PVC or aluminum gutters (avoid lead-based materials or any painted/coated materials that may contain toxins)
Downspout (PVC or aluminum)
Gutter hangers or brackets (to attach the gutter to the coop)
End caps (to close off the gutter ends)
Leaf guard or mesh screen (to keep leaves and debris out)
Rainwater Collection & Filtration:
Food-grade rain barrel (55-gallon or more, BPA-free plastic or stainless steel)
Downspout diverter (optional but helps direct water to the barrel)
First-flush diverter (removes initial dirty runoff before filling the barrel)
Screen filter (fine mesh to prevent debris, insects, and algae)
Spigot & overflow hose (to control water output and prevent overflow)
Non-toxic sealant (for leak-proofing)
Water Distribution System:
PVC pipes or food-grade hoses (to move water from the barrel to the chicken waterers)
Gravity-fed chicken waterer or poultry nipples/cups (to provide clean, fresh water)
Drip irrigation line (if you want a slow-feed system)
Blackout cover for the rain barrel (to prevent algae growth)
How to Rig It Up
Install Gutters on the Coop Roof
Attach the gutters along the roof edge using brackets.
Ensure a slight slope toward the downspout (about 1/4 inch per foot for proper drainage).
Secure end caps to prevent leaks.
Connect Downspout to the Rain Barrel
Position the barrel near the downspout on a raised, level surface (cinder blocks or a wooden platform).
Attach the downspout diverter to direct rainwater into the barrel.
Install a first-flush diverter (optional but helps remove dirt and contaminants from the roof before water enters the barrel).
Filter the Water
Place a fine mesh screen at the barrel opening to block debris and insects.
Use a secondary inline filter if needed.
Distribute Water to the Chickens
Install a spigot near the base of the rain barrel.
Attach a food-grade hose or PVC pipe to lead water to a gravity-fed chicken waterer or a system with poultry nipples.
Elevate the barrel to ensure good water pressure if using gravity flow.
Overflow Management
Connect an overflow hose to divert excess water away from the coop and prevent flooding.
Direct overflow into a garden or drainage area.
Keeping the Water Fresh & Safe for Chickens
Prevent Algae Growth:
Use a dark-colored or covered rain barrel to block sunlight.
Add a small amount of food-grade hydrogen peroxide (3% solution) or apple cider vinegar (1 tablespoon per gallon) to deter algae.
Prevent Mosquitoes & Debris:
Keep all openings covered with fine mesh.
Use a floating mosquito dunk (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis, BTI, safe for animals).
Winter Maintenance:
If you live in a freezing climate, consider an insulated or heated watering system.
Drain the system before freezing temperatures arrive if you’re not using a winter-proof solution.
Regular Cleaning:
Clean the rain barrel and water lines monthly with diluted vinegar or food-grade hydrogen peroxide.
Flush the gutters and first-flush diverter seasonally.
Bonus Ideas
Dual Watering System: If you want a backup, set up a manual fill option (a separate water source) in case of drought.
Garden Integration: Use overflow water for garden irrigation near the coop.
Automated Float Valve: Install a float valve in your chicken waterer to keep water at a consistent level.
This setup ensures your chickens always have access to clean, fresh water with minimal effort! Let me know if you need help tweaking the design for your specific setup. 😊
Milestones: Learning to eat, drink, and explore their brooder. Sleeping a lot but also active in short bursts.
Care: Keep them in a warm brooder at 90-95°F with a heat source. Ensure they have clean water with probiotics/electrolytes, starter feed, and baby chick grit if they are eating anything other than crumble (like tiny treats or greens).
Week 2-3: Feather Growth & Exploration
Milestones: Wing feathers developing; starting to flutter and hop.
Care:Lower brooder temp by ~5°F per week (so aim for 85-90°F in week 2, then 80-85°F in week 3).
Food & Water: Still on chick starter feed. You can introduce occasional soft treats (like scrambled eggs or finely chopped greens) with chick grit.
Week 4-5: Feathering Out & Curious Behavior
Milestones: Growing tail feathers, becoming more independent.
Care:Brooder temp around 75-80°F. If they’re in a warm area, they might not need supplemental heat during the day.
