How-to Guide for Installing Downspouts for Gutters

Downspouts are an important part of the gutter system. They channel the water down away from the house and into the drain. Downspouts are attached underneath gutter and run vertically down the side of the house. Downspouts are fairly easy to install and can be done with very simple tools found around the house.

Items needed:

• Ladder


• Drill


• Screws


• Downspouts


• Gutter hangers


• Gloves (optional)

Step 1: Lean a ladder against the house where the downspout will be installed. Downspouts are typically installed on the roof at each corner of the house. Be sure the ladder is on flat ground so it does not lean or fall over. You may want to ask a friend or family member to hold the ladder steady while you are installing the downspouts.

Step 2: Slide the downspout into the elbow that is attached to the gutter. Use a drill and screws to attach the downspouts to the elbow.

Step 3: Use the drill the attach the downspout to the second elbow that holds the downspouts to the side of the house. Again, the downspout will be screwed into the elbow. Wrap a hanger around the downspout and screw it to the side of the house. If you are replacing any old downspouts, try to place the screws in the same place as the old ones to avoid making too many holes in your gutters and house.

Step 4: Attach the shoe to the downspout. The shoe channels the water away from the house and directs it to the storm drain. The downspout fits inside the shoe. Drill and screw into each side of the shoe to hold the downspout in place.