Hi we like u

    • @embracethesuck1041
      @embracethesuck1041 4 года назад +1

      Who hasn't done that before in an iffy spot. Always wear a sturdy belt. :)

    • @pasqualz
      @pasqualz 4 года назад +8

      A throwaway line like that would never make it onto TV these days.

    • @peternorton7665
      @peternorton7665 4 года назад +5

      She said yes !

    • @camer41
      @camer41 4 года назад +2

      I don’t get it ? Cause he might fall leaning over?

  • @volundrfrey896
    @volundrfrey896 4 года назад +82

    Ah, all I need to do is to go to my local soda factory outlet store.

    • @robertcraft1030
      @robertcraft1030 3 года назад +4

      Mine were used for soy sauce.

    • @heyb6268
      @heyb6268 3 года назад

      @@robertcraft1030 where’d you get it?

    • @robertcraft1030
      @robertcraft1030 3 года назад +1

      @@heyb6268 From a contracting business that had them left over. I get free pallets that way, as well.

    • @positivevibesveda
      @positivevibesveda Год назад

      @@robertcraft1030 do you remember the name of the company?

  • @themaximusone
    @themaximusone 2 года назад +12

    For anyone that doesn't know place the water outlet at-least 2 inches above the bottom or on the bottom because of sludge buildup ;-)

    • @evonneheald276
      @evonneheald276 Год назад +2

      You're supposed to clean your barrels out so sludge doesn't build up. Rain barrels are not Maintenance Free, unfortunately.

  • @JoshuaG85
    @JoshuaG85 3 года назад +14

    I wanted one of these. My mom and I got a 45 gallon trashcan. Today we got one of those bendable hoses to put at the end of the gutter and then we put it right over the hole I cut out of the lid. I also had a mesh screen I got from Amazon. It started storming. I mean crazy rain. It did so for less than an hour. We went out and water was over flowing from the can. Never in a million years would I have thought it could create that much water.

    • @frances4797
      @frances4797 Месяц назад

      You can also add a water filtration system. Just find a filter you like and add it on

  • @lifeinoregon2811
    @lifeinoregon2811 8 лет назад +192

    It is worth pointing out that a light-colored or translucent barrel will grow algae in most cases. This will be aggravated when fed directly from a roof/gutter.

    • @GaryVerderamo
      @GaryVerderamo 8 лет назад +14

      +LifeInOregon Could always paint the outside of the barrel or wrap it up.

    • @RubbinRobbin
      @RubbinRobbin 7 лет назад +6

      even if it's used for drinking, algae is good for you.

    • @Engineer9736
      @Engineer9736 6 лет назад +4

      Round why only for him

    • @noahwolfe1304
      @noahwolfe1304 6 лет назад +6

      Guess you weren’t listening. It’s got a filter

    • @calvinlim9485
      @calvinlim9485 6 лет назад +56

      Algae will still grow even with the filter. It's a microbe that grows. Also, white or natural plastics will also degrade and get brittle over time. It's best to put some gardening cloth around it to shade it from the sun rather than paint it. It should keep it cooler than painting it.

  • @jungleno.
    @jungleno. 4 года назад +137

    Ok Elise, you just stand there and look pretty.

    • @hezekiyahisrael5804
      @hezekiyahisrael5804 4 года назад +13

      She’s beautiful

    • @skywalker72465
      @skywalker72465 3 года назад +2

      @@hezekiyahisrael5804 Ya know Tom got some wood standing next to her, but trying to be the gentleman he is LOL

  • @tedijune6759
    @tedijune6759 4 года назад +19

    Make sure the tape goes on the same way the threads run on the boiler fitting, so when you screw the 1” threads in, the tape stays on:-) Also, a one inch fitting with a washer screwed tight on to the inside will help the boiler fitting not leak :-)

    • @angelastanislowski8862
      @angelastanislowski8862 3 года назад +5

      The problem is if I’m not mistaken the top does not come off of this type of barrel- it only has the two holes

    • @tedijune6759
      @tedijune6759 3 года назад

      @@angelastanislowski8862 Most are like that. On PVC type barrels you have to cut the entire top off (level) then screen it, or what I’ve done is turn the top you’ve cut off upside down and set it back on the barrel for a bird-critter watering spot..Then you have the run-off from the gutter go into either the bird bath on top, or you’ll have to cut another hole into the edge of the top that drains the downspout to on top of the screen..Then drill a hole on the side that accepts your hose Bibb for watering..I always put a quick release-connector for the Bibb and hose in case I need to take it loose to go elsewhere :-)

  • @DesignKoogle
    @DesignKoogle 2 года назад +5

    "You wanna hold my belt?"
    .
    He gave it a shot.

