Fix The Gutters

Learning how to fix leaky gutters is an easy inexpensive project you can do yourself.

Fix the gutters.

Dump a small bucket of water into the gutter to wash out any leftover dirt and grime. Rinse out the gutter and dry it off. Gutter leaks usually start at rusty spots or seams that have opened up because of expansion and contraction. While not a permanent fix you can generally get another season or two out of the gutters as long as the damage isn t extensive by applying a silicone or rubber gutter caulk or sealant.

If your gutter is still basically sound the easiest way to stop the leak is by covering the damaged area with roof and gutter repair tape available at home centers and hardware stores. If it is large use a piece of galvanized metal flashing. Most gutters are held in place with large spikes that pass through tubular sleeves called ferrules. Once you re finished cleaning dry out the gutter with a clean cloth or paper towel.

The cleaner it is the better your patch will hold over time. Keep flushing out the gutter with more clean water until it starts draining the excess water properly. If the hole is small you can use plastic roofing cement. If the metal gutter parts have rusted through you can quickly and easily patch it.

And it s worth the effort. And even seamless gutters aren t immune to drips. Gutters are one of those things where routine maintenance and inspecting them can really prevent bigger problems down the road says jason stutzman director of home maintenance and repair for brothers redevelopment in denver. If you re in a rush feel free to clean out your gutter with a power washer or a.

To fix your gutter leak start by scooping out all the crud. Next remove any oxidation and apply the sealer photos 1 and 2. Whether it s a corner or straight joint the repair is pretty much the same. If you have to resort to a toothbrush for crevices.