How to Install Gutters: The Family Handyman

Step 1: Planning the project

1 of 1

Almost all home centers and full-service hardware stores sell gutter systems that are designed primarily for easy installation. But with just a little bit more work, you can use these same parts to put together gutters and downspouts that are stronger and better looking too.

Evaluate and plan the project Installing your own gutters can save you substantially over professionally installed gutters, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for. Inspect the fascia and soffit (Fig. B) for signs of rotted wood, which will need to be replaced before you put up the gutters. Many houses have a trim board or crown molding nailed to the fascia just under the shingles. Youll have to either remove this as we did or add a continuous strip of wood under it to create a flat plane for the gutters. In either case, prime and paint bare wood before you hang the gutters.

Draw a sketch and measure your house Fig. A shows an example of a gutter system for a typical house. Record the length of the gutter runs and mark the downspout locations. Then count up the inside and outside corners and end caps (note whether they are right or left ends). Measure the height of downspouts and add 4 ft. to each for the extension away from the house at the bottom. Each downspout requires three elbows. There are two types of elbows that turn either to the front or side of the downspout. Most installations require only front elbows, but occasionally you may need a side elbow, usually to turn the downspout extension sideways. Here are a few planning tips:

Figure B: Mounting details

Measure the horizontal gutter runs and downspouts and identify the parts you'll need.

1 of 5

Cut the front and back sides with a tin snips. Bend the gutter and cut the bottom.

2 of 5

Read the original post:
How to Install Gutters: The Family Handyman