There are two types of residential gutters: sectional and seamless. Seamless gutters are made from a single piece of material, while sectional gutters are made from several pieces that fit together. Both types of gutters can be installed by a do-it-yourselfer, but seamless gutters may require special equipment and training.
Sectional Gutters
Sectional gutters are the most common type of gutter. They are made from interlocking sections of aluminum, vinyl, or steel. Sectional gutters are easy to install and can be cut to fit any size opening. Most hardware stores sell sectional gutters in standard lengths.
Seamless Gutters
Seamless gutters are made from a single piece of material, usually aluminum or steel. Seamless gutters are more expensive than sectional gutters, but they are less likely to leak. Seamless gutters can be custom-ordered to fit any size opening.
Tools and Materials Needed
To install either type of gutter, you will need a ladder, a level, a tape measure, and a hacksaw. You will also need the following materials:
·Gutter sections or seamless gutter coil
·Gutter brackets and hangers
·End caps and drop outlets (for seamless gutters)
·Sealant (caulk or silicone)
·Sheet metal screws or pop rivets (for attaching gutters to house)
Installing Sectional Gutters
1.Measure the length of the gutter needed for each section of your roofline. Cut the gutter sections to size using a hacksaw.
2.Install gutter brackets at intervals along the fascia board, using sheet metal screws or pop rivets. The brackets should be spaced about 24 inches apart.
3.Hang the gutter sections from the brackets, using hangers designed for your type of gutter material. End caps can be used to seal the ends of the gutters. Drop outlets can be used to drain water away from areas where downspouts will not be installed.
4.Apply a bead of sealant along the seams between gutter sections.
5.Install downspouts at the ends of the gutters, using screws or pop rivets. Downspouts can also be attached to the side of the house using brackets.
Installing Seamless Gutters
1.Measure the length of gutter needed for each section of your roofline. Order seamless gutter coil in the correct lengths from a supplier.
2.Install gutter brackets at intervals along the fascia board, using sheet metal screws or pop rivets. The brackets should be spaced about 24 inches apart.
3.Unroll the seamless gutter coil and cut it to length using a hacksaw.
4.Hang the gutter sections from the brackets, using hangers designed for your type of gutter material. End caps can be used to seal the ends of the gutters. Drop outlets can be used to drain water away from areas where downspouts will not be installed.
5.Install downspouts at the ends of the gutters, using screws or pop rivets. Downspouts can also be attached to the side of the house using brackets.
Tips
·To avoid leaks, make sure the gutters are pitched slightly towards the downspouts.
·Be sure to clean the gutters regularly to prevent clogs. Leaves and other debris can cause gutters to overflow, leading to water damage.
2021-06-19
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