Gutter System

Installation Standards
Product Specification

Property of:

Spectra Metal Sales

 Gutters and Leaf Protection Introduction

A Rain Gutter System starts with a trough, called a gutter, which collects
rainwater from the roofline of a house and diverts it away from the structure,
using elbows and downspouts.

• The purpose of this diversion is to prevent water flow off the roof
edge which can cause structural damage over time to the walls
and/or foundation of a house.
• The gutter system is more important to the exterior of your home
than the actual paint, siding, or even windows, because it protects
your home from rot, mold, mildew, and flooding.
• This water damage, without a gutter system, occurs slowly, spreads
quickly, and is unnoticeable until the damage repair is substantial.
• For your gutter system to work properly, it must be able to empty
out the water faster than it fills up. In order to ensure the proper
flow of water, a few are vital to the success of the overall gutter
system:
1) Seamless gutters
2) Gutter and downspout sizing
3) Slope or pitch of gutter
4) Downspout placement
5) Keeping the gutters debris free
6) Using quality parts and accessories

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 Gutter Specifications
Scope of Guide

A) The Rain-carrying system consists of all necessary components to complete

installation with products manufactured or endorsed for use by Spectra Metal
Sales.

System Components

A) Gutters shall be made of 3105-H24 aluminum and shall be continuous and

seamless with a minimum thickness gauge of .032” or .027” (+/- .002” nominal).
B) All pre-painted components will have an approved SMS Finish and Color.
C) Prior to painting, all metal shall receive a pre-treatment to assure for maximum
paint adhesion. The exterior finish shall be of a baked on enamel, one-coat
system applied in a continuous process in a single operation, comprising a high-
performance linear topcoat. The inside of the gutter shall be finished with a
wash-coat finish.
D) Downspouts, Elbows, Miters, End caps shall be made of 3105-H24 aluminum
with a minimum thickness gauge of .019” (+/- .002” nominal).
E) Sealant/Caulking
- Seam Sealer, OSI ProSeries, Ruscoe, Geocel
F) Hanging system for the standard K-style system will be the SMS Hidden Hanger
with Screw attached for size as necessary.
G) Lock-On Gutter Screen from SMS, sized as necessary.
H) Solid Gutter Cover from SMS, to be the Leaf Protection Panels in an approved
SMS color.
I) All accessories used with the SMS Rain-carrying system will be procured from a
SMS distribution or manufacturing facility.

Installation Guidelines

A) Gutters shall be formed onsite from SMS gutter coil, which has been procured
from an approved SMS distribution point.
B) Gutters should have a minimum pitch of ¼” for every 10 feet of single section.
C) Downspouts should be installed every 40 feet.
D) Outlets and Elbows will be screwed or riveted to the adjoining section for
security.
E) Miters will be screwed or riveted to the adjoining section with an approved
sealant. Field cut miters, Box miters, and Strip miters are all acceptable forms of
installation.
F) Hangers will be spaced a maximum 24”-36” inches apart on any continuous
gutter run for strength and stability of the overall system.

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 Gutter System Installation Instructions

1. The first thing to do is determine how much material you will need. Obtain the
linear footage measurements of the roofline. Also, decide where you want your
downspouts. Be sure to practice ladder safety.
2. Begin measuring the roofline where the gutter will be installed, adding together
the lengths of each fascia. Take the measurement from the outer edge of the
shingle. Mark the measurements and make an outline on graph paper. Next,
mark the locations of the downspouts with an "X.". Plan on one downspout per
gutter per 20 foot run. Finally, measure and add the heights from the ground to
the roofline in the locations where the downspouts will go.
3. If you are replacing an existing gutter system, once the old system is removed
check for rot along the fascia board. If there is damage, replace the fascia plate
or fascia cover over it or just replace the fascia board.
4. For every 10 feet of gutter, you need at least a quarter-inch of drop. This will
ensure that the water flows towards the downspout.
5. Begin by driving a nail into the fascia at one end of the gutter-run wall a half-inch
below the top of the fascia. Stretch a mason's line from the nail. To properly align
the slope (using a line level on the mason's line) drop one end of the line a
quarter-inch for every 10 feet of fascia length, then mark that point with a pencil.
Snap a chalk line from the marks to show where the top of the gutter will be
attached.
6. Remember to pitch longer runs toward an outlet at either end, as opposed to just
one end. The gutters should always be pitched away from the front valleys and
towards the corners.
7. Using the chalk line to keep the gutters flush with the slope line. Remember to
slope towards the outlet and downspout. Continue this process with all gutter
sections.
8. The end cap section is the piece you will start with when applying the gutters to
the fascia. Working from the end of the fascia, use hidden fasteners to attach the
gutter to the fascia. Hidden fasteners are slipped into the gutter run, and then the
gutter is screwed into the fascia with a drill and screws. Hidden fasteners are
placed every 24 inches along the gutter run.
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9. To attach a downspout, assemble an elbow and a short length of downspout to
carry the run to the wall. Anchor the downspout to the wall with two brackets
while attaching the top of the downspout into the exposed outlet. Attach another
elbow at the bottom of the downspout to divert water away from the foundation.
Place a splash guard underneath it to keep water from eroding the soil.
10. Check all joints and seams to verify the proper amount of sealant has been
applied to prevent potential leaks.
11. Clean all scrap metal and trimmings from the jobsite.

