Gutter Hangers & Brackets

Gutter Hangers Buying Guide: Benefits, Types & More

Gutter hangers, also called gutter brackets, are what's needed to permanently mount and secure the gutter system to the structure.  Additionally, gutter hangers will give the gutter additional strength and rigidity to allow it hold up to the elements.

There are many different types of gutter hangers that are made for various applications.  Choosing the right gutter hanger is paramount for any gutter system meeting its maximum life expectancy.  Choosing the right gutter hanger will depend on the gutter profile, gutter size, the eave construction, the type of roofing system, and the metal/material the gutters are made from.

Top Benefits of Gutter Hangers for Your Gutter System

There are several benefits of using gutter hangers to attach your gutters:

• Provide additional strength and support for the gutter: Gutters are typically made with thinner material to help save on material costs and the gutter hangers are what gives the gutter its strength.  Having the right hanger and plenty of them will insure the gutters are able to properly drain water over a long period of time.
• Option to purchase hidden gutter hangers for aesthetic appeal: Hidden hangers not only provide a clean and polished appearance but they are also simple to install and very cost effective.

• Protection of your drainage system: Gutter hangers help to keep leaves and debris from clogging up your gutters. This allows water to flow freely through the system and prevents backups.
• Maintain the integrity of your homes exterior: By keeping gutters securely in place, gutter hangers help to preserve the integrity of your homes exterior.
• Prevent water damage: Water leaks can cause serious damage to your home. Gutter hangers help to prevent water from leaking into your home by keeping the gutters securely in place.
• Extend the life of your gutter system: Paired with regular maintenance, gutter hangers can help to extend the life of your gutter system

Gutter Hanger Installation Process

The installation process for gutter hangers is relatively simple and is completed in a few easy steps. However, if you are uncertain about the process, call for professional help.

• Step 1: Decide which type of gutter hangers would be best for your particular gutter system. Please note that there may be a few differences in the installation process for different types of hangers.
• Step 2: Plan out your gutter hanging spacing, usually between 24-32 inches apart. When possible, gutter hangers should be installed through the fascia board and into the rafter ends. Be sure not to install the hangers directly over the downspout.
• Step 3: Measure the length of your gutters and mark where you will install the hangers. It is crucial to have an accurate measurement so that the hangers are evenly spaced.
• Step 4:: Install the gutter hangers by screwing your gutter brackets to the gutters and the fascia board. Make sure you do not tighten the screws too much, as it can strip the hole and make it difficult to remove the hangers later.It's important that the hangers installed through the top of the gutter as you don't want holes towards the bottom of the gutter.
• Step 5: Check that the gutters are level and adjust as necessary.

There may be slight differences in the installation process, depending on what type of gutter hangers you use. So, be sure to consult the instructions that come with your hangers. Also, if you are unsure about any part of the process, don't hesitate to call a professional for help.

Types of Gutter Hangers

There are different types of gutter hangers available today. Each type of gutter hanger differs in terms of installation application, durability, and purpose.

Hidden Hangers

Hidden Hangers are the most commonly used gutter hangers and the most widely available.  A flat fascia board is required when using hidden hangers.  

A hidden hanger clips into the front lip of the gutter and spans across the gutter to the back and can not be seen from the ground.  A properly installed hidden hanger will keep the gutter from denting inward and also from pulling outward.

There are several different hidden brackets available on the market with different features.  Some have a clip that will allow it to clip onto the back of the gutter, some are wider and thicker than others which will help provide additional support, and others have holes and notches that will allow an additional support strap/rod to be installed in conjunction with the hidden hanger that will provide additional support.

Spikes and Ferrules

The gutter hangar is designed for use with K-style gutters. It features a large ferrule that helps to distribute the weight of the gutter across a wider area and spikes that create a secure grip on the fascia board. 

As a result, the hanger is ideal for use in areas where wind and rain are expected. The gutter hanger is also convenient to install, as it does not require special tools or fasteners. Drive the spikes into the fascia board and secure the ferrule with a few nails. 