Milestones: Almost fully feathered. Can regulate body temperature better.
Care: If nighttime temps are above 50°F, they can transition outside. Ensure their coop is predator-proof.
Food & Water: At 6 weeks, you can start phasing in grower feed if they’re not staying on starter until 8 weeks. (Grower feed has less protein than starter but supports steady growth.)
Week 8-16: Adolescence (“Pullets”)
Milestones: Combs & wattles begin developing. Some early egg-layers may start showing interest in nesting areas.
Care: They’re now fully adjusted to outdoor life and can free-range or explore a run.
Food & Water: Switch fully to grower feed. No layer feed yet—it has too much calcium for growing birds!
Week 16-20+: Preparing for Laying
Milestones: Hens may start squatting when touched (a sign eggs are coming soon).
Care: Provide a nest box with soft bedding and encourage them to check it out.
Food & Water:Switch to layer feed around 18-20 weeks, when they are close to laying. Introduce free-choice oyster shell for calcium.
A gutter system for rainwater collection on a chicken coop is definitely doable. There are a few ways to approach it, depending on your material choice for the roof.
Here are a few good starting points:
DIY PVC Gutter System – If you want something lightweight and easy to modify, PVC pipe split in half lengthwise can work as a small-scale gutter. There are quite a few tutorials online for using heat to shape PVC into a functional gutter.
Metal or Vinyl Gutters – You can use standard aluminum or vinyl gutters from a hardware store and cut them to size. The challenge will be ensuring proper slope and securing them to the structure.
Corrugated Roof Water Collection – If you go with galvanized steel sheets, you can make a simple gutter using another piece of metal bent into a U-shape or attach a pre-made gutter along the lower edge. A lot of homesteaders have shared methods on YouTube for rainwater collection from corrugated metal roofing.
Rainwater Diverter & Barrel Setup – To prevent overflow, you can add a simple downspout diverter to redirect excess water once the barrel is full.
Let me do a quick search for some solid tutorials or plans. One sec! 👍
That sounds like a fantastic project! Setting up a gutter system to channel rainwater from your chicken coop’s roof into a rain barrel is both eco-friendly and practical. Here’s how you can approach this:
1. Choosing the Roof Material:
Translucent Vinyl Roofing: This material is lightweight and allows natural light into the coop. It’s relatively easy to work with and can be cut to size with standard tools.
Galvanized Steel Sheets: Durable and long-lasting, galvanized steel provides excellent protection against the elements. However, it requires proper tools for cutting and handling due to its weight and rigidity.
2. Installing the Gutter System:
Regardless of the roofing material you choose, installing a gutter system involves similar steps:
Measure and Plan: Determine the length of the roof edge where the gutter will be installed. Plan for a slight slope (about 1/2 inch for every 10 feet) towards the downspout to ensure proper water flow.
Select Gutter Material: Vinyl gutters are lightweight and easy to install, making them suitable for DIY projects. Aluminum gutters are also a good option due to their durability and resistance to rust.
Install Gutter Hangers: Attach gutter hangers along the fascia board of the roof, spacing them about 24 inches apart. Ensure they follow the planned slope.
Attach the Gutter: Cut the gutter to the required length and secure it onto the hangers. Seal any joints to prevent leaks.
Install the Downspout: Attach a downspout to the gutter’s endpoint, directing it towards your rain barrel. Use elbows as needed to navigate the downspout’s path.
For a visual guide on installing gutters on a metal roof, you might find this video helpful:
3. Setting Up the Rain Barrel:
Positioning: Place the rain barrel on a stable, elevated platform near the downspout to facilitate water flow and access.
Connecting the Downspout: Direct the downspout into the top of the rain barrel. Consider installing a downspout diverter to channel water into the barrel and redirect overflow away from the coop.
Overflow Management: Ensure the rain barrel has an overflow outlet. Attach a hose to this outlet to direct excess water away from the coop, preventing potential flooding.
For detailed instructions on installing a rain barrel, refer to this guide:
Water Quality: Regularly clean the gutter and rain barrel to prevent debris buildup, which can affect water quality.
