Question 1

​​Do buried downspouts freeze?

Accepted Answer

•

Buried downspouts can freeze during cold weather as cold water runs through them. If you’ve discovered your downspouts are frozen, you can carefully pour hot water down the top of the downspout to defrost them. If that doesn’t work, you may need to dig your downspout back up. Avoid trying to break the ice from the exterior using a hammer as this can cause cracks and damage to your downspout.

To avoid freezing the future, consider adding a heating cable to the exterior, which can adjust heat based on the surrounding temperature.

Question 2

How much does it cost to install or replace gutters?

Accepted Answer

•

The average cost to install or replace gutters is around $2,000, with typical project costs ranging from $900 to $7,000. Most companies charge between $4 and $30 per linear foot. The total price depends on several factors, including the size of your home, the complexity of its footprint, the gutter material (e.g., vinyl, metal), and the gutter style (e.g., half-round, custom-built). Additional elements like downspouts, corners, and optional add-ons like gutter guards can also increase the price. The condition of your roof is another consideration, as new gutters cannot be installed on a rotting or sloping roof. While it can be an expensive upfront cost, new gutters are a worthwhile, long-lasting investment for protecting your home's exterior. You can save up to half on labor costs by installing them yourself.

Question 3

Can you add a downspout to an existing gutter?

Accepted Answer

•

If your gutters get overwhelmed every time it rains, adding an extra downspout is a solution. First, you'll need to decide where to add the downspout. If your current setup only has a single downspout, one option is to place a new one at the opposite end of the gutter. If you already have a downspout at each end, adding a third one in the middle can help to lighten the load.

You can hire a professional to add a downspout yourself by cutting into the existing gutter and attaching the necessary parts, such as an outlet and brackets.

Question 4

Is it okay to knock down icicles yourself?

Accepted Answer

•

Yes, it is okay to knock down icicles yourself. Just make sure to take the proper safety precautions. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, contact a roofing professional.

Question 5

How do I get my gutters looking new again?

Accepted Answer

•

The trick to getting gleaming gutters can vary based on the material of your gutters. Aluminum gutters can often be restored to pristine condition by using a cloth to scrub them with a solution consisting of 1 cup of vinegar and 1 cup of water. Vinyl gutters can be whitened using dish soap and water. For deeply stained vinyl gutters, adding bleach with water and dish soap may help to remove black streaks. Many retailers sell premixed gutter sprays. Applying cleaning solutions to dry gutters before rinsing can help cleaners attach to dirt and grime for easier removal.