Some states haverestrictions on collecting rainwater, so be sure to check your local regulations first.

This is where you’ll insert your spigot.

Secure the spigot inside your barrel with a nut.

backyard rain barrel in garden

Credit: Jay Wilde

Apply more sealant to the fitting’s nut and screw it onto the fitting inside the garbage can.

Allow the sealant to dry.

This hole should sit underyour home’s downspoutso the water runs directly into the barrel.

rain barrel diy drilling hole spigot

Credit: Jay Wilde

Cut the hole so it’s large enough to accommodate the water flow from the downspout.

This will create a barrier that prevents mosquitoes and other creatures from getting in your collected rainwater.

It will also help keep any debris washing off your roof out of your water.

rain barrel diy hole insert spigot washer

This will help gravity push water out of the barrel when using agarden hoseattached to the spigot.

The added elevation also makes it easier to fill upwatering cansdirectly from the spigot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Some people claim that rainwater is public property.

rain barrel diy seal spigot caulk washer

It depends on the amount of rain and thesize of the roof.

It could take a few minutes to a few hours to fill the entire barrel.

This is why an overflow hose can be useful for handling excess water.

rain barrel diy cutting landscaping fabric barrier

Credit: Jay Wilde

You should place your rain barrel about 12-36 inches off the ground.