Gutters play an essential role in protecting your home from water damage and diverting rainwater away from its foundation, yet over time can become worn or damaged, necessitating replacement as one of the most effective measures against future water damage and maintaining structural integrity of the structure. Gutter installation can also be completed as an easily DIY project following all necessary steps.
Before beginning a gutter replacement project, it’s essential to plan and purchase the necessary materials. This includes determining the optimal lengths and downspouts; measuring roof dimensions; and locating downspouts in key locations near corners or every 40 feet along your gutter run. Once this information is in hand, then begin your project!
To prevent water leaks and other issues from your gutter system, it’s crucial that your project begins in dry weather conditions. Working on gutters when they’re filling with water should also be avoided if using one with seams; over time these seams deteriorate due to exposure and temperature changes and lead to leakage and other problems.
Once it is safe, begin your project by installing fascia brackets. First, drill three 3/26-inch diameter holes through each bracket’s screw mounting hole and secure them using 1-inch stainless steel screws with flanged nuts. Next, secure gutters to each bracket using sealant (rather than caulk) for watertight sealing.
At the end of your gutter run, mark where it should slope toward a downspout – this will help your gutter drain properly and avoid clogs. Use string to mark this location, checking that its slope matches up with what your level suggests; once complete cut to size then install downspout with bead of gutter sealant around its base to make sure it’s watertight.
Repeat this step for each downspout you intend to install. If adding gutter downspout extensions, make sure they are in place before attaching the final outlet so as to avoid having to take steps later to take out them again. Likewise, when adding end caps or gutter downspout extensions make sure they are on before attaching it at its final outlet.
Once your gutter run is complete, add end caps and seal them using gutter sealant at both ends of the run. Mitered joints offer watertight yet visually appealing solutions at corners; for any questions or assistance if required consult with a professional gutter company. They can assist with choosing an appropriate system, replacing it easily and providing helpful maintenance tips while helping extend its lifespan for maximum enjoyment and maximum return.