A leaking gutter is a common problem on many homes across the country. A leaking gutter is not only an annoyance when you walk under it but it can also cause expensive problems from rotting roofs and walls, drips inside the home, and can cause or add to basement water problems. The good news is that fixing a leaking gutter is an easy project for the do it yourself homeowner. Fixing a gutter that leaks requires no special knowledge and generally does not cost much in supplies. The only part of fixing the leaky gutter that may be difficult is working from a ladder. If you are uncomfortable working on a ladder you should be able to hire a local handyman or handywoman to do the job for you at little cost.
The most important thing to keep gutters from leaking is to keep them properly sloped. Many leaks occur as water pools in gutters allowing the water to seep through. Make certain your gutter is properly hanging and adjust as needed if it is not.
The first thing that you need to do to fix a leaking gutter is to determine where the problem is. The easiest way to do this is to go out in the rain and watch for drips or other signs of problems. If you are unable to observe the area during the rain you can use a bucket or garden hose to add water to the gutter. Some leaks will occur between the gutter and the fascia (the flat part under the roof where the gutter attaches). Leaks in this area may run down the gutter and drip elsewhere. If you need help determining where a leak originates use water with food coloring or Kool Aid in it. The colored water should be easy to trace back to the leak. For most homes the food coloring or Kool Aid will not stain properly maintained siding, but spray it off the siding quickly just to be safe.
Once you have found the leak it is time for the repair. If your gutter is leaking at a seam use silicone caulking, or gutter sealant, both on the inside and outside of the seam. Use a wire brush or other tools to clean the area that will be caulked. Use rubbing alcohol or another quick drying cleaner to remove grit. On the outside firmly work the caulking into the seam and wipe away the excess for a neat look. Use a small putty knife on the inside to flatten the caulking so that water will easily run over it. If you have found small rust holes in the gutter, simply use roof cement to cover the holes. Rust is a pretty sure sign that water is laying in your gutter. Make certain to check the slope and downspouts to keep water from laying in the gutter. Larger holes in the gutter will require applying a patch to the gutter. Patching products can be purchased, but any rust resistant metal can be used and applied with roof cement.
Gutters are simple devices that are easy and inexpensive to work on and repair. Given that a leaking gutter can cause major problems that are costly to repair every homeowner should keep an eye on their gutters and keep them in good working order.
