ADVERTISEMENT
19 Rainwater Collecting Ideas That Are Functional, Beautiful, and Easy to Build
Materials Needed:
- 1 IBC tote (275–330 gallons)
- 20–30 wooden slats
- 4 corner posts (2″x2″ or 2″x4″)
- Screws and L-brackets
- Downspout
- Drill, saw, level, sealant
Step-by-step Guide:
Step 1: Place the IBC tote on a level concrete or paver surface near your downspout. Ensure the bottom valve is accessible.
Step 2: Build a square wooden frame around the tank using corner posts. Leave top access for the inlet pipe and occasional maintenance.
Step 3: Attach slats horizontally around the frame with even spacing, allowing ventilation and partial visibility if desired.
Step 4: Insert the downspout or pipe directly into the tank’s opening. Add a screen or filter to keep out debris, and seal as needed.
#12. Rainwater Display Tank with Funnel Collector
Ideal for parks, schools, or public gardens, this installation educates while it hydrates, showing that rainwater is more than runoff, it’s a life source.
Materials Needed:
- Large metal funnel (2–3 ft diameter)
- Transparent tank (100–200 gallons)
- Vertical steel
- PVC pipe
- Sealant, bolts
- White gravel, aquatic plants, optional fish
Step-by-step Guide:
Step 1: Install a raised frame or pedestal for the tank to ensure visibility and support. Position the funnel directly above the tank opening.
Step 2: Connect the bottom of the funnel to a short PVC pipe that leads into the top of the tank. Seal the connection tightly to prevent leaks.
Step 3: Fill the tank with white gravel and aquatic plants. If adding fish, ensure water is filtered and aerated appropriately.
Step 4 (Optional): Add a water outlet or filtration system near the base to prevent overflow or stagnant water issues.
#13. Tarp Tower Rain Collector with IBC Tank
This offbeat yet genius setup captures rain directly from the sky using a suspended tarp that channels water down through a pipe into a large IBC tote.
Materials Needed:
- 1 IBC tote (275–330 gallons)
- Large plastic tarp (6’x8′ or bigger)
- PVC or plastic pipe (2″–3″ diameter)
- Rope
- Mounting post, pole, or sturdy tree limbs
- Drill, sealant
Step-by-step Guide:
Step 1: Stretch the tarp horizontally using rope or bungees between tall poles, trees, or a custom mount. Create a low point at the center to funnel water.
Step 2: Attach the bottom center of the tarp to a PVC pipe that runs downward into the IBC tote’s inlet. Secure tightly to avoid leaks or sagging.
Step 3: Cut a hole in the IBC tote’s top lid to fit the pipe and seal the joint with waterproof adhesive or rubber gasket.
Step 4: Add a spigot or hose at the base of the tank for easy access, and elevate slightly using bricks or a pallet to improve flow.
#14. Off-Grid Rain Roof Catcher
Built with basic wood posts and a few cinder blocks, this setup is perfect for remote gardens, cabins, or prepper zones.
Materials Needed:
- 1 red 55-gallon barrel with lid
- Corrugated metal or plastic roofing panel (6–8 ft long)
- 4 wooden posts (4″x4″, 6–8 ft)
- 2–3 support beams (2″x4″)
- Screws, bolts
- Cinder blocks (2–4, for base)
- Saw, drill, level
- continued on next page