Safety: Secure the rain barrel to prevent tipping, especially if you have children or animals around.
Winter Preparation: In colder climates, consider disconnecting the rain barrel during winter to prevent freezing and potential damage.
By following these steps, you’ll create an efficient rainwater collection system for your chicken coop, promoting sustainability and providing a convenient water source for your flock.
Harvesting rain and groundwater for your greenhouse is environmentally friendly and efficient. Steps and considerations for harvesting rain and groundwater for our greenhouse:
1. French Drain System:
Source: Fine Gardening
Placement: Install the French drain system around the perimeter of the greenhouse to capture rainwater and prevent groundwater from entering.
Drainage Pipes: Use perforated pipes surrounded by gravel to allow water to flow into the pipes.
The optimal slope or angle for French drain collection pipes to ensure good water flow typically ranges between 1% and 2%. This slope allows water to move efficiently along the pipe without creating too much speed that could lead to erosion or an insufficient gradient that causes water to stagnate.
Here’s a brief explanation:
1% Slope: This is a gentler slope, suitable for areas with light to moderate rainfall. It ensures steady water flow but might require a longer drainage path.
2% Slope: This is a slightly steeper slope, allowing for effective drainage in areas with heavier rainfall. It provides quicker water movement but may be prone to erosion if not properly managed.
To calculate the necessary slope, divide the vertical drop (elevation change) by the horizontal distance. For example, if you have a 10-foot run and want a 1% slope, the drop would be 0.01 * 10 feet = 0.1 feet (or 1.2 inches).
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and the specific conditions of your site, soil type, and local rainfall patterns may influence the optimal slope for your French drain system. It’s crucial to ensure proper installation and backfilling with gravel to allow water to enter the perforated pipes effectively.
2. Collection Point:
Location: Choose a specific point where the drainage pipes converge and lead the water towards the greenhouse.
Beneath Foundation: Ensure the pipes enter the greenhouse beneath the shallow 12-inch foundation. Use proper waterproofing measures to prevent leaks.
3. Buried Cistern:
Material: Choose a durable, waterproof material for the cistern. Options include concrete, plastic, or fiberglass.
Size: Calculate the greenhouse roof’s runoff and the expected groundwater flow to determine the cistern size.
Filtration: Install filters to prevent debris from entering the cistern.
Calculating the size of the cistern needed for your rainwater harvesting system involves estimating the total volume of water you plan to capture and store. Here’s a general guideline to help you calculate the size of the cistern:
Calculate Roof Area:
Determine the total catchment area of your greenhouse’s roof. Measure the length and width of the roof, and multiply these values to get the roof area in square feet or square meters.
Calculate Rainfall Harvested:
Estimate the average annual rainfall for your location. This information is typically available from local weather stations. Convert this value to inches or millimeters.
Calculate Rainwater Harvested:
Multiply the roof area by the average annual rainfall to get the total volume of rainwater harvested in cubic feet or cubic meters.
Adjust for Efficiency:
Consider the efficiency of your rainwater harvesting system. Not all the rainfall will be captured and stored due to losses from evaporation, runoff, and system inefficiencies. A common efficiency factor is around 85-90%, so multiply the calculated rainwater harvested by this factor.
Consider Water Usage Needs:
Determine your greenhouse’s water usage needs. This will depend on factors such as the type of plants, irrigation methods, and frequency of watering. Estimate the volume of water required over a certain period, such as a week or a month.
Determine Cistern Size:
Compare the estimated rainwater harvested with your water usage needs. The cistern size should be large enough to meet your water demand during dry periods between rainfall events.
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and it’s essential to tailor the calculation to your specific conditions and requirements. Consulting with a local water conservation or rainwater harvesting expert can provide valuable insights for your particular situation.
4. Pump System:
Submersible Pump: Use a submersible pump in the cistern to pump water to the catchment area. (Can use the Bellagio pump we initially got for the goldfish tank.)
Float Switch: Include a float switch to control the pump automatically based on the water level.
A float switch is a type of level sensor, a device used to detect the level of liquid within a tank. The switch may be used to control a pump, as an indicator, an alarm, or to control other devices. One type of float switch uses a mercury switch inside a hinged float.
