This project shows another practical option for harvesting rainwater for home, garden, or livestock use. In this case, it’s set up to support a rainwater garden, but the concept can be adapted for almost any situation.
🔧 How it started
The structure originally began as a roofing test prop for a desert exposure test. Once that testing was complete, instead of tearing it down, the goal became repurposing the existing framework into a functional rainwater collection system.
🏗️ Smart reuse of materials
Rather than starting from scratch, the build focused on using what was already on hand:
Converted multiple small frames into one continuous roof
Reduced material needs by minimizing gutters
Used scrap lumber where possible
Painted the structure white simply because that’s what was available
🧱 Roofing choice
The roofing surface is galvanized metal, sourced locally and rolled to size. It was cost-effective and easier to handle than big-box options.
💧 How the system works
Rain hits the roof and flows into a gutter
Water passes through a simple mesh filter to catch debris
Gravity moves the water through PVC piping
Water is stored downhill in IBC totes near the rainwater garden
No pumps — just elevation and gravity doing the work.
🌱 What the water is used for
This system feeds a rainwater garden, supporting seasonal plants and fruit trees during monsoon rains, using rainwater only.
📍 Why it’s located where it is
The location wasn’t chosen for perfection — it was chosen because the structure was already there. Existing post holes, clear sun exposure, and minimal disruption made it practical to leave it in place.
💡 Lessons learned
This setup isn’t the most efficient for the resources used
A rain roof works best when integrated into another structure (carport, livestock shelter, gazebo)
Low-cost, low-height rain roofs can be very effective with minimal materials
💰 Cost snapshot (approx.)
Roofing structure: ~$450–$500 (original test build)
Metal roofing: ~$180
Gutters & fittings: ~$15–$20
Piping: ~$65–$70
IBC totes: ~$40–$140 each (depending on condition)
❗ Is it worth it?
As a standalone build for a small garden — probably not. But as a test project, learning tool, and foundation for a future larger rain roof and in-ground cistern, it makes sense.
🔮 Future plans
Larger rain roof
Underground cistern near the house
Possible solar integration
This project is a great example of iterative preparedness — using what you have, learning from it, and applying those lessons to bigger, better systems later.
🌧️🌱 If you’ve built a rain roof or water catchment system, share what worked (or didn’t) for you!