Installing gutters on a home is not difficult if you can follow a few basic steps. Having a measuring stick and level to guide your work is also a good idea. First, mark the highest and lowest points of the roof with a chalk line once you’ve marked these points. The rafter tails are usually spaced at least 16 inches (40.6 cm) apart. It would help if you also drilled a few pilot holes in the rafters to make the bracket installation easier.
Easy to install
Installing gutters can be a rewarding DIY project. However, there are several things to consider when performing this task. You should follow proper instructions and have the right tools to complete the job. It may also require handling heavy objects such as nails, rivets, or screws. You may even end up hurting yourself if you’re not an experienced gutter installer.
Before starting, you must measure the gutters correctly. The correct measurement is crucial in ensuring that they fit your roof. The gutter should be slightly high in the center and lower at the ends. The drop from the center to the ends should be less than a quarter of an inch.
Strong
It is essential to have strong gutters on your house to prevent water damage to your home. Leaking or sagging gutters allow water to splash down the siding and pool near your home’s foundation. This water can also damage your landscaping. If you are unsure how to install strong gutters on your home, here are some steps to help you. Getting suitable materials and following a proper installation process can help you prevent these problems.
First, you need to know the slope of your gutter. Next, you should ensure that the gutter slows toward the downspout. A quarter-inch slope is ideal for gutters that are ten feet long. For more than forty feet run, the gutter must be pitched from the middle to the downspout at each end. You should also ensure that all downspout outlets are attached securely to the gutter using pop rivets or screws. Finally, you must apply gutter sealant to ensure the gutters are waterproof.
Sleek
If you want to improve the look of your home’s exterior, a sleek gutter installation can be the solution. You’ll enjoy a seamless gutter system that eliminates box and strip miters, resulting in better hold and a cleaner, more appealing appearance. The sleek gutter installation will also keep your home’s curb appeal.
The first step in a gutter installation is to mark the location of downspouts. For example, if your gutters are 30 feet (9.1 m) long, you’ll need to measure from one end of the roof to the other. To measure, use a chalk line along your fascia. The first line should be about 1/4 inch from the highest point, the second half-inch down, and the final line should be about 3/4 inch down from the highest point. You can then use two wood scraps to support the gutters as you pull them up from the middle.
Durable
If you live in an area where summers are hot, and winters are cold, you may want to choose durable gutters. These will not rust, corrode, or dent. Also, they come in various colors and are easy to install. Another benefit of vinyl gutters is their low price. However, their life expectancy is usually short compared to other materials. They can also be brittle in warmer temperatures.
Zinc gutters, for example, can be durable and require very little maintenance. They are usually coated with zinc and aluminum to help prevent rusting. Zinc gutters also don’t require finishing, making them a good choice for homes with a more upscale look. Alternatively, you can opt for copper gutters. However, copper gutters are more expensive than their zinc and aluminum counterparts, so you’ll have to spend extra money for this type of gutter.
Easy to maintain
Having your gutters cleaned regularly is an easy task. You can use a garden hose to wash off the leaves and use the highest pressure setting. You should also clean the downspouts and inspect mounting points and hardware. Keeping your gutters clean and clear of debris is essential to prevent them from sagging.
Clogged gutters can lead to various problems, including foundation problems and water damage. They also allow mold to grow and can compromise the air quality in your home. Cleaning your gutters is a simple DIY project that takes less than an hour. It can be done by a homeowner with some essential tools found in the garage and will restore your gutters to full function.
Cost
There are several factors to consider when calculating the cost of installing gutters on a home. First, the cost of gutter installation on a one-story home is usually less than the price for two-story gutters. However, two-story gutter installations can be more complex and time-consuming than one-story gutters. Because of this, gutter installation on a two-story home costs about $1 to $2 per linear foot.
The gutter installation cost depends on the type of gutters and the accessories required. For example, copper downspouts are more expensive than vinyl or aluminum downspouts. In addition to gutters, downspouts may require elbows. These elbows are needed if your roof does not line up flush with your home’s walls. Steel elbows cost $5 to $9 per piece.