Gutters, being an integral part of your home’s defence system against water damage are very important. In other words, they help channel away rainwater from your roof, foundation and landscaping from potential moisture-related issues affecting your property. But time takes its toll on gutters, causing them to develop seam leaks from regular abuse, weathering, installation errors or a combination of these. If unattended, these leaks can destroy your home’s structure severely, causing mould, leaks into your foundation and rotting wood. Thankfully, while gutter seam leaks are easier to repair than more serious types, it’s best to keep them minor to avoid bigger expenses down the line.
Inspecting the Gutters for Leaks
It is crucial that before you attempt any repairs on your gutters, you know where the source of the leak is. Start by checking the gutter seams for sight cracks, holes or rust. If the gutter has any pooling of water in it, you should also look for any pooling in the gutter because this may be a sign of poor drainage that is the result of blocked gutter seams. If at all possible, new damage resulting from the leak should be observed on a rainy day as that can help narrow down the exact issue area. You can simulate rainfall by running the water from a garden hose through the gutters and you can see if there are any leaks. After you have identified faulty seams, you’re ready to put your plan of action into effect.
Cleaning the Gutter and Seam areas
The cleaning of all areas involved is a critical step in gutter seam repair. Before sealing up your firewall you will want to be sure that the surface area in question is free of dirt, debris and old sealant. Gloved, gently pull any leaves, branches, debris or whatever out of the gutter. This task can be helped with a small scoop or trowel. Once the large debris is removed, flush the gutter with a hose to clear out any debris still left in it.
To clean the gutters once, you also should scrub the seams where the leak is occurring. It can be carried out with a soft brush a blend of warm water and a delicate cleanser. Sealant removal will remove any grime, corrosion or old sealant that may prevent the new repair materials from sticking well. Proceeding with the repair process without allowing the gutter and seams to fully dry out can cause moisture problems when trying to apply sealants.
Applying a High-Quality Gutter Sealant
The second is to apply a good quality gutter sealant once the gutter seams are clean and dry. Different types of sealants are available, silicone-based or polyurethane sealants are the right ones for fixing the gutter. Made out of flexible, waterproof, and temperature-immune sealants, these sealants work perfectly as long-lasting seals for the seams.
First, to apply the sealant, the area must be completely dry. Second, use a caulking gun and apply a generous amount of sealant along the seam where the leak has been seen. To make a good seal, both the inside and outside ends of the joint need to be covered. Smooth the sealant using a putty knife or your finger and make sure it is stuck to the surface. Give special attention to damaged or cracked areas where the seam is particularly damaged. Once the sealing is applied it should be allowed to cure around for a minimum of 24 hours and then allowed to be exposed to water. The duration for this drying is simply to ensure the sealant bonds fully and will give a durable and leak-free seal.
Repairing with the Gutter Tape Reinforced
A seal of gutter repair tape can be applied to the back of the gutter seam repair for additional durability. This is a special tape designed for gutter applications, waterproof, and self-adhesive. The extra layer of protection will prevent leaks and it will be particularly useful if the seam damage is more extensive.
You have to cut a piece of gutter tape slightly longer than the seam at which the leak is on. Remove the backing and apply the tape firmly over the seam so the tape sticks directly to the gutter surface. Use a smoothing tool or your hands to press out any air bubbles to create a tight, leak-proof seal. While gutter tape can make a great temporary fix, it is better when used in conjunction with a quality sealant and used for lasting results.
Addressing Larger Seam Leaks
If the leak is too large or too extensive to be repaired with sealant and tape, then the section of the gutter in need of repair may have to be replaced. In this case, it is a proper process of removing the damaged part of the gutter and reinserting the new section. First, try to disconnect the gutters at the joint where the leak is to begin with. Once screws or rivets that hold the gutter sections have been removed, use a screwdriver or drill to do the same. When the part has been removed, it must be thoroughly cleaned, and the new part installed, with screws or rivets through the new section to fasten it.
After installing the new section, seal the seams with a new layer of sealant. You do want to make sure the new gutter piece is lined up straight and fastened securely again to ensure no future leaks. It is possible to fix your gutter but before you decide to do so look to get in contact with a professional gutter repair service which you can ask to complete the job.
Preventing Future Gutter Seam Leaks
Prevention is always best, so, while gutter seam leak repair is important to the health of your home’s water defence system, it is still best to prevent the original leak from occurring. Although regular maintenance can go a long way in preventing future leaks, sometimes they can still happen. To begin with, you have to clean out your gutters at least twice a year, so you can remove the debris that will block the water flow and put extra pressure on the seams. Install gutter guards to keep debris of a certain size away from the gutters so that debris does not clog the seams.
Conclusion
Doing any gutter repair such as fixing gutter seam leaks is something homeowners can do and avoid the expense of water damage and in-depth repairs. If you take the following steps as outlined above: inspect the gutters, clean the seams, apply sealant and, if needed, apply reinforcement of the repair with gutter tape, you can set a course to stop leaks and keep your gutter system working properly. Gutters don’t require yearly maintenance, but you need to take preventative measures to ensure they remain in optimal condition and protect your home from water-related problems. Assuming your gutters have been installed and implemented by our professionals on time, your gutters will continue protecting your property from water damage for decades.
FAQs
What causes gutter seam leaks?
Common causes of gutter seam leaks are ageing sealant, corrosion, debris build-up or improper installation. With time, temperature fluctuations and weather conditions over the years wear on the seams, causing the gutter to leak.
How can I spot a gutter seam leak?
You can check for visible cracks or gaps along the seams. Also, during rain, you may notice water dripping or pooling under the gutter. To find the leak’s location, a garden hose can confirm this.
Can I do gutter seam leaks myself?
Yes, many small leaks can be fixed by scrapping and sealant and resealing with gutter tape. When the leak or damage is extensive, it is probably prudent to call a professional.
What type of sealant do I use for gutter repairs?
Both silicone-based or polyurethane sealants are suitable to do gutter repair as they are flexible and waterproof.
How frequently should my gutters be checked for leaks?
Inspection of your gutters should be done at minimum twice a year, if not more often before and after the rainy season to catch issues before they develop.