Can You Repair Gutters Yourself?
Yes, it is possible to repair gutters without hiring a gutter professional. Here are some of the best tips that we use to repair residential and commercial gutters.
Inspect the gutters
Inspect the gutters and downspouts to determine where exactly the damage is. Look for any cracks, holes, or rust spots as well as anything that may look like it could possibly break in the future.
You really need to go over them witha fine tooth comb as there are many mistakes that can be made if you do not look over them properly.
Gather necessary tools and materials
You’ll need a ladder, work gloves, safety glasses, a scraper, a wire brush, a sealant, a putty knife, a saw, and replacement gutter parts. Ensure that the parts that you use are high quality and Australian made as they will last much longer and future proof your gutters.
Clean the gutters
Remove any dirt, leaves, or other materials from the gutters using a scraper or a garden hose. It might also be a good idea to peel off any flaky paint that may be in the way to.
Fix any leaks
For small leaks or holes in the gutter system, apply a gutter sealant or silicone caulk to the affected. Smooth the sealant with a putty knife and let it dry. It will usually be dry withing afew hours but if you want to stay safe, you can leave the putty to dry overnight.
Replace any damaged parts
If the damage is severe or there are big holes, you may need to replace a section of the gutter using your spare parts. Measure the length needed and use a saw to cut the new section of gutter. Attach the new section using the correct screws and a sealant to ensure that it is 100% sealed.
Reattach loose parts
If the gutters have become loose or have become seprated from the gutter itself, use gutter hangers or brackets to secure them back in the correct location. Make sure that the gutters are on a slight slops towards the downpipe to make sure that the water will flow to the correct area.
Seal the joints
To prevent leaks at the joints, apply a gutter sealant to the inside of the joint and then secure it all down with the correct screws.
Test that the gutters work
Once you have completed the repairs, test the gutters by pouring a bucket full of water into the gutter system and checking for noticable leaks. If there are any leaks still present, you have have to add a bit more sealent where the leaks are coming through.
Conclusion
It’s important to ensure safety when repairing your gutters. Use a strong and sturdy ladder and if you are a bit hesitant about been atop a ladder, you can have someone hold it while you are doing the repairs. If you’re uncomfortable working on a ladder or if the damage is severe, It will be best to call a pofessional gutter repair service to come out and complete the job for you. You will be able to call one and get a quote before you start to know how much it will cost to repair your damaged gutter system.
