How to Replace a Gutter Downpipe
Guttering is a vital part of your home's drainage system. It redirects rainwater away from your foundations, thereby preventing water damage to your home.
Maintaining and cleaning your gutters will help stop leaks and blockages. This means applying sealant frequently and considering options such as waterbutt connections or drainage pipes that are underground.
Clean your gutters
Downpipes are also referred to as gutters, and are an essential element of any drainage system. They are designed to efficiently transfer rainwater from the roof down to the ground. This helps prevent water damage to the building's foundation or the surrounding landscaping. Selecting the correct downpipe is crucial for optimal function, and regular maintenance helps keep them working properly.
Clogged gutters can be a serious issue that causes flooding basement leaks, and more. If you notice stains on the exterior of your house or see water flowing down your pathways, it is likely that your gutters are blocked. Regular maintenance and cleaning prevents this from occurring, so it's worth the effort to do it regularly.
It is important to coat the exterior of a metal downpipe with a waterproof coating. This will protect the surface from corrosion and also make it look good. Examine the brackets of your gutters, and re-align them that have moved over time. The best material to choose for downpipes is a metal such as aluminium or galvanised steel, which is strong and durability for your local climate. Plastic downpipes are also an alternative, but they may be brittle after a certain period of time.
Leaks from downpipes are most often the result of damage to the area where one segment of gutter connects with another. This could be due to corrosion or a loose joint. If the joint has been corroded, it will need to be cleaned before being sealed with a high-quality sealant like LePage QuAD Max Window, Door and Siding Sealant.
If the joint is loose it is possible to fix it by re-sealing the joint using silicone caulk. In more serious cases, it could be required for the joint to be replaced. Another common spot for leaks from a downpipe is at the end cap, which should be sealed to prevent water from escape. These are available from most home improvement stores and can be fitted by simply crimping them in place. You should purchase one for your gutters to ensure that they are all waterproof and sealed.
Repair the Leak
Downpipes (also called gutter drain pipes) are a vital part of the drainage system, carrying rainwater from a building's roof to the ground. They are made of sturdy materials that are able to withstand the elements and come in different sizes to suit any building.
If you notice that your downpipes are leaking, it's time to perform some maintenance tasks to ensure they are working properly. Check the brackets for cracks or holes and check if they have any. It is also recommended to replace the downpipe if it's been corroded or damaged.
Guttering downpipes can become clogged with debris, causing water to build up and then overflow. This can cause erosion of the landscaping around your property and cause damage to doors and windows. A blocked drain can add pressure to your gutters which can cause them to sag. You can try to clear any obstruction by running water through a hose and down the downpipe. If this fails you might need to take down your downpipe and manually remove the obstruction.
In time, downpipes could become loose or even separate from the gutters. Extreme temperatures can cause them to expand or contract. This can cause seals to be damaged, which can eventually lead to a leak. In some cases you can repair this by using caulk to repair the cracks. In severe cases it may be necessary to replace the downpipe altogether.
You can purchase guttering downpipes on the internet, but it is important to take your measurements to a reputable DIY store prior to you purchase. This will make sure you get the correct size downpipe and prevent any unnecessary costs. If you decide to do it yourself, it's a good idea to use a combination of waterproof tape and caulk to make your repairs extra strong. This will give you a stronger hold and stop the issue from reappearing in the future.
Replace the damaged section
While a thorough clean of your guttering system is the most effective way to fix small cracks and leaks, often a section gets damaged beyond repair. In this situation, the damaged section will need to be replaced. This can be done by removing the guttering from the fascia board and installing the new gutter. This is easier if can work on the ground instead of from a ladder. You can patch up cracks or holes in metal guttering with gutter sealant and roof. Clean any paint or rust from the surface. Clean the area surrounding the damaged section. Remove the backing paper from a length of repair taping that is a few cm longer than the guttering width. Wrap the repair tape around the joint and press it firmly to mold it into the desired shape. If you're fixing the leaky downpipe it's recommended to cover all seams for between two and four inches. This will stop water from leaking through the back of the guttering and eventually into the house.
Before installing a new section of guttering, ensure you have the appropriate tools and are able to work from the ladder. Grab two ladders, and ask for the assistance of a friend If you are able to. You'll have to reach downspouts. Remove any gutter hangers that are in use and scrape off any old sealant or rust. If you are using gutter slips to connect sections of guttering, drill them before driving gutter screws or nails into them.
Downpipe Services where the downspout will be installed using a marker if you are using one with an outlet that is drop-style. Then, using a hammer and an chisel, or multi-tool drill an opening through the marked area. Place the downspout in the hole, then screw or hammer it in. Ensure that the guttering slopes of 1/8 inch per foot towards the downspout.
If your gutters are made of aluminum, use a sheet-metal crimper and "crimp" the top of each short downspout to fit inside the elbows you have already put in. This will stop the gutters from being clogged by leaves and will also increase their corrosion resistance.
Install the new Gutters
It is crucial to clear any obstructions from your gutters as quickly as you can. To prevent accidents it is recommended to use extreme caution when working at the heights. Also, ensure that someone else hold the ladder securely. If you are unable to reach the bottom of the drain and you're not sure, you might need to hire a flexible drain clearing rod.
After you've cleared any clogs from your gutter the next step would be to fix any leaks or cracks. Use a gutter sealant to fill the holes and prevent water from leaking through, causing further damage to the foundations of your home or gutters.
If you're installing new gutters, be sure to determine the roofline's length and design your layout with care. Then, select the appropriate size, material and style for your roof as well as the appropriate rainfall intensity. Cut any branches that are hanging overhanging, which can prevent gutters from working correctly.
Installation of gutters can be a daunting task, so it's recommended to read the instructions of the manufacturer to ensure that you're following the correct procedure. It's also recommended to hire assistance when installing your gutters.
Install your gutters in the order that you are installing them in. This allows you to hand them over to your assistant. Then, you can attach the gutters onto the fascia brackets and secure them to the wall using the screws supplied.
Using aluminium downpipes is the most secure way to replace your gutters because they aren't afflicted by the same problems that plastic alternatives do, like the possibility of fading and leaks. If you're seeking a gutter system that is easy to install and can last for years look into our selection of aluminum downpipes. They're available in a variety of sizes and colours and styles, so you'll be able to find the perfect fit for your home. If you have any questions, contact us and we'll be glad to answer them. We can also help with any gutter repair or maintenance.