DIY Seamless Gutters Guide
Seamless gutter installation has gotten complicated with all the machine options, coil specifications, and slope requirements flying around. As someone who has fabricated and installed seamless gutters on every roof type, I learned everything there is to know about getting it right. Today, I will share it all with you.
Tools and Materials
Probably should have led with this section, honestly—here’s what you need:
- Seamless gutter machine (rentable)
- Gutter coil
- Downspouts, hangers, elbows, end caps
- Seamless gutter sealant
- Measuring tape and chalk line
- Drill with bits, pop rivet tool
- Snips or nip cutters
- Safety gear (gloves, glasses)
Preparation
That’s what makes proper planning endearing to us gutter fabricators—it prevents costly mistakes:
- Measure roofline length including angles and turns
- Plan downspout number and placement for proper drainage
- Clear workspace and set up gutter machine per manufacturer instructions
- Position gutter coil to feed smoothly into machine
Making the Gutters
- Turn on machine and slowly feed coil at consistent speed
- Machine forms coil into gutter shape
- Cut completed sections with snips
- Handle carefully to avoid dents
- Place end caps on each section
- Secure with pop rivet tool
- Apply seam sealant for watertight joints
Marking Installation Line
Gutters need slight downward slope toward downspouts. Use chalk line to mark top of gutter placement, starting from highest point near roof edge down to downspout location.
Installing Hangers
Secure hangers to fascia board along marked line. Space about 24 inches apart. Use drill and screws. Ensure hangers maintain marked slope.
Attaching Gutters
- Lift sections into place, aligning with hangers
- Secure with screws working end to end
- Check slope for proper drainage
- Add downspout outlets where planned
- Cut holes in gutter base and attach outlets with rivets and sealant
Adding Downspouts
- Assemble from top down, securing each part with screws
- Use elbows to guide along building contour
- Direct water away from foundation
- Secure to wall with evenly spaced brackets
Final Inspection
Check all attachments and slopes. Look for gaps needing sealant. Test by running water through system. Watch for leaks and adjust as needed.
