What Is the Proper Way to Install Gutters?
October 26, 2021
The installation of a rain gutter may look different from one homeowner to the next. Rain gutters can be built through different methods. The most common and safest route involves hiring a
professional contractor, but there are people how buy the materials and install the gutters on their own.
Seamless rain gutters, however, should always be left to professionals, as the equipment used to build them is one of the reasons why they work in so many different types of buildings. Whatever the case, there's a basic sequence of steps that must always be followed if you want the best results.
How Are Gutters Installed?
Rain gutters can be sectioned or seamless depending on how they're built. While seamless gutters are manufactured using equipment made for the job, sectioned gutters are built in portions and then secured together to form the gutter run. They take more time and effort, but they remain an option for those with budget constraints. Seamless gutters, however, entail a long-term investment and fewer repairs in the future.
All in all, both times of gutters involve a certain degree of risk when it's time to install them on the house. A professional contractor is an old hand in the process and knows how to maneuver a large rain guttering system while partially suspended in the air. Nevertheless, a homeowner should always understand the ins and outs of
rain gutter installation to oversee the process correctly and recognize inconsistencies.
As mentioned earlier, there are a number of steps that should always be part of rain gutter installation, a professional installer will only make each step flow more effectively and safely. Here's what goes on during the process:
- First of all, you must define the gutter size according to the roof's measurements and overall length. You must keep in mind the gutter's placement below the fascia and in relation to the downspouts.
- The contractor marks the layout lines prior to installing, namely the gutter run at each end and along the downspouts, keeping 1.25 inches below the edge flashing and a 1⁄2 inch downward slope.
- They will mount the fascia brackets after locating the rafter tails. In most cases, the brackets are fastened using stainless steel lag screws.
- The contractor uses a portable machine to build the gutters on site from a aluminum/metal sheet. The process should be done in an open area, following the measurements set in advance.
- Before mounting the guttering system, some final adjustments must be made on the final piece. The end caps must be attached separately and the seams secured. Then, the contractor needs to cut a downspout outlet into the gutter, usually making a 4-inch hole right on the area where the gutter will be attached to the downspout opening.
- Now comes the time to install the gutter, using the bracket hooks to support its weight while securing the gutters to the fascia.
- The gutters are attached to the downspouts by screwing the downspout elbow to the outlet.
Beyond understanding each step and getting familiar with the installation process, there are some important ground rules you must apply long before you get to the point of hiring a contractor:
- Get familiar with your roof's measures, especially if you have multiple roof lines since they will affect the slope of your gutters. The roof's area and pitch play a huge part in identifying the gutter profile that works best for your home.
- Mind your budget. There are many options that make rain gutters affordable in nearly all scenarios, but some materials increase the overall cost in a significant way. Moreover, a custom-made gutter will always involve a bigger investment than a standard sectioned alternative.
- Check the company's credentials before hiring their installation services. Make sure their license is in order and don't be afraid to ask about their professional experience. You can also look for online reviews to learn about people's experiences while working with them.
- Discuss your options with your contractor. While it's understandable to ask for the biggest width available, it's important to make your gutter match your home's layout. Each material also has multiple pros and cons that become more significant when you take the area's climate into account.
- If you have a big yard and/or there's a lot of greenery near your location, you need to consider installing guards on your gutters. Gutter guards will prevent the accumulation of leaves and branches inside your guttering system, improving maintenance and reducing the chances of clogs.
There's no reason to doubt the durability of your rain gutters as long as they are installed the right way, strongly secured in all their joints, and fitting properly below your roof to catch the rainwater rolling from above. The professional installation team at Rain Gutters Solution offer you the best equipment and decades of experience to make the entire installation process smooth, safe, and stress-free. If you're wondering 'what is the proper way to install gutters?', let our professional contractors handle the process.
You deserve the highest quality in all parts of your home, and your rain gutters are no exception. Rain Gutters Solution aims to always meet your demands while making and installing gutters the right way. We have all the necessary equipment and the best installation specialists ready to bring the best service in the area. If you're planning on getting a new rain guttering system, don't hesitate to call
(305) 270-7779 or fill out the
contact form on this website to schedule an appointment with us.
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