Just like the roof itself the guttering needs to be well maintained, as they play an essential role in your houses drainage system. Have you noticed recently that it is looking a little dilapidated? If you have then now is the time to think about replacing it. If you are at all DIY-minded then you should be able to carry out the work of replacing the guttering on your home. But before work can begin you need to make sure that you have all the right tools and equipment to hand. Plus you need to keep safety in mind at all times, so it is a good idea to get someone you trust to help you.
Step 1 – Gutter Parts And Mounting Details
First off you need to identify which parts of the guttering need replacing. You may find you only need to do certain sections. Once identified you need to then measure the gutter runs along with any downpipes that need to be replaced.
Step 2 – Cut The Gutter And Downpipes To Length
This work should be completed on the ground rather than whilst up the ladder. If you are replacing the gutters with metal rather than plastic ones you will need a good pair of tin snips to cut it.
Step 3 – Notch The Guttering
To do this you need to cut a four-inch-long notch into the gutters front lip as this will make overlapping and splicing of the gutter sections together a lot easier.
Step 4 – Snap And Rivet Sections Together
First off lay a bead of sealant along the back edge. Then hook the front lip of the notched section over the over section and snap together. Now you need to drill holes into the front of the gutter so you can then install rivets. These will help to keep each section of the guttering firmly in place.
Step 5 – Caulk The Seam
Along with applying gutter sealant inside of the gutter seam, you should also apply some over each of the rivets. All of this work should be done at ground level before you then replace it around the edge of your roof.
Step 6 – Screw The Gutter To The Fascia Board
Before you do this it is a good idea to inspect the fascia board and replace if necessary. To attach the guttering to the fascia board you simply screw the back of the guttering to it using 1.25-inch stainless steel screws. It is important to place each screw 2 feet apart along the complete length of the guttering.
Step 7 – Add Gutter Flashing
Simply slide the flashing under the roof shingles and secure in place using 1-inch roof nails. Again place each nail 2 feet apart.