Replacing gutters isn't considered as difficult a task as some home improvement jobs can be, which is why many homeowners opt for the DIY path. While replacing a gutter on your own has some advantages, a professional installation is also worth considering and, in most cases, is recommended. To ensure that the gutters drain properly, make sure they are tilted (½ inch per 10 feet) toward a downspout. For gutters larger than 40 feet, it is best to tilt the gutter down from the center to a downspout at each end.
Or, you can tilt the gutters downward from each end to a single downspout placed in the center of the duct. Determine what works best for your home before ordering gutters and accessories. One of the first and most important parts of installing gutters is creating a fall or slope that ensures that water always moves towards downspouts. For ideal drainage, you need approximately one inch of fall for every 20 feet of travel.
If the face board is level, as it should be, measure from the edge to the starting point, then move the face down 20 feet and make a mark one inch lower. Connect the marks with a chalk line to create a guide for the top of the gutter. These DIY gutters come in 10-foot sections that are stitched with a special support and sealant. Half of the seam may remain on the floor before hanging each piece.
The mounting brackets can also be attached to the floor. Some materials are easier to install than others; vinyl or aluminum can be more easily installed by yourself than copper gutters. The complexity of your home's roof can also make installation a smarter option than doing it yourself. Remember that improper installation can cost you in many ways, so if you're not sure of your ability, it's best to see a professional.
Here, we'll show you how to install semicircular reproduction gutters that are exact replicas of the size and style of gutters found in old houses. And if you want an unusual gutter design or color, you won't be hampered by the limited options that any gutter installer presents.
