Determine Number of Gutters

• Use a tape measure to measure the perimeter of your house. Each gutter section is 10 feet long, so divide the total by 10 to get the number of gutter sections you need. If you connect more than two gutters on any side, you need connectors.
  
  Multiply the number of gutters by 5 to determine how many gutter hooks you need to purchase.
  
  Determine how many downspouts you need. Each downspout should carry water from no more than 40 feet of guttering. Order the appropriate elbows and joints to connect the gutters and the downspouts.
  
  Allow extra materials for guttering and downspouts. This allows for mistakes if you need to cut the vinyl gutters as you are installing them.
  
  

Prepare to Install Gutters

• Unpack the gutters and accessories. Lay them out so you can easily access each part as you need it.
  
  Set up your ladders. You and your helper should have ladders that extend to the roofline of your house. It's helpful to have a third person on the ground that can help hand up the materials to you as you need them.
  
  

Install Gutters

• Use a chalk line to mark where you intend to hang the vinyl gutters. Allow for a 1-inch drop for every 16 feet of guttering. If there is a long run of gutters on one side of the house, you should start in the mid point of the roof and slope the gutters to the outer corners.
  
  Attach the gutter hooks to the house. Space them according to the manufacturer's recommendation.
  
  Install gutters on the gutter hooks. Use the connectors to connect each individual gutter. When you get to the end of a gutter run, use a hack saw to cut off any excess.
  
  Snap the down outlet into place. Attach the downspouts and elbows. Put a splash block under the downspout or connect the downspout to an underground drainage system.
  
  Set leaf and debris guards in place on the gutters if you purchased them. Check gutters and downspouts for leaks and seal with silicone caulking as necessary.