Bullet Point Summary
- Rain Gutters Save You Money on Home Repairs
- Learn to install rain gutters.
- Step by step how-to
- Tools and techniques to finish the work
- Benefits of doing it yourself with gutter installation for your house
- Protect your home, add years of life to it
Introduction
Water damage can creep into your home with silent ease, churning through thousands of dollars in repairs. There is an easy answer to this conundrum: install rain gutters. Rain gutters serve a couple of purposes: they catch water running alongside your foundation and shield the exterior side of your home from soil erosion and moisture damage. Sometimes, just knowing how to install rain gutters may save you a few dollars while equipping you to protect your own property.
In the following guide, we will show you a step-by-step process as we install rain gutters and protect your home from what could be devastating damage. You’re either a hands-on DIY enthusiast who wants to save money or someone who wants the most affordable solution-the starting point is here.
Why Rain Gutters Are So Important
Before going into the “how,” it is essential to appreciate why gutters form an essential part of home maintenance. Though water falling from the sky might initially appear harmless, it tends to become quite destructive over time by causing costly repairs such as cracking in the foundation, mold, and rotting wood. Gutters prevent this from happening, as they take water far away from your property.
Think of rain gutters as the unsung heroes of your house’s defense system: an old fence encircling a castle, a moat keeps the invaders from reaching and touching the castle walls. It does just the same thing-this time, moving water away from those sensitive spots on your house.
How to Install Rain Gutters Step-by-Step Guide
Measure and Plan
Measure the perimeter of your roof to determine how much gutter material you are going to need. Gutter kits come as a package from the store and contain everything that you need. It is best to use gutters that follow the slope of your roof.
Get Your Tools
You’re going to be needing some basic tools: a ladder, a tape measure, a hacksaw, a drill, and some gutter hangers. And don’t forget your safety gear: gloves and goggles.
Install Downspouts
Downspouts drive water away from your house if installed correctly. Attach the downspouts to the gutters using screws, but these should be outside the foundation at least three feet.
Attach the Gutter to the Roof
Attach them on the fascia boards, one gutter 18 inches apart. The installation must be uniform so as not to create shakes and rattles. And most importantly, the gutters should have a small slope at the downspout to allow for good water flow.
Seal the Seams
At the seams, waterproof sealants should be applied at your gutter system not to leak at seams especially where parts contact each other. This added sealant may protect your gutter system for more years and not get further damaged to flood more waters.
One of the huge benefits of putting up the rain gutters yourself is that you save money. You have to pay a pretty penny to get a professional contractor to put the gutters in, and by doing it yourself, you avoid exorbitant labor charges. The installation will also be done according to your specifications, so you would actually want it done this way.
Conversely, installing do-it-yourself gutters is also very fulfilling once you share a passion for home improvement projects. You get to protect your house while making maintenance more personal.
Tips for a Successful Installation
Check the weather
The best time to install gutters is during a dry, clear day.
Assistant
You need a helper, even more to hold the ladder, so it will not be such a chore and burden to you.
Regular Maintenance
Always clean your gutters after installation to remove debris and make sure that the water goes on its correct path.
Conclusion
Installing rain gutters is a cost-effective and very practical solution that provides an excellent means of saving your house from damage brought about by water. Follow this guide to ensure safety from risks that have been attached in the infiltration of water, soil erosion, and growing mold. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or just want to save on professional fees, learning the installation of rain gutters is the smartest move that a homeowner must make. Take time to do this necessary part of the ‘character building’ phase of home maintenance-you’ll be glad you did!
