Gutters are the vital components of your roof that help divert water away from your home. Over the years, how your gutters are installed has seen quite a few changes. Many of the methods or techniques that gutter companies used earlier are not in use today. Particularly, one thing that has changed is the use of gutter spikes.
If you are a new homeowner, you might not be aware of what these are or how to remove gutter spikes. That’s where we come in. In this article, we’ll explain what gutter spikes are and their impact on your gutters. We’ll also provide you with some helpful tips on how to remove them successfully.
What Are Gutter Spikes?
Gutter spikes are long nails or screws used to attach gutters to the fascia board of a building. These are usually crafted out of metal such as aluminum and steel. Along with these spikes, you must have heard the term ‘gutter ferrules’. These are cylindrical tubes that are placed inside the gutter to reinforce the area where the gutter spike is installed. They help to prevent the gutter from bending or collapsing when you drive in the spike.
However, due to the rapid advancements and efficient techniques being developed by manufacturers, these methods of gutter installation are now considered outdated and are not commonly used in modern systems.
What Is The Problem With Gutter Spikes?
One of the main issues with gutter spikes is that they can become loose over time, especially in regions with extreme weather conditions. This can lead to the gutters sagging or pulling away from the fascia board, compromising their effectiveness. Additionally, installing gutter spikes can be labor-intensive and require precise placement to ensure they provide adequate support.
In contrast, modern gutter installation often uses gutter hangers or brackets, which are more durable and provide better support for the gutter system. These hangers or brackets are typically made of materials like aluminum or stainless steel and are designed to withstand the elements, ensuring that the gutters remain securely attached to the building.
The new seamless gutter systems on the market now use hidden hangers and therefore reduce the possibility of sagging or a leaking gutter system.
Fixing/Removing Gutter Spikes
As a skilled roofer, I understand the importance of maintaining the integrity of a roof, and your gutters play a big role in this. One common issue that homeowners face during maintenance is the need to remove gutter spikes without causing damage to the gutter itself. In this section, we will discuss how you can successfully remove gutter spikes and make repairs.
Gather All The Necessary Tools
Like with any roofing job, you will need some tools. Here are the tools and materials you’ll need:
- Ladder
- Safety gloves
- Safety goggles
- Hammer
- Screwdriver or drill with the appropriate bit
- Replacement gutter spikes (if needed)
Take The Proper Safety Precautions
Removing the spikes will require you to climb up on your roof. Since the job involves working at steep heights, safety should always be your top priority before you begin the project.
The necessary safety equipment includes the likes of a sturdy ladder, safety gloves, and goggles.
- Make sure the ladder is placed on a flat, stable surface, and that it is fully extended to the height needed to access the gutters safely.
- If possible, have someone else present to assist you or to hold the ladder steady while you work.
- Additionally, check the weather forecast before starting your project. Working on wet or windy days can increase the risk of accidents.
Locate The Gutter Spikes
Identify the specific gutter spike you intend to remove by visually inspecting the gutter. Look for the metal spike protruding from the gutter’s edge, securing it to the fascia board or roofline. After you have located the area you want to start in, it’s time to climb the ladder and reach your roofs.
Now that you are on your roof, you have two options. To nail the gutter spikes back in or to remove them for good.
- Nailing The Gutter Spikes Back In
If the gutter spike is loose but the gutter itself is in good condition, you may choose to nail the spike back in. Use a hammer to gently tap the spike back into place, ensuring it is securely fastened to the fascia board. This can be a quick and temporary fix to secure the gutter.
- Remove The Spikes
Now let’s cover our other option, which is also more advisable if you want to install new seamless gutters on your roof.
- Loosen The Spike: With the hammer in hand, position yourself securely on the ladder. Gently tap the spike with the hammer, applying light pressure in the direction opposite to its insertion. This action helps loosen the spike from the gutter, making it easier to remove. Make sure that you start doing this from the corners and then work your way toward the middle of your gutter system.
- Remove The Spike: Once you loosen it, switch to the needle-nose pliers to remove the rain gutter spikes. Grip the spike firmly with the pliers, ensuring a strong hold. Slowly and carefully pull the spike out of the gutter, applying steady pressure.
Be cautious not to bend or damage the gutter during this process. If the spike is resistant, tapping it gently with the hammer while pulling may help loosen it further.
How To Protect Your Gutters In The Future
Keeping your gutters protected involves more than just ensuring it’s secured to the fascia board properly. Here are some other steps you can take.
- Clean your gutters regularly to prevent dust and debris from falling inside the channels, which can cause spikes to loosen.
- Consider installing good-quality rain gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris that enters your gutters.
- Call professional roofers for a gutter inspection
Best Gutter Repair And Replacement In WNY!
We hope that with this guide, you are now aware of how to remove a spike and ferrule gutter from your roof. If you are hoping to improve your gutters or want to replace them entirely, look no further than the team of OConnor Contracting. We are premier contractors serving both roofing and gutter needs across Western New York.
Contact us today at (716) 600-7663 to learn more about us and the services we provide.