  • @adrumwhisperer
    @adrumwhisperer 5 лет назад +24

    Where can anyone else find a 50 gallon food grade barrel for $5? Prices I see would double the cost of this project.

    • @kareyanne
      @kareyanne 5 лет назад +2

      I found one locally for $15

    • @manichispanic5234
      @manichispanic5234 5 лет назад +3

      I bought one for $10 from a car wash. They get older soap in on giant barrels.

    • @adrumwhisperer
      @adrumwhisperer 5 лет назад +3

      @@manichispanic5234 good idea, thanks. I ended up going with 275gall IBC totes.

    • @thehammer4625
      @thehammer4625 4 года назад +2

      I like using 275 gallon Intermediate Bulk Container or IBC. Sometimes these are also called Totes or a bottle in a cage. The beauty of the IBC is that there is a butterfly valve in the bottom and you can get an adaptor to connect a garden hose. The other benefit of an IBC is that it will hold 275 gallons in the space of 4 barrels. They typically sell for about $50-75 on craigslist.

    • @Mike__B
      @Mike__B 4 года назад +2

      Find a place where they get ingredients in plastic barrels and go dumpster diving after hours, typically they just throw these away. Or leave them out for whatever person to snatch them up and resell them on Craigslist

  • @FriggOff361
    @FriggOff361 6 лет назад +95

    no way that brass fitting screwed into plastic didnt leak

    • @borys444
      @borys444 5 лет назад +5

      Canadian Tire that's what I'm saying, there's nothing to screw it too. It just goes into the hole and sits there.

    • @zaxarispetixos8728
      @zaxarispetixos8728 5 лет назад +9

      It will move around as she uses it and it will brake

    • @zaxarispetixos8728
      @zaxarispetixos8728 4 года назад +1

      @James Wolowiec thoose always get smashed it is very easy

    • @geoffraike7626
      @geoffraike7626 4 года назад +39

      Exactly. It needs a 1" rubber washer on each side and ring nut tightened on the inside. I've made one of these before and it worked. Also, it needs and overflow and a vent on top for air intake too.

    • @techtrini
      @techtrini 4 года назад +4

      The proper fitting to use is a bulkhead fitting, when that barrel is full of water the pressure around the treading may leak over time, with the bulkhead fitting its backed with a rubber seal from inside the barrel as well

  • @samjohnson6128
    @samjohnson6128 2 года назад +4

    Don't forget to support the deck ,that barrel is heavy when full!

  • @bblack340
    @bblack340 2 года назад +23

    "You wanna hold my valve."... Tommy smooth as butter

    • @bulistik5039
      @bulistik5039 3 месяца назад +6

      He said belt because the downspout was on the outside of the rail and he would have to lean out over the rail to cut it to install the diverter.

    • @flat6fever680
      @flat6fever680 3 месяца назад

      @@bulistik5039 This

    • @Mo75149-j
      @Mo75149-j 2 месяца назад +1

      She was very optimistic though gotta admit

  • @TheSickNeeds
    @TheSickNeeds 4 года назад +6

    So this is a video about how to drill a hole into the rail of your deck and cut the siding of your house with a hack saw?

  • @James_Hough
    @James_Hough 2 года назад +34

    I don't know who the producers are who choose which homeowners get on the show, but time and time again, they have proven that they are excellent at their jobs.

    • @Mo75149-j
      @Mo75149-j 2 месяца назад

      Man it was like magic when she turned the valve, I can't believe water came out.

  • @mikemaid5350
    @mikemaid5350 2 года назад +26

    Barrel will overflow. The inlet pipe should come in from the side about 2 inches down from the top. The diverter outlet elevation should be 1 inch higher than this so the water can flow to the barrel but when the barrel is full the excess water will backflow to the gutter.

    • @ReitersBlock
      @ReitersBlock Год назад

      Excellent advice. Thanks.

