Updated 12/6/23
Rainwater can be a tremendous resource for water in your Katahdin Cedar Log Home. Your roof is the easiest way to collect and store rainwater for use in graywater applications or for watering gardens. With a combination of well-designed gutters and downspouts, you’ll be able to capture this resource to use.
First Check Out Local Regulations
Rainwater has become a controversial commodity in drought-prone areas. Some states and municipalities restrict the ability to collect and contain rainwater, because it diverts water from the natural aquifer, which is replenished through rainfall. This article From the National Council of State Legislatures (NCSL) has a good state by state overview of rainwater regulations.
Designing a Containment System
Your containment system will depend a log on your roof design and the topography around your home. You’ll need gutters that are protected from leaf debris which points to some kind of gutter protection system. One company’s product Gutter Helmet provides a patented design to keep gutters clear of debris and rainwater flowing.
The second element to rainwater collection is to connect the downspouts to feed into a containment vessel. These can be routed to direct most of the roof water to one location for collection. Keep in mind that you’ll want to have an overflow outlet for excess rainwater. This should be directed away from the home and foundation.
Collect Rain Safely
One American manufacturer, Enduraplas, offers FDA food grade plastic rainwater collection and water storage containers that are designed to last. Enduraplas above ground algae-resistant tanks prevent light from passing through the tank walls. This prevents algae growth which can contaminate your water supply and make it smell unpleasant. Their above ground tanks are available in sizes from 100 to 1,250 gallon capacities.
Water Delivery
The final piece to the puzzle is a means to deliver your collected rainwater to the place where it will be used. Installing a small energy efficient water pump to move the water from the storage container to the faucet or final receptacle will complete your rainwater collection system.