How To Fix Your Leaking Gutter

Are you noticing water dripping from your ceiling or dampness in the foundations of your home? It could be a clear sign that your gutter has developed a leak. Ignoring a leaking gutter can lead to severe water damage and even pose a health risk.

The water leaking from the gutter creates a perfect environment for the growth of moulds and bacteria, which can be harmful to you and your family. But don’t worry, we have a solution for you! In this brief guide, we will discuss how to repair a leaky gutter, ending these problems once and for all.

So, if you’re looking for a solution to your gutter problem, keep reading!

How Can You Fix Your Leaking Gutter?

Before we dive into fixing leaky gutters, let’s understand the common causes of gutter leaks. Gutter leaks can occur due to general wear and tear over time, but they can also result from severe damage caused by storms, heavy rains, or hail. Additionally, the gutter’s accumulation of leaves, dust, or grime can disrupt water flow and lead to leaks, particularly in open gutters. When a gutter begins to leak, it can cause sagging and water pooling, potentially damaging your home’s exterior walls and windows.

Due to the above causes, the gutter may develop a faulty joint somewhere or a hole in the pipe. Another less likely reason may be a build-up of leaves, dust or grime in the gutter, which disrupts the water flow, eventually causing it to leak. This is primarily observed in the case of open gutters.

Regardless, once the gutter begins to leak, it will start sagging, and you may notice the water starting to pool at some locations. If the water pools too much, it will leak onto your house’s exterior walls and windows.

To fix leaky gutters, you will need to follow the steps below.

Step 1: Find And Clean The Area Around The Leak

First, you will need to locate where the water is leaking. If it is a significant leakage, it will be pretty easy to identify. But for minor fix gutter leaks, you will want to inspect the entire gutter to find them.

Once you have located the spot, you should clean the area around it. Remove any leaves, branches, or other debris from the site. If dirt and grime accumulate, you can scrub it with a brush or abrasive pad. Using the latter is advisable because it will simultaneously smooth the surface, which will help you in the next step.

Step 2: Apply Roofing Cement to Fix Leaking Gutter Seams

If you notice small holes or gaps in your gutters causing leaks, you can quickly repair them by applying plastic roofing cement. Ensure that you thoroughly fill the gaps to eliminate any potential leakage. For larger holes, it’s advisable to cover them with a small piece of flashing tape before applying the roofing cement.

Allow the repair to dry for a while, and your leaking gutters will never be fixed. If you need professional assistance with gutter leak repair, don’t hesitate to contact Leakage Solutions for Home and Business.

Step 3: Fix The Joints On The Leaky Gutters

After you fill up any holes, check to see if the joints in the gutter are intact. This is also when you should check the joints on the downspout.

If you notice any screws or nuts that have become loose, tighten them with a wrench or a screwdriver. Likewise, if some of the joints have become too old due to usage, replace them with new ones.

After that, you must reinforce the joints properly by applying silicone caulk. If there is any old caulk, scrape it off and apply a new layer. This will effectively seal the joints and prevent any leakage.

Maintain Your Gutter

Regular Cleaning

To prevent leaks and maintain proper water flow, clean your gutters every few months using a broom handle or similar tool to remove leaves, debris, or branches. This prevents clogs that could result in serious damage to your property. Addressing a leaking gutter joint early can also stop water from causing rotted wood or other issues.

Gutter Guards

Installing gutter guards is an excellent way to protect your gutters. They act as a barrier, reducing the amount of debris entering the gutter sections and minimising the risk of clogs or leaks. This proactive measure can save you time and effort in your own projects.

Periodic Scrubbing

Use a wire brush to scrub the inside of the gutter sections periodically. This removes grime and residue, maintaining a clean surface to ensure smooth water flow. Addressing any buildup promptly can prevent more serious damage over time.

Apply Sealant

Inspect your gutters for small gaps, holes, or leaking gutter joints. Apply silicone sealant to these areas to prevent leaks and maintain the system’s structural integrity. For more advanced solutions, consider consulting a Loctite service for professional-grade sealing.

Stopping Your Gutter From Leaking

So, now you know how to fix leaking gutters. As you can see, it is not a very complex process; you can get it done within a day.

Avoid rushing through the process. Otherwise, the leaks will soon reappear, and you must repeat them.

We have also suggested ways to maintain your gutters regularly. Scheduled gutter cleaning and inspection will drastically minimise the chances of blockages and future leakage. Our Melbourne plumbers can assist you with gutter repair and maintenance, so please contact our team!

Now, it is time to wrap up. We will be back soon with more informative guides. Until then, goodbye!