A well-designed gutter system is very important for protecting your property from water damage, and gutter mounts are an important part of your home's gutter system.
Your home's fascia boards need gutter mounts to support the gutters that are running along them. However, when you begin your search for gutter mounts, you’ll find that there are various ones on the market to choose from, making it hard to choose the one your home will need.
In today's detailed guide, we will discuss the different types of gutter mounts you can consider for your fascia boards and home.
If you are looking for professional rain gutter installation or replacement in Pittsburgh and the surrounding areas of Pennsylvania, feel free to call our expert team to help you today, at (412) 353-5660.
What Is A Fascia Gutter Mounting System & Why Is It Important?
Before getting into the different types of gutter mounts available, we’ll explain why you need gutter mounts on the fascia board in the first place.
Gutter mounting systems are also known as gutter brackets because of their design. They serve multiple important functions beyond just simply holding the rain gutters in place, such as ensuring proper water flow, preventing sagging, and protecting fascia boards from potential damage.
For architects, homeowners, and property managers, understanding what types of gutter hangers are available can help with deciding on a property’s maintenance and improvement.
What Are The Different Types Of Gutter Mounts?
Although the role of each gutter hanger is the same, you will find various options and designs to fit the variety of architectural styles and looks that are out there. Generally, there are five types of gutter mounting systems that are commonly used in the United States.
#1 Hidden Gutter Hangers
Hidden gutter hangers are the latest advancement in the manufacturing of gutter mounts. This innovative type of gutter mounting system has a hidden design that goes really well in modern homes. Here are some important things to know about this type of gutter mount.
👉 Installation Method
They clip into the front lip of the gutter and span across to the back, remaining completely concealed from the ground view.
👉 Support Structure
A properly installed hidden hanger prevents both inward denting and outward pulling.
👉 Compatibility
Particularly well-suited for K-style gutters and seamless gutter systems.
👉 Weather Resistance
Excellent performance in areas with heavy rainfall
👉 Professional Installation
While more expensive, professional installation ensures optimal performance. For the best results, hidden hangers should be installed every 24 to 32 inches, with closer spacing in areas that are prone to heavy snow or ice buildup.
#2 Spikes and Ferrules
The spike and ferrule system represents one of the most traditional types of rain gutter hangers that are still in use today. Here is what you need to know about them:
👉 Design
This gutter hanger uses a simple metal tube, known as a ferrule, that runs through the gutter and connects to the back. It's a strong way to hold your gutters in place. understand just the right technique to keep everything secure and intact.
👉 Installation Process
Requires careful driving of spikes through metal tubes (ferrules). The main problem with this method is that even if there is a mild fault while installing it on the wooden fascia board, there's a chance that the wood might split as you put the spike in.
Luckily, experienced installers know exactly how to put these in without damaging your fascia board. They've done it many times and understand just the right technique to keep everything secure and intact.
👉 Cost Effectiveness
They are one of the most affordable options among gutter mounting systems. You can expect to pay anywhere between $1 to $3 for each spike and ferrule.
👉 Considerations
It is very important to be careful during the installation process to prevent wood splitting.
👉 Maintenance
These gutter mounts may require occasional tightening as the wood naturally expands and contracts with the changing weather patterns.
While this system is budget-friendly, it's important to note that it may not be suitable for areas with extreme weather conditions or homes with lighter fascia materials.
#3 Gutter Brackets and Straps
For buildings that require strong support, brackets and straps are the best type of mounting system, providing enhanced durability and support. Here is what you need to know about this common type of gutter mount for the fascia.
👉 Structure
Brackets and straps combine support for the bottom of the gutter system to support from the top of the fascia board where the bracket wraps around too. This supporting design helps prevent the fascia board or gutter system from sagging due to the weight of flowing water inside your rain gutters.
👉 Best Suitable For
These gutters are best for half-round gutters, as they can provide really nice support to their half-round design. This type of gutter mount is also considered best for regions with extreme weather conditions and handling historical properties and buildings with architectural significance.
👉 Installation
The installation process of this gutter hanger doesn’t require holes in the gutter itself, which reduces the chance of leaks occurring in your rain gutter system.
👉 Spacing Requirements
This type of gutter mount should be installed on a fascia every 24 to 32 inches, adjusting for local conditions.
#4 T-Bar or T-Strap Hangers
T-bar hangers or T-strap hangers provide a nice solution for properties with special requirements. Here’s what you need to know about them.
👉 Design
T-bars include a clip inside the gutter with an attached metal strap
👉 Mounting Location
These types of gutter mounts also attach to the roof deck rather than the fascia board.
👉 Benefits
T-bar/strap mounts are excellent for homes without traditional fascia boards.
👉 Installation Complexity
These rain gutter supports require professional expertise for proper placement.
👉 Durability
They provide strong performance in various weather conditions, making the system particularly valuable for properties with unique architectural features or those requiring additional support strength.
#5 Wrap-Around Hangers
We'll wrap up this list of common rain gutter hangers with wrap-around gutter mounts. Here is what you need to know about them.
👉 Construction
They provide pretty nice support to your rain gutters from beneath while securing the fascia.
👉 Weather Resistance
Wrap-around hangers offer good performance in cold weather and heavy rainfall.
👉 Durability
Wrap-around gutters are among the strongest types of rain gutter hangers that you can choose from.
👉 Visual Impact
This type of gutter mount is more visible than the hidden gutter mount systems but provides stronger, more durable support.
👉 Professional Installation
It is very important to consider a professional installation of this type of gutter mount to your fascia.
Schedule A Professional Gutter Installation In Pennsylvania
At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are a reputable professional roofing company providing quality rain gutter services in Pittsburgh, and the surrounding areas in Pennsylvania. Whether you are looking for minor repairs, or for a complete replacement, our team is here to assist you.
For a no-pressure discussion, or to get a custom quote, feel free to call us today at (412) 353-5660.
Frequently Asked Questions
A. Generally, gutters are supported every 24 to 32 inches. In areas with heavy snow or high water flow, you may need more frequent support, like every 16 to 24 inches.
A. Gutters should have a slight downward slope of about 1/4 inch per 10 feet to make sure water can drain properly.
A. You'll need a screw gun, level, measuring tape, appropriate screws, and possibly other tools depending on the hanger type.
A. Sagging gutters often occur because of improper hanger spacing, weak hangers, or heavy debris within the gutters pulling it down.
A. Water pooling can be caused by an incorrect slope or clogs in the gutter system.
A. Yes, incorrect hanger type or poor installation can damage the fascia.
A. Consider factors like your climate, building characteristics, and maintenance needs. A professional will help you select the best system for your property.