How many rain barrel kits may I purchase?
Kits + barrels are limited to two per registration at our workshops. Once you have been through our workshop once, you will have the ongoing opportunity to purchase additional barrels from us.
How much does it cost?
The price is $35, which includes one 35-gallon barrel, one connector kit, and admission to the workshop.
How do I register?
Visit galvbay.org/rainbarrel. Find the date you’d like to attend, then click the link to register.
Payment is required to reserve spots at the workshop.
Can I pay/sign up at the workshop?
No, we only bring as many barrels as are registered online to the workshop. If you don’t sign up and buy your barrel(s) before the workshop, you will not be guaranteed a barrel.
What comes in the rain barrel kit?
One rain barrel kit contains:
- instructions for installation
- one spigot with corresponding rubber seal
- one 3ft, expandable, inflow hose with corresponding rubber seal
- one rainwater diverter (for your gutter)
- three hole-saws with a drill bit
- one 35-gallon barrel.
- silicon sealant is not included in the kit, but we recommend you purchase a small tube to help seal the spigot and inflow hose on your barrel.
If you purchase two barrels, you will receive two kits.
How many people can attend?
Two people per registration may attend the workshop, due to limited seating. Please provide your guest’s name on the registration form. If more than two people plan on attending the workshop, please email Kaitlin Grable at kgrable@galvbay.org to ensure there is adequate seating available.
Do I have to attend the workshop in order to receive a rain barrel kit?
Yes, attendance at a workshop is mandatory in order to receive your rain barrel and connector kit.
May I attend the workshop without buying a rain barrel kit?
Yes, however space is limited so you still need to contact GBF to make sure we can accommodate you. Email Kaitlin Grable at kgrable@galvbay.org.
Can I bring my kids?
Yes, but keep in mind that the lecture portion of the workshop can last over an hour long. If they can sit through this, you’re welcome to bring them along! Make sure to email Kaitlin Grable at kgrable@galvbay.org to reserve seats for them.
I'm registered, but I can no longer attend the workshop, may I have a refund?
Unfortunately, no. All purchases are final. If schedules allow, GBF will gladly transfer your registration to the next available workshop you can attend. If you know you are going to miss the workshop you registered for, contact Kaitlin Grable at kgrable@galvbay.org as soon as you can.
Do I need to bring anything?
Nope! Just be prepared to take home your rain barrel after the workshop. All presentation materials will be emailed to all participants as well, so you don’t need to take notes.
How big is the rain barrel and will it fit in my car?
The barrels are 35-gallons; about 1.5 feet in diameter and about 3 feet tall. The kit and barrel should fit into most vehicle back seats or trunks. You can also transport the barrel in the front passenger seat of your vehicle, with the seat-back tilted all the way down.
What does the barrel look like?
The barrels are recycled syrup barrels from Coca-Cola, and are translucent white when they are distributed at the workshop. To prevent the growth of algae inside your barrel, you will need to paint the barrel or cover it in a way that sunlight can’t penetrate through to the water.
Is the rain barrel kit hard to install?
Not at all! Clear and easy-to-follow instructions are provided at the workshop and with your rain barrel kit. If you do have any problems, we will be happy to provide further references to you.
Will we assemble the barrel and kit at the workshop?
No. Due to the size of our workshops and the barrel prep process, GBF cannot accommodate installation. After attending the workshop, you will have all the materials and instructions needed to install the barrel at your home.
Can I still get a rain barrel if I don't have gutters?
Yes! You don’t need gutters/downspouts to install a rain barrel. We will provide you with some alternative ways to set up your rain barrels that work just as well.
How safe is the water I will be collecting?
Rainwater collected from your roof should not be consumed. We encourage using your collected rainwater to wash cars, water a yard or garden, clean objects outdoors, etc.
Are rain barrels legal in Texas?
Yes! In Texas, several laws have been passed in support of rainwater harvesting. HB 645 prohibits homeowners’ associations from implementing new covenants banning rainwater harvesting installations but grants them the authority to develop and implement rules requiring homeowners to screen their systems appropriately. So if your HOA says you can’t have a rain barrel, they are wrong. But you may have to meet certain guidelines when it comes to the color and location of your barrel.
Still have questions? Email Kaitlin Grable at kgrable@galvbay.org.
