When gutters are filled with debris, they can become clogged, allowing water to collect in the gutter system. If standing water combined with the weight of debris is too heavy, it might cause gutters to sag as a result of pulling the eavestrough away from the fascia. Gutters are attached to a home in a variety of ways, depending on a number of factors such at style of home and type of roof. The two most common ways are spike-and-ferrule hangers and bracket hangers. In order to repair sagging gutters, you must know what kind of hangers have been used to secure the gutter system to your home.
For Gutters using Spike-and-Ferrule Hangers
Instead of simply hammering the gutter spikes back in, replacing them with gutter screws will make the compromised sections stronger.
- Gutter spikes are typically encased by sleeves or ferrules. Remove only the gutter spike by grasping its head with pliers.
- Gently pull the spike out. Be careful not to damage the gutter when doing so.
- Insert the gutter screw into the existing hole by threading it through the front of the gutter and the ferrule.
- Tighten the gutter screw into place with a cordless drill. When you do this, you will be creating a new hole in the back of the gutter, through into the fascia.
For Gutters using Bracket Hangers
Bracket hangers are also known as hidden hangers because the bracket is fitted inside the gutter and screwed into the fascia board. It is “hidden” from view because the bracket does not penetrate the front of the gutter. To make a gutter repair on a gutter system using bracket hangers:
- Find the mounting bracket running underneath the gutter and press on it to remove the clamp over the top. It is advisable to have a helper holding the gutter in place while you do this.
- Use a pry bar to lift the mounting bracket away from the fascia. With the help of a chalk line, adjust the replacement bracket into position. With a hammer, drive 6D galvanized nails through the bracket, into the fascia to secure the new bracket.
- Place the gutter into the new bracket. Press the bracket in, then snap the clamp into place so that it is properly aligned over the top of the gutter.
Sagging gutters are not always immediately obvious. Telltale signs include water leaking from certain area of the gutter system or a section sitting so imperceptibly lower than the gutters around it, you might think it’s your imagination. Taking the time to make minor repairs to your gutters and to ensure that the eavestrough is properly maintained could increase the longevity of your gutter system, preventing more costly repairs in the future.
