9 October 2023

This is the correct way to install metal gutters so that rainwater doesn't damage the building

Gutters are part of a building's drainage system which functions as a reservoir for rainwater that falls from the roof drain to be channeled into gutters, storage tanks, or absorption wells. Without gutters, rainwater can fall into unwanted places, potentially seeping and damaging building walls, foundations, and so on. Gutter installation must be done correctly so that it can function properly. Likewise with metal gutters or metal gutters. So how do you install metal gutters correctly? Here's how:


Getting to Know Metal Gutters

There are many types of materials for gutters, such as cast concrete, plastic (PVC), fiberglass, and metal (metal). There are also many types of metal gutters, including zinc, galvalum, mild steel, copper, or a combination thereof. Rainbow will discuss metal gutters produced with a knock down system which are ready to be applied to buildings. Ready-to-install metal gutters come in semi-circular or square shapes, and are made from galvanized mild steel which is strong, durable and anti-rust. Usually also equipped with powdercoating paint.


Preparation Before Installation

For knock down metal gutter applications, do the following preparations.

First, calculate the need for flat gutters (water overflow reservoirs). Calculations can be made from working drawings (roof plans) or by directly measuring the length of the side of the roof where the gutter (roof perimeter) is to be installed. Please allow a tolerance of 1-3 meters. Also calculate the need for accessories or various accessories below.


- Corner gutter, namely the part of the gutter that is installed at the corners of the roof. Count the number of corners around the roof including the outside corners and inside corners.

- Overflow barrier, to prevent flow that is too heavy so that it does not overflow out of the gutter (usually at the corner of the roof).

- Hangers (gutter mounts) which are ideally installed at a distance of 1 meter. So, the count is equal to the total length of the gutter + 1.

- Spacer, functions to straighten the position of the hanger if the lisplank is not perpendicular. Provide spacers for a number of hangers.

- Gutter connector, functions to unite the gutters while anticipating leaks that might occur at the point where the gutters meet. Requirements are adjusted to the number of connections.

- Gutter cover, which functions as a cover for each end of the gutter. Count the ends of the gutter to find out how many are needed.

- Funnel and standpipe. The function of the funnel is to channel water from the gutter to the standpipe, which will drain it to the waste. Ideally the distance between funnels (also standpipes) is ±6-10 meters. The length of the pipe per rod is 3 meters. The length per standpipe is calculated according to the height of the wall and the distance from the funnel to the wall. The total length is the length of the standpipe multiplied by the number of standpipes to be installed. Meanwhile, the need for a funnel is the number of standpipes multiplied by 2.

- Curved pipe, to connect the funnel and standpipe. The amount is adjusted to the number of funnels or standpipes multiplied by 2.

- Pipe holder, used to hold the pipe to the wall so that it does not shift or wobble. Ideally, pipe supports are installed per 2 meters of pipe length. Or, adjusted to conditions.

- Pipe shoe, installed at the bottom end of the pipe to direct the water flow to the waste. The number corresponds to the number of standpipes. This element can be replaced with a curved pipe.

- Screws and sealant (special adhesive). The amount is adjusted to your needs.


Second, prepare various equipment for measurement and installation. Some of the main tools are a tape measure, pencil, thread, spirit level or water hose, zinc scissors, hacksaw, electric drill equipped with a screwdriver, ladder, and K3 equipment.


Third, determine the position and slope of the gutter, then mark it with a pencil or thread. The slope of the gutter affects the smooth flow of water from the gutter to the standpipe below. The ideal slope is 1% (height difference ± 1 cm for every 1 meter distance) to 3%. Use a spirit level or water hose to determine the slope. Next mark the points where the gutter hangers should be installed.


How to Install Metal Gutters

In general, installing metal gutters includes the following stages.

• Install gutter hangers. For buildings without trim, install gutter hangers along the wall below the edge of the roof. For buildings with lisplank, the gutter hangers are attached to the lisplank with the help of spacers. First attach the gutter hanger to the spacer with screws. Next, screw the top of the spacer to the lisplank (if necessary, bend the spacer according to the slope of the lisplank).

• Install all gutter hangers at the specified points by following the slope created. Look back at the preparation steps.

• Install the gutter connector, hook it to the top of the gutter with the meeting point as the axle. Use sealant to seal gaps.

• Apply the funnel at the specified points. Previously, drill a hole in the part of the gutter where you want to install the funnel. Use sealant to seal gaps.

• Cut the vertical pipe to the height of the wall; and connecting pipe according to the distance from the wall to the funnel. Then, install the pipe and connect it to the funnel with the help of a curved pipe. Use sealant to seal gaps.

• Install all accessories, such as pipe holders, pipe shoes, gutter covers, and so on. Check every gap again and seal with sealant.


That's all, and I hope this review is useful.