    • @A6Legit
      @A6Legit Год назад +1

      Never been an issue for me. Don't get enough rain to fill up 55gal

  • @DD-uf2uo
    @DD-uf2uo 2 года назад +3

    I don't recommend doing this if you have Asphalt shingles. Chemicals from the Tar in the shingles can mix in the water. Especially on hot days. I would not use this water for ANYTHING.
    If you have a rain barrel with water from an asphalt shingled roof, Fill a White 5 gallon bucket at least half full and see if it has a light brown color to it. If so, most likely it's from the Tar.
    If you have a metal roof no problem.
    .

    • @jackietomkins5085
      @jackietomkins5085 2 года назад

      It will need a pre bucket filled with floss and a screen/ possibly a carbon mat (like for a fish tank). Then for drinking it will need additional filtering as you drain water from it.

  • @serafinsilva1055
    @serafinsilva1055 2 года назад +4

    Am I the only one concerned about the weight of a full barrel of water on an upstairs deck?

    • @AStanton1966
      @AStanton1966 2 года назад +1

      One gallon of water weighs approximately 8lbs. So if that is a 50-gallon barrel, that's 400 lbs.

    • @ullgeologist
      @ullgeologist Год назад +1

      Tommy will return and have another video how to do deck repairs later.

  • @markrush5013
    @markrush5013 2 года назад +1

    the algae experts chime in....algae in the water will be beneficial for plants so it doesnt matter that algae grows in the water except for the looks.

  • @AJDIYNetwork
    @AJDIYNetwork 4 года назад +10

    Excellent video! Thanks for your help. With your advice and how you demonstrated your technique, I have also created my own rain harvesting here in upstate New York. I created a video that hopefully helps. Thanks again.

  • @igotuume
    @igotuume 3 года назад +3

    So where can we get a barrel like that for 5 bucks is the question?

  • @hi-us6do
    @hi-us6do 4 года назад +5

    Are you suppose to water vegtable gardens using roof run off water? I heard the roof tiles can leach chemicals into runoff?

  • @BillBard
    @BillBard Год назад +3

    Important to note that these bad boys weigh well over 600 lbs when full. So make sure if you're putting it on a deck like this that it can hold the weight!

  • @stevemann8374
    @stevemann8374 6 лет назад +63

    You can see water seepage on the wood deck from the great installation of the lower valve, after he fills the barrel with water. She covers the leak with the watering can before the camera pans down. Needs a bulkhead for the bottom valve installation to prevent water from leaking around the imperfect cut, Teflon tape alone won't slove this problem.

    • @augustreil
      @augustreil 6 лет назад +12

      You have no idea what caused the stain. They could have flushed the chips from the barrel, ever think of that ?

    • @charlietuna5962
      @charlietuna5962 6 лет назад +15

      Or it could have been because he wrapped his Teflon tape on backwards.

    • @oneangryfucerwivatinhat
      @oneangryfucerwivatinhat 4 года назад +1

      could of been water from the sky

    • @RippSnortin
      @RippSnortin 4 года назад +12

      Maybe a cat peed there

    • @RippSnortin
      @RippSnortin 4 года назад

      @@Kiss4cooper could be

  • @df4196
    @df4196 4 года назад +25

    I made one in California and all I needed was a milk jug for the whole season

    • @Chris.B1111
      @Chris.B1111 4 года назад +1

      Careful, harvesting and storing rainwater is illegal in Cali.

    • @Ashlme
      @Ashlme 4 года назад +2

      Bucks N Trucks that is not true

    • @robertreilly1701
      @robertreilly1701 4 года назад +1

      It was illegal in ca until 2012, then the law was changed because of drought conditions.

    • @condor5635
      @condor5635 3 года назад

      Did you notice the proposition 65 label on the rain barrel? Do you know that rain barrels are known to cause cancer in the state of California? I'm so glad they are so educated that they can inform the whole country of the dangers of almost every material used in every day life. Way to go California.. idiots

    • @df4196
      @df4196 3 года назад

      @@condor5635 Did you notice a joke flew past your head? I’m so glad you’re educated on sarcasm and take every moment to vent out your opinions. Way to go...you know the rest....

  • @robertnimmo5954
    @robertnimmo5954 Год назад +3

    Tommy's a brave man. If I laid my drill on the railing it would have fallen off.

  • @justsumguy2012
    @justsumguy2012 3 года назад +3

    I'm going to say wrong right off the bat. Unless you are screwing together a 2 piece bung or threaded union you are screwed if the hole to put the spigot in fails.

  • @22086106
    @22086106 3 года назад +1

    all this trouble was so Tom could say that he had a date with a hot woman...

