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.
How to seal a leaking gutter like a professional.
Be liberal when applying the sealant directly onto the seam that leaks.
Let dry and repeat until all holes are filled.
Add any necessary fasteners or connectors.
You don t want to cause a restriction.
Take an abrasive pad or wire brush and scrub the debris away from the leaky area.
Better to get it right than to have it leak again.
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.
Remember this is the inside of a gutter no one looks here.
Here is how to properly seal any type of gutter miter.
Using a gentle sweeping motion cover the entire area with flex seal.
Squeeze a bead of sealer along the seam joint and then smooth the sealer to allow easy flow of water through the gutter.
See below for a shopping list and tools subscribe to this old house.
However more often then not weeks or even days later the leak returns to the befuddlement of the home owner.
Prepare by cleaning drying and taping off area.
Tips for best results before you do anything make sure your gutter is clean.
Use a little water to spread it out nicely.
Identify the leaking seam.
Apply a bead of silicone caulk to one of the parts at the joint area then reassemble the gutter system.
Clean any caulk or adhesive from both parts of the joint using a stiff wire brush.
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.
One of the most common repairs we complete out in the field is to seal leaky gutters.
If there is a gap in the joint you should use your cardboard or plastic spreader to force sealer into the joint.
Clear all debris out of the gutter miter.
Replace the rubber gaskets on vinyl or pvc gutters.
How to flex seal your gutter.
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.
