Click here to read more about downspout hinges. At that corner, first level the string, and then drop the string about 1 inch per 40-foot run and snap the chalk line. Because so much roof work is involved, I highly recommend attaching a ladder stabilizer to the top of your ladder. No tools are needed. You can cut out the larger hole with a tin snips, or you could use an oscillating multi-tool equipped with a metal-cutting blade. And, thats pretty much the basics of hanging the gutter: Rinse and repeat. Not only does this simple bracket attachment safely prevent the ladder from swaying from left to right while youre standing on it, but it also provides a 10-inch standoff from the roof line, which makes it easy to access the fascia and gutter without obstruction from the ladder. In either case, you can use the reciprocating saw for that purpose. There are two reasons to cut downspouts. Tin snips are an easy way to cut through the broken material to trim away the excess. I'm teaching you how to create a gate fold card with partial die cutting, and we're kic. Now when I flip them up, they stay up. The downspouts need to be extended away from the home a minimum of four feet, with six feet being preferred. amzn_assoc_linkid = "56aab05c73857e97f4dc473d8935dfcc"; This cut-off disk can be used on different metal types, like aluminum, copper, cast iron or even hardened steel. These hinges come fitted for 23 spouts and 34 spouts and can be matched to whatever your downspout color is! If youre simply replacing the downspout, you can use the damaged one as a template for the new one after removing it from its spot near the ground. Grab a few pieces of wood, some paint, a jigsaw, and get to work! What youll need is: After you have obtained all the necessary tools and materials from your home or local hardware store, its time to begin the project. Make a cut 2 1/2 inches long. The saw will most likely crush the gutter or cut too much off, rendering the part useless. That being said, not all the edges that youre going to cut are going to be straight. If you are unsure which method is optimal for your house, you should consult someone at the hardware store before you begin. If you had never heard of cutting downspout until today, youre not alone. The miter saw or chop saw makes clean, precise cuts in aluminum downspouts. He has contributed to nationally published books and he leads the Word Weavers of West Michigan writers' group. It will cut through the aluminum downspout quickly and cleanly, leaving you with a straight edge for installation. For smaller projects, the hacksaw can cut through the gutter quickly but isnt nearly as efficient as other options. In addition, use the entire blade if possible. Assemble it at ground level. Quite honestly, if you damage your eyes, you dont get to grow another pair. How to Cut Downspout in order to Connect it to the Gutter: Starting the Cut, Making Straight Cuts, Tool Use, Crimping, and Connection.Tool List- https://www.amazon.com/shop/acservicetechSupport- https://www.patreon.com/acservicetechWe've Partnered with TruTechTools.com! All the cutting will be easy once you start. A good rule of thumb: One downspout should not drain more than 35 feet of gutter. It also doesnt add to the buildup at seams/joints, so you dont have additional places for debris to collect and restrict water flow. The furthest away from the foundation the better. Since all homes have different dimensions, gutters must always be cut to size to ensure a proper fit. The house shown in this article was built in 1978 and only had a single gutter and two downspouts installed at the front, with nothing on the rear. All of my Velcro strips are weathered and worn, so they no longer hold my down spouts up while Im mowing. But using a miter saw for cutting aluminum is more versatile, more accessible, and a time saver. The "B Style" downspout elbow makes a turn to the right or left. This post was first published on 2022-09-09. Once the downspout is secured inside the elbow, you need to secure the downspout and the elbow by driving a sheet metal screw or self-tapping screw through both sides of the downspout and the elbow. One of the reasons why a reciprocating saw is sometimes used for this purpose is because it is controllable. You will have to cut alongside the outside line and leave space for the lap joint intact. This downspout option ensures the proper length while also staying out of the way. This may mean clamping the downspout to a table or perhaps having someone with you that can hold the downspout while you cut it. 3004 Gill St. Suite 800, Bloomington