The Dangers of DIY Gutter Installation

There are so many sources for DIY instructions online that it can be tempting to tackle home improvement projects on your own. However, certain projects like installing gutters should not be one of them. In this blog we discuss the dangers of DIY gutter installation, and why it’s best to leave it to the pros.

Equipment and Transportation

Gutters are far from being kits that contain everything you need. In addition to the gutter lengths, you will need to purchase parts like fasteners, nails and sealants separately. And then there’s the matter of tools: you need a nail gun, metal-crimping and cutting equipment and safety gear – most of which you likely won’t use after installing the gutters. There’s also the matter of transporting all of the materials. Gutters are long and cumbersome, so unless you already own a pickup truck or can get them delivered to your place, getting everything to your home won’t be easy.

Risk of Injury

Any project that involves climbing the roof is dangerous, and should only be done by professionals. Risking injury is just not worth it. You also have to consider that professionals have insurance coverage in the form of liability insurance and workers’ compensation. If something does happen – whether property damage or injury – it will have to be taken out of your own insurance coverage.

Limited Choice of Materials

There are many gutter types available, but a lot of them require specialized equipment to build. Hardware stores and similar retail suppliers are less likely to offer such materials like copper or stainless steel, much less custom-built options like seamless gutters. Your home deserves the best improvements, and it should be fitted with the best gutters that you can get, but that might not be possible if you go the DIY route.

No Workmanship Warranty

Gutter problems often result from poor installation. While there may be some sort of warranty with DIY gutter installation, it will probably only extend to the materials themselves. If any problems arise from installation errors, you will have to correct it yourself, or at least hire professionals to do so, doubling your costs. By trusting professionals from the start, any installation errors will be corrected by the contractor, often at no extra cost to you.

If you would like to learn more about our gutter services, including gutter-protection installation, call Homecraft® Inc. today at (302) 798-0302 or fill out our contact form to schedule your free in-home consultation. We serve many areas in and near Wilmington, Bear and Hockessin, DE.