  • @growmiegreenthumb8025
    @growmiegreenthumb8025 2 года назад +2

    Feeding troth from tractor supply. Lid is an old screen door. Tarp over top when it's not raining. Troth comes with a hose and drain valve built in. $50

  • @jamedlock83
    @jamedlock83 3 года назад +2

    She's gorgeous

  • @felipejose9909
    @felipejose9909 3 года назад +22

    And we are back with the hot wife segment of This Old House.

    • @fiouable
      @fiouable 3 года назад +5

      You’re so desperate

  • @samthegreekboy6812
    @samthegreekboy6812 5 лет назад +14

    My rain water system cost me nothing, I took an old plastic trash can and placed it under the gutter, whenever I want water I dip a bucket in and the barrel and viola.

    • @akusantafe
      @akusantafe 5 лет назад +2

      Thanks so much for this suggestion! Keep it simple!

    • @ErrantChordier
      @ErrantChordier 4 года назад +4

      No, these things should be covered and filtered for a reason. Open standing water is a good way to breed mosquitoes

    • @fredrubble4305
      @fredrubble4305 4 года назад

      Samthegreek Boy hillbilly

    • @ajarivas72
      @ajarivas72 4 года назад

      You are so smart

  • @alicemaggio8854
    @alicemaggio8854 3 года назад +3

    We have three water barrels connected to our roof. Here's the issue.....I recently watched a video that talked about the hazards of retrieving water from your roof as the materials they use are hazardous. Even if you use it to water your garden, you are putting toxic water on the food you and your family will be eating. I would like This Old House to respond to this as I can't find anything to the contrary and feel as if I have wasted time and money on these barrels. (I know it's been 6 years since this post, but I'm hoping someone sees it.) Thanks so much.

    • @AStanton1966
      @AStanton1966 2 года назад +1

      So, what if you are on a well? All that toxic water comes off the roof, onto the ground, and into your well.

    • @alicemaggio8854
      @alicemaggio8854 2 года назад

      @@AStanton1966 True, and we are on a well, but we have a filtration system that filters the water coming from the well into the house. I am truly confused what to do.

    • @AStanton1966
      @AStanton1966 2 года назад +1

      @@alicemaggio8854 Maybe, start by getting the rain water tested and see if it does contain any toxic substances. I use rain water for my garden and power-wash projects around my house. I have 3 Tractor Supply livestock containers for a total of about 375 gallons that get filled from a shed roof. Then I have a 1,100 gallon tank that gets filled by my house roof. Even though we had a pretty good drought here some years back, I've never run out of water. I harvest rain water cause I'm on a well also.

    • @alicemaggio8854
      @alicemaggio8854 2 года назад

      @@AStanton1966 Thank you so much for your reply. This is great advice that I will be following.

  • @vincecaruso2459
    @vincecaruso2459 5 лет назад +22

    Great to see this install and saving rainwater! See comments below on putting the diverter just below the top of the barrel to automatically prevent overflow, see product instructions. We have installed a few of these and work great.

    • @condor5635
      @condor5635 3 года назад +4

      It's sealed why do you care about overflow? It'll just stop going down the tube and go down the downspout when full.

    • @rp9674
      @rp9674 2 года назад +1

      I think I would want my overflow to go in a secondary smaller portable container

    • @davidisaacson9328
      @davidisaacson9328 Год назад

      Overflow into another barrel right next to it...or have the overflow attached to the 1st or 2nd barrel, connected to hose and ran out into the yard.

  • @kenmore01
    @kenmore01 Год назад +2

    Where I live, Washington state, I started making something like this and was seen by my neighbor. They told the authorities and I was contacted by them. They told me I'd have to pay a 20% tax on the water I collected and forced me to put a meter on it. It upset me so much, I started using vodka to water my plants because it was cheaper.
    So I had to ask, what is the 20% tax based upon, and they said it was based upon the amount of water I stole from them which would have otherwise fallen into the "system."
    I'm much happier now that I better understand how our system works. I contribute more to the system by giving them my waste water which would have gone into the sewer then be transported to Indonesia for processing, thus reducing outsourcing. I think all Americans should have a government like ours, because they do so much for us!

