Forget Replace Gutter Downpipe: 10 Reasons Why You Don't Really Need It
How to Replace a Gutter Downpipe
The guttering system is an essential component of your home's drainage system. It diverts rainwater away your foundations, thereby preventing water damage to your home.
Maintaining your home's cleaning and maintenance can help to prevent gutter leaks and blockages. This means applying sealant regularly and looking at alternatives like underground drainage and water butt connections.
Clean your gutters
Downpipes, also known as gutter pipes, are an essential part of any drainage system. They are designed to transport rainwater efficiently from the roof to the ground, preventing water damage to the building's foundation and surrounding landscaping. Choosing the right downpipe is essential for optimum functionality and regular maintenance will help keep them functioning effectively.
Clogged gutters can be a major problem that can lead to flooding, rotted wood, basement leaks and more. If you notice stains on the sides of your home, or observe water flowing down your the walkways, it is most likely that your gutters have become blocked. Regular maintenance and cleaning prevents this from occurring, so it's worth the effort to clean it often.
It is essential to coat the surface of a metal downpipe with a waterproof coating. This will help keep the surface from rust, and it will also look fantastic. Check the brackets on your gutters, and re-align them that have changed over time. Metals like galvanised steel or aluminium are the ideal materials for a downpipe. They provide strength and durability, depending on your local climate. Plastic downpipes are also a possibility, but they tend to become brittle over time.
The most frequent cause of leaks from downpipes is damage to the joint where a section of gutter joins with another. This could be due to corrosion or a loose joint. If the joint has become corroded, it will require cleaning and sealing using an excellent sealant such as LePage QUAD MAX Window Door, Siding Sealant.
If the joint is sagging, it can be fixed using silicone caulk. In more severe cases, it may be necessary to replace the joint entirely. Another common spot for leaks from a downpipe is the cap at the end that should be sealed to prevent water from escaping. The majority of home improvement stores sell these, and they can be installed by crimping. You should get one for your gutters to ensure that they are completely waterproof and sealed.
Repair the Leak
Downpipes (also known as gutter drain pipes) are a vital part of the drainage system, transporting rainwater from the roof to the ground. They are constructed of durable materials that are able to withstand the elements and come in a variety of sizes to fit any building.
If you notice that your downpipes are leaky, it's time to perform some maintenance work to make sure they're working properly. Examine the brackets for holes or cracks and see if there are any. It is also recommended to replace the downpipe if it's corroded or damaged.
Guttering downpipes can get clogged with debris, causing water build up and then overflow. This can lead to erosion of the landscaping around your property and damage to doors and windows. A downpipe that is blocked can cause extra pressure on the gutters, which can cause them to sag. You can attempt to remove any obstruction by running water through a hose and down the downpipe. If this fails, you may need to dismantle the downpipe and remove the clog manually.
In time, the downpipes and gutters could become sloppy or even separate. Extreme temperatures can cause them to expand or contract. This can cause damage to the seals and eventually cause leaks. You can repair cracks by using caulk in certain situations. In severe cases it could be necessary to replace the entire downpipe.
You can purchase guttering downpipes on the internet, however you should take your measurements at a trusted DIY store prior to. This will ensure you get the right size of downpipe and avoid any unnecessary expenses. It's a great idea to mix caulk with waterproof tape if making repairs yourself. leaking downpipe repair will give you a better hold and prevent the problem from recurring in the future.
Replace the damaged section
A thorough cleaning of your guttering is the best way to fix small cracks or leaks. However, occasionally sections may be damaged beyond repair. In this instance you'll need to replace the affected section. This can be accomplished by taking the guttering off of the fascia board and installing a length of new gutter. This is easier if are able to work from the ground instead of the ladder. If the guttering is made of metal, you can use roof and gutter sealant to fill in the crack or hole. Clean the area around the damaged area and remove any rust or paint from the surface of the guttering. Cut off a length repair tape that is a few centimetres more than the length of the guttering. Then remove the backing paper. Wrap the repair tape around the joint, and press it firmly. When you're repairing the leaky downpipe, it's best to lap all the seams for a period of two to four inches. This will prevent water leaking into the back of the downpipe and into the house.
Before installing the new section of guttering, ensure you have the right tools and are safe to work from the ladder. Get two ladders, and enlist the help of a friend if you can. You will have to reach downspouts. Remove the gutter hangers installed and scrape off any rust or sealant. If you are using gutter slips to connect sections of guttering, drill them, and then drive gutter screws or nails into them.
Mark the area where the downspout will be installed with a marker if you are using one with an outlet that is drop-style. Then, using a multi-tool or hammer with chipper, drill a hole in the area you've marked. Place the downspout in the hole, and put it in with a hammer or screw. Make sure that the guttering slopes of 1/8 inch per foot toward the downspout.
If your gutters made of aluminum, use a sheet metal crimper and "crimp" the end of each downspout's short end to fit into the elbows you have already put in. This will prevent the downspouts and gutters of becoming blocked by leaves, and will also make them more resistant to corrosion.
Install the New Gutters
A clogged gutter can cause serious damage to your home, therefore it is essential to eliminate any obstructions as soon as you detect they appear. To prevent accidents be sure to exercise extreme caution while working at the heights. Also, you should have someone else hold the ladder securely. If you are unable to reach the bottom of the drain, you might have to hire an adjustable drain cleaning rod.
After you've cleared any clogs from your gutter the next step is to fix any leaks or cracks. Fill the holes using a gutter sealant. This will prevent water from leaking through and damaging the gutters and your home's foundation.
If you're installing new gutters, be sure to determine the roofline's length and design your layout with care. Also, ensure that you select the appropriate size and materials for your roof and rainfall intensity. You should also trim any overhanging branches that could block your gutters from doing their job properly.
It is essential to follow the manufacturer's guidelines when installing gutters. It's also a good idea to get an assistant to install your gutters.
If you're ready to put in your gutters, begin by setting them up on the ladder in the order you'll be installing them so that you can hand them over to your assistant. Install the gutters on the fascia brackets and then fasten them on the wall using the provided screws.
Aluminium downpipes are the best option to replace your gutters as they do not have the same issues as plastic alternatives, such as fading or leaking. If you're looking for an efficient gutter system that's easy to install and can last for years look into our selection of aluminium downpipes. You can pick from a range of sizes and colors to find the ideal match for your home. Contact us if you have any queries and we'll be more than happy to help. We're also available to assist you with any repairs or maintenance you might require for your gutters.