Downspouts in a gutter system are important because they allow the water to drain from the gutter. The downspouts attach to square holes in the bottom of the gutter, usually at the ends. The gutters are slightly pitched so the water runs toward the downspout. Attaching the downspouts to the gutter is accomplished using a straightforward procedure that even a novice will find easy to implement. Downspouts can be purchased at most hardware or home improvement stores. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Insert the non-tapered end of a downspout over the flange at the bottom of the gutter hole.
2. Attach half-inch sheet metal screws through the downspout and into the flange on all sides of the downspout. Use an electric drill with a driver bit installed to fasten the screws, but do not over-tighten them.
3. Cut pieces of downspouts, if necessary, by making a slit in the spot to be cut with a utility knife. Finish cutting the downspout with tin snips. Make cuts as square as possible so the downspout will fit together easier with other pieces.
4. Assemble the downspout by inserting the non-tapered end of one piece over the tapered end of the previous piece. Screw together each connection using half-inch sheet metal screws on each side of the connection.
5. Build the downspout to a couple of inches off the ground and attach an elbow. Run pieces of downspout along the ground horizontally from the elbow away from the house. This will help avoid water puddling on the foundation and causing leaks.
Tags: bottom gutter, half-inch sheet, half-inch sheet metal, metal screws, sheet metal, sheet metal screws