5. Catchment Feature:
Fountain or Shallow Pond: Choose a visually appealing catchment feature that promotes water circulation.
Aeration: Consider adding an aerator to prevent stagnation and improve water quality.
Such As: AquaMiracle Pond Aeration Kit Koi Pond Aerator Pond Air Pump for Pond up to 15000 Gallons Pond Deicer All-in-One Pond Aeration System with Self-Sinking Airline Flow Control Rubber Air Diffuse: $149 (Amazon)
6. Overflow and Pressure Equilibrium:
Overflow Outlet: Install an overflow outlet at an appropriate height in the cistern to prevent overfilling.
An overflow outlet is a component in a water storage system, such as a cistern or a rainwater harvesting system, designed to prevent overfilling and potential damage. It provides a controlled pathway for excess water to exit the system once the storage capacity is reached.
In the context of a rainwater harvesting system with a cistern, the overflow outlet is typically positioned at a specific height within the cistern. When the water level in the cistern reaches this predetermined point, any additional water flows out through the overflow outlet.
Key features of an overflow outlet:
Prevention of Overfilling: The primary purpose of the overflow outlet is to prevent the water storage system from overfilling, which could lead to flooding, structural damage, or other issues.
Controlled Discharge: The overflow outlet allows for a controlled discharge of excess water. This helps avoid sudden and uncontrolled releases that could cause erosion or other problems in the surrounding area.
Protective Measures: Installing an overflow outlet is a protective measure to ensure the integrity and longevity of the water storage system.
Outlet Design: The overflow outlet can take various forms, such as a pipe or a channel, depending on the system’s design and requirements. It may discharge water to a designated safe area or drainage system.
When designing a rainwater harvesting system or any water storage system, it’s crucial to include an overflow outlet at an appropriate height to manage water levels effectively and prevent overflows. This feature helps maintain the stability and functionality of the entire system while avoiding potential damage to surrounding areas.
Pressure Relief Valve: Use a pressure relief valve to maintain pressure equilibrium and prevent damage to the system.
A pressure relief valve, also known as a pressure release valve or safety valve, is a critical component in various systems to protect them from excessive pressure. The valve is designed to automatically release or relieve pressure when it exceeds a predetermined set point. This helps prevent damage to the system, ensuring its safety and proper operation.
Key features of a pressure relief valve:
Set Pressure:
The valve is set to open and release pressure when the internal pressure of the system reaches a certain level. This predetermined pressure is known as the “set pressure” or “set point.”
Automatic Operation:
The pressure relief valve operates automatically without the need for manual intervention. When the pressure surpasses the set point, the valve opens to allow excess pressure to escape.
Safety Function:
The primary purpose of the pressure relief valve is to protect the system from potential damage caused by overpressure. This is crucial in applications where maintaining a specific pressure range is essential for the system’s integrity and safety.
Various Designs:
Pressure relief valves come in various designs, including spring-loaded, pilot-operated, and rupture disk types. Each design is suited to different applications and pressure conditions.
Installation Location:
Pressure relief valves are typically installed at strategic points in a system where pressure buildup is a concern. For example, they may be found in steam boilers, water heaters, pressure vessels, and other industrial or plumbing systems.
Certification Standards:
Pressure relief valves are often subject to industry standards and regulations. Ensuring that the valve complies with relevant standards is essential for maintaining system safety.
In the context of your rainwater harvesting and storage system, a pressure relief valve could be used to manage pressure within the system, especially if you are incorporating a pump. It helps prevent overpressurization, which could lead to equipment failure or damage. When designing your system, consult with professionals to determine if a pressure relief valve is necessary and the appropriate specifications for your specific setup.
7. Maintenance:
Regular Inspection: Periodically inspect the system for clogs, leaks, or any issues.
Clean Filters: Clean cistern filters and pump intake regularly to ensure efficient operation.
Additional Tips:
Rainwater Quality: Keep in mind the quality of rainwater; it may need additional filtration for greenhouse use.
Solar Power: Consider using solar-powered pumps for sustainability.
Professional Assistance: If needed, consult with a local engineer or landscape professional for specific design considerations.