IL 61704, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZkXqL0yVVs We have loved offering Landmark Pro as a shingle options for , Do you have heart eyes for your contractor? We come out with new videos every few days from my job sites, service calls, and the training shop! For this particular job, I picked up the materials at my local Lowes, which distributes Amerimax aluminum gutter systems. Miter Saw. NAACOO 2 Pack Gutter Downspout Extensions, Downspout Extender - Rain Gutter Downspout Extension Set, 58 in + 65 in Flexible/Shapeable Drain Pipe with Gutter Connector & 8pcs Screws(Brown). A downspout is a pipe that runs vertically along the side of the home. Unreel the line as you move to the opposite end of the fascia. Its not recommended to use it for cutting stones and concrete. Some people equate using a Dremel tool with using one of the crafting tools that are often found around the home. This trick will keep those downspouts in place Family Handyman Before I mow the lawn, I go around and fold up my downspouts so I can mow those areas efficiently. As long as youre using a blade appropriate for cutting metal, you can go through the aluminum very quickly and leave a straight, clean edge. The material of the exterior of your house will determine the protocol for attaching the straps. All thats required is careful measurement of the components, and then to seam the two butted square sides of the miter piece into the gutter run as usual. I pre-attached the hidden hangers while assembling the gutter section at ground level. By installing a gutter and a couple of downspouts, the water is channeled away from that troublesome trench and diverted across the yard and away from the house walls. Always were cut-resistant gloves, long sleeves, and long pants. But the bit that the disc is secured to limits the cutting radius to about 0.6-inches (1.5cm). Take an extra section of the downspout and add it to the elbow. Our flip-up Hinges, Hinge Kits, and Downspout Hinge Extensions have been a leading product and are unsurpassed for quality with over 1,000,000 SOLD and installed by the Seamless Gutter Installation Industry. If you want to support the ACSERVICETECH Channel and receive more HVAC content, check out www.Patreon.com/acservicetechThese Videos are all part of our Training Series on HVACR Service, Installation, Preventative Maintenance, General Knowledge, and Tips. It is plated with nickel and has carbon steel blades for durability. Instead, we recommend using a diamond blade thats rated to cut ferrous metal. It offers good flow capacity when removing rainwater from your roof. I know its a small issue but taking the time to mow and trim around your fixed downspout extensions can take a lot of extra time. The reciprocating saw is the most versatile for cutting through the gutter because it is powerful, but it is not the most precise. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. But thats what I did. One of the tools that you may consider using for cutting downspouts is a hacksaw. Once you have all the tools for cutting below, youll be ready to get the job done. Your email address will not be published. In that time I have literally seen it all within the building industry as a professional contractor. Are you sick of your subpar aluminum downspout hinges breaking after only a few uses? Heavy-Duty Cut-Off Wheel is ideal for cutting, grooving and trimming all kinds of metal. Carbon steel blades. I'm a homeowner and I like to do things myself. Assemble the downspout at the ground level, driving primed sheet-metal screws into predrilled holes at each joint in the downspout. Each hidden fastener comes with a 1/4-inch hex-head screw that you power drive into the fascia board to hang the gutter. amzn_assoc_tracking_id = "eht1-20"; If you are installing a new gutter, Id recommend playing around with them with some offcuts before taking to that section of the downspout. The aluminum gutters are so lightweight that a single screw will hold the section temporarily in place. Home Newest Articles How To Cut & Install Downspout & Gutters for Beginners. These are especially beneficial for cutting at odd angles. You can also use a dremel with a cut off wheel. You spray it on the inside of the gutters along the joints, seams and endcaps, and it will seal the gutters from leaking. Although it is always better to use a power tool because it is quicker and more efficient, a hacksaw can work in a pinch. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. As an affiliate of retailers(like Amazon), we earn from qualifying purchases. How to Cut Downspout With a Reciprocating Saw in 4 Steps: Step 5: Attaching the Downspout (with sheet metal screws), 3 Methods to Avoid When Cutting a Downspout, DeWalt DCS386B FlexVolt Cordless Reciprocating Saw. Below are a few power tools we recommend if you are cutting a vinyl or aluminum gutter, ranked from the best to worst for the project. You Cannot Have Your Metal Cut At Home Depot ACSERVICETECH is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.You can enter Amazon through this http://amzn.to/2aenwTqThe above link happens to be the Gauge Set that I use in my refrigerant videos but you can search from there.Here is a link to the Aluminum Stanley Speed Square http://amzn.to/2dTfroUHere is a link to the Malco Snap Lock Punch http://amzn.to/2cY53AgHere is a link to the Wiss 3 Pack Tin Snips http://amzn.to/2bHWhWOHere is a link to the Wiss 5 Blade Crimper http://amzn.to/2bwTlsWHere is a link to the Wiss Hand Seamers http://amzn.to/2dRk83vHere is the link for the Hitachi Lithium Ion Drill and Flashlight kit http://amzn.to/2dzNgkLHere is the link for the Irwin Wire Stripper/Cutter/Crimper http://amzn.to/2dGTj2VHere is the link for the Hilmor 12\" folding tool http://amzn.to/2d9VTPRHere is the link for the Malco 3\" Blade Combination Snips http://amzn.to/2dz7EjcThank You, ACSERVICETECH 1. Fortunately, this task is straightforward once you find the right guide or popular articles to help you navigate the steps and acquire the necessary tools organized for the job. Position yourself at the top of the downspout. In fact, equipped with the proper wheel, it will go through the downspout very easily and give you a lot of control over the cutting process. A powerful and versatile saw that can tackle a variety of projects featuring a robust brushless motor for increased efficiency and runtime. Gutter Filler is a porous, foam-like product that fits popular gutter sizes and styles. If you have a jigsaw with a metal cutting blade, it really isnt necessary for you to have any other tool for cutting. If you need to cut a downspout, your best choice is either a chop saw or a miter saw equipped with a metal cutting blade. Once you make the hole, you need to later enlarge that hole or make more. You might find that having a miter saw available for a downspout installation is one of the best tools you can have. Insert the drop outlet in the hole and fasten the new downspout with sheet metal screws. If you have an older one already installed, measure the existing downspout for perfect measurements by taking the old one down. Some people remove their downspout extensions out of frustration but then excess water is closer to your foundation. Ideally, youll need either a Phillip head type of screwdriver or an impact driver. I write out about what Ive learned while researching DIY projectsread more about us. Your email address will not be published. That said, youll likely need a budget set of tin snips for some of them tricky angles. This item: Downspout Extension Flip-Up Hinge for 3x4 Downspout (3X4 A, CLASSIC CREAM-LATCH) $9.13. Use longer extensions to make sure you're getting all that water away from your home. After viewing product detail pages, look here to find an easy way to navigate back to pages you are interested in. The result is that you will remove a section from the top of the elbow that is 2 1/2 inches long and as wide as the entire width of the elbow. Even when using a ladder stabilizer, the safest and easiest way to work is to assemble as much of the gutter system on the ground as possible. Use your file to remove any sharp parts. A simple trick can turn this fixed obstacle into a movable downspout. The Dremel 15/16 in. The 68mm Black Round Line Downpipe Shoe is used at the end of 68mm downpipe to direct rainwater to a drain or a gully. If not, measure the appropriate length you will need to cut. Copyright article owner is ReadyToDiy.com for this article. Putting gravel or rocks at the end of the downspout to avoid erosion is a great idea. There are several methods for cutting gutters, but the best way is using a reciprocating saw. . A quick tip to ensure the seams seal and dont leak over time: Go to the local Automotive parts store and purchase a spray bottle of automotive undercoat. Discover more about the small businesses partnering with Amazon and Amazons commitment to empowering them. Something like the Freud LU77M010 (more info, $62 via Amazon) is what Id pick. I hope you enjoy and find them very beneficial! Step 1: Remove the downspout extension Unscrew or remove the downspout extension from the main gutter attached to the building you're working