While it is not set in stone, most gutter systems, depending on materials used and the quality of upkeep, tend to last from 20 to 50 years. And if you notice some signs of flaking paint, rust or discoloration, noticeable leaks, sags or detachment from hangers, or regular clogs from leaves and other debris, it is definitely time to replace your gutters. However, should you entrust professional roofing company to take care of this job, or rather choose to go for DIY gutter replacements? Well, let us see through the pros and cons of the latter.

It is important realizing that DIY gutter replacements are big projects. They require a lot of skill, proper tools, reliable assistance, and due time to complete. And if you have had the pleasure of hiring a professional gutter cleaning Dallas services before, you know how swiftly, elegantly and efficiently it can be done when in the hands of experienced people. With that said, the answer to which option is better lies solely in your preferences and possibilities. In order to know whether you can tackle this process on your own, it would be best that you first get familiar with it.

The process of DIY gutter replacements

This project will take time. In order to do it correctly, you will have to follow a number of stages. For starters, it is important that you have the necessary tools that include:

• Hammer
• Pry Bar
• Tool Belt
• Power Screwdriver
• Caulking Material

As for the safety equipment, you should make sure to have:

• Work Gloves
• Ladder
• Hard hat
• Goggles
• A partner or two. The more the better, as long as they are familiar with the work.

Remove the old gutters

Start by putting on your work gloves, and removing the heavier downspouts that are connected to the gutters. You may need the pry bar to do this correctly, but most of the downspouts can be unscrewed from the gutters and the drain system. After that, it is time to get on the ladder. You, however, do not want to do this without a spotter who will hold the ladder steady. If this step is making you uneasy, DIY gutter replacements are definitely not for you, and you should find professional roofers to take care of it. However, if you are fine with working from that height, make sure that you remove each gutter piece-by-piece from their hanging brackets.

If you notice holes in your siding or wooden roof fixtures during the process, you can fill them in with caulk and make a note to call gutter repair Dallas services to take care of them later if necessary.

Repeat the process of taking down each gutter around the perimeter of your home. Remove each section of brackets, hangers and gutters as you go.

DIY gutter replacements in steps

You need to take precise measurements of your roof area in order to determine what size gutters you are going to need. You will also have to plan out where your downspouts will need to go. Additionally, it will be you who has to decide what type of gutters will work best with your home.

Upon planning for these factors, make sure that you get all the necessary equipment and materials that include:

• Gutters, hanging brackets, downspouts, corner joints, end caps, flashing shingles, gutter sealant
• Nails, hammer, pipe cutter, miter saw, level
• All the other items you have from the gutter removal

Before you start installing them, you need to assemble your gutter sections. This will spare you the trouble of having to connect them while working on the ladder. Once that is done, you will install these sections by attaching your hangers or brackets to the wood below your roof, and securing the gutters to the brackets. It is important that you make sure your downspout locations are set ahead of time in order to be able to line up your pre-cut gutter sections in the right place.

Finishing touches

When anchoring in the hangers and attaching the gutter sections, you will use your level and set a downward slope of about a quarter of an inch, with the slope leading toward the downspouts. This will ensure that the rainwater is moving toward the downspouts, preventing standing water in the gutters.

Professionals always add flashing for extra protection, as so should you. Namely, flashing and gutter guards are additional components that will keep leaves and other debris out. You should install them under your shingles and above the gutters for best use.

The pros and cons of DIY gutter replacements

As you can see, gutter replacement is an intensive process, especially for the inexperienced. There are several risks that follow them, including potential damage to your home’s exterior, as well as the safety risks for the people conducting the process. Not to mention that, if you are not professional, you cannot guarantee that all the decisions and moves you make are for the best. After all, the knowledge that these people have cannot be matched with simple guides from the Internet.

So, when speaking of DIY gutter replacements, it comes down to the level of knowledge, courage and time you have to address this big project. You will arguably save some money you would pay for the labor. However, you will also have to invest your own energy into making this endeavor into success. You will also need to ensure that the people who are going to help you are up to the tasks. And professional roofing contractors will not only save you the time, and the nerves, but also give you peace of mind knowing that it is all done in the best possible way.