Easy Gutter Repairs You Can DIY

There are several types of Easy Gutter Repairs You Can Perform on Your Own, from replacing a broken downspout to repairing a hole in your gutter. Whether you have a clogged gutter, a broken downspout, or just want to improve your old drain, this guide will walk you through the steps. Once you have the basic knowledge, you can move on to more complex gutter repair Seattle projects.

Repairing a hole in a gutter

A hole in your gutter can be caused by various reasons, including rust decay, a falling branch, and weather damage. If you can’t afford to replace the gutter, patching the hole is a DIY project you can do yourself. To begin, clean the spot thoroughly and dry it completely. Then, apply a layer of roofing cement around the hole’s edges. Once the roofing cement is dry, apply a metal patch to the spot. You can purchase a metal patch at a hardware store, but be sure to match the material to ensure it is durable.

You can use caulk to seal the seam if the hole is too large to cause leakage. Larger holes require patching. When leaning on the ladder, you should also use a solid, non-slip surface. If you are unsure whether to use the same type of material as the rest of the gutter, check the manufacturer’s recommendations before purchasing.

Installing a new section of gutter

After removing the old section of the gutter, install the new one. Start by using a hammer and chisel to mark the center of the new section. Next, insert an offset tin snip into the chiseled hole. Then, insert the tin snip into the hole you just made with a hammer and chisel. Next, use a sharp saw to cut the section to length. Be sure to cut at a 45-degree angle around corners. If you’re installing a new area of gutter, join the new section with 3/8-inch stainless steel screws or pop rivets.

Start by placing the ladder midway up the roof. Once on the roof, align the new gutter section with the previously installed length, leaving about 5 inches to overlap. If you have a downspout, install it using pipe cutters. Attach the hangers to the wood below the roof. Line up pre-cut sections of the gutter with the hangers. Use sheet metal screws to secure the sections to the brackets.

Repairing a clog

Rain gutters can get clogged during any season. Unlike a storm drain, a clogged gutter is unlikely to move away independently. If you fail to fix a clog, it can lead to costly repairs. Instead, water should be directed away from your home and downspouts.

A faulty downspout is the most common cause of gutter problems. Fortunately, 99% of gutter problems are caused by clogs in the downspout. First, you need to understand what a gutter system is made of. Gutter systems are horizontal troughs that catch water on your roof. Downspouts are vertical pipes that carry water to the ground.

Repairing a broken downspout

If your downspout has broken, there are a few easy DIY gutter fixes that can fix the problem yourself. First, remove the damaged section. Then, slide a new section of the downspout over the old one. Make sure the holes are aligned with the old ones. Next, use a rivet tool to put the new rivet through the holes. Finally, use a screwdriver to loosen the old straps.

Install a new downspout. Remove the old one and install the new one. Be sure the new one includes a drop outlet of three inches or more. If it doesn’t, you can use a measuring tape to make a new one. Make sure you secure the downspout with sheet metal screws. Place the downspout extender at least five feet into the yard.

Repairing a leaky gutter

If you want to DIY your gutter repair, you can start by cleaning the affected area with an all-purpose cleaner and rinsing it well. Next, you should remove any old caulk from the joint. Use a putty knife to remove any leftover caulk material. After you’ve cleaned the area, you should apply a silicone sealant around the joint connection. Silicone caulk adheres best to warm and dry metal. Make sure to do this in warm weather.

While a leak in the midspan is easily fixed with a piece of waterproof gutter repair tape and a gutter sealant, larger holes may require a different approach. You can cut aluminum flashing and set it in gutter mastic to improve larger holes. Fortunately, you can buy aluminum flashing at home centers and hardware stores.