Eavestrough installation is essential for the health and safety of your home. It prevents water from seeping down the exterior walls, which could lead to dampness and mould growth.
The cost of installing eavestroughs depends on materials, labor costs and the size and configuration of your home. Estimates are usually provided in linear footage.
Materials
Eavestroughs are designed to catch rainwater or melted snow and transport it away from the foundation of a home, keeping it out of walls that could potentially sustain drywall damage or structural issues. Without them, water can seep into walls and cause water damage as well as structural problems within the framework.
Eavestrough materials vary based on the roof type and weather conditions. Generally, they’re constructed out of galvanized steel, copper or aluminum for durability and ease of maintenance.
Stainless steel is one of the best materials to use because it is stronger and more durable than aluminum. It can withstand intense rainfall, freezing temperatures and even snowfall without issue.
Before installing eavestroughs on your home, inspect all fascia boards to make sure there are no loose, damaged or rotting sections. Also make sure the wood is free of mold and mildew. If the fascia is rotting, you will need to replace it before installing new eavestroughs.
Layout
Laying out your new eavestrough is an integral step in the installation process. Make sure the gutter is correctly situated and that none of the components are overlooked.
Begin by sketching a rough sketch of your roofline. This will serve as your guide when determining the dimensions of each eavestrough and how many downspouts are necessary (as per our recommended number for your particular home).
Next, mark the roof edge for several items such as downspouts and outlets. Additionally, draw a chalk line at the bottom of your fascia board where you will need an inside/outside mitre corner.
Finally, measuring downspouts and outlets to get the best value for your money is always a wise idea. Doing this will guarantee that you don’t overpay for new eavestroughs and other roofing supplies.
Downspouts
Downspouts direct rainwater away from your home’s foundation and into a sewer, helping to prevent seeping into walls, soggy insulation, and other structural issues in the long run.
When selecting downspouts, homeowners have several materials to select from: metal, aluminum, vinyl and copper.
For long gutter runs, consider investing in a larger diameter downspout. These come in 3-, 4- and 6-inch sizes.
For instance, if installing an intricate gutter system with multiple elbows, use a large diameter downspout to guarantee all pieces are compatible.
When installing downspouts, always ensure they direct water away from your foundation. Doing this prevents water from seeping into your basement and foundation, leading to costly repairs in the future.