Repair Or Replace Aluminum Gutters

Here s what you ll want to consider before deciding.

Repair or replace aluminum gutters. Rusty areas indicate a future problem even if the rust has not yet created a hole. Small openings can be cleaned with alcohol and covered over with a quality sealant. Gutter replacement may be necessary if gutters are rusting or leaking. Clean the downspout joints and replace the gaskets step 5.

You can use the same process for repairing holes in both steel and aluminum gutters. If they do leak there s a fair chance they can be repaired. Clean the area around the leak step 2. Patches sealants step 1.

Seamless aluminum gutters last a long time up to 30 years if they ve been installed correctly. Gutter leaks usually start at rusty spots or seams that have opened up because of expansion and contraction. Replace rusty gutters as soon as possible. Then you can simply replace those sections instead of tearing out your entire guttering system.

You don t have to rush to a replacement if something s going wrong however. First use a stiff wire brush to remove any rust or corrosion from the hole and the surrounding area. Apply plastic roofing cement step 3. Check the downspout step 4.

Have them replaced by a professional who can do the job without damaging the roof or siding of your home. With gutter replacement you can prevent water from running behind your gutters by installing a metal gutter apron flashing under the shingles and over the back edge of the gutter. Clean out gutters at least once a year to make them last. Gutters with holes or splits aren t reparable.

If your gutter is still basically sound the easiest way to stop the leak is by covering the damaged area with roof and gutter repair tape available at home centers and hardware stores. Here are some warning signs that your gutters need work. Gutter repair and replacement tips. You only need to fix a few holes or cracks.

Once the hole is clean and dry spread roofing cement around the edges of the hole and apply a patch of appropriately sized metal flashing. However even the best products in the world experience some wear and tear eventually. Any damage is localized on one or two gutter sections. Photo by summer galyan gutters require regular cleaning and maintenance.