Packing for a Move
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Packing for a Move

Welcome to my website. I’m hoping to provide you with some useful packing tips. My name is Ellen Monday. My family and I moved from a very large home to a large home. My point being, although we still live in a large house, we did downsize. It was almost like packing for two moves because we had belongings going to the new house and some going to storage. We had to make decisions about what we wanted to keep, store and get rid of. I have some tips on how we made those decisions, and the best ways we found to pack. Items that were going into storage were packed differently than those we were moving to the new house. Boxes had to be carefully and clearly marked so we didn’t end up storing our everyday dishes or something tragic like that! Hope you enjoy my blog.

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Packing for a Move

Five Things You Need To Know About Rain Chains

Aaron Carroll

Rain chains are a lovely alternative to downspouts, especially when connected to a small garden patch and drain channel to create a stream effect. These Japanese inventions work quite well, and they are very easy to install. However, you should be aware of a few things before installing one. Rain chains work very well, and knowing the ins and outs only makes their use easier for you.

Your HOA Does Have a Say

If you live in a community run by an HOA, the management is going to have a say in whether or not you use the chain if you want to replace an actual downspout with it. However, if you want to add a rain chain as an ornamental feature (so water might still run down it, but it wouldn't replace a downspout), you might have more luck in getting the HOA's approval. Rain chains usually work with gutters, but you can install them anywhere that will take a hook.

You Can Use These With Rain Barrels

You can set up a rain chain to run from the gutter to a rain barrel -- you don't have to let the chain dangle on the ground. Just be sure that the length of the chain is suitable considering the height of the top of the rain barrel; the chain has to hang straight down and should not have any slack in it.

Combine These With Downspouts

Don't replace all your downspouts with rain chains. The reason is that these chains may not be able to handle all of the runoff that comes after a severe storm with extremely heavy rains. Having some traditional downspouts helps direct a lot of that excess water away from the chain.

Water Quality Should Be Fine for Yard Use

The chains shouldn't really change water quality, so if you're collecting the water in that rain barrel for use around the house, you should still be able to use it for your plants, washing your car, and so on. Given that this water was just running off your roof, though, using it for drinking water would not be the best idea.

Use a Stronger Hook Than You Think Is Necessary

Rain chains that are subject to snow and ice can become very heavy. When you install the chain, use a hook made for a heavier item just in case. The rain chain company may have options available, too.

Rain chains let you create wonderful corner yard features that are both ornamental and practical. Take a look at the patterns available and see which ones strike your fancy.


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