Gutters these days are made out of aluminum (lasts 20-30 years or longer), copper (could last 50 years), and galvanized steel (lasts 20 years or less).

The basic metal guttering pieces that are put together to create a gutter “run” are commonly 10 inches long. The pieces are usually fastened together with sheet metal screws or pop rivets.

The slip connector can also be used to connect two pieces of the gutter that run along the house. The connection is sealed with mastic or caulk to prevent leakage. Some gutter brands fit snugly together and don’t need mastic or caulk.

Spikes and ferrules hold the gutter to the wall of the house. The ferrule is inserted inside the gutter and the spike is driven through the rim of the gutter and through the ferrule to hold the gutter in place.

The strap hanger is attached under the shingles or other roofing material and then to the outside edge of the gutter. It provides support. It can be wraparound design or other type; the design choice does not affect function.

The end cap is the piece at the end of the gutter “run” that “finishes” it. Again, some gutter end caps must be sealed with either caulk or mastic.

Ball strainers and other types of covers can be inserted in the end piece to prevent debris from clogging the downspout or drainage pipes.

The downspout takes the water out of the gutter and down to the drainage pipe or splash block (or square shoe) on the ground.

The conductor pipe band or clincher is a strap used to hold the downspout in place. It is nailed or screwed to the outside wall for more support.