    • @frances4797
      @frances4797 Месяц назад

      😂👍
      I would probably tell them I'd rather pay the 20% tax to GOD because after all, it's His rain 🌧️

  • @MRrwmac
    @MRrwmac 8 лет назад +73

    Tom, you snuck in on Richards work. Perhaps because of the customer! Haha

    • @fizwin1
      @fizwin1 4 года назад +1

      69th Thumbs Up woot

  • @drewwu8357
    @drewwu8357 4 года назад +7

    Hi Tom, i am just curious why there is no overflow line or hole?

    • @oucheneabdelhafid4652
      @oucheneabdelhafid4652 4 года назад +4

      I think the diverter does that

    • @Mike__B
      @Mike__B 4 года назад +6

      Pretty sure Tom doesn't read the comments.

  • @randymagnum6680
    @randymagnum6680 6 лет назад +14

    Isn't that gonna be a whole lot of weight in one spot on that deck when it's full?

    • @bigroblee
      @bigroblee 5 лет назад +2

      500 pounds roughly.

    • @BuntysBalcony
      @BuntysBalcony 5 лет назад +1

      people are made mostly of water, so id guess that barrel full of water should only weigh about as much as a couple of dudes his size

    • @heresmytake2782
      @heresmytake2782 4 года назад

      Yep water is about 8lbs per gallon...

  • @daggius
    @daggius Год назад +1

    I like how there's a woman there just to look hot and helpless smh

  • @blindmike2614
    @blindmike2614 4 года назад +15

    You should also either paint it or cover it to keep light from going in otherwise you will have a big problem with algae

    • @iamawake42awake32
      @iamawake42awake32 3 года назад

      Hi I like your post and I wanted to know if you're saying the Blue barrel and the top cover needs to be covered to prevent algae?

  • @atherahmed6397
    @atherahmed6397 5 лет назад +19

    2:27 music to my ears

  • @stevenmcgee5645
    @stevenmcgee5645 2 года назад +2

    I noticed the bottom downspout was inserted into diverter instead of diverter flange being inserted inside bottom downspout. I’m thinking that will leak.

  • @loueckert4970
    @loueckert4970 3 года назад +2

    My system is much easier... a RAIN CHAIN replaces my down spout, and fills up a large sized garbage can. Then we use Homer buckets to move the water to the garden. This video reminded me to shot off this system in fall :-) Thanks for the ideas.

  • @20092230
    @20092230 5 лет назад +22

    No overflow prevention

    • @jackjones3657
      @jackjones3657 4 года назад +1

      Exactly what I was thinking. He didn't mention the overflow issue, and she is on a second story with tenants below her no doubt.

    • @synapticburn
      @synapticburn 4 года назад +8

      It's all watertight. Once the hose fills up, it will all go down the downspout.

  • @francoismichaud760
    @francoismichaud760 7 лет назад +96

    Hot house wife series... love it

    • @RadioguyJ
      @RadioguyJ 7 лет назад +7

      Francois Michaud - Right! She is smokin.....

  • @louscab
    @louscab 3 года назад +2

    Rain diverter, hose, and tap is there a link where i can buy this product?

  • @ZanaDew
    @ZanaDew 7 лет назад +31

    It would have been nice if you explained what you did to the top of the barrel. What did you drill into? Where did you get that piece that you screwed into the top of the barrel? Was it a complete kit with that diverter? Otherwise, nice video!😉

    • @augustreil
      @augustreil 6 лет назад +7

      That piece usually comes with the barrel and I believe it's called a bung/filler hole and he hole sawed the 1'' hole for the hose from the gutter diverter.

  • @davec.3198
    @davec.3198 4 года назад +5

    Amazing collecting rainwater to water your flowers is illegal in many states. Thanks government.

  • @weip9328
    @weip9328 2 года назад +4

    I heard from someone that the roof material may affect the quality of the water collected. May be worth checking it out.

    • @SuperPhoReal
      @SuperPhoReal 2 года назад +1

      Everything u eat and drink from affects your health. Can’t win ‘em all.

    • @babysealclub11
      @babysealclub11 2 года назад +4

      I've done roofing and yeah I wouldn't drink that water if it touched shingles. They are made of tar fiberglass and other hazardous composites (literally says it on the packaging). If it was a metal roof or clay tiles I'd just filter out the dust/dirt, you'll be fine.

  • @danialaldahaby3683
    @danialaldahaby3683 2 года назад +2

    Where can we find this diverter? I like the flow-over style that filters out the large debris and diverts water, but don't seem to find this style online. Is it no longer available?

