How to Fix a Leaking Gutter Joint?

A leaking gutter joint doesn’t drain rainwater properly and can cause damage to your walls and home’s foundation. These joints usually start leaking due to dirt, debris buildup, or exposure to harsh weather. To stop this, it’s important to repair these leaks as soon as you notice them.

We have compiled this guide on how to fix a leaking gutter joint, whether it has plastic or metal material. We’ve also shared some tips to prevent further leaks so your gutters work properly all year.

How to Fix a Leaking Gutter Joint? A Step-by-Step Guide

The process of fixing a leaking gutter joint is not difficult. You can fix it yourself even if you’ve never done any gutter work before. Just follow these steps carefully.

1- Use a Strong Ladder

The first thing you should do is make sure you’re safe. Set up a strong ladder on flat ground, and if possible, have someone hold it while you climb. And, if the ground is uneven, place a wooden board under the ladder to keep it from sinking.

2- Check the Exact Leaking Area

Now, take a look at the gutter joint to find exactly where the leak is. The best time to find it is just after rain, but if that’s not possible, you can test it yourself. Just pour some water into the gutter using a hose and watch where it falls out.

When you see a leaking gutter joint, mark that area with a piece of tape or a marker so you don’t lose track of it while you’re cleaning.

3- Clean the Gutter Joint Area

Now that you know where the leak is, it’s time to clean that area. Start by removing any leaves, dirt, or debris from inside the gutter, especially near the leaking joint. Use your hands with gloves on, and you can also use a wire brush.

After that, take a sponge and clean the inside of the gutter joint using warm water. If the joint is very dirty or has mould, add a little bit of dish soap to the water. Then wipe it with a cloth or let it air dry. It’s very important to let it dry completely because sealant doesn’t work well on wet surfaces.

4- Remove Old Sealant

Next, you have to remove any old sealant or rubber gasket from the leaking gutter joint. Use a scraper or utility knife and gently scrape away the old material. Take your time so you don’t damage the gutter itself.

If the joint has a loose or broken clip or connector, also carefully remove it. Moreover, check for any cracks or damage in the gutter pieces; if they are broken, you have to replace them instead of just sealing.

5- Apply the Gutter Sealant

Now, you can apply the new sealant and fix the joint. But first, you have to choose the right sealant for your gutter material.

• If you have a plastic gutter joint, use a sealant made for plastic guttering.
• For a metal gutter joint, use a waterproof silicone sealant. Because metal gutters leak due to rust or old solder, so it’s better to always use rust-resistant sealant.

Then, apply the sealant along the edge of the joint where the two gutter sections meet. Make sure to cover the entire gap. Then use your finger or a tool to press the sealant into the gap and smooth it out. If your gutter has a joint clip or bracket, slowly press it back into place after sealing.

6- Let the Sealant Dry

Once you’ve applied the sealant, wait for it to dry. Most sealants take 1 to 2 hours to dry completely, but always check the instructions on the sealant tube for exact timing. Do not pour water into the gutter or test it until the sealant is fully dry. Otherwise, the repair might not work.

7- Test the Repair

After the sealant has dried, you can test the joint. Pour some water into the gutter again using a hose. Watch the repaired joint closely to see if any water drips out. If it stays dry, that means you’ve successfully repaired the leaking gutter joint. If you still see a small drip, you may need to dry the area again and add another layer of sealant.

If you’re not confident fixing a leaking gutter joint yourself? RBG Roofing Ltd offers trusted and affordable gutter repair services in the Forest of Dean and surrounding areas. Our experienced team makes sure of long-lasting fixes with safe and clean workmanship.

How to Prevent Gutter Joint Leaking?

Once you’ve repaired a gutter joint leaking, the next smart step is to make sure it doesn’t leak again in the future. Gutter joints often start leaking because of dirt buildup or old sealant. But with just a little bit of regular care, you can avoid all of that. Here are some tips to prevent gutter  leaks:

• First of all, keep your gutters clean. One of the main reasons gutter joints start leaking is that leaves, twigs, and dirt get stuck inside. To prevent this, clean your gutters at least twice a year, once in spring and once in autumn.

• Next, it’s important to inspect the joints from time to time. Even if they aren’t leaking, the sealant inside the joint can wear out due to rain, sun, and cold weather. Try to check the joints every few months or after heavy rain. 

• If your area gets very cold in the winter, watch out for ice buildup in the gutters. This can cause water leaks. You can prevent this by using gutter guards and cleaning the gutters before winter.

• Also, avoid using too much pressure when cleaning with a hose. High-pressure water can loosen the gutter sealant or move the joints slightly out of place. If you want to rinse your gutters, use a gentle and slow stream of water.

• Lastly, consider replacing the sealant every few years. Over time, all sealants break down due to sunlight and weather changes. Reapplying a fresh layer every 3–5 years will help to keep gutters sealed tightly.

Conclusion

Fixing a leaking gutter joint may seem difficult, but with the right steps, it’s a simple DIY process. Just follow these steps carefully and seal your gutter, whether it’s a plastic, metal, or corner joint. But if the damage is too big, we recommend hiring a professional company. You can also hire us. At RBG Roofing, we have an expert team of roofers who provide high-quality roofing services for homes and businesses. If you’d like advice or a free quote, feel free to contact us anytime.

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