If your home’s gutter system has developed some kind of issue, you are probably extremely frustrated. Broken-down gutters and downspouts can wreak all sorts of havoc, like leading to foundation erosion, shingle deterioration, and even leaks on the inside of your home. No matter what is wrong with your gutters, it’s essential to fix the problem right away rather than allowing it to linger. “What if,” you might be wondering, “I don’t know where to start with fixing my gutters?” Don’t worry! That’s where this guide comes in. As you continue reading, you will find out more about several common gutter and downspout issues and see suggestions for how to repair them.
My rain gutters are leaking.
If your gutters have begun leaking, the most likely cause is the joints that connect one gutter section to another. These joints are not necessary in today’s seamless gutter systems but are frequently found at older houses and in do-it-yourself gutter kits. If your gutter trenches are made of galvanized steel, the odds are good that the seams have simply rusted through. If, on the other hand, your home’s gutter trenches are crafted from rust-proof aluminum, water has probably forced its way through the seams over time.
To repair leaky gutters, the first thing you need to do is look for the holes where the leaks are occurring. Then, adjust those sections as needed, so they are even with one another again. Once you’ve done this, you should use silicone or specialty gutter caulk to seal the problematic seams; make sure you complete this step when your gutters are completely dry! Finally, if there are holes in your gutters that are leaking, you can patch them with putty or with asphalt roof cement covered with small pieces of sheet metal.
My rain gutters are flooded.
If your home’s gutters have begun overflowing on a regular basis, it is probably either because the gutter trenches are clogged with leaves and other debris or the gutter system has started sagging so water is no longer flowing properly. The best way to fix a clogged gutter is to have it professionally cleaned. You should also consider installing a gutter guard or a leaf catcher to prevent future issues. If, however, your gutter system is sagging, there is a good chance you will need to have all of the trenches and downspouts replaced.
My downspouts cause pooling water.
Whether your home has a single downspout or several, it’s never good to see pools of water underneath one of them directly next to your home’s foundation. When they are functioning properly, downspouts should direct rainwater away from your house to protect your foundation from potential problems, such as erosion and cracks. Standing water is a surefire indicator that a downspout isn’t working correctly. The best way to fix this issue is to invest in a device called a downspout diverter. These relatively inexpensive products attach to existing downspouts and help move water away from exterior walls.
These tips are meant to help you fix certain gutter and downspout problems on your own, but remember, you may require professional assistance for even the most minor gutter system repairs. There’s nothing wrong with hiring a local contractor if you aren’t sure what you’re doing! Having functional gutters is extremely important, so in many cases, it’s worth it to pay a professional to make sure any repairs are done right the first time.