Frequently Asked Questions


Question: Do you have a distributor or installer in my area?
Answer: No, we ship factory direct to the customer which allows us to maintain wholesale pricing. Using our installation video/dvd we believe anyone with limited mechanical ability can properly install our system.
Question: What is the cost of shipping an order?
Answer: We ship common carrier and receive a discount on most orders. To receive an accurate shipping quote, an order-price sheet must be completed with full shipping address and material totals. We will figure the weight, boxing & shipping for you. We prefer a faxed copy of the order form. It is not possible for us to quote shipping charges without accurate information.
Question: What is a gutter box?
Answer: A gutter box is necessary for shipping the gutter. It is extremely durable to withstand the possibilities of damage while being shipped. We can nest 4-6 pieces of gutter per box depending on the size of gutter and shipping destination.
Question: Can I pick my order up?
Answer: Please give us 5 days notice-we will provide you with pick-up instructions and directions. You must be able to support the entire length of gutter.
Question: What are your payment terms? What is your lead time?
Answer: We accept all major credit cards and cashiers checks. If you choose to send a business or personal check, we will wait approximately 7-10 business days before processing your order. We strive to keep all items in stock. Lead time is generally 5-10 business days. Allow 1-8 days for shipping.
Question: How do I measure my house?
Answer: Whomever the installer, we recommend they take all measurements to insure proper lengths. (We feel that adding extra footage is a good idea). An additional 12" of gutter length is required for each outside mitered corner and lap joint. It is not necessary to add footage for inside corners.
Question: How do I connect 2 pieces of gutter?
Answer: Simply lap the gutter approximately 12", screw down and caulk for aluminum and galvalume or solder for copper.
Question: Is copper compatible with aluminum or galvalume?
Answer: No, copper and brass are not compatible with aluminum and galvalume.
Question: How are the outlets and miters connected?
Answer: We do not pre-cut holes for the outlets.
Question: Outlet installation:
Answer: We recommend using a hole saw in either 3" or 4" depending on the size of your downspout. After your hole is cut, our standard outlet is placed inside the gutter. Our 6" copper funnel outlet is mounted outside of the gutter.
Question: Strip miter installation:
Answer: Strip miters are pressed out of copper, aluminum and galvalume and formed to the configuration of a corner.
  90 corner-cut 2 45 degree angles
  45 corner-cut 2 22 1/2 degree angles

Miters are installed on the outside of the gutter and are approximately 3" wide. Your cuts need not be perfect, the miter allows for tolerance while maintaining a custom corner. For detailed installation instructions, please view our video.

Question: How many running feet of gutter can be handled by one downspout?
Answer: The general rule is approximately 30'-40' of gutter per 4" downspout.
Question: How is the gutter fastened to the fascia board or roof? Can we install the rods or complete hanger units before the gutter?
Answer: When using our hidden hanger units, we recommend the rods go over the first exposed row of shingles, and the flattened part of the rods go under the second exposed row of shingles. Installing the rods on the roof beforehand leaves no room for error when fastening the brackets to the gutter. The brackets will have to line up perfectly with the rod already fastened to the roof. It is not necessary to install both hanger units and facia brackets. Gutter installed with hanger units may also have fascia brackets attached for decorative purposes.
Question: What is a rod bender?
Answer: A rod bender is used for bending the stainless steel rods to whatever angle necessary. The rods are shipped straight to be bent specifically to your roof pitch. Rod benders are not required for aluminum hanger units.
Question: What colors of aluminum gutter do you carry?
Answer: A full system of gutter and components is available in our standard colors of low gloss white and royal brown. Select color gutter orders contain matching gutter, downspout and elbows only. All other components for select color orders will need to be painted to match. We recommend taking a metal sample to the local paint store for a color match.
Question: What is chromating?
Answer: Chromating is the coating process used on our aluminum castings as a primer for paint. The chromate layer enhances the adhesion between the aluminum and your paint coating. The chromated finish must be painted to ensure a long lasting aluminum casting.
Question: What is your return policy?
Answer: Extra gutter components may be returned with approval. A 20% restocking fee will be assessed and return shipping fees are the responsibility of the customer. Gutter and downspout are not returnable.
© 2008 by Classic Gutter Systems L.L.C.
Last update:   7 May 2008

CLASSIC GUTTER SYSTEMS L.L.C.

P.O. BOX 2319
KALAMAZOO, MI 49003
PHONE (269) 665-2700
FAX (269) 665-1234
WWW.CLASSICGUTTERS.COM