Omar Khalid
Connecting two plastic gutters together is a fairly simple task that can be completed by using union brackets, also known as gutter joiners or couplers. Gutter unions have rubber gaskets that create a seal to ensure a watertight joint. Before joining the gutters, it is important to clean the seam edges and the interior of the gutter joiner pieces with a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol. A generous amount of plastic cement or sealant should then be spread on the edges of the gutter sections and the inside of the gutter joiner pieces. Finally, the gutter joiner should be snapped firmly into place, positioning it so that the seam is as close to its centre as possible.
Characteristics and Values Table for Connecting 2 Plastic Gutters:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Gutters | PVC or Vinyl |
| Tools | Gutter union brackets, joint brackets, sheet metal screws, pop rivets, hacksaw, sealant, silicone or rubber gaskets, plastic cement |
| Installation Process | Measure and cut gutter pieces, clean gutter seams and joiners with alcohol, apply sealant or plastic cement, snap joiners into place, screw gutter unions onto fascia boards |
| Safety | Working at height can be hazardous, it is recommended to appoint a professional tradesperson |
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What You'll Learn
Use union brackets to connect gutter lengths
Union brackets, also known as gutter joiners or couplers, are a type of clip that can be used to connect two lengths of gutter. They are simple to install and are widely available and inexpensive.
Union brackets have rubber gaskets that create a seal to form a watertight joint. When installing, you should screw the brackets onto the fascia boards and then push the length of the gutter into them. It is recommended that you use the type of screws recommended by the manufacturer.
Before installing, you should account for each bracket when taking measurements. It is recommended that the first union bracket should be no further than 150mm away from the end of the run. Once you have calculated how many fascia brackets you need, mark each point where they need to be fixed depending on the length of your gutter. Line up the first bracket against the first point you have marked and screw it into position, ensuring you use all the available screw holes to stabilise the bracket.
Union brackets are designed to be hidden from view once installed, providing a sleek finish.
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Seal with plastic cement or sealant
When connecting two sections of gutters, you will need to seal the joints with either plastic cement or sealant. This is to ensure a watertight connection. Here is a step-by-step guide:
Clean the gutter sections
Before applying any sealant or cement, it is important to clean the gutter sections thoroughly. Use a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol to wipe down the seams and the inside of the gutter joiner pieces. This will ensure that the sealant or cement adheres properly to the surface.
Apply plastic cement or sealant
Spread a generous amount of plastic cement or sealant to the edges of the gutter sections and the inside of the gutter joiner pieces. Make sure to cover all the areas that will be in contact with each other. You can use a caulking gun or a putty knife to apply the sealant or cement, ensuring an even and consistent layer.
Position the gutter sections
Position the gutter sections so that they are butted against each other, with the ends touching. Hold the gutter joiner piece in place, centering it over the seam. Ensure that the gutter joiner is firmly snapped into place, creating a tight seal.
Let the sealant dry
Allow the sealant or cement to dry and cure completely before exposing it to any water. The drying time may vary depending on the product used and the environmental conditions. Refer to the manufacturer's instructions for the recommended drying time.
Inspect the joints
Once the sealant or cement has dried, inspect the joints to ensure that they are properly sealed. Run a bead of sealant along the length of the joint, if necessary, to reinforce the seal and prevent any potential leaks.
By following these steps and allowing adequate drying time, you can effectively connect two plastic gutters together, creating a strong and watertight seal.
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Use pop rivets or sheet metal screws
When connecting two plastic gutters together, you can use pop rivets or sheet metal screws. This method is suitable for metal gutters, which require overlapping two pieces and riveting them together. Vinyl gutters, on the other hand, are designed to snap together easily and may not require rivets or screws.
Before connecting the gutters, ensure that the gutter sections are hung with their ends touching or butt-jointed. Clean the seam edges and the interior of the gutter using a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol. You can also use a sealant or plastic cement on the gutter sections and joiner pieces to ensure a watertight connection.
Now, to connect the gutters using pop rivets or sheet metal screws, first, overlap the middle seams by 4 inches. Use the factory-cut edges on the outside for a smooth finish. Apply a sealant where the two pieces meet to create a watertight seal.
Next, use pop rivets or sheet metal screws to secure the gutters at the sides of the joined sections. Do not use rivets or screws at the bottom of the gutter as this may cause leaks. Stainless steel screws are a good option, but they can be hard to handle due to their non-magnetic properties. Aluminium rivets are also suitable, especially for fastening gutter end caps. If you use screws, ensure they are large enough in diameter to fit the holes securely.
Finally, allow the gutter sealant to dry completely before testing the assembly.
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Ensure a watertight seal with rubber gaskets
Gutters are joined by using union brackets, also known as gutter joiners or couplers. These brackets are equipped with rubber gaskets that create a watertight seal, preventing rainwater leaks above your home. Gaskets are crucial for ensuring a watertight seal, so be sure to replace them if necessary.
When using union brackets, it is important to have the right equipment, including appropriately sized screws, a ladder, pencil, measuring tape, spirit level, and a drill or screwdriver. Before installing the brackets, calculate how many you will need and mark each point where they need to be fixed. Line up the first bracket against the first mark and screw it into position, ensuring you use all the available screw holes to stabilise the bracket.
To ensure a watertight seal, clean the mating surfaces with a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol or a solvent cleaner like Adisolve, which removes old sealant, oil, grease, and dirt. Once the surfaces are clean, apply a generous amount of sealant or plastic cement to the inside of the gutter joiner and the edges of the gutter sections. You can also use sealing tape designed for this purpose, which can be found at your local hardware store.
After applying the sealant, snap the gutter sections together firmly, ensuring the seam is as close to the centre of the joiner as possible. Repeat this process for each seam until all gutter sections are joined.
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Cut gutter pieces to size with a fine-toothed hacksaw
Cutting plastic gutter pieces to size is a straightforward process. You'll need a fine-toothed hacksaw for this task. PVC gutters come in standard lengths of 2, 3, or 4 metres, which can be easily cut to size as needed. This is particularly useful when you need to span longer areas or custom-fit your gutters to your roof.
When cutting the gutter pieces, it's important to measure accurately. Measure the total run of the gutter length you need. If you have a straight-run gable roof, measure from shingle to shingle and then add a slight overlap allowance of about half an inch on each side. This overlap is crucial for effective seaming when you connect the gutter pieces together.
It's also important to note that you should avoid drilling holes in the bottom of the gutter during the installation process, as this could lead to leaks. Instead, focus on securing the gutters at the sides of the joined sections using appropriate fasteners.
By following these steps and using a fine-toothed hacksaw, you can confidently cut your plastic gutter pieces to the desired size, ensuring a precise fit for your installation.
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Frequently asked questions
Two plastic gutters can be connected using joint or union brackets, which are inexpensive and readily available. Gutters can also be snapped together and then sealed with a sealant or plastic cement.
You will need a rag, rubbing alcohol, a generous amount of sealant or plastic cement, and possibly a fine-toothed hacksaw.
First, hang the gutter sections as close together as possible, butting the ends against each other. Then, clean the seams with a rag dampened with rubbing alcohol. Next, apply a generous amount of sealant or plastic cement to the inside of the gutter joiner and press it onto the gutter seam. Finally, position the joiner so that the seam is close to its centre and snap it firmly into place.
Check that the guttering is secure and there are no leaks. You can do this by testing the gutter with water and observing if there are any leaks.