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 Letter of Certification

5 Inch Speed Screw Hanger

5SSH

Spectra Metal Sales, Inc. is a member of the National Coil Coating Association and
uses the NCCA’s standards as guidelines for physical testing.

• The Aluminum used is alloy 3105-H24 or 3105-H25 which meets the specifications
set forth in the “Aluminum Standards and Data 2006” published by the Aluminum
Association. The finished gauge of the Aluminum for this coil is .048, +/- .002.

• The attached screw is a #10 High Grade core hardened industrial fastener, with a
hex washer for solid contact with the driver. The screw has a sharp cut point to
easily bite through aluminum or steel gutter or fascia.

5”

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 Letter of Certification
3” x 4” Aluminum Downpipe
.019 Gauge Aluminum

Spectra Metal Sales, Inc. is a member of the National Coil Coating Association and uses
the NCCA’s standards as guidelines for physical testing.

• The Aluminum used is alloy 3105-H15 or 3105-H25 which meets the

specifications set forth in the “Aluminum Standards and Data 2006” published by
the Aluminum Association. The gauge of the Aluminum for this coil is .019, +/-
.002.
• The Aluminum’s inside and outside coating is a thermo polyester paint which is
roll coated and baked per manufactures specifications.
• The paint specifications used for our smooth white polyester coated trim coil are
as follows:
Dry Film Thickness: .80 +/- .05 mils
Gloss (60’): 10 +/- 2 Units
Solvent Resistance: 100 Double rubs (M.E.K.)
Flexibility: .019 (+/-.003) 2 T Bend minimum
Impact (N.T.O.): 1-1/2 Times metal thickness in Inch-Lbs
(ASTM D 2794)
Pencil Hardness: F - 2H
Humidity Resistance: No blistering, loss of adhesion after
1,000 hours exposure to 100% relative
humidity. (ASTM D 2247)
Salt Spray Resistance: No field blistering and no more than 1/16”
creep from a score line after neutral salt
spray testing for 1,000 Hours (ASTM B
117)
Weathering Resistance: Will withstand ten years outdoor southern exposure
in South Florida, without cracking, blistering, splitting
or pealing.

3”

4”
Specifications & Features of the finished Product

12. Overall Length is 10 Feet, standard.

13. The pipe opening is 3 x 4 inches.
14. The finished of this product is covered by a 20 year limited warranty.
15. Made in the USA, using 97% post consumer material.

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 Letter of Certification

.027 x 11.75 & 15 Aluminum Coil

5” & 6” Gutter Coil

Spectra Metal Sales, Inc. is a member of the National Coil Coating Association
(NCCA) and uses the NCCA and/or the Aluminum Association’s standards as
guidelines for the physical testing of the material.

• The Aluminum used is alloy 3105-H24 or 3105-H25 which meets the specifications
set forth in the “Aluminum Standards and Data 2006” published by the Aluminum
Association. The finished gauge of the Aluminum for this coil is .027, +/- .002. The
3105 alloy is building sheet grade consisting of approximately 97% recycled
materials

• The Aluminum’s inside and outside coating is a thermo polyester paint which is roll
coated and baked on per the Paint Manufacturers specifications.

