Various metals expand and contact at different rates, depending on their atomic structure. Aluminum gutters are particularly susceptible, although they do have many advantages.  The cumulative effect is in direct proportion to the gutter length. For example, a fifty-foot length may expand or contract by a half-inch across a fifty-degree fahrenheit range.

The Effect of Gutter Brackets on the Process

The impact may not be noticeable to the naked eye, provided the material is laid flat on level ground. However, it is a different matter if the gutter is constrained by mounting brackets that grip it firmly. In this instance, the material will stress and strain as it expands, and finally bulge or break free at the weakest point.

Steps We Can Take To Prevent This Happening

It is impossible to prevent expansion and contraction happening completely, because that is in the nature of the material. Here are tips we have learnt down the years that contribute to a successful project.

INSPECT THE GUTTER FORMING MACHINE

We always inspect our equipment carefully before leaving our workshops, and when arriving on site. That way we are confident the formed pieces will be straight, and without any distortions that could encourage buckling.

ADJUST THE SUPPORTING STANDS

A fresh aluminium gutter is flexible, and can damage until it is firmly in the brackets. Therefore, it is important to support it as it rolls out of the gutter-forming machine, and to rest it on supporting tripods adjusted for the gradient of the terrain.

LIMIT THE LENGTH OF GUTTER RUNS

Individual lengths of gutter should ideally be no longer than fifty feet. However, an expansion joint is permissible where a job requires a greater length. But, the preferred solution is still using two shorter runs, with end caps resting against each other.

LET THE GUTTERS FLOAT ON THE BRACKETS

Gutters should not attach to brackets with screws or other devices. That is because that would focus the buckling on individual sections. Allowing the gutter to float free distributes the movement, and mitigates the distortion.

INSTALL LONG LENGTHS IN MODERATE TEMPERATURES

It follows that the expansion / contraction rate should be less when the gutter goes up at a comfortable temperature. Therefore, it makes sense to install longer lengths when this is the case, with the sweet spot between sixty and ninety degrees fahrenheit.

Please keep following our blog for more great tips on improving your home. If you need more advice send us a message, or call (403) 829 1881 in Calgary. We look forward to hearing from you soon!

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The buckled gutter in the photo is copyright Valiant Exteriors