How to Fix a Sagging Gutter

Fix a sagging gutter by adding new hangers every 24 inches, replacing damaged brackets, and ensuring proper slope toward downspouts.

  1. Survey the Damage First. Walk around your house and identify all sagging sections. Look for loose or missing hangers, bent brackets, or areas where the gutter has pulled away from the fascia board. Measure the length of affected areas to determine how many new hangers you'll need. Purchase heavy-duty gutter hangers rated for your gutter size, typically 5 or 6 inches.
  2. Anchor Your Access Point. Position your extension ladder on level ground with the base one foot away from the house for every four feet of height. Have someone spot you or use ladder stabilizers. Never lean the ladder directly against the gutter itself, as this can cause more damage.
  3. Clear and Diagnose. Clean out all leaves, dirt, and debris from the sagging section. Check for cracks, holes, or rust damage that might need repair before addressing the sag. Remove any loose or damaged hangers by unscrewing them from the fascia board.
  4. Establish the Right Pitch. Use a chalk line or level to mark the correct slope on the fascia board. Gutters should drop 1/4 inch for every 10 feet toward the downspout. Start at the high end and mark where the gutter should sit, then snap a line to the downspout end.
  5. Secure New Support Points. Starting at the high end, install heavy-duty hangers every 24 inches along the marked line. Drive 3-inch galvanized screws through the hanger into the fascia board and into the rafter tail behind it. The hanger should grip the front lip of the gutter securely while supporting the back edge.
  6. Lift and Lock in Place. Lift the sagging gutter section and hook it into each new hanger, working from high to low. The gutter should sit firmly in each hanger bracket. Tighten all screws and ensure the gutter maintains its proper slope. Check that water flows freely toward the downspout.
  7. Verify Water Flows Freely. Run water through the gutter with a garden hose to test the flow and check for leaks at the hangers. Adjust any hangers that allow the gutter to sit unevenly. Seal any small gaps between the gutter and hangers with gutter sealant if needed.