A gutter downspout is part of the drainage system of a roof that moves water away from a building to prevent water from seeping into the foundation. Part of a gutter downspout may need replacing because of damage or exterior home maintenance such as repairing a section of trim. If you are unsure the size or style of the downspout, take the damaged section with you to the store to purchase one that matches your existing gutter downspout. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Remove the downspout section by drilling out rivets, unscrewing sheet metal screws or cutting with a hacksaw (place a piece of scrap plywood behind to prevent damage to siding). Drill out a rivet by inserting a 1/8-inch drill bit into the center of the rivet. The rivet will fall out of the hole.
2. Measure the space needed for the replacement piece of downspout. Add 4 inches to the needed length. Measure and mark the replacement piece to this measurement.
3. Cut the new section with a hacksaw on the mark.
4. Push the replacement piece onto the top section of the existing downspout. The top section always installs into lower pieces so leaves and debris flow out of the downspout without getting caught on the seam. Slide the section into the lower piece or bottom elbow. Adjust the overlap on the top and bottom to 2 inches.
5. Drill a hole through the overlapping sections on each side and the front of the new piece of downspout at the top and bottom with a 1/8-inch drill bit.
6. Install rivets or sheet metal screws in the holes. Rivets are preferred to prevent catching leaves on the end of screws.
Tags: gutter downspout, replacement piece, 8-inch drill, downspout section, into lower, metal screws, piece downspout