STEP FIVE : BASKET 1 . Cut fiberglass window screen to fit basket . 2 . Affix screen to lip of basket using caulk / plumbing sealant . 3 . Allow several hours to dry and place in top hole .
STEP SIX : BASE AND DOWNSPOUT
1 . Place concrete blocks under your selected downspout as a raised base to allow room for a watering can or to screw on a hose to the lower drain .
2 . Cut the downspout with a hacksaw about 4 ’ above the top of the barrel lid ( top hole ). 3 . Attach downspout flex elbow to the downspout . 4 . Direct the flex elbow into the skimmer basket on top of your barrel .
TIPS FOR USING YOUR RAIN BARREL 1 . Make sure your barrel is clean and free of chemicals before use . 2 . Make sure all caulk is thoroughly dry before using your rain barrel . 3 . Disconnect the barrel from downspout during winter months to avoid the formation of damaging ice . 4 . ENJOY making a difference and reducing stormwater pollution .
For more information on building rain barrels and rain barrel construction workshops , contact the City of Arlington Water Conservation Coordinator at 817.459.6628 or visit www . SaveArlingtonWater . com .
Completed rain barrel
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STORMWATER FACT : Whether you buy or build a rain barrel , the most important thing to remember is that they are only effective at stormwater management when the stored water is emptied in between storms , making room in the barrel for the next storm .