Having well-maintained gutters is necessary to protect your home. Gutters channel rainwater away from your home’s foundation, preventing erosion and damage to the siding and trim. Learning how to install gutters can help you avoid the costs and wait time that often comes with calling professional gutter installers.
“Installing or replacing gutters isn’t overly complex, but it does require precision and attention to detail,” said Josh Mitchell, CEO of Plumbing Lab.
Mitchell said that most homeowners can install gutters with the right tools and a thorough plan. We spoke with Mitchell and conducted independent research to help you learn how to install rain gutters with confidence.
Skill level: Intermediate, Average cost: $3 - 10 per linear foot, Estimated time: 4 - 8 hours
Tools and materials checklist for gutter installation
Before you start your gutter installation, you’ll need to equip yourself with the proper tools and materials. Make sure you have everything you need before you get to work to save yourself frustration down the road.
Tools needed
Below is a list of tools you’ll need to install gutters, according to Mitchell and additional research.
- Brackets
- Bubble level
- Caulking gun
- Chalk
- Chalk line marking tool
- Chisel
- Drill bits
- Eye protection
- Hacksaw or special gutter-cutting tool
- Hammer
- Ladder (at least six-foot)
- Nails
- Power drill
- Rivet gun
- Screws
- Sealant
- Tape measure
- Tin snips
- Work gloves
Materials needed
It’s essential to choose the right gutters for your home. As mentioned, they are a critical factor in your home’s structural integrity, so the cheapest option might not be right for you. Do your research to find the best rainwater gutters for your home.
Below is a list of the materials you’ll need for your DIY gutter installation:
- Downspouts
- Downspout drop outlets
- Downspout elbow (75-degree)
- Downspout U-brackets
- Extra fascia board (if applicable)
- Flexible downspout extension
- Gutter end caps
- Gutter hanging straps
- Gutter sealant
- Gutter slip joint connectors
- Hex-head gutter sheet metal screws
- K-style gutters
- Strip miter
How to install or replace gutters in 12 steps
1. Take safety precautions
Installing gutters involves using dangerous tools and working at heights on a ladder, so safety is a top consideration.
- Double-check that your ladder is in good condition and on level ground.
- Put on thick gloves and eye protection before touching any tools.
- Enlist the help of an assistant to help you maneuver gutters and keep the ladder secure. If you’re working alone, consider utilizing a ladder stabilizer.
2. Plan your installation
- Measure your roofline and determine how much gutter material you’ll need.
- Choose the right type of gutter for your home (aluminum, vinyl, copper, etc.) and buy a little more than needed.
- Plan the positioning of the downspout. If there’s a single downspout, it should be directly in the center of your house’s corner board. If there are multiple, having one every 30 to 40 feet is recommended. Mark where they will be with chalk.
pro tip
- Downspouts should be placed around the areas of your foundation that are most susceptible to water pooling.
3. Remove old gutters
To replace gutters that are already on your home, follow these steps first:
- Remove the old gutters by carefully detaching them from the downspouts.
- Safely lower the gutters to the ground. Remove the downspouts.
- Be sure to mark where the downspouts go, if it isn’t obvious.
pro tip
- This is a good time to check your roof fascia for rot. (The fascia is the long, straight trim that runs along the lower edge of your roof behind the gutters.) If you find any, make necessary repairs or replacements before installing new gutters.
4. Mark your gutter level and slope line
- Use a chalk line to mark the level and slope of your gutters on the fascia board.
- Begin at the highest point of the gutter run, about 1 ? inches below the metal drip-edge flashing.
- Move to the fascia’s opposite end to mark the gutter’s lowest run point. For optimal water flow, the gutter slope should be about a half-inch for every 10 feet of run.
- Level the chalk line between the two points and pull taut.
- Snap the chalk line in the center.
5. Mount fascia brackets
- Find the rafter tails behind the fascia. You’ll likely see the nailheads to guide you, but the rafter tails are usually spaced between 16 to 24 inches apart. Check the gutter manufacturer’s recommendation for additional guidance.
- Use the chalk line to mark every other rafter tail.
- At each mark, drill a ?-inch thick hole through the fascia and into the rafter tail.
- Use screws to secure the fascia brackets. Make sure they’re long enough to go through the rafters by at least 2 inches.
6. Cut and assemble your gutters
- Cut the gutter sections to the appropriate length on the ground using a hacksaw, tin snips or a special gutter-cutting tool.
- Assemble the gutter sections, overlapping the seams by 2 to 4 inches.
- Drill holes in the sides of the gutter and use screws or rivets to attach the connector.
- If there are corners, miter the gutter sections to fit together snugly.
7. Attach gutter end caps
- Fasten the end caps to the square-cut end of the gutter using aluminum pop rivets. (If the gutter doesn’t turn a corner, attach an end cap at each end.)
- Hold the end cap in place with a single sheet-metal screw. (This is a temporary placeholder.)
- Drill a hole and install one pop rivet.
- Remove the temporary screw and replace it with the rivet.
- Seal the rivets and the end-cap seam with gutter sealant.
8. Mark and cut downspout holes
- Cut holes in your gutters for the downspout outlets, using your previous downspout markings to guide you.
- Before you cut the hole, turn the gutter upside down and place the outlet on top.
- Trace the inside of the outlet to mark the correct size for the downspout hole.
- Drill a ?-inch hole through the center of the traced marking.
- Cut the downspout hole using a multi-tool or a hammer and chisel.
9. Install gutters
- Place the gutter into the fascia brackets.
- Secure the gutter to the bracket with screws.
- Secure each gutter section with screws or pop rivets, overlapping the sections slightly at the joints for added strength.
