Metal Roof Gutters
Gutter installations on a home or building with a metal roof, sometimes require a different installation method. For a standard gutter installation using our heavy duty hidden hanger, the metal roof overhang needs to be between 1 1/2 and 2 inches so the rain will flow into the gutters properly.
If there is more than a 2 inch overhang, we use a special hanger called a Vampire Hanger. A Vampire Hanger is a type of hidden hanger which allows the installer to attach the gutter to the metal roof instead of the building.
Vampire hangers allows the installer to precisely adjust the proper amount of roof overhang and the gutter pitch at the same time. The reason for the name Vampire Hanger is because of the two fang like teeth that actually pierce through the back of the gutter, providing a positive grip.
Vampire Hangers should be installed every 24 inches, just the same as regular hidden hangers. They are secured to the metal roof by installing two self-tapping sheet metal screws with rubber washers.
The front part of a vampire hanger hooks into the front lip of a standard K style gutter, just the same as any other hidden hanger.
A special installation tool is then used to fasten the Vampire Hangers to the back of the gutter. The tool is first used to force the teeth through the back of the gutter. The same tool then bends the two teeth upwards, locking them to the back of the gutter.
Anti-rotation strap must be installed at each end of the gutter run (and add one in the middle for long runs). The straps are attached to the bottom front lip of the gutter, using screws or pop rivets. Bend the strap under the bottom of the gutter and screw to the underside of the metal roof. This affixes the gutter from the top and bottom so that it cannot rotate backwards when the weight of water is in it. Be sure the fasteners are covered with gutter sealant where the roof was penetrated.
Note... I have replaced many gutter systems because the vampire hangers straightened out and allowed the gutter to come loose during the ice storms. No hanger of any type will withstand the force of ice and snow when it is falling off the metal roof in sheets. The ice slides in full sheets due to heat in the building along with the sun. It is not the responsibility of the gutter installer to replace the gutters under these circumstances, however, snow guards can help prevent this type of damage.
Snow guards: ( a metal attachment placed in a staggering position on metal roofs to break up the ice and snow before it breaks loose ). The snow guards break up the ice and snow into small pieces so that it will not injure anyone or damage your gutters.
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