    • @loganw3
      @loganw3 2 года назад

      Ever get an answer on this? I’m looking to replace the semi-ghetto rig I’ve got now and I want to find the model of diverted he installed.

  • @andrewchung1255
    @andrewchung1255 3 года назад +3

    Where did you get the diverter and what is that part called?

    • @guedesfhp
      @guedesfhp 3 года назад

      It’s called Fiskars DiverterPro. Found here:
      www.fiskars.com/en-us/gardening-and-yard-care/products/gardening-replacement-parts/diverterpro-rainwater-diverter-71000035

  • @6996katmom
    @6996katmom 5 лет назад +3

    How do I pry off the lid of the barrel without cutting it. About 2 ins under the lid is a line and every 5-6 ins is a notch. How do I loosen the notches to take off the top?

  • @jonny5662
    @jonny5662 2 года назад +1

    That seems like it will be a lot of weight for the deck… figure could be 4-500 lbs full of water

  • @perecarl12
    @perecarl12 4 года назад +3

    will the diverter be able to handle the small pellets that drop from asphalt shingles?

  • @craigtheschmeg3253
    @craigtheschmeg3253 4 года назад +5

    How to Build a Rain Barrel for $40. Buy a rain barrel for $40.

  • @Rdebeauvoir1
    @Rdebeauvoir1 7 лет назад +16

    Thank you old house for the video. I am finding it hard to find food grade barrel for $5. Could you leave us the link where you got it ?

    • @Blox117
      @Blox117 6 лет назад +8

      try an abandoned toxic dump site, you can find one for free

    • @mjp5429
      @mjp5429 6 лет назад +2

      Check with your local Pop bottler. Otherwise if you have large food plants. Snack foods, fish etc. Alot of times they get so many barrels they'll give them to you just to keep them from piling up.

    • @neiljborja
      @neiljborja 5 лет назад +1

      If you want to go bigger, Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) are pretty cheap too.

    • @DanielGarcia-gl2ol
      @DanielGarcia-gl2ol 4 года назад

      @James Wolowiec 😂😂

    • @MrKelly-ll1lx
      @MrKelly-ll1lx 2 года назад

      🌭 Link

  • @GodisNanu
    @GodisNanu 4 года назад +5

    How'd you go about getting the $5 barrel?

    • @TrehanCreekOutdoors
      @TrehanCreekOutdoors 3 года назад +1

      The $5 was for a new grinder blade to cut through the lock on the soda factory door. After that, all the barrels were free for the taking.

    • @GodisNanu
      @GodisNanu 3 года назад

      @@TrehanCreekOutdoors lol ok. Thanks

  • @bjornjoseph
    @bjornjoseph 5 лет назад +3

    Thought it was illegal to collect rain water

  • @zacksgaragedoorserviceandr1208
    @zacksgaragedoorserviceandr1208 5 лет назад +2

    I don’t know if any you guys notice but when he cut the downspout if you look closely in the bottom one it was shoved under so all the water is just going to go on the outside of the downspout not the inside

    • @janetyeoman1544
      @janetyeoman1544 4 года назад +1

      Zackary Hilton , good eye. More than a few things wrong about this project.

  • @Hakidpa12
    @Hakidpa12 6 лет назад +4

    what city was this? Looks very cool

  • @chriswilson1098
    @chriswilson1098 4 года назад +2

    Elise is hot af.

  • @arlitabishop6777
    @arlitabishop6777 2 года назад +1

    Sad these "This Old House" videos never give all the information about these DIY projects. For example. In this video they don't discuss venting the barrel for proper water flow. Or how to prevent mosquitoes and algae...and so on. Basically just look at these videos as a starting point for your research, definitely not the end

  • @condor5635
    @condor5635 3 года назад +1

    I can almost guarantee this setup has long been scrapped and she is no longer using it.

  • @robertkat
    @robertkat 6 лет назад +1

    This works if you get a free barrel and tap. Also you need tools to cut the hole. I paid 45.00 for my blue barrel with brass tap. Do not use a white barrel.

  • @Phyrre56
    @Phyrre56 4 года назад +9

    I've installed two barrels on my property. My first concern is that there is no overflow opening. You risk damaging the hose and diverter by backing water up into them when the barrel is full. There's no opening to allow air in, for a smooth flow of water and to let any trace water in an empty barrel evaporate vs. grow bacteria. A white barrel allows some sunlight in, which will promote algae. That barrel is going to stink eventually and may attract pests. It appears to be a 3rd story apartment -- how is she supposed to drain the barrel when she doesn't need the water? Just dump it on the deck?! And lastly the base is narrower than the barrel which could create a tipping risk. Sure it was cheap but that's a lot of potential problems.

