Gutter Strip Miter Installation Made Easy

If you want your gutters to protect your home from water damage, proper installation is key. And one critical aspect of gutter installation is getting the strip miter corners just right. In this blog post, we'll walk through the process of installing both outside and inside strip miter corners, sharing tips to ensure a watertight seal that will stand the test of time.

Preparing for Gutter Strip Miter Installation

Before you start putting your strip miter corners together, there are a few key preparation steps:

• Measure and cut your gutters to the correct length, leaving them about 1/4" short at the back to allow room for the corner.
• Make sure the back corners of your gutters are parallel to each other for a flush fit.
• Gather your gutter installation tools, including zip screws, a drill, and plenty of gutter sealant.

Outside Strip Miter Installation

Let's start with the outside strip miter corner. Here's the process:

1. Position the strip miter on the gutter ends, making sure it fits snugly.
2. Secure the strip miter with zip screws.
   • Angle the screws slightly upward to pull the corner tight against the gutter.
   • Space the screws evenly for a uniform look.
3. Apply a generous bead of gutter sealant.
   • Use about 1/3 tube of sealant per corner to prevent leaks.
   • Push the sealant into all the crevices and over the zip screws.
4. Press the metal edges to ensure good contact and bonding with the sealant.

Inside Strip Miter Installation

Installing an inside strip miter corner follows a similar process, with a few key differences:

• You may need to adjust the gutters slightly to get a good fit, especially if the fascia is uneven.
• Use your screwdriver to carefully pry the gutter into alignment before attaching the corner.
• Follow the same steps as the outside miter for securing with zip screws and applying sealant.
• Wipe away any excess sealant for a clean finished look.

Gutter Maintenance and Longevity

To keep your gutters performing well for the long haul, there are a couple extra steps worth taking:

• Add screws on the bottom edge of the strip miter to allow for gutter expansion and contraction with temperature changes.
• The bottom screws also help prevent the sealant from splitting over time.
• Commit to regular gutter maintenance, like cleaning out debris, to avoid clogs and overflows.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

How much sealant should I use on each strip miter corner?

A good rule of thumb is to use about 1/3 tube of sealant per corner. It's cheaper to use a little extra sealant during installation than to have to go back and repair leaks later.

Do I really need screws on the bottom of the strip miter?

Yes, the screws on the bottom are important for two reasons. First, they allow the gutter to expand and contract with temperature changes. Second, they help keep the sealant from splitting over time.

What's the most important thing to get right when installing gutter corners?

The most critical factor is getting a tight, flush fit between the strip miter and the gutter. Make sure your gutter lengths are cut accurately and the corners are parallel before securing everything together.

With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to installing strip miter corners like a pro. Take your time, use plenty of sealant, and don't forget those bottom screws. Your gutters will thank you!