Downspout Installation or Replacement

Your gutters are only as good as the downspouts which carry the rainwater down from the collection gutter to the next story down.  Whether it's new a downspout or a replacement, read on to learn how to mount these and keep them in place. 

Downspout
Items needed:
Screw driver
Drill
Drill bits
Step or extension ladder
Safety Suggestions and Tips
Caution using ladder
Edges of downspout can be sharp
Do not use pop rivets, otherwise you can't remove it for painting
Level of difficulty


Time Required:
 4 hour

Steps

Screw attaching downspout
Screw downspout to gutter

Step 1:

The first step is to examine the existing gutter.  If you are replacing a worn or broken downspout, remove the screw at the connection with the gutter.


Short gutter section between elbows

Step 2:

The replacement downspout will probably need two elbows. Between the elbows, a short length of downspout may also be required, depending on the distance of the roof overhang.  These can be attached using small white-headed self-taping screws designed specifically for gutter applications.


Match pilot and shaft diameter

Step 3:

Be sure to select a screw the size of the pilot shaft of the screw. 


Elbow discharge to roof

Step 4:

On the outlet end of the downspout, you may also need another elbow.


Outside strap bracket

Step 5:

To hold the downspout in place, you will need straps or brackets.  These can either be to the outside


Inside strap bracket

Step 6:

Alternatively, the brackets can be on the inside.


Bend strap around gutter

Step 7:

The brackets are flexible and need to be bent to match the gutter size.


Secure strap with pan head screw

Step 8:

In this project, we are using outside straps as the gutters are oversized and the column is not wide enough for conventional use. 


Attach strap bracket

Step 9:

The strap is secured to the post using a pan head screw.


Bracket on siding

Step 10:

On attaching to the vinyl siding, brackets are used. 


Separate holes for pilot and shaft

Step 11:

Two holes are required in the strap and the downspout.  Drill a larger (shaft) hole in the strap and a smaller pilot hole in the downspout. 


Secure strap

Step 12:

Attached the strap using self-taping painted screws.


Connector to drainpipe

Step 13:

A plastic coupler is added to the drainpipe.


Secure connector with a screw

Step 14:

This is where the water is spread over the lower story roof, drainpipe into ground or onto a splash block on the ground


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