    • @jackandsusangerstner1369
      @jackandsusangerstner1369 4 года назад +1

      Phyrre56 Plus there is no way to let air out as water comes in, so it backs up through diverted and out downspout, NEEDS a VENT !!

    • @jackandsusangerstner1369
      @jackandsusangerstner1369 4 года назад

      You are so right ! ,

    • @davidkopec9442
      @davidkopec9442 4 года назад +4

      It is fed by a gutter which sits in the open air. The downspout is a vent.

    • @K1EDH
      @K1EDH 3 года назад

      @@davidkopec9442 I thinking of doing this next year, will add a overflow anyways

  • @sheepdogalphomagadeltapatr4604
    @sheepdogalphomagadeltapatr4604 2 года назад +1

    Regarding faucets: are there faucets (like this one) that have a hose connection that’s lead-free and/or is good for human consumption of water?

  • @ManWander
    @ManWander 8 лет назад +9

    what about overflows?

    • @emertes17
      @emertes17 8 лет назад +24

      It looks like it'll fill up back into the hose and then overflow down the gutter

    • @Engineer9736
      @Engineer9736 6 лет назад

      KuntryBoi though the hose connection isn’t watertight. It’s only good for streaming water, not for holding volumes. It will be leaking at the joints. Maybe the leaking water creates ugly spots on the floor or on the wall over the years.

  • @CapeAnnImages
    @CapeAnnImages 4 года назад +2

    I have one I use to keep my fish pond water fresh & topped off. I installed a spigot at the top and run a hose into the pond. Every time it rains the overflow goes into the pond. In the winter I move the hose to the bottom spigot and leave that open. That way the barrel remains empty and can't crack from freeze up.

  • @johnquest1044
    @johnquest1044 4 года назад +1

    There is no 1in Boiler Drain! They dont exist??

  • @CaptainKoozmack
    @CaptainKoozmack 2 года назад +1

    So they're up on the second-story deck any idea what the structure that deck is to support 55 gallons of water we see deck failures all the time

  • @300ultramag1
    @300ultramag1 7 лет назад +32

    another hottie, where are they all keep coming from

  • @fiouable
    @fiouable 3 года назад +1

    He didn’t read the instructions. The way he installed it, the barrel will overflow.

  • @stevemann8374
    @stevemann8374 6 лет назад +4

    Can't even find non-food-grade barrels for $5.

    • @augustreil
      @augustreil 6 лет назад

      On Craigslist all the time here in Ct but...

    • @KrushKrills
      @KrushKrills 5 лет назад

      on long island you can find them for $20

  • @lsellclumanetsolarenergyll5071
    @lsellclumanetsolarenergyll5071 4 года назад +1

    OK rain barrel sit to low so use 2 more cinder blocks to lift it up further. Also the rain water split unit should had been sit higher to begin with so that the 1" small hose only run's down and not like in this video demonstrated uphill before it goes into the barrel.

  • @esplenderm3096
    @esplenderm3096 7 лет назад +5

    thank you for the Great video. can I use 6 cinder blocks instead of 2 to give it more elevation and get better water pressure?

    • @Engineer9736
      @Engineer9736 6 лет назад +6

      Esplender M It’s 1 bar of pressure per 10 meters height. Adding 2 heights of cinder blocks would not even add 0.1 bar. Use a pump.

    • @saitamassj2475
      @saitamassj2475 3 года назад +1

      @@Engineer9736 When I elevate my water box, the water comes out much faster into my jug, and I only lift it into the air like 1 foot higher than on my kitchen counter...It works..So yes, even a little higher works, Esplender M.

    • @MOTOSTAN
      @MOTOSTAN 2 года назад

      It is not the elevation of the barrel, it is the height of the water column that corresponds to the pressure increase

  • @Erik_Thorsvik
    @Erik_Thorsvik 4 года назад +9

    Such a cool day. I lived on the street over and as I open the door that morning I see Tom walking by and the whole crew getting ready to film.

    • @danstvguy
      @danstvguy 6 месяцев назад

      Did he have his valve out?

