Guttering is important on a shed, it can help to prolong the life of the structure and protect the shed from things such as rainwater. When water runs down the shed it can reduce the strength and stability of the structure, particularly with wooden sheds. Water can cause warping which is irreversible. There are other advantages to installing guttering on a shed also; including rainwater collection. You can divert the rainwater from the guttering to a water storage tank to be used for future gardening applications. You have a few options when it comes to guttering for your shed, but the most popular choice tends to be plastic guttering as it is cost effective and generally easiest to install.
- Before you Start
You first need to consider where you want the guttering to drain off; if you have a nearby draining system this would be the obvious choice however if you don’t you should invest in a water storage unit or drain onto sloping ground that does not lead to a building.
- Check Water Flow Direction
If your shed slopes at any point this will guide your installation process; water flows downwards so any existing slope will help with this. This can be easily checked using a spirit measure.
- Marking out Guttering
Using a length of string, mark out your positioning; ensuring that you allow for a fall where the downpipe will go. Then go ahead and mark the guttering position; if you mark every few feet this will be wear the brackets will sit.
- Installing the Drain Outlet
The drain outlet is where the downpipe will be located. As with the rest of the installation; mark out where the outlet will go first and then drill the holes. Once you have marked and drilled the pilot holes you can not attach the drain outlet.
- Installing the Brackets
Guttering brackets are required to make sure you have a watertight seal; they should be installed at any point where two pieces of gutter meet. Sometimes you can install extra support brackets to keep the gutter stable. Support brackets should be installed every 3ft intervals. As with the drain outlet; you should first mark the holes required for the screws, drill them and then install the brackets.
- Installing the Stop End
At the far end of the guttering from the downpipe there should be a final bracket, the stop end should be installed on this. The stop end prevents water from leaving the guttering at the wrong end.
- Lubricate the Connections
After ensuring that your guttering has been cut the required lengths; lubricate the cut ends to allow the joining of sections to be much easier. Now you have simply slide the individual guttering sections into place in the brackets installed earlier.
- Installing the Downpipe
Lastly, attach the downpipe to the drain outlet. It is also important that you have brackets installed on the side of the side so that the downpipe remains in position.
Once you have installed your guttering it is important to keep it clean so that it doesn’t become damaged or become less efficient.
Whether you’re considering buying a new shed or not, or our buying guide provides detailed information about every aspect of shed ownership you might want to know.
Posted by Matt Cook
