Steps Involved in Replacing Gutters

Gutters are often one of the least appreciated features of a home. While they serve an essential function, most homeowners don't look forward to cleaning them, much less replacing them. Like other parts of your home, gutters require some upkeep, and over time, they can wear out.

The typical lifespan of a new gutter system is around 20 years (though with excellent maintenance, you may be able to extend that). If your gutters are nearing the 20-year mark, you might be considering what’s involved in replacing them. Here’s what you can expect from a new gutter installation project performed by a professional roofing expert.

Remove Old Gutters

Before installing new gutters, the first step is to remove the old ones. This involves carefully taking down the existing gutters and downspouts from the eaves and fascia of your home. If you’re still selecting a roofing contractor for your gutter installation, it's important to ask how they plan to remove the old gutters. A professional should explain the steps they’ll take to avoid any damage to your eaves during the process.

If you're building a new home or adding gutters to a house that didn’t have them before, you can skip this step and move straight to measuring for the new gutters.

Check for Damage

After the old gutters are removed, the next step is to inspect for any damage behind them. Over time, the fascia and eaves may have suffered from rot or wear, especially if the old gutters were in place for many years. If any boards or sections of the fascia are damaged, they will need to be replaced before installing the new gutters. A reputable roofer will thoroughly inspect these areas and make any necessary repairs before proceeding with the installation.

Measure and Prepare

Once any damaged sections have been replaced, the roofer will take accurate measurements of your home. With the old gutters removed, it’s easier to measure precisely where the new gutters should be installed, where they should slope toward the downspouts, and how the corners should be angled. Accurate measurements are crucial for a smooth installation and proper gutter function.

With the measurements in hand, your roofer will prepare all the necessary materials. They will measure and cut the new gutters, assemble the corners, and create holes for the downspouts—all before attaching the gutters to your home.

Install New Gutters

Now that everything is prepped, the actual installation of the gutters begins. This step typically requires a team and can usually be completed in a day, depending on the size and height of your home. Most professional gutter installers use screws rather than nails to attach the gutters to the fascia. Screws are a more secure option, ensuring the gutters stay firmly in place.

Install Downspouts

Next, the downspouts are installed. Since the roofer will have pre-cut holes for the downspouts, this step is quick but essential. Downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation, preventing damage and flooding. It's important to make sure they are installed properly, ensuring water flows away from the house.

Cleanup

Finally, the cleanup begins. Gutter installation can create some mess, but a quality roofing contractor will ensure your home is left in good condition. They will remove any leftover materials and use a large magnet to collect any dropped screws or metal pieces.

Need new gutters? GreenForce Restoration is here to help! We offer expert gutter installation for both new and existing homes. Give us a call at (502) 298-6733 or use our contact form to obtain a free quote.