- Apply gutter sealant at the overlaps to protect against leaks. (Note: it’s important to use gutter sealant, not caulk, for this step. Caulk is made from latex and acrylic, which makes it stiffer than silicone-based gutter sealants. That means it’s more prone to cracking, especially during temperature fluctuations, and therefore isn’t the best sealant for gutters.)
10. Create a strip-miter joint at the corner
- At the roof corners, seal the junction between the gutter lengths with a strip miter (a narrow piece of aluminum with a 90-degree bend).
- Tightly wrap the strip miter around the gutter’s underside, firmly securing it with pop rivets.
- Use a gutter-cutting tool to remove a triangular section from the top of the strip miter before folding the two flaps over the gutter’s top rim.
11. Add downspout U-brackets
- Snap a vertical chalk line down the intended location of the downspout(s).
- Attach the downspout U-brackets to the trim board (three brackets per 8-foot downspout).
- Use two downspout brackets for a one-story house and three brackets for a two-story house.
12. Connect downspout(s) to gutter
- Push the downspout up against the bottom of the gutter, aligned with the downspout hole you created previously.
- Snap the downspout into the U-brackets.
- Secure the downspout outlet to the gutter with pop rivets or screws.
- Screw a 75-degree downspout elbow to the bottom of the outlet tube.
How long does it take to install gutters?
According to Mitchell, a DIY gutter installation could take several hours to a full day or longer. The time depends on factors including preparation, skill level, and the size and complexity (height, roof shape, pitch, dormers, etc.) of your home.
“Proper preparation and planning can help streamline the installation process and reduce overall time spent,” Mitchell said.
How much does it cost to install or replace gutters?
The cost of a DIY gutter installation or replacement ranges from $3 to $10 per linear foot of material, according to Mitchell, with the difference being the cost of the material you choose. You’ll also need to factor in the cost of tools and materials required for a DIY installation.
Gutter installation costs*
|
Low end
|
High end
|
|
|---|---|---|
| DIY gutter installation | $300 |
$2,000 |
| Professional gutter installation | $600 |
$4,100 |
*All cost estimates are for a one-story home that requires 100 to 200 linear feet of gutter.
Most one-story homes need between 100 to 200 linear feet of gutter, putting the total estimated DIY gutter installation cost between $300 and $2,000, depending on the type and quantity of material. Choose aluminum, steel or vinyl gutters for a more affordable gutter installation.
Comparatively, the average professional gutter installation costs between $600 and $4,500 — about double the price.
A professional gutter replacement is typically more expensive because it includes added costs for the labor of removing your old gutters. Expect to pay $1 to $2 per linear foot for gutter removal.
When should I replace my gutters?
Gutters are fundamental for keeping your home structurally sound, so replacing them as soon as you see any of the following signs of deterioration is important.
Broken or missing fasteners
Broken or missing fasteners can cause your gutters to detach from your home or sag, leading to further water damage or mold growth. Replace damaged gutter fasteners to prevent damage.
Cracks, holes or rust
If your gutters have visible cracks, holes or rust, they’re likely not working as intended or are on the verge of failure. Cracks or holes indicate significant damage to the gutters and require immediate replacement.
Leaky gutters
Leaky gutters can lead to erosion, water damage and foundation issues if not addressed promptly.
Mildew forming
Mildew on your gutters or on your home’s exterior near your gutters is typically a sign of leaky or malfunctioning gutters. If not addressed, it can lead to further damage to your home’s siding and foundation.
Paint peeling
If you notice paint peeling on or around your gutters, it could be a sign that they’re not effectively directing water away from your home. This can lead to water damage and mold growth.
Water pooling
If you notice pools of water forming around your home after a rainstorm, your gutters are not adequately diverting water away from it. This can compromise the house’s foundation and put your basement at risk of flooding. Water pools are also a breeding ground for mosquitoes and termites, which can infest your home if allowed to multiply.
Should I repair or replace my gutters?
The decision to repair or replace your gutters depends on the extent and type of damage. Repairs may be sufficient if the damage is isolated and your gutter system is relatively young. However, a replacement is likely necessary if the damage is widespread or if your gutters are old (gutters typically last between 20 to 50 years, for context).
DIY gutters installation vs. hiring a pro
If you’re debating whether to install your own gutters or hire professionals, consider the pros and cons of each option.
DIY gutter installation
Pros
- Cost savings
- Personal satisfaction
- Control of timing
Cons
- Risk of improper installation
- Safety concerns
- Time-consuming
Professional gutter installation
Pros
- Expertise and experience
- Time-saving
- Safety
Cons
- More expensive
- Scheduling coordination
- May be limited to certain materials or styles
The most significant factor to contemplate is safety, both for yourself and your home. While DIY gutter installations can be rewarding, Mitchell said it’s important to weigh the benefits with the risks.
“Improper installation may lead to water damage or personal injury from falls. If you’re uncomfortable working at heights or lack the necessary tools and experience, it’s advisable to hire a professional,” Mitchell said. “If you’re unsure about tackling the task yourself, don’t hesitate to seek advice or assistance from a professional.”
How to maintain gutters
Regular gutter maintenance is vital to keep your gutters working effectively for as long as possible. Follow these maintenance tips to keep your rain gutters in top shape:
- Regularly inspect downspouts for clogs or signs of damage.
- Clean your gutters of leaves and debris at least twice a year.
- Consider installing gutter guards to minimize debris.
- Flush gutters with water after cleaning to ensure proper water flow.
- Make necessary repairs at the first sign of damage.
Bottom line
Learning how to install gutters yourself is rewarding and cost-effective. It also allows you to install or replace your gutters promptly and at your own convenience instead of waiting for a professional’s schedule.
However, DIY gutter installation has risks, including personal safety and potential damage to your home. It’s essential to thoroughly read the instructions for installing gutters and decide whether or not you can adequately complete the task.
