How to Install Home Gutters
Gutters are vital to a house because they add protection by funneling rainwater away from the home and its foundation. Homes without them can have water leaks in the foundation, which can cause rotting. The gutters are great for diverting water so it will not create soil erosion and floods in the basement. It takes little effort and few tools to install them.
- Determine the length of gutters needed for the home. Use a tape measure to measure the length of the roof you will be installing the gutters on. Allow extra gutter length for mistakes. The gutters can be easily trimmed.
- Mark the areas where the gutters will be installed with chalk. Allow for a 1/2-inch slope for approximate every 10 feet of run.
- Look for the rafters on the roof. They are usually located behind the fascia and are 16 inches apart. Fasten the brackets onto the rafter with the bracket screws. The screw should be long enough to penetrate the rafters. Space the brackets 15 to 19 inches apart.
- Place the home gutters into the brackets and use screws to screw the gutters to the brackets.
- Trim any excess length with a hacksaw.
- Attach the downspouts to the end of the end of the home gutters. Secure them with rivets.
- Place caulk into the seams of the home gutters to prevent leaks.