SPIKED GUTTER SYSTEM VS. HIDDEN HANGER SYSTEM – Family Roofing

Posted on by David Reid

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At Family Roofing, we take great pride in our experience, expertise, quality and customer service. It is our mission to provide excellent workmanship and complete customer satisfaction from start to completion of a project. Our reputation is based on service, safety and quality, regardless of how large or small the job.

 

SPIKED GUTTER SYSTEM VS. HIDDEN HANGER SYSTEM

There are a lot of things to consider when it comes to keeping your roof drainage system in the best condition for the longest amount of time possible.  Some gutters will last for as long as 50 years if maintained properly.  The life of your gutters depends on a variety of factors ranging from the type of gutters installed, the type of gutter guards used, etc.  One of the things that could be considered a main factor is how they are attached to your home.

 People often ask how to know if they need new gutters.  If your home currently has a spiked gutter system, it is likely at least 10-20 years old.  This may be an indication that you need a gutter replacement.  Properly maintained aluminum gutters can last up to 30 years.  Although hidden hangers are stronger than spikes, and typically last longer.

Here are some more advantages to using the more current and common hidden hanger method.

Gutter Hangers:

  1. Create a clean “hidden” look.  The hanger is hidden within the gutter.  This gives it a much cleaner, and aesthetically pleasing look as compared to the very visible spike.

  2. Security and strength.  The bracket and screw design of a hidden hanger provide more security.  The hanging gutter is fastened to the fascia board.  Because it is more secure, it can outlast a spiked system.  Hidden hangers cope better with the give-and-take expansion of atmosphere changes, heat, and obstacles.  This security also provides more strength.  They can handle more weight than spikes, which is particularly important during the winter months.  Especially as we begin to experience snow and ice.

  3. Not phased by expanding aluminum.  During weather changes and certain atmospheric conditions, aluminum will expand and contract.  If your gutters are hung by a spike, they will begin to pull out of, and away from the fascia board.  This can allow water to flow in between the gutter system and the fascia board, and create the potential for the gutter system to come down.  With a better design and security, hidden hangers, do not move or pull away when aluminum contracts.

  4. Not as time-consuming.  Since spikes have to be hammered into the fascia, it takes more time and care to install while avoiding the gutter from getting bent.  Also, if the fascia is too hard, it may cause the spike to bend.

  5. Easier to repair.  Once the spikes are in, it is nearly impossible to repair or re-pitch it without damage, as removing spikes is typically done by using a crowbar on the gutter to pry the spikes out.

  6. It is also a better choice cosmetically because both the screws and hangers are hidden and cannot be seen when looking at the house and because it gives the gutters optimal strength to resist sagging, and the chances of it becoming loose are minimized.

  7. Since gutter spikes are the “old school way” of installing and do not last as long as hidden hangers, it may be on its last leg if you have a spiked gutter system.  Updating to a new system with hidden hangers can extend the lifespan of your gutter systems, while also improving its aesthetic appeal.