If you want to protect your home’s foundation, stop rainwater from drenching you as you leave your house, preserve your garden, or collect rainwater for sustainable use, then you need a rain diverter.
Most rain diverters consist of a metal strip that redirects rainwater to a safer place on your property. For example, most diverters are installed under entryways to prevent pooling water that can cause someone to slip and fall.
Understanding how to install a rain diverter can be a useful DIY project should you decide to take it on.
We’ll walk you through that process and provide useful tips and precautions to ensure you get the most out of your rain diverter system.
Steps and Tools for Installing a Rain Diverter
Installing a rain diverter is a relatively straightforward process. Here’s how to install your diverter successfully.
- Step 1: Gather Your Materials and Tools. This includes the following:
- Rain diverter kit
- Hammer
- Pry bar
- Roofing nails
- Caulk gun and caulk
- Extension ladder
- Step 2: Select the Appropriate Location. Identify the area of your gutter where you want to install the rain diverter. Choose sections above an uncovered exterior entryway, as this can block rainwater from falling on you while you’re coming and going from home.
- Step 3: Set Up Your Ladder. Choose a level ground to ensure it is steady.
- Step 3: Attach the Diverter. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to assemble the rain diverter. This may involve using a pry bar and hammer to lift shingles to slide the diverter in. Because installing a rain diverter can involve loosening shingles, many homeowners opt to call a roofer in to help. At the very least, you’ll want to ensure that installing a rain diverter won’t void your roof warranty if it’s still in effect.
- Step 4: Secure the Diverter. Use caulk and roofing nails to secure and seal the diverter. On the underside of the drip edge, you’ll want to apply about a quarter-inch bead of caulk and slide it beneath the tabs. Next, you’ll want to push one end of the diverter flush against the bottom part of the shingle tab. On the other end, you’ll leave it about an inch away from the bottom of the shingle tab. This slope will help the rain runoff.
- Step 5: Maintain Your Rain Diverter. Periodically inspect the rain diverter system to ensure it is operating correctly and is in good condition. Clean out any debris accumulating on the diverter to maintain proper functionality.
Types and Benefits of Rain Diverters
Rain diverters come in various types, each designed to address a specific need and situation. Understanding each type and its benefits can help you choose the best type for your home.
Let’s take a look at the three common types of rain diverters and the advantages they offer:
1. Flat Rain Diverter: A flat rain diverter is the most common and consists of a metal strip installed under the shingles and positioned over doors or windows. It creates a gentle slope that directs rainwater to flow to the sides of the house.
2. Bent Rain Diverter: A bent rain diverter is a metal strip installed over the shingles and placed under the drip edge. This configuration creates a gap that allows water to flow behind the diverter and then directs it to the sides of the house. A bent rain diverter’s primary benefit is that it allows water to flow behind the diverter, which minimizes the risk of water dripping over doors and windows.
3. Flexible Rain Diverter: A flexible rain diverter is a plastic strip that can be easily molded and installed under shingles and over doors or windows. It creates a curved channel to guide water away from your home’s entry points or other areas. These diverters are more customizable and can be tailored to match the contours of your roofline and the specific location where rainwater needs to be redirected. They are cost-effective and a good option, even on a budget.
Benefits of Using a Rain Diverter
Even though there are different types of rain diverters, they all offer the following benefits.
- Prevents Water Damage: Rain diverters prevent water from dripping over doors or windows. This protection can extend the life of your wood, siding, or paint and also reduce the risk of mold growth and unsightly stains. Not only does this keep your home looking its best, but it also keeps it as healthy as possible.
- Enhances Comfort: Rain diverters help keep people and pets dry when entering or exiting the house by keeping rainwater away from entry points. This can be especially beneficial during rainy weather since no one likes being drenched by rain.
- Foundation Protection: Rain diverters play a crucial role in managing rainwater runoff. Directing water away from your house’s foundation reduces the risk of erosion, flooding, or cracking that can occur when excessive water collects near the structure’s base.
Tips and Precautions for Using a Rain Diverter
As a responsible homeowner, it’s best to understand the tips and precautions for using a rain diverter before you decide to take the plunge and install one. These will help you make the most of your system while avoiding common pitfalls:
- Regular Maintenance: Inspect your rain diverter for clogs and debris that may obstruct the flow of rainwater. If you come across any debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt, clear it as soon as possible. A well-maintained diverter ensures optimal performance.
- Positioning Matters: Ensure your rain diverter has been correctly positioned to direct rainwater away from vulnerable areas. If it’s not, you may end up with water in unwanted places.
- Adjust for Seasonal Changes: You may need to adjust the position or angle of your flexible rain diverter. For instance, it may be beneficial to angle it away from the walkways in colder months to prevent icy patches.
- Use Rain Barrels Wisely: If you plan to connect your rain diverter to a rain barrel, elevate it and secure it to create better water pressure for any attached hoses and reduce the risk of tipping or overflowing. Be aware that standing water can attract mosquitos, so install screens or covers on your barrels to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs in the water you’ve collected.
- Weatherproofing Your Installation: Depending on your local climate, consider weatherproofing your rain diverter installation. The caulk will help, but you can also use waterproof sealants or tape to secure joints and connections, especially in areas prone to heavy rainfall or freezing temperatures.
- Don’t substitute rain diverters for gutters. A well-installed gutter system can channel very large amounts of water and channel it away from most of your home’s foundation, preventing erosion and major water damage. Rain diverters fill in the gap, such as under a dormer or unprotected entryway, and divert water away from smaller areas. Gutters are vital for the full protection of your home’s exterior.
Conclusion
Installing the three main types of rain diverters, flat, bent, and flexible, are simple DIY home improvement projects.
Once you gather your tools, attach your rain diverter, and ensure proper management, you can redirect water under vulnerable spots around your home, such as its entryways. A rain diverter can help prevent water damage to your home’s exterior, provide enhanced comfort by keeping you and your pets dry, and offer added safety around your property.
It’s essential to strategically position your rain diverter, adjust for seasonal changes, and maintain it once installed. Remember that it should be an addition to your home’s water redirection and gutter system, not used alone.
Now, you’re well-equipped to harness the power of rain diverters and positively impact your home and the environment, install yours today! You’ll be glad you did!
Contact our home improvement specialists today for assistance on all your roof, siding, and gutter needs.
