Fix Rain Gutters That Are Sagging From the House

Old Spike and Ferrule Systems

Older gutters were often installed with long spikes driven through the gutter into the fascia. As wood dries and expands, those spikes slowly work loose.

Fascia Board Deterioration

If the wood behind the gutter is rotting, no fastener will hold for long. The gutter is only as strong as what it is attached to.

Ice and Snow Load

Front Range winters are rough on gutters. Ice buildup adds weight and pries gutters outward if they are not properly supported.

How Professionals Fix Sagging Rain Gutters

The repair method depends on how the gutter was originally installed and how much damage exists.

T Strap Style Hangers

These older strap hangers run under the shingles and hook the gutter.

• A chalk line is snapped to re establish proper slope toward the downspout

• Shingles are carefully lifted to access the strap

• Old nails are removed and replaced with new galvanized fasteners

• The strap is pulled tight and secured without damaging roofing

This method works when the gutter itself is still in good shape and the fascia is solid.

Spike and Ferrule Systems

This is one of the most common causes of sagging.

• The loose spike is removed

• A new hole is drilled slightly offset from the original

• The gutter is lifted back to proper height

• A gutter screw is driven into solid wood behind the fascia

In many cases, spike systems are upgraded to modern hidden hangers during repair.

Hidden Hanger Systems

These are the strongest option when installed correctly.

• Old hangers are removed or re seated

• New hidden hangers are aligned to a chalk line

• Fasteners are driven into solid framing, not just trim

• The gutter is snapped securely back into place

Hidden hangers distribute weight better and resist pulling out over time.

When Repair Is Not Enough

There are times when fixing a sag is throwing good money after bad.

Replacement is usually the better option when:

• The gutter metal is bent or cracked

• Multiple sections are sagging along the run

• Fascia boards are rotted behind the gutter

• Seams are leaking in several locations

• The system is undersized for the roof area

A clean, properly sized seamless system often costs less long term than repeated patch repairs.

DIY Versus Professional Gutter Repair

Some homeowners can handle minor adjustments. Most problems are more complicated than they look from the ground.

DIY might work if:

• The sag is minor and localized

• Fascia wood is solid

• You are comfortable working on ladders

Professional repair is the safer bet when:

• Gutters are pulling away along long runs

• Roofing shingles must be lifted

• Ice damage or rot is involved

• The house is more than one story

Falls and roof damage are far more expensive than a proper gutter repair.

Denver Weather Makes Gutter Support Critical

Between spring hail, summer downpours, and winter snow, gutters in Denver take a beating. Systems that might survive elsewhere fail quickly here if they are not installed and supported correctly.

Proper slope, tight fasteners, and solid attachment to framing are not optional in this climate. They are required.

Why Homeowners Call Ernie’s Gutter

As a local gutter contractor, the focus is on fixing the root cause, not just pushing the gutter back into place.

That means:

• Verifying proper slope to the downspout

• Securing into solid wood, not rotted trim

• Replacing outdated hangers when needed

• Making sure water actually flows where it should

The goal is a repair that lasts through the next storm season, not just the next rain.

Fix Sagging Gutters Before They Pull Your House Apart

A sagging gutter is a warning sign. The longer it hangs there full of water, the more damage it causes behind the scenes.

If you are seeing water dripping, pooling, or gutters pulling away, it is time to deal with it properly.

Call 720 346 ROOF and get the problem evaluated before a simple repair turns into a major exterior project.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fixing Sagging Rain Gutters

Can sagging gutters cause foundation damage
Yes. When water dumps near the foundation instead of being carried away, soil shifts and erosion begin.

How much slope should a gutter have
Typically about a quarter inch of drop for every ten feet toward the downspout.

Are hidden hangers better than spikes
Yes. Hidden hangers hold weight better and are far less likely to pull out over time.

Do gutters sag because they are clogged
Clogs add weight and speed up sagging, but poor support is usually the real issue.

Can sagging gutters be fixed in winter
Some repairs can be done, but ice and snow often limit what can be safely addressed until conditions improve.

How long should a proper gutter repair last
When done correctly with solid attachment points, many repairs last decades.

Is fascia replacement always required
No, but if the wood is rotted, it must be repaired or replaced for any gutter fix to hold.

Should sagging gutters always be replaced
Not always. If the gutter metal is sound, repairs can be very effective.

Do seamless gutters sag less
They can still sag if poorly supported, but seamless systems reduce weak points at joints.

How often should gutters be inspected
At least once a year, and after major storms.