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How to Seam Gutters Together

New gutters will improve the appearance of your home and prevent water damage. As a handy individual, you have the option of taking care of these gutter repairs yourself. To ensure good results, you’ll need to know how to seam gutters together. This process varies a little depending on whether you’re using aluminum or vinyl gutters.

How to Seam Aluminum Gutters Together

  1. Measure roof edges along the fascia to determine gutter length.
    1. On a straight roof edge, measure from the outer shingle edges on each side and then add 1/2 inch on each side.
    2. When you measure from an outside roof edge to inside corner, subtract 5 inches to make room for the inside box miter.
  2. Add an extra 3 to 4 inches after roof measurements to each gutter piece to allow for overlapping edges when joining the pieces.
  3. Use a hacksaw or tin snips to cut the pieces.
  4. Plan to have the factory-cut edges on the outer edges for the smoothest appearance.
  5. On the ground, assemble the gutter pieces and overlap the sections by 3 to 4 inches.
  6. Make sure that the top edge of each overlapping piece is pointed in the direction of the water flow.
  7. Spread gutter sealant on the overlapping areas.
  8. Connect the overlapping areas along the sides of the gutters with pop rivets or sheet metal screws. Don’t drill holes in the bottom of the gutter.
  9. Attach the gutter to the fascia with a slope that directs water toward where you plan to have the downspout.

How to Seam Vinyl Gutters Together

  1. Measure and cut gutter pieces as you would for aluminum gutters except that you don’t need the extra 3 to 4 inches of overlap for each piece.
  2. Hang the gutter sections along the fascia with their ends touching together.
  3. Clean seam edges and interior of gutter joiner pieces with rubbing alcohol.
  4. Spread plastic cement on the edges of the gutter sections and the inside of the gutter joiner pieces.
  5. Snap the joiners firmly into place.

Tools & Materials

  • Metal or vinyl gutter pieces
  • Measuring tape
  • Hacksaw
  • Tin snips
  • Rivets
  • Sheet metal screws
  • Drill
  • Sealant caulk or plastic cement
  • Ladder

Even when you know how to seam gutters together, extra hands can make the job easier. If you don’t have anyone to assist you, then you might want to hire the professional team at PJ Fitzpatrick. Give us a call today to get started on your project.

Need help with this project?

We have trained professionals that can help. Contact us today. 1-877-246-4354

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