Sagging gutters are one of the most common issues for homeowners.
When the gutters begin to sag or detach from the house, they aren’t able
to channel rainwater effectively anymore. This will result in roof leaks,
damaged siding, or even damage to the foundation. Fortunately, repairing
sagging gutters is more straightforward than you might imagine.
Why Do Gutters Sag?
Gutters tend to sag due to loose fasteners, clogged gutters, or damaged
fascia boards. Heavy rain, debris, or even snow can, over time, loosen
the brackets or screws that hold your gutters and pull them out. As
soon as this occurs, the gutter can no longer maintain its proper
slope and thus is not able to drain water properly.
Step 1: Clean Out the Gutters
Remove all leaves, debris, or dirt from the gutters before making any
repairs. The clogged gutter weighs more and conceals issues. Wear
gloves, use a scoop or a small shovel, and flush the gutter with
water to ensure proper flow.
Step 2: Check the Hardware
Check for loose or missing screws, brackets, or hangers. If screws are
being pulled out of the wood, the fascia board under the gutter could
be soft or rotten. Replace the damaged wood in this situation before
rehanging the gutter. You might also need to put in new gutter
hangers or spikes to hold the section in place.
Step 3: Reattach or Replace Fasteners
Use stronger or longer screws to reattach the gutter to the fascia. For
extra support, add hidden hangers every 2 to 3 feet along the gutter. They
are metal clips that hold the gutter securely and set in place. Ensure the
gutter has a slight slope towards the downspout so water flows properly.
Step 4: Test Drainage and Look for Leaks
Once the gutter is in position, test it using a garden hose. Water should
run smoothly to the downspouts. Inspect all corners and seams for
leaks. If you find any drips, seal them using gutter sealant.
Preventing Future Sagging
After you’ve repaired your gutters, it’s a good idea to keep the problem
from occurring again. Clean your gutters regularly, particularly in the
fall when leaves and sticks accumulate fast. You can also put gutter
guards on to keep trash out and cut weight in your gutters. Keeping
your downspouts open helps water drain as it should.
Selecting the Best Gutter Hangers
The kind of hanger or bracket you install does matter. Hidden hangers
are sturdy and less obtrusive, but spike-and-ferrule systems are older
and tend to loosen over time. For largest strength, particularly where
it snows heavily, as in Calgary, use heavy-duty hangers that are
installed closer together (every 2 feet or less) for greatest support.
Replacing Rotten Fascia Boards
If your gutters continue to pull away, the issue may not be the gutters
but the fascia board behind them. Rotting fascia boards won’t allow
screws or brackets to hold securely. See how the wood beneath the
gutter is doing. If the wood is soft or crumbly, substitute it with treated
or primed wood to create a long-lasting repair.
Checking After Severe Weather
After a large storm, snowfall, or ice accumulation, always check your
gutters. Snow and ice can put weight on and destroy brackets or sag. If
you do repairs quickly after bad weather, small issues don’t turn into
large ones. If you are unsure, a simple inspection from a professional
such as Straight Path Construction can provide reassurance.
When to Call a Professional
If your gutters are outdated, or severely bent, or the fascia board is
rotten, it might be time to call a professional. Straight Path Construction,
among other companies, can repair or replace your gutter system
properly and safely, saving you time and energy in the future.
Final Thought
Repairing sagging gutters is a worthwhile home maintenance job that
saves your roof, siding, and foundation. With some tools and a watchful
eye, you can tighten everything up and get the flow working again.
For more significant issues or complete gutter replacement, call
in the pros for their expertise.
