If you are interested in installing a downspout on your home, you’ll want to know the basics first. Learn about the different types of downspouts, the installation process, and the costs involved. In addition, learn how to secure downspouts on your property.
Installing A Downspout
To install a downspout, it is important to make sure that it is attached to the house in the right place. Make sure that it is against the wall and facing the roof. Then, install an elbow on the end of the downspout. Screw the elbow to the house using two screws, one on each side.
The downspout should be installed at least four inches from the edge of the gutter. Once it is securely attached, make a hole in the gutter for its connector. The hole should be centered in the connector.
Types Of Downspouts
There are several types of downspouts. These fixtures are very useful, as they keep rainwater from reaching the soil underneath your home. Water that would otherwise get underneath your home will ruin your exterior paint and landscaping, and eventually it will damage your home’s foundation. Having a downspout can help you avoid issues like wood rot, foundation wall cracks, and peeling paint.
Aluminum downspouts are inexpensive and lightweight, and can be used in homes with metal gutters. However, the only disadvantage to aluminum downspouts is their susceptibility to rust. If you protect your aluminum downspouts properly, they should last for years. Unfortunately, if you use them in harsh weather conditions, you may have to replace them sooner than expected.
Costs Of Installing A Downspout
There are two main types of downspouts available: rigid and flexible. Reflexive downspouts are less expensive than flexible ones, but aren’t as versatile as flexible ones. They run vertically from the gutter to the ground. Flexible downspouts can be placed higher and positioned differently, and they can be added to an existing downspout.
Depending on the length and type of downspout extension, these extensions can cost $10 to $50 each. They also cost around $30 to $100 to install. While they aren’t expensive, installing a downspout requires some repairs around the house. Damaged roof or siding can delay installation. Some extensions may even require new siding. Without downspouts, water can pool in your home, causing damage to your roof and siding.
Downspouts come in many different materials, and the right choice can make the difference between a water-free home and a damaged basement. However, you should choose a downspout made of durable, low-maintenance materials. Experts recommend matching the downspout material to your gutter system. Depending on the length of your downspout and the height of your home, the cost will vary. A professional downspout installer will ensure that your downspouts fit properly into your gutter system and provide reliable drainage.
Securing A Downspout
Securing a downspout while installing gutters is an important step in the gutter installation process. The downspout is the pipe that directs rainwater away from the house. To attach the downspout to the home, you should use an elbow connector and crimp the ends of the pipe. Next, install the downspout into the elbow connector using two screws and a 3/8-inch zip screw.
When attaching a downspout to the wall, you should make sure to use U-shaped brackets. You can purchase U-shaped brackets at hardware stores. If you don’t have access to hardware stores, you can make your own brackets from pieces of downspout.
Choosing A Downspout
Choosing the proper downspout for your gutter installation is essential to keeping water flowing away from your home. The size of your downspout will depend on the amount of rain your area receives, the roof slope, and other factors. Many pros recommend choosing larger downspouts, because they reduce the chance of debris clogging. Additionally, bigger downspouts require less cleaning. Generally, you’ll need a downspout that measures about two to three inches in diameter. While this size is standard for residential gutters, it’s possible to find larger downspouts that are half an inch larger. This can give you the same effect as adding a second downspout, but you’ll need to make sure your gutter is big enough to accommodate a larger downspout.
