Gutters may not be the most exciting or noteworthy feature of your home, but your gutter system is arguably one of its most important features—it helps to protect your house from inclement weather and other natural elements that might cause expensive damage. If you consider yourself particularly handy, you might be envisioning being able to complete a gutter installation project on your own—but is this ever a wise, cost-saving approach, or is it best to trust a team of pros for such a job? Here’s what you need to know.
Tips for Correctly Installing New Gutters
Although every project looks different, some general tips to consider include:
- Choose the right materials – Gutters come in a variety of materials, including vinyl, aluminum, steel, copper, and even zinc. Some options are budget-friendly, while others are premium and cost more. Also, remember that larger homes will require more materials!
- Ensure Correct Sloping – For every 10 feet of gutter, there should be a ½-inch decline towards the downspout to ensure water flows efficiently. You can adjust the hangers as needed to create the necessary slope if things are too flat.
- Use the Right Fastening Technique – You can use stainless steel screws to attach hangers to the fascia; these resist rust and provide a strong, lasting hold.
- Always Check for Sagging – If your gutters are sagging, you will want to tighten or replace the hangers. Sagging will disrupt water flow and cause overflowing, which can ultimately cause your gutter system to fail.
- Work in Sections – Rather than trying to tackle the whole roofline all at once, try to work in manageable sections, no more than a few feet at a time.
- Prioritize Safety – Working up high on ladders and handling long pieces of metal can be tricky, so be sure you’re using a sturdy ladder on flat ground, as well as wearing gloves and all other proper safety equipment. It’s also wise to tag-team the project with a helper; a second set of hands here can be very useful!
Benefits of Professional Installation
Doing things yourself can indeed end up saving you money, but hiring a professional often ensures far better quality and safety. Some benefits of professional gutter installation include:
- Professionals have years of experience, as well as the expertise and specific techniques needed for installing gutters—especially for multi-story homes.
- Professionals come equipped with all the necessary tools, safety gear, and manpower, reducing the risk of accidents.
- It’s normal for professional installers to offer warranties on their work and the materials used.
- Hiring a team of pros always saves a great deal of time and saves you the headache of coordinating everything and completing the work.
The bottom line is that properly installed gutters are an absolute necessity for protecting your home—but installing them yourself isn’t always as straightforward or easy as you might’ve hoped. Fortunately, it’s a job that you can confidently rely on a team of professionals to handle!
About Platinum Gutters
Our team here at Platinum Gutters has served homeowners around the DFW metroplex for over 15 years, offering a wide range of gutter maintenance services, including cleaning, installation, and beyond. If you need a new gutter system, you can trust us to deliver exceptional results that leave your home well-protected. If you have any questions about the article or you’d like to set up a FREE estimate, please reach out online or call today for more information or assistance.
Tarrant County Telephone: (817) 993-4237.
Dallas/Denton/Collin County Telephone: (972) 346-1590.