• The paint specifications used for our aluminum gutter coil are as follows:

Top Dry Film Thickness: .65 +/- .05 mils

Gloss (60°): 10 +/- 2 Units (varies by color)
Solvent Resistance: 100 Double rubs (M.E.K.)
Flexibility: .027 (+/-.002) 2 T Bend minimum
Impact (N.T.O.): 1-1/2 Times metal thickness in Inch-Lbs
(ASTM D 2794)
Pencil Hardness: F - 2H
Humidity Resistance: No blistering, loss of adhesion after 1,000
hours exposure to 100% relative humidity.
(ASTM D 2247)
Salt Spray Resistance: No field blistering and no more than 1/16”
creep from a score line after neutral salt
spray testing for 1,000 Hours
(ASTM B 117)

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 Spectra Metal Sales
Spectra Metal Sales Inc., is a family owned and operated company that has been
in business for more than 30 years. Spectra is a manufacturer of aluminum, copper and
steel rainware systems. We are also a manufacturer of metal building construction
products used in residential and commercial markets.
Spectra is a vertically integrated company, combining its own coil coating line,
fully automated slitting line, packaging line, and stamping division. This allows Spectra
to distribute directly to the contractor’s door in a quick and efficient manner. Spectra
purchases only the highest rated raw materials to ensure the best parts make it to your
location.
With our eye set on producing the highest quality gutter and downspouts,
Spectra has 18 manufacturing/distribution centers throughout the United States,
servicing over 5,000 active contractor accounts on a weekly basis. Spectra can be
counted on for predictable and reliable deliveries to all of your locations. Spectra stocks
over 22 premium colors in a full line of 5”, 6” and 7” rainware systems which allows us to
meet the requirements set by builders, architects and homeowners alike.
Everyone at Spectra Metal Sales realizes that your name is at stake every time
you take on a job. That is why the combination of customer service, superior products,
and nationwide distribution, will ensure that you will have the best buying experience
dealing with Spectra Metal Sales.

The Spectra Advantage

Spectra Metal Sales offers, in addition to our standard 5” and 6” gutter systems, offers a wide
range of upgrades and building materials that can accent or complete any project. These
products are all manufactured by Spectra and are available in our locations nationwide.

• Accessories- in order to put the finishing touches on a professional gutter job, SMS offers
multiple sizes and color matching on all our accessories:
 Strip Miters
 Box Miters
 Round and Rectangular Outlets
 Hidden Hangers
 Speed Screw Hangers
 Downpipe Bands
 Pop Rivets
 Screw Fasteners
 Touch-up Paint
 End Caps
• Ornamental 4” Round Downpipe and Elbows (available in 22 colors and Copper)
• Ornamental 6” Half-Round Gutters (available in 22 colors and Copper)
• 4” x 5” Commercial downpipe and Elbows (available in 22 colors and Copper)
• Trim Coil – 24” painted aluminum used for trimming on vinyl siding and replacement
window projects
• Drip Edge (available in 4 Styles in 22 colors)
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 • Designer Series Copper –an alternative to pricey copper, this painted aluminum aged
copper color is comparable to the real copper
• Copper – SMS offers premium copper in all our products lines
• 7” Commercial Gutter- this heavy duty gutter is used on commercial buildings
• Gutter Machines- 5”,6” and Combo machines are available from all the major
manufacturers, along with Spectra’s unique trade-in program
• Below Deck Systems- attractive system that collects water that runs through decks,
allowing for a dry, livable area underneath deck (available in 22 colors and Copper)
• Gutter Screens- available in aluminum, steel, and powder coated steel in multiple
varieties: drop in and hinged
• Gutter Covers- available in multiple solid aluminum designs in any of Spectra’s colors
• Sealants- available from quality producers like Ruscoe, Geocel, and OSI
• Direct Flow Pipe- flexible tubing that connects to downspouts and diverts water away
from the house (in 3 colors)
• Splash Blocks- this product preserves landscaping underneath downspouts, while
blending into any terrain with 3 color options
• Starter Strip- necessary on any vinyl siding job, SMS offers aluminum and steel
parts in narrow and wide form

Spectra Metal’s Gutter Color Plan

Spectra Metal Sales is the industry leader in rainware manufacturing and distribution. A
large reason for the success is the Spectra Color Perfect System. Spectra works extensively with
Valspar Corporation in managing Spectra Color Perfect System, a system which gives our
contractors the confidence that all the products they install will be color matched from our
coating facility. From gutter coil to downpipe to end caps to strip miters, you can count on our
complete line of gutter products to match perfectly year-in and year-out.

