How to Attach Downspouts to Siding How to Attach Downspouts to Siding
Various masonry bits
Various wood bits
Variety of anchors
Wood and sheet metal screws
Gutter clamps
Knowing how to attach downspouts to different siding materials can be very useful information, especially if you attempting this project by yourself. Although seemingly difficult, the novice homeowner can save a lot of money with this simple project which can usually be finished in a weekend with a minimum of skills, tools and required materials.
Attaching Downspouts to Siding
First of all, it will be necessary to carefully consider the type of wall to which you will be attaching your downspout. If at all possible, the simplest and quickest method is to attempt to locate the studs behind the siding. This will allow you to simply drill holes into the studs and attach your downspout with ordinary wooden screws and gutter clamps. However, if the siding to which the downspout is to be attached to is stucco or other material, it will be necessary to carefully consider the use of various anchors which will accept screws and expand, thereby securing the downspout, while also providing as little excess opening into the siding as possible. This will protect the siding from the intrusion of insects and weathering consequences.
Step 1. Drill a hole wide enough to accept the anchor you will be using to attach the gutter clamp for the downspout. Using the clamp, place it to secure the downspout. Use a fine-pointed marker to mark the location of the holes for the clamp.
Step 2. Remove the clamp and drill the holes using the marker points as guides. If you are able to access the studs, simply use a #6, 2 inch screw to secure the clamp to the stud. If this is not the case, insert the anchor into the hole and with the screw secure the clamp.
Step 3. If you are attempting to attach your downspout to stucco siding, you will have to use a masonry bit for this project. Attach a masonry bit to your drill and drill a hole into the stucco. Again, attempt to find the housing studs, but if this doesn’t work, the use of anchors will be necessary. Drill a hole wide enough for the anchor, tap it into the stucco, and then attach the downspout clamp and screw a #6, 2 inch screw into the anchor.
Protection of Siding
To provide continuous protection to siding it is strongly recommended that a silicone compound be applied around and in the holes drilled to apply clamps for securing the gutter downspouts. Simply insert a caulking silicone compound into a caulking gun and apply to all the holes drilled to secure the clamps for the down spouts. This will insure insulation against weather and garden pests.
Alternative Methods of Securing Downspouts
In addition to the steps mentioned above, there are several esoteric methods of securing gutter downspouts to the siding of a home. Several of these ideas include downspout chains, rain cups, pipe cleat wall mount bracket and the leaf-catchers. These are more costly and have several advantages as well as disadvantages.