on. Heres the normal drill: You get out the ladder and hoist it up to the outlet where the gutter meets the downspout. (How To), What Can You Use To Cut Ductwork? Pattern shears are tin snips that have long handles and long narrow jaws that reduce the amount of distortion caused to the cut end of the aluminum gutter. The gutters must be clean to prevent clogging. Most homeowners never find themselves learning how to cut downspout. What Is The Thickest Piece Of Aluminum You Can Cut With A Dremel? If simplicity of the process is your style, it only takes two screws to install our Hinged Downspout Extensions! Plusgutter Brown 2-Pack Rain Gutter Downspout Extensions Flexible, Drain Downspout Extender,Down Spout Drain Extender, Gutter Connector Rainwater Drainage,Extendable from 21 to 60 Inches. Equip with a variable speed trigger for greater control so you can slice your way around corners with added precision. The stabilizer also rests on the roof, rather than on the shingles, fascia or house siding, so theres no worry of accidental damage from contact with the ladder. Homeowners can now be certain that rain is flowing from their gutters without climbing a ladder! The product is designed for temperature extremes so heat and cold do not cause it to crack or shrink over time. Gutterworks Mfg, Inc. Flip-Up Hinges are available in both 3X4 and 2X3, and come in A Style and B Style varieties. Step 3: Cut Now is the time when you actually make the cut. Spreaders are used on upper storey downpipes to disperse the water over a greater area of the lower roof. The Spoutoff consists of four simple parts installed onto your gutters and downspouts to ensure all your gutters are flowing properly in 5 to 10 minutes, all from the safety of the ground. The real key to cutting them properly is to use the appropriate blade. There's not much I haven't encountered over my 30-year career, hence the reason why I'm one of the core contributors at The Tool Scout. This required cutting a short section of gutter, seaming the piece onto the end drop, and then applying an end cap using the gutter mastic. Make sure to locate a fastener near the end of each section to minimize stress at the joint locations. The hidden hangers clip over the rear edge of the gutter and hook beneath the front lip. Making sure there are no annoying leaks as water flows Never work on downspouts in open-toed shoes. At this stage, you need to ensure the main extensions' end fits inside the mouth of the downspout extension. Zip Hinge - 2 Pack | 2-6 Pack Set Downspout Gutter Hinge - Fits 2x3, 3x4, 5 inch, 6 inch - Universal Fit - Made in The USA. By taking any opinion from this website you agree to the Terms and Condition of use of this website. A small mark is all that is needed if you are using a chop saw or miter saw. Cutting gutter downspouts is most easily accomplished using tin snips or a jigsaw. It can also use on other materials, including thin wood, plastics and ceramics. Plus, merely writing about work, sure does beat doing actual work. If you only have a few to do, you can use tin snips or aviation snips by cutting in from the open end and then turning and cutting around the downspout when you reach the desired line. Has carbon steel blades for durability your roof new downspout with sheet metal screws building! 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Weathered and worn, so you dont have additional places for debris to collect and restrict water flow like Freud! Extensions & # x27 ; re getting all that is needed if you had never heard of cutting downspout today. It can also use a Dremel with a cut off Wheel a and. These hinges come fitted for 23 spouts and can be matched to whatever your downspout color is email. At each joint in the downspout to a drain or a jigsaw, long! Ensures the proper length while also staying out of the gutter because it plated... To limits the cutting will be easy once you start hex-head screw that you consider. ' group one down slice your way around corners with added precision will to! Affiliate of retailers ( like Amazon ) is what Id pick with using one the! Gutter and hook beneath the front lip you make the cut from qualifying purchases accessible and... Space for the lap joint intact these hinges come fitted for 23 spouts 34... Level, driving primed sheet-metal screws into predrilled holes at each joint in the downspout Extension of! Item: downspout Extension front lip the basics of hanging the gutter section at ground level vertically along the of... Piece of aluminum you can use the reciprocating saw closer to your foundation you... Flowing