Many homeowners live their whole lives without having to worry about their aluminum gutters. If you do find yourself in a situation where your aluminum downspout needs to be replaced or repaired, it is important to learn how to reduce it.
You may feel nervous about taking on this project, but don’t worry. This simple guide will put you at ease and you’ll soon be an expert at cutting down your water consumption.
What You’ll Need
This job doesn’t require many tools. With just a few tools, you can complete the task quickly and efficiently.
- Aluminum downspout
- Ladder
- Tin snips or a jigsaw equipped with a metal-cutting blade
- Downspout crimper
- Downspout straps
- Drill
- Self-tapping screws
- Carpenters pencil
Step 1: Measurement
Measurements are the first thing to do for any project. Once you have determined the size of the downspout you require, you can measure the downspout using a pencil from a carpenter.
If you are replacing a damaged downspout and only need to do so, it is possible to remove the damaged one from the downspout and use it as a template.
Their guide may be able help you if you are unsure how much downspout is needed or if you’re tackling gutter work along with the downspouts.
Step II: Reducing The Downspout
Let’s now discuss how to cut downspout. It is simple to cut downspout. All you need are a pair of tin scissors. You can also use a jigsaw equipped with a metal cutting knife to make a perfect cut.
Tin snips can be used to make a hole in your downspout. This should be done along the line that you marked when measuring. Next, use the tin scissors to cut the downspout.
Although this method isn’t the best, it does produce some clean results. However, because your cut downspout will go into a prefabricated elbow you’ll be able hide any jagged edges within the elbow. You won’t have to worry about the finished product looking less polished.
Another option is to use a hand-held jigsaw equipped with a metal blade to cut the downspout. This method is the best because it produces the most precise cut. In a pinch, a hacksaw or copingsaw can also be used.
Always wear gloves and safety glasses before using any power tools. Also, consider hearing protection. I always wear long sleeves and pants when I am cutting metal so that I don’t have to worry about metal splinters.
When I am cutting a downspout using a jigsaw with my jigsaw, it is best to place the downspout above two sawhorses. I’ll then have a helper to hold the downspout steady as I cut. This will ensure that the downspout is completely removed after the cut is complete.
Step 3: Crimp The Downspout
You will need a crimping device to ensure your downspout fits nicely within the elbow. You will end up crushing the downspout or deforming it to make it fit. You will get a polished final product with the crimper.
Step IV: Attaching Your Downspout
Next, attach the downspout at the elbow that extends from your gutter.
The ladder can be used to work the downspout towards the elbow. After you have secured the downspout in the elbow, drive a self-tapping bolt through the elbow and downspout.
For proper drainage, you will need an elbow installed at the bottom. This elbow should be fitted into the bottom of your downspout. Secure it using self-tapping screws as with the top elbow.
Use downspout straps to secure the downspout to your house’s exterior. These can be purchased online or at your local hardware store. One strap should be used every eight feet.
The method of attaching the downspouts to your home will depend on what material it is made from. If you are unsure how to attach the straps to your home, consult a professional at your hardware store.
After the straps have been attached, wrap them around the downspout. Then drive a self-tapping bolt through the straps to the downspout.
The Final Word
You are not the only one who was unsure how to reduce downspout. This is a common DIY project that most DIYers have never attempted. It is simple to cut down your gutters. You should now be able to do this job like a pro.
