If you have a home and you are considering installing a gutter system on your home, there are a few things you need to know. This article will discuss the tools and equipment you need to install your gutters properly. We will also discuss the safety measures to be taken and how much gutter installation will cost you. Below are some tips that will make the job go more smoothly and help you save money you might consider hiring gutter installation companies Hillsboro as well.
Tools and Equipment Needed
Whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional, there’s a set of tools and equipment you’ll need for gutter installation. Choosing the right gutter system depends on your specific home and the location you’re working in. A skilled installer will also know how to work with various materials, including shingles, metal, and copper. Read on for helpful tips. Tools and equipment needed for gutter installation can save you a lot of time and money.
A sturdy ladder is essential. Working from a ladder requires balance and careful attention to detail. Having a helper on hand can save you from getting injured while working. The safety benefits are numerous, as gutters protect landscaping and the home’s foundation. Additionally, installing a gutter system will make it easier to clear the driveway when the snow melts. A skilled gutter installer has all the tools and equipment necessary to establish a gutter system effectively.
To start, gather your tools. First, you will need to tear down the old gutter system. Make sure to wear work gloves and put on protective gear. Secondly, you will need to remove any downspouts attached to the gutters. If replacing gutters, you should first take the old gutter off. If the channel is in poor condition, you should remove it. If necessary, remove the fasteners.
Safety Measures
The Kentucky Fatality Assessment and Control Evaluation recently reported a fatality among a gutter installation worker. The man sustained blunt force injuries due to a fall from a ladder. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration recommends that contractors evaluate the job’s hazards and implement the necessary safety procedures. Falling objects and ladders are the most common and commonplace of these hazards. Below are some examples of risks and recommended practices.
Use a sturdy ladder. The ladder should be sturdy and can support the weight of the worker. Also, you should purchase one with a stabilizer bar to help with balance and a lock. This will prevent you from falling or injuring yourself while working on the gutters. A power screwdriver or drill is also necessary to secure the gutter and downspout. Also, a level is essential for ensuring evenness.
Use the proper ladder. If possible, hire a professional. Despite its convenience, homeowners should consider safety when working with ladders. A two to four feet tall ladder should be sufficient to reach the topmost part of the gutter and not the second or third-highest step. Before climbing, inspect the ladder for loose parts and defects. It’s also a good idea to wear rubber-soled shoes to avoid slipping on slippery surfaces.
Cost of Gutter Installation
Whether you are installing seamless gutters or other types of channels, the cost of gutter installation depends on the material used and the job’s complexity. The cost of gutter installation is rounded up to the nearest tenth of a foot, so a more expensive installation will cost more. The average price for gutter installation is $10 per linear foot. Estimates can be obtained by measuring the length of your gutters and eyeballing the dimensions of your home.
When replacing gutters, you may also want to consider the cost of downspout installation. These are essential for channeling water away from your roof and toward the ground. Downspouts can extend directly to the ground or from one pitch to the next. Either way, they make the water flow more manageable. Depending on the type of house, gutters and downspouts will vary in cost.
You can purchase many additional accessories for your gutters, including gutter guards that keep leaves and other debris out of your gutter. Gutter guards are made from metal mesh, while foam inserts are less expensive. Downspouts can range from $5 to $18 per linear foot and can be either round or square. They can be anywhere from three to six inches wide. Additional costs for gutter installation may include splash blocks and flashing, which prevent water from damaging your foundation.