Fix The Gutters

They have seams where the gutters connect to preformed corners and to downspout outlets.

Fix the gutters.

If you re in a rush feel free to clean out your gutter with a power washer or a. Clean the area with household spray cleaner a scrub brush and rags to get it as clean as possible. 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. Keep flushing out the gutter with more clean water until it starts draining the excess water properly.

Whether it s a corner or straight joint the repair is pretty much the same. If the hole is small you can use plastic roofing cement. Rinse out the gutter and dry it off. To fix your gutter leak start by scooping out all the crud.

And even seamless gutters aren t immune to drips. 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 it is large use a piece of galvanized metal flashing. Once you re finished cleaning dry out the gutter with a clean cloth or paper towel.

Next remove any oxidation and apply the sealer photos 1 and 2. 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 you have to resort to a toothbrush for crevices. If the metal gutter parts have rusted through you can quickly and easily patch it.

Gutter leaks usually start at rusty spots or seams that have opened up because of expansion and contraction. The cleaner it is the better your patch will hold over time. And it s worth the effort. Luckily most common gutter problems are easy for homeowners to fix themselves.