If your gutter system has been damaged, it’s best to have it replaced right away. You may think you can save money by replacing it yourself; however, you should consider hiring a professional gutter contractor for the job. Here are four gutter installation practices you can expect from the pros.
1. Write down all required materials. There are plenty of equipment, tools and materials required in a gutter installation project. This can be extremely overwhelming, especially if you are unfamiliar with all the necessary materials. A professional gutter contractor, meanwhile, will compile everything they need to complete the job, from gutter sealant to gutter guards. To ensure the team has everything they need, they will list down all the materials before they start with the project.
2. Join sections on the ground. Assembling gutters and downspouts on a ladder can be difficult and even dangerous. One wrong move could lead to you falling or damaging your materials. For this reason, your contractors will join your gutter ends from the ground instead of high up on the ladder. They will assemble your gutter system from below and adjust it as necessary when they are on the ladder.
3. Make sure the sloping is correct. Sloping is an important method to promote water drainage in the correct direction. To get it right, gutter experts will make sure that each gutter should be sloped toward the downspout at an angle of 1/4 inches for every 10 feet of the system. For gutters that measure 40 feet or more, your contractor may pitch gutters at a slope from the middle instead of to one side.
4. Use screws to install downspouts. Instead of standard rivets, your gutter contractor may find it best to use screws when installing downspouts. Doing so makes it easier to remove the downspouts in the event of cleaning out debris or clogs. The ideal screw is a 1/4 inches hex screw. You may also tell your contractor to have the screw pre-painted to match the rest of the system. Otherwise, it may stand out and look out of place.
Look no further than Blackstone Exteriors for your gutter needs. Our team of experts is determined to assist you with your gutter or roofing project. Call us today at (515) 720-2158, or fill out our online contact form to set an appointment.
