A leaky gutter is not doing its job, plain and simple. With some gutter systems,
you can just replace the offending section and be done with it. In the case of
seamless gutters, you have cut the sections to fit the eaves of your house
continuously, and you'll want to avoid having to replace an entire section. This
guide will give you a few tips for repairing the leaks and holes in your
seamless gutters.
The first thing to do is locate where the problem is. Often,
you'll find that leaks are located at the downspouts or the seamers at the
corners of the gutters. If you aren't sure where the problem is, use a hose to
run water through the system and identify where the leaks are.
Small
leaks can be taken care of with some roofing cement or silicone caulk. Be sure
to clean the area with some water and a wire brush. Allow it to dry completely
before applying the cement or caulk and letting it set.
Larger holes
(bigger than a nail hole) can be patched with some of the caulk or cement and a
piece of sheet metal for flashing. If possible, use some of the leftover
material the gutters are made of. Use tin snips to cut the patch slightly larger
than the area of the hole. Bend it to fit in the gutter over the problem area.
Use silicone caulk around the hole and feather it out, then set the patch onto
the prepared area. Allow it to set.
If, after allowing enough time under
dry circumstances for the plug or the patch to set, you are still having
problems, you may need to replace that section of your gutter.
Fortunately, repairing seamless gutters is really very easy, unless you
have to replace a whole section. Once you've done this little bit of
maintenance, you can rest easy knowing your house and foundation are protected
from downpours.