Proper Gutter Downspout Placement

Here are some guidelines for placement of downspouts.

Proper gutter downspout placement.

A gutter system doesn t just need downpipes. If the downspouts do not allow water to flow out of the gutter system freely and do not channel the water away from the home then the house could be susceptible to issues such as roof rot foundation damage and landscape erosion. Trace around the inside of the outlet to mark the downspout hole on the gutter. Fasten the downspout to the wall with straps at the top and bottom and at 6 foot intervals.

This ensures adequate drainage to prevent overflowing gutters during heavy rain. The size of the downspout should be constant through out its length. When downspouts are not properly positioned within a gutter system they can be the reason gutters overflow or there is standing water in the gutter channel. Downspouts should be properly placed in order for the gutters to function optimally.

Gutters and downspouts are not expensive and they play a vital role in the roof doing its job. Drill a inch diameter hole through the center of the circular outline. Measure again and deduct another 2 inches. Repeat this action for both sides of the downspout.

Downspouts should be constructed with conductor. Place downspouts in inconspicuous locations if possible. Downspouts should enable draining at a steep pitch so water travels away from the foundation rather than pooling in the surrounding area and eventually seeping into the house. Downspouts on gutters that drain large roof areas or if you live in an area with torrential rains.

Use a downspout outlet to mark the location of the downspout on the low end of the gutter. Proper placement of gutter downspouts is one of the most important components of ensuring a gutter system is effective. Place the measuring tape on the downspout again but this time deducts 2 inches away and mark the position. Placing the measuring tape on the downspout make a mark with permanent marker on both ends.

Downspouts of less than 7 00 sq in 4515 sq mm cross section should not be used except for small areas such as porches and canopies. To do this turn the gutter upside down and place the outlet on top. As a general rule at least one downspout should be placed per every 40 linear feet of gutter. Proper placement of downspouts is the key to keeping water away from the home foundation.

For any house it s important to remove the water that runs off the roof as quickly as possible. If necessary shim out the back of the gutter with wood blocks. The downspouts can be buried or positioned to carry that water away from the house.