If your gutters are leaking, broken, overflowing, or have cracks in them, it’s time to resolve these issues. Discover how to repair a section of gutter without hiring a professional or spending a fortune.
How to Fix a Section of Gutter or Downspouts
You might only need to focus on a section of your gutter or downspout. To do so, remove the screws of the area. Next, read below to see the problem is and how to fix it.
Common Gutter Problems and How to Fix Them
A well-maintained gutter system can last a lifetime. But, sometimes, accidents happen, and you can’t control things like the impact of the weather and general wear and tear. However, this DIY guide aims to solve any gutter problems you may be facing.
Water Going Behind Gutters
Water can leak behind gutters if there are clogs, there’s a crack, or they’re incorrectly attached to your roof. When water pours behind gutters, there’s a greater risk of moisture reaching your home, causing mold and dampness.
How to Fix
- Check the rain gutters for any debris. If applicable, remove it, and clear the area with a hose.
- Once the waste isn’t there or if nothing is obstructing the gutter, add a gutter apron to prevent drips.
- Position the gutter apron behind the gutter. Once in position, fasten the apron using sheet-metal screws.
Loose Gutters
Gutters can pull away from houses when the weight inside of them becomes too much for any support apparatus to hold. This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as blockages, an accumulation of snow, or being installed farther than 150 mm of any joint or bend. Tightening loose fixtures can help make your gutters and downspouts quieter during rain and wind.
How to Fix
- Remove any debris that could be contributing to the weight.
- Remove any spikes surrounding the loose area(s).
- Insert new gutter screws into existing holes. Gutter screws pass deep into the fascia board and beyond the rafters for a secure attachment.
Overflowing Gutters
When water overflows, blockages can occur, and moisture can buildup on your home’s foundation. There are many reasons to consider when dealing with or for preventing overflowing gutters, including your gutters not being big enough or a buildup of twigs.
How to Fix
- Investigate to see if anything is blocking the area. If so, remove any twigs, leaves, etc.
- If you regularly have heavy downpours, consider installing wider gutters.
- If you have a steep roof, install mesh gutter splash guards around your gutters to prevent water from traveling so fast that it splashes out of the gutter.
- Install mesh screens on top of your gutters to avoid catching leaves and debris, so only water can get through.
Broken or Clogged Gutter Guards
Common signs of broken or clogged gutter guards include blocked or overflowing gutters or downspouts.
How to Fix
- Consider upgrading your gutter guards to mesh screen guards, perforated guards, foam filters, or brush gutter guards.
Leaking From Cracks and Holes
It’s common for gutters to develop cracks and small holes as they age. But not repairing the damaged area is counterintuitive to their purpose. If you don’t have the money to reinstall new gutters, you can fill these cracks and holes yourself.
How to Fix
- Clean and dry the area with the hole or crack.
- Apply roofing cement around the hole’s edges, and apply metal flashing
- Position the metal flashing over the hole, and cover it with another coat of cement.
Downspout Repairs
Downspouts and gutter downspout adapters need maintaining and caring for, too. They can be prone to blockages, holes, and pools of runoff water.
How to Fix
- Remove the downspout elbow, and clean any debris or waste caught inside, and reapply back onto the gutter.
- Or connect a downspout diverter onto the bottom of the downspout to carry water away from your home.
Rust and Corrosion
Wherever there’s water, rust and corrosion is common. Ideally, choose aluminum gutters, as this material is less prone to water damage.
How to Fix
- Use a wire brush to scrub away any minor rust.
- Clean and dry the area of any rust and other markings.
- Apply a metal primer to the affected area to protect the gutter against future rust damage.
How to Repair a Sagging Gutter
The fasteners might have pulled out from the wood due to the weight of the gutter, causing them to sag. Fortunately, there are ways to fix this predicament.
- Remove the current gutter hangers from the gutters.
- Reapply the hangers (or purchase new ones if the current hangers are damaged).
- Add new holes into the gutters so the hangers are spaced no farther apart than three inches. (The closer the hangers, the more secure the gutter).
How to Fix a Split Gutter
A split in a gutter will cause water to seep through. Here’s how to amend any partitions without having to install entirely new gutters.
- Clean the gutter, pulling out anything that could cause a blockage. Allow the gutter to dry.
- Choose a waterproof protective sealant, and apply to the splits, using pressure to force the glue into the joint.
- Clamp the parts together with a firm grip for up to 24 hours.
How to Clean Your Gutters
Regular gutter cleaning removes any buildup that could contribute to a water overflow. You might want to invest in a leaf blower to keep leaves away from the gutters.
- Use stepladders (and, ideally, have some assistance to support them) to reach the gutters.
- Wearing gloves, scoop out all debris inside of and around the gutters. You might need a garden trowel to help you.
- Use a garden hose to wash away any stubborn residue.
- If applicable, use a stiff brush to wipe away any stuck-on grime.
Can You Replace a Section of Guttering?
Yes. You might need to only replace a part of your gutter if there’s a particular part with a slice or crack. To do so, remove the downpipes one at a time. Depending on the issue, apply any of the fixes above to the particular section.
Key Takeaways
Now you know how to repair a section of gutter, so you don’t have to tolerate leaky gutters or poor water flow. Any of these fixes above — including rust, cracks, sagging, and leaks — will improve the lifespan and efficiency of your gutters.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do you replace a section of a downspout?
Remove the section of the downspout by unscrewing it from the roof.
Can you patch holes in gutters?
Yes. Use roofing cement on the hole followed by metal flashing and another layer of cement.
Will Flex Seal work on gutters?
Yes. Flex Seal is effective in covering holes. Make sure to clean and dry the area before applying it.
What is the best caulk for gutters?
Silicone caulk works best for covering gaps that often happen due to temperature changes. Clear silicone caulk makes the amendment barely visible.
Is it easy to replace guttering?
Yes, as there aren’t a lot of steps involved. But the main issue with gutter replacement is safety, as you’ll need to be on the roof. So it’s best to consider hiring a professional.
