How to Replace Gutters & Downspouts
It is more than just removing the old gutters. It is also about installing them correctly to maintain moisture control, without damaging your roof, exterior of your home or foundation. Working from ladders requires caution; warm temperatures are ideal.
A gutter should slope towards its downspout for optimal drainage. Start at the fascia end and measure 20 feet. Mark an inch below where you started.
Gutters
Aluminum gutters are the most popular. They come in a variety of sizes and materials. When selecting a size, consider the average rainfall in your area. Also, keep in mind sloped roofs and soffit slants. Purchase enough gutter to cover any necessary areas.
For easier assembly, cut gutter sections to length before mounting them. This allows you to connect them while standing up on a ladder.
If you are replacing gutters, be sure to inspect the soffit boards and fascia boards before installing new gutters. Look for any signs of rotted or cracked wood. Repair and repaint as necessary.
Install brackets six inches from each end and every 18-24 inch along the eaves. Use short sheetmetal screws (the latter is more attractive and leaves no sharp spikes in your gutter) or pop rivets to secure them. Add an end cap to your gutter section if there is a hole for the downspout at one end. Slide it on and crimp its edges.
Downspouts
Downspouts collect the rain water that drains from gutter runs, and direct it away. However, if they are cracked, missing, or clogged, it may not be able handle its volume.
Pull down a section from the existing gutter before installing the new downspout to inspect the downspout hole at the base and the attachment point. Remove any rivets from these connecting points, as well as the lower holding strap for the downspout.
Before installing your new downspout, you must remove any rust spots that may have formed in the holes. Next, secure the downspout with gutter screws. If your existing downspout has an elbow, you will need to cut a piece of gutter that fits between two elbows, crimp a fitting, or use slip coupling, before screwing it into place.
Brackets
Gutter systems are available in a variety of materials that vary in durability, resistance to elements and price. Seamless aluminum offers the best durability and aesthetics. Steel or galvanized gutters are cheaper, but more susceptible of corrosion.
The process is relatively the same, regardless of which material you choose. Before you begin any work, measure and survey your gutter system. Take photos to document the process.
After you have taken the measurements, you can start planning the layout of your gutters. Every 10 feet, each run of gutter should be sloped downward by a half-inch. Mark the highest point of each run and snap a line between them. This will determine where brackets and downspouts holes are to be added.
Soffit
Fascia and soffits are essential to the optimal functioning of gutter systems, but they are often overlooked due to their absence. These components are essential for gutters to carry away rainwater, preventing soil erosion, dirt splashed onto siding, and basement leaks.
For optimal performance, gutters should slope at approximately 14 inches every 10 feet towards a downspout. Otherwise, they may become clogged and overflow during heavy rain. Two downspouts should be installed at each end of gutters longer than 40 feet. Those located on hip roofs will require an additional downspout in the center section.
With the right equipment, homeowners can easily replace their gutters. Follow these simple guidelines to do it safely and in accordance with instructions. Always use a safe ladder. Consult a local roofing expert for advice and assistance on where to start. They can explain the basics of soffit or fascia replacement and repair so that your new gutters work optimally.
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It is more than just removing the old gutters. It is also about installing them correctly to maintain moisture control, without damaging your roof, exterior of your home or foundation. Working from ladders requires caution; warm temperatures are ideal. A gutter should slope towards its downspout for optimal drainage. Start at the fascia end and…