Create A Rain Barrel From A Trash Can

You can purchase a rain barrel at many hardware stores, but if you prefer to make one yourself, this guide will show you to making one at home by using a heavy duty plastic trash can. It only takes a few minutes and the cost savings are substantial.

Parts you'll need

1 - Heavy duty trash can
1 - ½” Hose bib
1 – 6” Chimney pipe trim collar
2 – ½” Faucet tailpipe nuts
2 - #15 O-rings
1 – ½” Threaded nipple
1 – ½” Threaded PVC extender
4 – Small screws
1 - piece 7”x 7” nylon screen

Tools

Drill w/ screw tip
¾” paddle drill bit
Tin Snips or Jig Saw

Directions

Drill ¾” hole approximately 3” to 4” from bottom of barrel.
Drill ¾” hole near top of barrel
Screw ½” treaded nipple into hose bib and insert into bottom hole.
Slide O-ring over treaded nipple from inside of barrel and screw on Faucet tailpipe nut until secure.
Insert ½” Treaded PVC extender into upper hole.
Slide O-ring onto treaded end from inside and secure with faucet tailpipe nut.
Cut 5” hole in trash can lid using tin snips or jigsaw.
Trim nylon screening to fit Chimney pipe trim collar.
Place screen, then trim cover over hole in lid and attach with screws.
It is recommended to sit rain barrel on two concrete block to provide for level surface.

Total construction time averages 10 to 15 min and the cost is approximately $45 depending on size of trash can purchased.

Project directions were used with permission from Raleigh, NC.

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