Stocking Colors at all Spectra Metal Sales

1. 30 White
2. 80 White
3. Antique Ivory
4. Almond
5. Bronze
6. Clay
7. Cream
8. Forest Green
9. Linen
10. Musket Brown
11. Royal Brown
12. Tux Grey
13. Terratone
14. Wicker White
15. Colonial grey
16. Dove Grey
17. Eggshell
18. Pearl Grey
19. Traditional Blue
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 20. Cocoa Brown
21. Scotch Red
22. Black

Specialty Colors also available by Special Order:

• Designer Series Copper

• Copper
• Galvanized Steel
• Painted Steel
• Galvalume

Contact Locations:

Birmingham, AL Atlanta, GA Nashville, TN

205-591-9680 / 877-321-5571 800-299-5305 / 404-574-6550 615-627-1368 / 866-236-2645
Fax: 205-591-9681 Fax: 404-574-6565 Fax: 615-627-1370

Little Rock, AR Indianapolis, IN

501-955-2800 317-822-8291 / 888-723-2645
Fax: 501-955-2878 Fax: 317-822-8294 Nashville, TN
615-627-1368 / 866-236-2645
Denver, CO Addison, IL Fax: 615-627-1370
303-227-3392 / 888-333-2945 630-543-5700 / 800-935-6664
Fax: 303-227-3612 Fax: 630-543-5703 Dallas, TX
972-556-2564 / 866-730-2645
Charlotte, NC Kansas City, MO Fax: 972-556-9511
888-750-2645 / 704-376-6679 816-474-1311
Fax: 704-376-2339 Fax: 816-474-1331

Tampa Bay, FL Forestville, MD

727-530-5435 / 800-678-5305 301-736-4900
Fax: 727-530-5439 Fax: 301-736-0052

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 Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need rain gutters?
Uncontrolled rain water can cause serious damage to a home’s exterior and eventual
interior. Exposure to constant moisture can lead to structural rotting and decay, mold,
mildew, and foundation and landscape damage.

When should I replace my gutters?

If you have steel, vinyl or seamed aluminum gutter systems chances are you need to
replace them. Steel gutters will rust, creating holes in the bottom of the gutter,
prohibiting proper water flow, while vinyl and seamed systems are inadequately
pitched, trapping water at the seams, creating multiple leaks.

What do seamless gutters mean?

A seamless gutter is a single piece of gutter formed on the jobsite to match the exact
measurements of a particular job. Gutters can be run in lengths up to 100’.

Can you paint over pre-painted aluminum gutters?

Yes, spray or brushed on house paint will adhere to our pre-painted aluminum gutters.
However, it will void Spectra’s paint finish warranty.

What is tiger striping?

Black vertical lines on the face of gutters are sometimes called ‘tiger striping’. These
dirt lines are difficult to remove, even with special cleaners.

What is galvanic corrosion?

Metals are rated according to their nobility ratings. When dissimilar metals are in
contact with each other in the presence of oxygen and moisture, the more noble metal
will corrode the less noble. Contact between dissimilar metals should always be
avoided. For example steel and aluminum are on the opposite ends of the nobility
charts and should be treated as such.

What is the difference between 5” and 6” gutter? And how are they sized?
5” gutters are 5” in diameter across the top and are predominantly used on standard
residential installations. 6” gutters are 6” in diameter across the top of the piece, allows
40% more water flow than 5”, and are used predominantly on large or steep pitch
roofs.

What kind of paint finish and warranty is on Spectra’s gutter and cover material?
All of our gutter material and accessories are coated with a polyester based, baked-on
enamel finish, which includes a 20 year manufacturer’s warranty.

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What gauges are standard for residential gutters? And downspouts?
Residential gutters are standard .027 gauge, with a heavier gauge .032 used in colder
climates. Downspouts are standard .019 gauge, and come corrugated to add strength
and rigidity.

Why are hangers better than spike and ferrules?

Hidden hangers are fastened to a home’s fascia, using screw fasteners, which hold the
gutters in place allowing the gutter system to function properly. Spikes are hammered
into the fascia, but over time always pull out of the wood taking the gutter with it. This
allows the water and debris coming off the roof to go behind the gutter and collect
directly on the home’s structure, causing damage.

What gauge are the hidden hangers?

Hidden hangers are made of aluminum and are .063 in gauge.

How far apart do you need to install hidden hangers?

SMACNA requires a 36” spacing between hangers, however we recommend a 24”
spacing.

Is Leaf Protection Panels nailed into the roof?

No. Our gutter cover does not interfere with the roof decking or roof shingles. Most
gutter guards are applied under the first or second row of roof shingles, which can lead
to roof warranty issues, broken shingles during installation, and costly uninstall and re-
install problems when roof repairs are needed.

Do I need gutter covers if I don’t have any trees?

Yes. Any objects that could gather on a roof, like balls, twigs, or leaves blown in from
trees around the home, will eventually find its way into the gutters, causing flow issues
and overflow problems.

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