Water will always go for the weakest link. Give it a bad gutter or even a crack, and it will make sure to drench your fascia and side panels and find its way towards your foundation in no time.
Planning to install your own aluminum gutters? You can. It just rewards patience and punishes shortcuts. JoNick Construction is a family-run exterior contractor from St. Paul, MN, and this guide was written by us so you know exactly what to expect and learn how to install aluminum gutters.
Why Go for Aluminum Gutters?
It’s lightweight, it won’t ever rust, and there’s an abundance of color options. That’s why most people opt for it. What else? Well, it holds up well to extreme temperatures, including cold weather that’s below zero. Here’s what it gives you:
- Rust protection: Unlike steel, it won’t ever rust.
- Lightweight: You’ll be able to carry even small sections on your own.
- Color options: Pre-finished styles match most trim.
- Fair pricing: It costs far less than copper.
How durable are Aluminum Gutters?
Aluminum gutters normally last up to 20-30 years when you take proper care. But like most things, a few elements impact the durability:
- Installation: Poor sloping results in accumulation of water that damages the gutters more rapidly.
- Thickness: Thicker gauges withstand denting from ladders and ice much better.
- Weather conditions: Snow and freezing weather will deteriorate hangers;
- Regular maintenance: Blocked gutters become heavy and start falling off from the fascia.
Then how long will my aluminum gutters last? Well, for the most part, it depends on how well they have been attached.
Tools & Materials You Will Need
Collect everything beforehand. An abrupt trip to the hardware store can turn a weekend project into a week-long headache.
Tools
- Extension ladder and a helper to spot you
- Tape measure and chalk line
- 4-foot level
- Drill with screwdriver bits
- Tin snips and fine-tooth hacksaw
- Pop rivet gun
- Safety glasses and work gloves
Materials
- Gutter sections, end caps, and outlets
- Hidden hangers or fascia brackets
- Downspouts, elbows, and straps
- Gutter sealant
- Corrosion-resistant screws
DIY Aluminum Gutter Installation: Step by Step
Here’s how a DIY aluminum gutter installation goes from bare fascia to a working system. Think of it as your aluminum gutter installation guide, in seven moves.
- Measure and plan. Measure every roof edge, then mark downspout spots at the corners or every 30 to 40 feet on long runs.
- Set the slope. Gutters need a slight pitch toward the downspout, about ¼ inch for every 10 feet.
- Mount the hangers. Space them about 24 inches apart. In snow country, go tighter.
- Cut and assemble. Cut each section to length, then attach the end caps and outlets with sealant and rivets.
- Hang the gutters. Work from the high end to the low end, lifting each section into place and securing it to the hangers.
- Connect the downspouts. Add the elbows and downspouts, then strap them to the wall.
How to Cut Aluminum Gutters Cleanly
Having the knowledge of cutting aluminum gutters correctly prevents wastage and uneven cuts. Take note of the following:
- Always measure twice and make your marking.
- Measure twice, then mark your cut line.
- Use a fine-tooth hacksaw for straight cuts across the trough.
- Grab tin snips for outlet openings and small trims.
- Support the gutter on both sides so it doesn’t bend.
- File the edge smooth. Sharp burrs cut hands and snag debris.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses every time.
Expert Tips from Our Crew
Minnesota winters are rough on gutters. Consider this the part of the aluminum gutters installation guide we wish everyone read first:
- Check the fascia first. Soft or rotted boards don’t hold screws, so repair them before you hang anything.
- Pick the right size. Most homes use 5-inch K-style gutters. Steeper roofs or heavy rainfall may call for 6-inch.
- Seal every seam. A bead of sealant costs pennies compared to fascia rot.
- Don’t skimp on hangers. Ice and snow add serious weight.
- Extend the downspouts. Carry water several feet away from your foundation.
- Think about gutter guards. They cut cleaning time, though they won’t eliminate it.
- Never ladder alone. Have someone hold the base.
When to Call for Professional Help
DIY isn’t always the smartest move. Call a pro if:
- Your home has two or more stories.
- The roofline has lots of corners or valleys.
- Your fascia is soft or rotted.
- You want seamless gutters, which are formed on site.
- You’d rather not risk a fall.
At JoNick Construction, we install seamless gutters and gutter debris protection, and we do cleaning and repairs too. We’re family-owned, fully licensed, and insured in Minnesota, and our crew includes Malarkey Certified Installers. Plus, we offer a free property assessment and flexible financing, so budget never stalls a project.
FAQs
1. Can a beginner handle aluminum gutter installation?
Yes, on a single-story home with a simple roofline. Slope and ladder safety are the hard parts, so go slow.
2. What slope should aluminum gutters have?
Aim for about ¼ inch of drop per 10 feet, running toward the downspout.
3. Do aluminum gutters need painting?
Usually not. Most come with a baked-on color, so they just need regular cleaning.
4. How many downspouts do I need?
One should be placed at every corner or every 30-40 feet of roofing.
5. What is the difference between seamless and sectional gutters?
Sectional gutters are made in shorter sections with seams between them. Seamless gutters are manufactured to length on-site, resulting in fewer leaking joints.
Conclusion
Now that you’ve learned how to install aluminum gutters, from taking measurements to testing for water flow with a hose, go ahead and take your time and do it right – consider the slope, use plenty of hangers and sealant. If this is more than a one-weekend project, then give JoNick Construction a call at 612-545-6622 for a free site evaluation and expert gutter installation suitable for our Minnesota weather.
Also read: How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last? Lifespan, Maintenance & Replacement Tips
