How to Fix a Gutter Leak

Knowing what's causing the leak in your gutters can change your entire game plan. For instance, if your gutters are leaking because of a clog of messy leaves and debris, simply removing that debris could be all that's needed to fix the problem. On the other hand, if the source of the leak is a small hole, you'll need to patch it. Likewise, a bent, cracked gutter may need replacing entirely. 

To gain a better idea of how you're going to tackle the leak, your next step is to clean the area. Eliminating debris will free up the space, reveal any larger structural issues, and prepare the space for reparation work. 

Before cleaning the area, first put on your gloves and safety glasses. The last thing you’ll want is to get debris in your eye or scratch up your hands. Remove larger debris like rocks, leaves, and dirt using a gutter scoop. Then, scrub the area down with a wire brush. Rinse and repeat until the area is clean.

To ensure there are no remaining dirt particles, which can prevent the plastic roofing cement from properly adhering to the gutters, go over the area with an abrasive pad. This effectively removes any remaining debris while also giving traction to the surface to help it adhere.

With your gutter surface properly cleaned and prepared, you can now apply the roof cement. The easiest way to apply the cement is by using a caulking gun; however, you can apply it manually without one using the applicator. Apply the cement using a steady amount of pressure to help the material seep into the hole or joint.

Larger holes will need additional materials to repair. You'll need a piece of flashing and tin snips to customize the amount of flashing you'll need for this gutter fix. Be sure to choose the same type of flashing material as your gutters. Follow the same steps as you would for a smaller hole—filling the hole with roofing cement. Then, fit the flashing flush with the gutter, directly into the cement.

For both gutter repair methods, you'll want to feather the cement so that it is smooth. That way, water will flow correctly through the gutters.

While you're at it, now is a great time to inspect the downspouts to make sure that they’re in good shape. Clean the downspout with water and a wire brush. Once clean, look at the joints of the downspout closely for signs of holes. Repair holes using the same method you did for the other sections of your gutter. 

If you have vinyl or PVC gutters, you may also need to replace the gaskets, which hold the gutters together.

For leak-proof properties, you can also apply silicone caulk to freshly repaired joints, cracks, and holes. Apply the silicone caulk as you applied the roofing cement—with a caulking gun or applicator tube and a steady hand. Simply allow the caulk to dry and then call it a day. 

Your leaky gutter is fixed, but that doesn't mean that there aren't other issues—especially if there are signs you need new gutters. You may need to replace your gutters entirely if you see any of the following signs while inspecting your gutters:

• Large cracks or splits

• Water damage marks

• Rust

• Sagging gutters

• Gutters pulling away and separating from the roof 

• Pooling water

• Structural damage to your home 

If everything looks well, all that's left is to create a gutter maintenance plan to help keep your gutters clean, all while catching signs of gutter repair issues as soon as they arise. Part of your maintenance strategy includes inspecting your gutters, cleaning them, repairing gutters, and replacing sections as needed. Generally speaking, how often to clean your gutters should fall around once or twice a year.