There are a few aspects to think about when it comes to installing gutters for your home. And while you may have already decided on the material, shape and color, one vital step in the process is making sure you have the correct gutter measurements. In order for your gutters to work properly, they need to be sized to your home. Rain gutters are available in various widths.
They start at around 3 inches and increase up until 6 or 7 inches. For the majority of homes, a depth of 4 to 6 inches is adequate, but some houses may need larger gutters if they are located in an area with high rainfall levels. The next step is to get your roof’s pitch. The pitch is how much the roof slants for every horizontal run of 12 inches.
To get your roof’s pitch, you need a level and a measuring tape. Place the level horizontally so that one end is touching the roof. As shown in the graphic above, use the level to measure a straight, horizontal line out 12 inches from where the level touches the roof. From that 12 inch point, measure down to the roof.
Whatever this final measurement number is, is your roof’s pitch. If your resulting figure from the calculation in step 4 falls between 3,500 and 5,500, you can use 4-inch gutters. Between 5,520 to 7,500, you need 5-inch gutters, while 7,500 and above should use 6-inch to 7-inch gutters depending on rainfall. Welcome to Gutter Guru’s online estimator.
With this program you can create your own gutter estimate to save 10% on your order. We provide the best products, you decide which ones you want, then we schedule the installation. The number of end caps and downspouts you need will depend on your home’s size, shape, and linear feet of guttering required. If you undertake a DIY installation, always follow proper gutter installation safety procedures and work with a spotter.
If you already have gutters installed and need to replace all or part of the system, you can measure the existing gutters to determine how wide they are. A trained professional can detect problems with your gutters that you do not recognize, thus preventing the damage from worsening and costing more to repair. This detailed guide will break down everything you need to know about the cost of gutter installation, plus recommend the best gutter guard companies. A well-installed gutter system will protect your home from costly water damage and is an investment in the long-term health of your home.
In addition, gutter guards prevent animals such as rodents and birds from building nests inside gutters, which can clog them and result in damage to your gutters, roof, and even the inside of your home. Made from PVC and plastics, vinyl gutters are one of the most common types of gutter and are the most budget-friendly. With proper care, wood gutters can last up to 100 years, making them one of the longest-lasting gutter systems. To do this, you need to measure the length and width of each section of roofing that you will attach the gutters to.
In addition, factors such as your fascia condition, roof design, and even surrounding landscaping can impact your gutter installation cost. This infographic highlights decisions and site issues that can cause large cost variances in the typical Gutter Installation budget. These gutters are effective because their smooth design reduces the areas where pockets of water can accumulate.