When Silas arrived, the sight was unmistakable. Stacked three high against a corrugated fence were dozens of vibrant, cobalt-blue drums. They stood like polyethylene soldiers, shimmering under the midday sun.

They often buy soap and wax in these barrels and give them away or sell them cheap once empty.

Check Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for "55-gallon drums."

Silas opted for the closed-top barrels. He could already picture them nestled under his downspouts, fitted with brass spigots. Where to Find Your Own