How to Repair a Leaking Gutter

Gutters have one purpose and that's to channel water off of your roof and away from your house, especially from the foundation. When gutters aren't doing their job, water damage starts taking its toll causing wood rot and deterioration of the fascia, which further compromises the integrity of your gutter system. Leaking gutters can also cause structural damage, which can lead to costly repairs.

The biggest, most costly problem a leaking gutter can create is an issue with your foundation. Your downspout is designed to quickly divert rainwater and melted snow away from the foundation of your house. When a leaking gutter or leaking gutter joint causes water to accumulate near the foundation, this can lead to cracks in the walls and ceilings, which can significantly lower the value of your home if not repaired. Major foundation repairs can cost tens of thousands of dollars. You can avoid all of these issues by repairing your leaking gutters yourself with a waterproof sealant, such as a non-toxic water-based Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant.

What Causes Gutters to Leak

Older gutters are prone to leaks after experiencing years of exposure to rain and melted snow, but newer gutters can also leak. Sometimes a missing screw can cause a leak, while other times the joints become loose, creating gaps where water can escape. When clogged gutters lead to standing water for extended periods, they can rust through the metal, leaving an easy path for water to travel. Often, previous attempts at repairs with caulk or other similar sealants fail, and the area starts to leak.

Steps to Fix a Leaking Gutter

If you have a leaking gutter or leaking gutter joint, you won't have to pay a repair company a trip charge and high hourly rates to fix it. With Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant, you can save money by taking care of those leaks yourself and still protect your home from further damage. Here is all you need to do to fix your leaking gutter:

1. Remove debris

Remove any leaves or debris from the area in need of repair.

2. Clean surface thoroughly

A clean surface is important to achieve the best adhesion possible. Once the surface is clean, be sure to allow it to dry completely.

3. Bridge joints and seams

Use Liquid Rubber Seam Tape to bridge joints and seams. Be careful not to stretch the Liquid Rubber Seam Tape. Put it in place loose and flat while overlapping several layers across the entire area of the leak and covering the inner sides of the gutter. Once the layers of seam tape are in position, apply pressure to ensure adhesion to the surface.

4. Protect painted areas

Use painter's tape to protect the trim and other parts of the house close to the repair area. You may also want to put painter's tape on the top, outside edge of the gutter to ensure that the repair isn't visible from the ground.

5. Apply Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant

Using a paintbrush, apply a thick coat of Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant, completely covering the edges of the seam tape.

6. Allow the first coat to dry

Allow the product to dry enough so that it's tacky to the touch, but not wet in any areas. But sure to check the corners, because they tend to take longer to dry. Allow about 4 to 6 hours for the area to dry before applying the next coat.

7. Apply an additional coat

Brush on the next heavy coat, making sure to apply the product just past the edges of the previous coat to ensure a secure seal.

8. Remove painter's tape

Remember to remove the painter's tape while the product is still wet to avoid compromising the edges of the seal when the product dries.

9. Allow the area to dry thoroughly

It may take several days for the membrane to cure, depending on the size of the repair. The product will be pliable, even after drying.

10. Check for leaks

Once the coating has completely dried, pour water over the repair and check to make sure it's no longer leaking.

Ideally, you should plan to repair your gutters on a day when you can expect temperatures to remain above 5C/40F, while also avoiding direct sunlight on days with intense heat. Be sure to check the weather and plan your project for a day where there is no forecast for rain. You'll want to complete your project earlier in the day if there is dew expected the next day so the membrane has time to cure.

For smaller repairs, we also have a 2"x15' size package of seam tape and smaller size of sealant available for your convenience.

Maintaining Your Repaired Gutter

While a repair with Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant should last for much longer than other products, you should still check the area around the repair each season. While your repaired area can continue to seal the gutter, other areas near the repair may need attention. To protect your entire gutter system, cover the inside surface with Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant to prevent leaks and protect your home from water damage from future leaks in other areas.

Buy Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant Today

Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant is an inexpensive method for repairing a leaking gutter or leaking gutter joint and is easy enough to use that you won't need to hire a professional to fix your gutters. Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant is non-toxic, water-based, solvent-free and safe to use around pets and children. Find out how Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant can help you repair your gutter leaks and protect your home from water damage. Shop now and join the loyalty program.