With so many options available, picking the right water butt can feel overwhelming. Here’s everything you need to know.
What Size Do You Need?
Water butts typically range from 80 litres to 200 litres. Your choice depends on three things: roof area, available space, and intended use.
A small shed or garage roof might fill an 80-100 litre butt in a single downpour. A typical house roof can easily fill multiple 200-litre butts. If you’re a keen gardener with a greenhouse or vegetable patch, go bigger — you’ll use every drop.
Material Matters
Most modern water butts are made from UV-stabilised polyethylene. It’s lightweight, durable, and won’t crack or fade in the sun. Food-grade versions are available if you want to use the water on edible crops.
Traditional oak barrels are heavier and more expensive, but they look beautiful in a cottage garden. They need an initial soaking to swell the wood and become watertight.
Styles to Consider
- Standard round butts — The classic choice. Good capacity, easy to install, affordable.
- Slimline butts — Designed for narrow side passages or small gardens. Fit flush against a wall.
- Wall-mounted butts — Raised off the ground for gravity-fed pressure. Ideal for patios.
- Decorative butts — Oak barrels, terracotta finishes, or planter tops that double as garden features.
Don’t Forget the Accessories
A diverter kit is essential — it channels rainwater from your downpipe into the butt. A stand raises the tank for easier tap access. Consider a filtration system if you want cleaner water for your plants.
Whatever you choose, pick a reputable brand with a good warranty. Your water butt will sit outside in all weather — it needs to last.