Build a Better Homestead: Creating a Rain Barrel System for Watering Your Garden

Imagine stepping out into your garden on a hot summer day, knowing you have a readily available, free source of water for your thirsty plants. No more relying solely on the well or city water, no more guilt about the water bill. A rain barrel system does just that: it provides a sustainable, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly way to keep your garden thriving. This project will guide you through building your own rain barrel system, bolstering your homestead's self-sufficiency and conserving precious water resources. It's easier than you think, and the rewards are well worth the effort!

Materials & Tools List

Here's a breakdown of what you'll need. I've included approximate costs, but keep in mind that these can vary depending on your location and where you source your materials. Don't be afraid to check out local classifieds or salvage yards for used barrels or fittings to save even more money.

Materials:

• Food-Grade Plastic Barrel (55-gallon or larger): $20-$50 (Check local classifieds, breweries, or food processing plants.)
• Downspout Diverter: $15-$30 (Available at most hardware stores, such as https://www.homedepot.com/)
• Spigot (Brass or Plastic): $5-$15
• Bulkhead Fitting (to connect spigot to barrel): $5-$10
• Flexible Tubing (for overflow): $5-$10 (garden hose scraps work well)
• Hose Clamps (2-4): $2-$5
• Screening (to cover barrel opening): $5-$10 (fiberglass window screen is perfect)
• Gravel or Concrete Blocks (to elevate barrel): Free (use what you have on hand)
• Silicone Caulk (exterior grade): $5-$8

Tools:

• Drill with Hole Saw Attachment: (Size depends on spigot and bulkhead fitting)
• Screwdriver or Wrench: (To tighten hose clamps and fittings)
• Utility Knife: (To cut tubing and screening)
• Measuring Tape:
• Level:
• Safety Glasses:
• Gloves:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to assemble your rain barrel system. Remember to always prioritize safety and double-check your measurements before drilling.

Step 1: Prepare the Barrel

Caption: Ensure your barrel is thoroughly cleaned before use. Use soap and water, and rinse several times.

Thoroughly clean the inside of the barrel with soap and water. If the barrel previously contained something other than food, research proper cleaning and sanitizing methods before using it for irrigation. Safety Tip: Wear gloves during the cleaning process.

Step 2: Drill the Spigot Hole

Caption: Carefully drill the hole for your spigot near the bottom of the barrel. A hole saw makes this easier.

Using the hole saw attachment on your drill, create a hole near the bottom of the barrel for the spigot. The exact size will depend on the size of your bulkhead fitting. Make sure the hole is slightly smaller than the fitting to ensure a tight seal. Troubleshooting: If the drill bit slips, use a center punch to create a starting point.

Step 3: Install the Spigot and Bulkhead Fitting

Caption: Attach the bulkhead fitting and spigot, ensuring a watertight seal with silicone caulk.

Insert the bulkhead fitting into the hole and secure it tightly. Apply silicone caulk around the fitting on both the inside and outside of the barrel to create a watertight seal. Attach the spigot to the bulkhead fitting. Let the caulk cure completely before filling the barrel with water.

Step 4: Install the Downspout Diverter

Caption: Install the downspout diverter according to the manufacturer's instructions. This directs water into the barrel.

Cut a section out of your existing downspout and install the downspout diverter according to the manufacturer's instructions. This diverts rainwater from the downspout into the barrel. Note: Not all diverters are created equal. Invest in a quality diverter that can be easily switched between diverting and non-diverting modes.

Step 5: Create an Overflow System

Caption: Create an overflow system to direct excess water away from your foundation. A simple hose works well.

Drill a hole near the top of the barrel for the overflow tubing. Attach a short piece of flexible tubing to the hole and secure it with hose clamps. Position the tubing so that excess water flows away from your house foundation.

Step 6: Add Screening

Caption: Secure screening over the barrel opening to prevent debris and insects from entering.

Cut a piece of screening slightly larger than the opening of the barrel. Secure the screening over the opening using a bungee cord or by tucking it under the edges of the barrel. This prevents leaves, debris, and insects (especially mosquitoes) from entering the barrel.

Step 7: Elevate the Barrel

Caption: Elevating the barrel provides gravity-fed pressure for watering and makes accessing the spigot easier.

Place the barrel on top of gravel or concrete blocks to elevate it. This provides gravity-fed pressure for watering and makes it easier to access the spigot. Tip: Ensure the base is level and stable to prevent the barrel from tipping over.

Cost & Time Breakdown

• Total Approximate Cost: $50 - $100 (depending on materials sourced)
• Estimated Time Required: 2-4 hours

Tips & Variations

• Multiple Barrels: Connect multiple barrels together to increase your water storage capacity.
• First Flush Diverter: Add a first flush diverter to filter out the initial rainwater, which often contains the most contaminants.
• Decorative Touch: Paint the barrel to match your house or garden décor.
• Automatic Watering System: Connect a soaker hose to the spigot and create a simple automatic watering system using a timer.
• Winterization: In cold climates, disconnect the downspout diverter and drain the barrel before freezing temperatures to prevent damage.

The "Why"

Building a rain barrel system is a simple yet powerful step towards a more self-sufficient and sustainable homesteading lifestyle. It conserves water, reduces your reliance on municipal water sources, and provides a free, readily available source of water for your garden. By collecting rainwater, you are actively contributing to a healthier environment and reducing your carbon footprint. In many areas, rain water is better for plants because it doesn't contain chlorine and other chemicals. This small project has a big impact!

Call to Action

Now it's your turn! Have you built a rain barrel system on your homestead? Share your experiences, tips, and photos in the comments below. What project would you like to see detailed next? Let's learn from each other and build better homesteads together! Don't forget to share photos of your completed projects on social media using the hashtag #BetterHomesAndHarvestsDIY. Happy homesteading!