Guttering is much more complicated than it looks, so it is better to entrust this work to an experienced professional than to do it yourself. Using the DIY route can save you money upfront, but any mistakes you make can cause severe water damage to your property that will cost you more in the long run.

Some common Rain Gutter Installations Mistakes

Here are some common and most apparent gutter installation mistakes people make while installing gutters themselves.

Choosing Wrong gutter Style

It is the most common mistake animal lovers make. Remember: no two houses are the same – each has different requirements, so a one-size-fits-all approach to guttering won’t work.

A smooth gutter is superior to a cross-section gutter. The suture is the weakest point of the gutter system. Over time, the gutter sections can separate from each other, leaving gaps in the joints where they meet, increasing the risk of leaks. Leaves and different types of debris can also get stuck in these joints. Because smooth gutters have fewer joints, they require less maintenance and are less prone to leaks. Gutter Types – k-style gutters, half round and fascia gutters.

Selecting a Wrong Gutter Size

A standard gutter system is 5 inches long by 6 inches wide. The steeper the roof slope, the more rainwater will collect on your roof, and the bigger your gutter will be.

Considering the amount of precipitation in your area, it would be best if you also thought about the risk of snow and ice formation. For example, ice dams are a common problem in cold climates. Ice dams typically form when snow that lands on your roof melts and then freezes along the edge of the roof. Ice dams can also form when water flowing from your gutters freezes.

Failing to Account for Roof Pitch

The gutter must be steep enough for rainwater to flow down the gutter. If the terrain is too steep, water will flow into a ditch and possibly overflow. Conversely, if the angle is too small, water will collect in several parts of the gutter. An experienced sewer contractor will take these factors into account when installing your system.

Downspouts Installed Incorrectly

Don’t forget about the downspout. If gutters are not installed properly or are in the wrong place, rainwater can soak into the ground or even damage your facade. Ideally, the gutter should drain 8 to 10 feet of water from the bottom of your house. Here is a DIY guide to help you install your downspouts effectively.

Keeping Gutter Hangers Wide Apart

When installing the gutter, ensure that the gutter bracket that supports it is not too far away. If not, your gutters may sag. Usually, the hanger should be no more than three feet apart.

Conclusion

Most homeowners choose to make home improvements to save money on labor costs without realizing you will spend more than you think. Remember: your gutters are your roof’s first line of defense against rain. Hence, any possible mounting errors that may occur in a DIY project due to the complexity of installing gutters can leave your roof vulnerable to moisture damage. The savings you make in labor costs are immediately offset in the long run by repair and replacement costs.

It is advisable to leave your gutter installation work to professionals who have a specialist approach for gutter installations. Taking help from professionals will ensure that your gutter installation work finishes properly and your roof is protected. Not to mention, you’ll avoid the danger of falling and save a lot of time and effort.