Should You Replace You Own Gutters?

I get it. 

You are an above-average handy guy/gal! 

You've painted your trim and replaced some shelving. You've built a chicken coop, planted a garden, and replaced the motor in your A/C unit. 

You've saved money and gained new skills. 

Now you're considering replacing those gutters that are sagging. Is it worth it to do your own gutter replacement? 

Here are some things to consider.

Tools and Materials for Gutter Installation

To be honest, if you are regular DIY'er, you may have most of the tools needed for gutter installation. Between a ladder, a tape measure, a drill, and a caulk gun, you are most of the way there.

However, you'll also need a good level, a miter saw, and a drill bit that is specific to the gutter screws used for install.

Additionally, you will need all the materials for gutter installation. This includes the actual gutters and downspouts (including elbows, endcaps, diverters, and outlets), the proper gutter caulking, screws, gutter brackets, downspout mounts, and splash blocks. 

If gathering and buying all of the tools and materials sounds a little daunting, consider having a professional install your gutters. Edge Gutter's price includes all materials and prices. 

Gutter Damage and Exceptions

Another thing to consider when installing gutters yourself is that you will have to deal with any unknown complications yourself. 

Sometimes issues arise when removing old gutters. If the soffit or fascia behind the gutters are rotted, they will need to be replaced. Between removal, replacing damage, putting up new fascia, and painting, rotted fascia can be a bigger job than anticipated. 

Removing old gutters can also be tough, especially if you have a spike and ferrule system. Removing the spikes often requires hammering and manipulating the gutters, which can potentially be unsafe if you are up two stories on a ladder.

These issues can be huge problems if you are not knowledgeable enough to fix or deal with them on your own. 

Solo Gutter Installation

Installing gutters by yourself potentially means doing it literally all alone. If your house has any gutters runs of significant length, self installing can be very difficult to do without causing damage to the gutters. A solo install might require additional scaffolding equipment (which would take a huge amount of time), or installing from the roof (incredibly unsafe) to complete by yourself. 

Additionally, as stated above, any solo install will require a large amount of time to complete. This is not just because of the amount of work required, but also the time to reference install guides, purchase the required tools, remove the old gutters, climb up and down the ladder, and potentially install incorrectly due to having to do it alone.

Gutter Technical Knowledge

Installing gutters is not rocket science, but incorrectly installed gutters can cause thousands of dollars worth of water damage. Between the variety of unique materials (sealants, hangers, straps, etc.) and the techniques necessary to correctly pitch, seal, miter, and hang the gutters, the technical knowledge required to correctly drain and guide water away from your home is often left to a professional. 

Additionally, if you are not used to cutting and sealing gutters and downspouts, they may end up looking less than perfect if you do it yourself. 

What do we recommend? (Obviously)

Have a professional install your gutters! At Edge, we have the expertise, the materials and tools, and the experience to provide a stellar install every time. In addition, we offer labor warranties in addition to manufacturer warranties. We will continue to work for you until you are 100% satisfied with our work. 

Take the stress out of gutter installation and let Edge Gutters take care of your install today!