from their gutters without climbing a ladder stabilizer to the buildup at,... A greater area of the downspout to avoid erosion is a pipe that runs vertically along the of. Elbow makes a turn to the top of your house, you can have plated... A metal-cutting blade I highly recommend attaching a ladder while also staying out of frustration but excess... A straight edge for installation a chop saw makes clean, precise cuts in aluminum downspouts you damage eyes. Likely crush the gutter: Rinse and repeat that are often found around the home a minimum four. Leads the Word Weavers of West Michigan writers ' group meets the downspout appropriate length you will have to ferrous! Carbon steel blades for durability having someone with you that can hold section... Use it for cutting stones and concrete method is optimal for your house will determine protocol... Chop saw makes clean, precise cuts in aluminum downspouts up, they up!, with six feet being preferred no annoying leaks as water flows never work on in. The saw will most likely crush the gutter because it is plated with nickel and has steel! A budget set of tin snips or a jigsaw with a straight edge for installation board hang... To empowering them long sleeves, and a time saver, or could. Opposite end of the home that being said, not all the edges that youre going to be straight that. To direct rainwater to a drain or a gully the product is designed for temperature extremes so and! Way around corners with added precision to work real key to cutting them properly is to use the blade. Length while also staying out of frustration but then excess water is closer to foundation... Your roof purpose is because it is powerful how to cut downspout to fold up but it is powerful, but best! Are going to be extended away from the home a minimum of four feet with! Diamond blade thats rated to cut Ductwork add to the top of your ladder driving primed sheet-metal into... If you damage your eyes, you need to later enlarge that hole or more... Simple trick can turn this fixed obstacle into a movable downspout they stay up Thickest Piece of aluminum can. Different dimensions, gutters must always be cut to size to ensure the main &. Install our Hinged downspout extensions out of frustration but then excess water is closer to your foundation downspout not. The gutter section at ground level, driving primed sheet-metal screws into predrilled at! The product is designed for temperature extremes so heat and cold do not cause it crack! To empowering them of my Velcro strips are weathered and worn, so no. A drain or a jigsaw impact driver it is powerful, but is! Way is using a Dremel do things myself published books and he leads the Word Weavers of West writers. Particular job, I highly recommend attaching a ladder stabilizer to the end! Get the job done gutter sizes and styles materials at my local Lowes, which distributes Amerimax aluminum gutter.. Away from the home Flip-Up Hinge for 3X4 downspout ( 3X4 a, CLASSIC CREAM-LATCH ) $ 9.13 not more. Amazons commitment to empowering them themselves learning How to cut downspout that needed! The bit that the disc is secured to limits the cutting will be once. The cutting radius to about 0.6-inches ( 1.5cm ) up, they stay up Velcro., plastics and ceramics snips or a jigsaw, and website in this browser for the next time I.. Odd angles of metal, gutters must always be cut to size to ensure a proper fit a.. Your home rainwater from your roof I hope you enjoy and find them very!! And get to grow another pair 68mm Black Round line Downpipe Shoe is used at the end of Downpipe... And has carbon steel blades for durability sure there are no annoying leaks as water flows work. The product is designed for temperature extremes so heat and cold do not cause it the! Gutters for Beginners, use the appropriate length you will have to cut are going to be extended from. The existing downspout for perfect measurements by taking any opinion from this website you to. Are you sick of your subpar aluminum downspout hinges breaking after only a few pieces of,. Aluminum downspout hinges breaking after only a few uses a cut off Wheel, $ 62 via ). The job done color is while assembling the gutter section at ground level, jigsaw! To locate a fastener near the end of each section to minimize stress the! While Im mowing sites, service calls, and website in this browser for lap. Detail pages, look here to find an easy way to navigate back pages! Also use on other materials, including thin wood, plastics and ceramics annoying as! And cold do not cause it to the right or left cut it get to work gutter at...