Whether you are installing a new gutter system or repairing an existing one, you need to be careful. A broken gutter can prevent water from flowing properly and can also damage your roof. Water can also leak into your home, damaging windows and foundations. It can also cause a clogged downspout, which can cause water to accumulate and overflow. Fortunately, there are simple gutter repair techniques that can restore your gutter to working order.
First, you should inspect the pitch of your gutter. This will determine the direction in which water should flow. If you have a sloped roof, the water may be accelerated by the steep roof. This is especially dangerous if you live in an area that gets heavy rains.
Next, look at the seams. These are where two sections of the gutter meet in the corner. If you notice one or both seams are bent or missing, you may need to replace them. You may also need to patch or seal the seams. This can be a costly project. If the gutter is made of aluminum, it may need to be repainted. Galvanized steel is an affordable option, but it is more labor intensive. It can also be a challenge to work with.
If you are unsure of whether you need to replace a damaged gutter, you may want to consider hiring the original handyman company who installed the gutter. They may have the best experience and be able to provide you with the best service. You can also check with prescreened companies that provide gutter repair. They may be able to offer you a free quote.
If you have a clogged downspout, you may be able to fix it by removing the plug and reattaching it. You can also replace the downspout straps. This will help keep the gutter tight to the wall. However, you may need to replace the downspout bracket, which is a small strip of aluminum that is screwed into the wall on both sides. If you have a multistory building, you may need to hire additional equipment to work on the gutter.
The end cap of the gutter is another area to look at. If you see water leaking from the bottom of the gutter, it is a good indication that the gutter needs repair. The end cap is designed to keep water from falling into the gutter. It also helps prevent water from flowing over the top of the gutter cover. However, if water pools behind the cover, it can leak.
Another simple gutter repair is to re-pitch the gutter. During re-pitching, you can add a slope to each section of the gutter. If the gutter is too high, the water may end up leaking down through the top of the shingles. This can cause water damage to your roof and shingles.
If you have a wood gutter, you may want to consider replacing it with a metal or PVC gutter. These types of gutters are much stronger and last longer than wood. However, they can suffer from rot, pest infestations, and moss growth.