How To Fix a Leaky Gutter & Prevent Further Problems

Leaky gutters are a common problem for homeowners, and they could easily erupt from small leaks into huge gutter problems, which is why it’s essential to know how to approach and fix them.

Water dripping from your gutters could cause more home damage, such as mold growth and foundation damage, so knowing how to fix a leaky gutter is crucial for proper home maintenance.

In this article, we’ll discuss more about the ways to fix leaky gutters, why they occur and which steps to take to fix your gutter issue.

Let’s dive in. 

How To Fix a Leaky Gutter? 3 Reasons & Solutions for Gutter Leaks

It’s not uncommon for gutters to have a small leak every now and then but those could quickly turn into an issue. 

There are several reasons why gutters leak, and each one has a different solution; read more about them below!

Leaking Gutter Joints

It’s common for gutters to leak at the joints, especially if they haven’t been sealed adequately. 

That’s why it’s common to notice leaking from the gutter seam, downspout elbows, or downspout round drops. These issues can usually be resolved by applying gutter sealant over the affected areas.

How To Fix the Problem?

Fixing leaking gutter joints is an easy job; if you’re experiencing this problem with your gutters, you can follow these steps to resolve it:

1. Clean the area: The first step is to clean the gutters and gutter joints – use your hands and a wire brush to remove the old sealant. After you finish  
2. Apply the sealant: Use the sealant and apply a generous amount over the gutter joint as sealant  tends to shrink as it dries out.
3. Spread it out: Using your hands (wear waterproof gloves), spread out the sealant and press it into the steam.

If you have enough time, it’s also a good idea to disassemble the parts, clean and seal them separately and then assemble them again. 

Gutters Leaking Through Small Holes

Your gutters could have small or large holes that could lead to leaking – these could occur due to improper installation or environmental damage from trees, ice, etc. 

Gutter holes can quickly be fixed by applying metal flashing over the damaged areas and fixing them with sealant. 

How To Fix the Problem?

Fixing gutter holes is another uncomplicated job, as long as you have the needed tools and materials. If you have everything on-hand, you can follow these steps to patch up the holes:

1. Clean the gutter: Clean out any dirt and debris from the gutter before you start working. 
2. Remove old material: Use a wire brush to get rid of old materials from your gutter and wash the inside of the gutter with mild water and soap. Ensure to entirely dry out the area before applying the sealant and flashing.
3. Cut the flashing: When cutting the flashing, ensure it’s 1 inch wider than the hole (on all of the sides). Once cut, use a hammer to gently tap the flashing (place it on a flat surface) to flatten it. 
4. Spread the sealant: Spread a generous amount of sealant over the hole that you’ll cover with flashing.
5. Press the flashing: Use your hand to press the flashing firmly into the sealant and smooth over the area with a putty knife. Strive to create a transition between the gutter and the flashing. 

Leaking Gutter End Caps

The main role of gutter end caps is to close the ends of your gutters to prevent the water from leaking. However, these caps can leak water when loose, which usually happens when they’re installed without sealant.

How To Fix the Problem?

This gutter leakage problem will typically require you to install new end caps with sealant and crimp down the metal. You can follow these steps to resolve the issue:

1. Remove the old end cap: The way you’ll remove the old cap will depend on the way it was installed. If crimped on, you can knock it off with a hammer. If it’s screwed in, you can unscrew the screws using a screwdriver.
2. Clean the gutter: Clean off any dirt and debris, and remove old sealant using a wire brush. Thoroughly clean the area so that you can fit a new end cap in without problems. 
3. Dry fit: Do a dry fitting and place the end cap onto the end of your gutters. Use pliers to straighten out any bent metal.
4. Add sealant to the gutter end cap: Use the sealant and squeeze a generous amount into the groove on the inside of the end cap (the outside won’t have a groove).
5. Place the end cap on the gutter: Place the end cap onto the end of your gutter and wipe away any excess sealant. 
6. Crimp it to the gutter: Use the metal crimping tool to crimp the edges where the end cap and the gutter connect. 
7. Add sealant: After you’re done crimping, add sealant to the inside of the gutter where it meets with the end cap. Use your hand and fingers (don’t forget to wear gloves) to press the sealant into place.

Tips To Prevent Gutter Leaks

Leaking gutters are a common problem for people worldwide, but they can be managed and prevented with proper efforts. Here’s a list with some of the best ways to prevent gutter leaks in your home:

• Practice regular maintenance: Regularly cleaning and maintaining your gutters will keep them in good shape and prevent leaks. It’s best to organize thorough cleanings at least twice a year and also care for the area around your gutters.
• Trim tree branches: Cutting out any tree branches near your gutters and roof can prevent leaks as there will be less chance for damage from tree branches. 
• Invest in gutter guards: Installing gutter guards is an excellent way to reduce the amount of dirt and debris that collect in your gutters and prevent possible leaks.
• Install downspout screens: Another excellent investment is to install downspout screens that will prevent downspout blockage.
• Perform frequent inspections: It’s advisable to perform regular inspections; use a hose to fill your gutters with water and examine for leaks. 
• Fix problems as soon as they appear: Be prompt with any repairs and ensure to fix any gutter-related problems as soon as they appear to prevent further damage and prevent the leaking.

When To Contact Professionals?

Some gutter leaks can be difficult to resolve, so, when fixing any problem that may seem too difficult for you or you’re unsure what the problem is to begin with, it’s best to reach out to professionals. 

Our team at Stern Gutters offers the best solutions for your gutter problems – contact us today!