How To Seal A Leaking Gutter Like A Professional

Using a gentle sweeping motion cover the entire area with flex seal.

How to seal a leaking gutter like a professional.

If the precise source of the leak isn t clear spray the area with a garden hose to identify the crack hole or gap where water is seeping out of the miter. If there is a strong rain you can probably spot the seam that needs repair because the water will be flowing out of it and the ground will be sopping wet below. Clean any caulk or adhesive from both parts of the joint using a stiff wire brush. Identify the leaking seam.

Apply a bead of silicone caulk to one of the parts at the joint area then reassemble the gutter system. Use a little water to spread it out nicely. Take an abrasive pad or wire brush and scrub the debris away from the leaky area. Replace the rubber gaskets on vinyl or pvc gutters.

Tips for best results before you do anything make sure your gutter is clean. Time after time we see the failed efforts of well intentioned diy ers head up the ladder and attempt to silicone and spray their way to success. See below for a shopping list and tools subscribe to this old house. While not a permanent fix you can generally get another season or two out of the gutters as long as the damage isn t extensive by applying a silicone or rubber gutter caulk or sealant.

If there is a gap in the joint you should use your cardboard or plastic spreader to force sealer into the joint. One of the most common repairs we complete out in the field is to seal leaky gutters. However more often then not weeks or even days later the leak returns to the befuddlement of the home owner. How to flex seal your gutter.

Be liberal when applying the sealant directly onto the seam that leaks. This old house general contractor tom silva has a fast fix for a dripping rain gutter. Prepare by cleaning drying and taping off area. Add any necessary fasteners or connectors.

Clear all debris out of the gutter miter. Gutters are a series of pieces of metal or plastic set inside one another much like shingled roofs. You don t want to cause a restriction. Better to get it right than to have it leak again.

Use your fingers and get the sealant right into the seam and up both inside walls of the gutter. Let dry and repeat until all holes are filled.