Installing a rain diverter over the doorway to your house will make life easier the next time you come home during a downpour. The diverter sits on the roof and prevents rain from splashing and overflowing gutters, keeping you and your guests dry. While keeping your gutters unclogged is also key, rain diverters can make a huge pact.
Although diverters are available at many building supply stores, they are not hard to make if you have trouble finding them. Let me show you how.
Materials Needed
You will need the following materials to make your own rain diverter:
Purchase a roll from the roofing section of building supply stores. Choose a piece 8 inches wide, and at least 2 feet longer than the width of the door you plan to cover.
These will serve as a brace when bending the aluminum. Ensure that the edges are straight and line up evenly.
Use them to securely hold the aluminum sheet between the 2x4s.
You’ll need shears to accurately cut the aluminum to the desired size.
Use a framing square or a similar tool to mark out straight lines on the aluminum.
This tool is essential for hammering over the bend after clamping the aluminum. Alternatively, you can use a regular hammer and a block of wood.
Cutting the Aluminum
Make the initial lengthwise cut so the sheet is the same width as the door you’ll be installing it over. Use shears to cut the aluminum to the desired length. For most exterior doors, cutting the sheet to 8 inches wide works well. It should be at least 2 feet longer than the door’s width. Take care when handling and cutting the aluminum to avoid injuries. I advise wearing protective gloves to prevent cuts and metal splinters.
Bending and Clamping the Aluminum
With the aluminum cut to size, it’s time to bend it to a 90-degree angle using the 2x4s and clamps. Place the aluminum between the 2x4s so 2 inches of the sheet sticks out along the edges. The wood boards should be flush against each other to create a straight bending brace.
Position the clamps to secure the aluminum tightly between the 2×4 boards. Verify the edges of the 2x4s line up evenly before bending.
Bending the Aluminum in Stages
Bending the aluminum in one shot often leads to wrinkles and uneven bends. Take it slow for best results. Start on one end and push down on the exposed aluminum, pressing a small section at a time against the 2×4 brace. Work incrementally toward the other end, repeating the process until you bend the entire sheet to 90 degrees.
Applying consistent pressure is key to getting a clean bend. Support the bend with your hands as you work to prevent wrinkling.
Finishing the Bend
Once the aluminum is partially bent, remove the clamps and take it out of the 2×4 brace. Place the sheet on a solid, flat surface. Tap the bend line with a rubber mallet or a hammer with a wood block. This will help flatten any high spots and complete the 90-degree bend. Visually inspect the bend from both sides to ensure there are no major wrinkles or deformations. If unsatisfactory, repeat the clamping and bending process.
Installing the Rain Diverter
With the diverter formed, follow the steps outlined in this guide to installing a rain diverter to attach it over the door.
Key steps include:
- Measuring and marking where the mounting brackets will go.
- Drilling holes for the screw anchors.
- Attaching the brackets to the building.
- Fitting the diverter into the brackets and adjusting.
Proper installation is important for maximum rain protection and diverter longevity.
Tips for Best Results
Here are some useful tips to help your rain diverter project go smoothly:
- Make sure the aluminum sheeting and 2×4 brace boards are as straight as possible before bending. Any inconsistencies will transfer to the bend.
- Take your time when cutting and bending the aluminum. Rushing increases the chances of making mistakes.
- Apply firm, consistent pressure when bending to prevent deformations. Don’t bend too sharply in one area.
- Wear gloves and eye protection when handling sheet metal to avoid cuts. Work slowly and carefully.
- Before installing, test fit the diverter and make any adjustments for proper coverage over the door area.
So, Is Making Your Own Rain Diverter Worthwhile?
Installing a ready-made rain diverter from a hardware store is undoubtedly faster and requires less work. However, building your own can be a fun weekend project if you enjoy DIY jobs and want to save money. With some basic metalworking skills and the right tools, constructing a functional and durable diverter is achievable. And you’ll gain the satisfaction of protecting your entryway from rainfall with an item you fabricated yourself. If time allows and you’re looking for a hands-on task, making a custom rain diverter is a fun, worthwhile project.
FAQs About Making Rain Diverters
Can I use a different material besides aluminum?
Aluminum is ideal for its corrosion resistance, strength, and lightweight. However, you could use a rigid plastic sheet or thin sheet metal like galvanized steel.
What kind of aluminum should I buy?
Any type of aluminum sheet metal that is 0.016 inch or thicker should be sufficient. For optimal results, use aluminum flashing sheets designed for roofing — they’re made for outdoor exposure.
What size rain diverter will fit my door?
The diverter should be at least two inches wider than the door opening on each side. Add at least two feet to the door width to determine the minimum cut length for the aluminum sheet. Extending the sheet further past the opening provides extra rain protection.
Can I bend the aluminum by hand instead of using 2x4s?
Attempting to bend the aluminum by hand is difficult and will likely result in a subpar bend. The 2×4 brace provides critical leverage and support to get an even 90-degree bend across the sheet. Using wood boards is strongly recommended.
How do I cut aluminum cleanly?
Metal shears will give you a clean cut. You can also use sandpaper designed for metal sanding to smooth the cut aluminum.