Who to Call When Your Gutter Leaks
Having issues with your gutters? Let the pros handle it
Gutters seem simple, but they are architectural marvels when installed properly, meant to redirect water away from your home quickly and efficiently. As with anything exposed to the elements, though, they can get damaged, leading to leaks and other problems. So what kind of professional do you call when you have overflowing gutters? Learn the answer as well as the process of repairing leaky gutters, so you know what to expect.
Benefits of Hiring a Gutter Professional When Your Gutter Is Leaking
Your Safety
If you aren’t used to working on ladders, have a fear of heights, or are just a bit clumsy, it’s always a good idea to call a professional to take care of your leaky gutters. Pros will have the right safety equipment and tools to perform the work with minimal risk, and you won’t have to worry about any broken bones.
Prevent Structural Damage
Severe leaks could cause your gutters to pull away from your house and eventually cause structural damage. A professional will know how to check that your home’s foundation is still in good shape and unaffected by the leak.
Avoid Damaging Gutters Further
One slip-up during a DIY repair could damage your gutters further, creating a much more expensive repair. Hire a professional gutter repair company to diagnose and fix the problem causing the leak and get the job done right the first time.
Know When to Replace Your Gutters
It’s possible that your clogged gutters just need a proper deep cleaning—which a professional gutter repair company can handle—but it could be that your gutters are due to be replaced. A pro will know to check on the extent of the damage and should be able to tell if you just need a repair or cleaning or if it’s time for a gutter replacement. Remember that you want your gutters in good shape and working as they should—broken gutters can cause water damage, foundation issues, soil erosion, and more.
Maintain Your Warranty
Some gutter warranties state that if you try to repair your gutters on your own, your warranty is null and void. Stick to your warranty agreement so your gutters will have the protection they should.
Can I DIY Repairs to My Gutters?
Some people choose to clean and repair their gutters themselves, but ultimately, the job will be done better, quicker, and more thoroughly by a local gutter repair professional. In addition, having a pro handle the task means you can sit back and relax rather than putting yourself in danger on a tall ladder.
The cost of roof repairs depends on the extent of the damage, but on average the price to repair damaged gutters is $370, with an average range of $180 to $560.
Can I Hire a General Contractor to Fix Leaky Gutters?
While a local general contractor can likely complete small gutter repairs, a professional will be able to check for any bigger, underlying issues. In addition, a professional gutter repair company will have specific equipment that is meant to clean, repair, and install gutters—in other words, they’re a one-stop shop. A general contractor might be able to diagnose a larger issue, but then you’d need to call a gutter pro anyway. Finally, many gutter professionals will offer a guarantee on their work as an assurance to you that they are knowledgeable about this type of repair and can back up their word.
How Do Professional Gutter Repair Companies Fix Leaks?
Before attempting any repairs, the pros will make a diagnosis. Usually, a leaky gutter is the result of a faulty joint between gutter sections or a hole in the gutter itself. If that’s the case, they’ll take these steps.
1. Thoroughly clean the gutters, with a special focus on the seams and end caps, as that’s where many common leaks originate.
2. Scrub the leaky area with an abrasive pad; creating a rough texture on the gutters will allow the roofing cement to adhere better.
3. Apply plastic roofing cement over small holes or strips of flashing over larger holes. Plastic roofing cement will need to be applied over the flashing as well.
4. Check that the hardware connecting the downspout is still attached well.
5. Clean the downspout joints of any clogs in case they are causing a leak.
6. Reseal end caps with fresh caulk to keep the gutters watertight.