Now that you understand the importance of gutter screws and have an idea of which kind you’ll use, follow these four steps to install them.
1. Inspect Your Gutters
If you plan on replacing your gutter nails, you’ll first need to climb up and count the number of nails used, so you can acquire the right amount of screws. You also need to check the state and size of the ferrules, which are the cylindrical objects that house the nail stems.
The screws and ferrules must work together well or else you will not create a secure hold.
2. Acquire the Right Hardware
Take samples of your nails and ferrules, as well as information about your gutters, to a local hardware store. You could also send pictures and specs of the samples to an online customer service representative if you want to purchase the parts online. The workers should give you advice and point you in the right direction.
3. Tear Out the Nails
Carefully remove the nails to avoid losing the parts in your yard or damaging the roof and gutter. A claw hammer is the usually the easiest method for performing this task.
4. Begin Screw Installation
Insert the screw into the existing hole in the gutter face, and then the ferrule over it. It’s critical that you do not drill the screw into the existing nail hole. Instead, position the tip just above the preexisting hole and then force it into the fascia (roof). Most screws have self-tapping bits, so you don’t need a separate part to create a pilot hole.
Do not overtighten the screws, as that can damage the gutters and decrease their overall strength.
How to Replace Gutter Spikes With Screws
If you want to replace your current gutter fasteners with gutter screws, there are a few simple steps you can follow. First, make sure you use long gutter screws and rigid metal ferrules to provide a more secure solution, which is stronger than the spike and ferrule installation method. Gutter screws will prevent the gutters from sagging or pulling loose from the structure.
It’s important to closely examine the gutter’s condition using a ladder and count how many rain gutter screws you’ll want for the project. You should also make sure to see if you need new ferrules since the only way to create a secure hold is with a screw and ferrule combination.
Remove the old gutter spike and insert the screw through the existing hole in the front of the gutter. It’s typically best to use a claw hammer to tear out the nail carefully. A claw hammer’s head has a V shape and people often use this tool in woodworking. Then, use your cordless drill to drive the screw through a fresh hole made in the gutter. So that you do not have to apply a lot of pressure, use a high-speed drill bit and allow the screw tip to penetrate the metal.
Drive the screws snugly to the gutter, but do not over-tighten the screw. This can damage the gutter. To make the entire gutter system stronger, use copper or stainless steel gutter screws and secure hangers into the rafters every three feet along the length of the gutter.
Many of the latest gutter screws on the market have attractive design features that include oversized thread diameters, which ensure better holding strength and a watertight fit. The screws have durable UV-resistant heads and colors that can match your gutter system. Most rain gutter screws have a deep 1/4″ hex head, which helps facilitate quick installation. Long gutter screws come in a variety of lengths, including 5”, 7″ and 8”. You can also select copper, stainless steel, and ceramic-coated gutter screws to replace an outdated spike-and-ferrule hanger system.