    • @Erik_Thorsvik
      @Erik_Thorsvik 6 месяцев назад

      all the way out@@danstvguy

  • @jackjones3657
    @jackjones3657 4 года назад +3

    What about overflow? It looks like she is in a second story apartment too. The neighbor below might have some issues with it!

    • @rebekahosgoodadventures7435
      @rebekahosgoodadventures7435 3 года назад

      I have the same question!

    • @angelastanislowski8862
      @angelastanislowski8862 3 года назад

      I’d put in some type of check valve at the top and then plumb in some pvc pipe or have another hose diverting the overflow water to where you want it to go. Or just skip the check valve and just use the hose

  • @hasratshah4986
    @hasratshah4986 4 года назад +2

    You can do this on a much larger scale by using 250 gallon food grade tanks...around $25 used. And a downspout to 2inch pvc converter and run pvc pipes to the tanks. Fot larger gardens of course...best part you can always buy a tank for $25 and add it since you already having piping done, just use an elbow.

    • @hotrodhog2170
      @hotrodhog2170 4 года назад

      That second story porch ain't gonna hold the weight of 250 gallons of water dude! Ground level is fine but not this little porch!

    • @hasratshah4986
      @hasratshah4986 4 года назад +2

      @@hotrodhog2170 oh I know mine are on the ground. Was just saying you can use same concept on a alrger scale.

  • @stettan1754
    @stettan1754 7 лет назад +5

    How we do keep algae from growing inside the barrel?

    • @vertigo6982
      @vertigo6982 7 лет назад +2

      will white paint work? I want mine to match my white house.

    • @valleygirl670
      @valleygirl670 7 лет назад

      use Krylon black acryllic paint. that adheres to plastic

    • @Engineer9736
      @Engineer9736 6 лет назад +3

      Vertigo Studios Put a black layer on first to block sunlight, then decorate it with a white layer. The white outside even would heat up less than black so that’s even better.

    • @Blox117
      @Blox117 6 лет назад

      let the water run through a filter

    • @stafonvoncamron
      @stafonvoncamron 6 лет назад +2

      Mos people that I know bury them in the ground. or they encase them so there is no sunlight, however you should always add an air stone to keep the water from getting stag net.

  • @ITWorksSoftware
    @ITWorksSoftware Год назад

    2:20 You want to hold my valve? 🤦‍♀️ Awkward and embarrassing moment for the poor lady. 😒 Also, many things wrong with this installation. Don't do it this way. Read through the comments for tips on how to install it correctly.

  • @mycatsmeow1274
    @mycatsmeow1274 5 лет назад +2

    Interesting

  • @pidginmac
    @pidginmac 4 года назад +3

    What happens if the barrel overfills?

    • @AStanton1966
      @AStanton1966 2 года назад

      The water backs up into the diverter, then comes goes down the down spout.

  • @antman8588
    @antman8588 Год назад +1

    I am so glad I found this video. I didn't even know there was a diverter. I was looking to put a Gutter on the side of my garage. Thank you

  • @tinman7249
    @tinman7249 6 лет назад +2

    I can't help but notice the bib has a handle that is in the same direction as the connector. Overtime, turning the handle will loosen the bib. Seems to me an easy solution is just use a bib to have a horizontal handle.

    • @richardsalmon5918
      @richardsalmon5918 2 года назад

      Its a good idea to anchor the barrel. Thats a lot of weight balancing on a concrete block when its full.

  • @fredymelendez4773
    @fredymelendez4773 4 месяца назад

    Before I watch this video I did't understand the process, but after I watched it I still dont understand.

  • @kdhovis8665
    @kdhovis8665 2 года назад

    I can not find a black diverter like Tom has in video. Our gutters are black - all I can find is a white diverter ,.

  • @JPCommenting
    @JPCommenting 4 года назад +1

    Yummm...Nothing beats the flavor of roof shingles, bird sh*t, moldy gutters and old artificially made fruit punch in my water.

    • @saigyl9149
      @saigyl9149 3 года назад

      you could have lead flashing up there so don't forget that nice metallic flavor

  • @derpherpp
    @derpherpp 8 лет назад +7

    I remember he got an old black and decker now he moved up to milwalkee

    • @janetyeoman1544
      @janetyeoman1544 4 года назад

      T -DUB , likely dropped it off the railing at 2:52 Somebody on the sidewalk is running with it.

  • @joeschmoe8624
    @joeschmoe8624 6 лет назад +10

    Tommy, you had me at sillcock