Most of the time, gutters are installed by professionals, but there's no reason why you can't do it yourself. All materials and accessories are available at home centers, sawmills and roofing supply companies. However, installing gutters yourself has its drawbacks. Working on a ladder is difficult and dangerous, especially in areas where deterioration may occur.
If you have old gutters, there is a good chance that there is some deterioration in the lining or fascia, which could make it difficult to hang them. Gutter companies can repair fascia boards or rotten tiles. These DIY gutters come in 10-foot sections that are attached together with a special bracket and sealant. Half of the seam can be left on the floor before each piece is hung.
The mounting brackets can also be attached to the floor by pressure. A professional will be able to properly evaluate the house to select the correct gutter style, inspect the house to see if water has damaged walls or foundations, and install the gutters at the right angle with the correct connections and seals to prevent leaks. However, seamless gutters aren't usually an option in big box stores, so it can be difficult to get seamless gutters if you install them yourself. A common mistake that some homeowners make when replacing their own gutters is choosing a gutter style or material that is not suitable for the house.
Of course, the best way to avoid ice build-up is to ensure that your home has adequate insulation and that your gutters are large enough, but heated gutter systems can also help. A well-installed rain gutter protects the house and its foundations from water that could seep into the walls or pool from the floor and cause damage. A professional gutter installer can install seamless gutters that are manufactured on-site to the direct measurements of your home, and because they have no joints, they are less likely to leak later on. But with a little more work, you can use these same parts to assemble stronger, better-looking rain gutters and downspouts.
Seamless gutters are highly recommended because they are more durable and require less maintenance than a sectioned gutter system. Seamless gutters are easier to install and are customized to fit your home, as gutters aren't a one-size-fits-all solution. The size of the house and the number of rain gutters that need to be replaced will affect the total installation time. Installing a gutter on your own may cost less than hiring a professional, but if the gutters are installed at the wrong angle or are the wrong style for your home or region, the house could eventually suffer structural damage.
Gutter heating systems melt snow and ice before they reach the gutters, reducing the risk of ice build-up and gutter overflows. A local gutter installation company will be familiar with the best style of gutters for your home and weather conditions. Replacing gutters on your own may not save you money in the long run if you buy the wrong materials, if new gutters are leaking, or if someone is injured when they fall off a ladder. Homeowners who use the expertise of a gutter installation company can expect to maintain or even increase the value of their property without having to worry about gutters malfunctioning, water damage, or odd-sized gutters that detract from the appearance of the home.