However, you must ensure that the spikes do not split the wood on the gutter system during installation.

Free Hanging Hangers & Strap Hangers

Free hanging hangers are generally used when a hidden hanger can not be used.  This could be if there isn't a flat fascia, or there's a crown molding, or there's canted rafter tails.

A strap hanger allows the gutter to be suspended from underneath the roof as opposed to being attached to the fascia.  

There are several types of free hanging hangers available for various applications.  Some use a strap that attaches to a hidden hanger, others have a strap that attaches to a hanger that wraps around the gutter, and others utilize a threaded rod that attaches to a hidden hanger with a pair of threaded nuts.

K Style Gutter Hangers

There are dozens of different types of gutter hangers available for k style gutters.  The k style hidden gutter bracket is by far the most common bracket to use, the fastest to install and the most economical.  

T-bar Hangers and Wrap Around Hangers are also available for k style gutters and used for free hanging applications when a flat fascia board is not available.

Most of the standard k style hangers are available in a number of sizes and metals.  It's important to make sure you use a hanger with a compatible metal to your gutter system to avoid electrolysis that occurs when two dissimilar metals are in contact with one another in the presence of moisture.  K style gutter brackets are available in aluminum, steel, brass and copper.

Half Round Gutter Hangers

Half round gutter hangers will mount directly onto your half round gutter system. This type of gutter hangers are only available for half round gutters, but will attach firmly to the gutter and fascia board. 

Most standard half round gutter hangers are available in a variety of sizes. You should be sure to use a hanger with a compatible size and metal with your current gutter system. Half Round Gutter Hangers come in a variety of materials, including aluminum, copper, brass, and stainless steel. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do gutter hangers affect the gutter cleaning process?

The primary function of gutter hangers is to keep gutters securely in their place and let them protect the home from water damage. 

Gutter hangers are typically placed every 24-32" in the gutter and can make the cleaning process a bit more difficult as you'll need to work around each hanger bracket.

But assuming you've chosen the right hanger for your application, the gutter hangers will allow you to safely place the ladder against the gutter which will make accessing the job a lot easier and safer.

Can you use gutter hangers on seamless gutters?

Gutter hangers are used on seamless gutters. They are a type of gutter that is installed in one continuous piece, without any seams or joints. The lack of seams or joints makes them less likely to leak than traditional gutters. Gutter hangers are used on both sectional and seamless gutters.

What tools do I need for gutter hanger installation?

You will need the hangers, a screw gun, and the screws to install the gutter hangers.  You'll want a screw that is long enough to penetrate the gutter and go through the fascia board.  Typically a screw that is 1.5" long will suffice.  With some types of hangers, such as the threaded rod or the shank and circles, a wrench will be needed to tighten the nut and bolts.

Make sure to get the right size screws, so they fit snugly into the holes in the hanger without being too loose or tight.

Use the drill to create pilot holes in the gutters at the desired location for the hangers. Next, insert the suitable screws into the pilot holes and tighten them until the hangers are secure. Finally, use the ladder to test the hangers to ensure they are correctly installed and can support the weight of the gutters.

What is the average pricing for gutter hangers?

The pricing of gutter hangers can vary depending on the material, style, and size. Most gutter hangers are made from aluminum, copper, brass, and steel and come in various sizes to fit different types of gutters. 

The most expensive hangers are made from stainless steel, brass, or copper. Aluminum gutters hangers are the most widely available and cost effective of all the gutter hangers on the market.

What is the difference between gutter hangers and gutter wedges?

Wedges can be used on canted/slanted fascia applications where the fascia board is not perpendicular to the ground.  The wedge is installed on the back of the gutter and is angular shaped Gutter hangers can be used in conjunction with wedges and will allow a straight back gutter, like a k style gutter, to be installed on a canted fascia.  It is still very important that gutter hangers still be installed every 24"-32".

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