DIY Gutter Solutions: Simple Fixes to Keep Your Home Safe
Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage by channeling roof rainwater away from your foundation. However, when gutters are damaged or improperly maintained, they can lead to more harm than good. According to Noah Lantz, director of the Rain Gutter Association and owner of Gutter Hunks based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, ‘Damaged gutters can be worse than no gutters at all.’
Understanding the Importance of Gutters
Without properly functioning gutters, rainwater tends to be distributed evenly along the roofline. Conversely, malfunctioning gutters can dump excessive water in one spot around your home, causing significant erosion and potential structural damage. Lantz cautions homeowners to be mindful of their gutter systems and offers several easy DIY fixes to prevent problems before they escalate.
However, he also advises caution when performing repairs, especially at significant heights. “If you’re dealing with a significant height, then it makes a lot of sense to just call someone to do it, even if it’s one story,” Lantz emphasizes. He notes that most ladder injuries occur when working at less than six feet high, highlighting the importance of practicing proper ladder safety and enlisting a helper when necessary.
Easy DIY Gutter Fixes
Here are some straightforward gutter fixes you can undertake to help maintain their effectiveness:
1. Clean Your Gutters
Cleaning your gutters is an easy yet crucial task that should be done about once a year. Lantz recommends using a ladder, a scoop or spatula, a garden hose, and possibly a bucket. Don’t forget to clean the downspouts as well. ‘If you just clean your gutters, the downspouts might still be clogged,’ he points out, emphasizing the importance of ensuring water can flow freely through the entire system.
2. Hinge the Downspout
To facilitate easier lawn care, consider adding a hinged downspout. Priced between $10 and $25, this simple addition allows the downspout to fold up when mowing. Installation involves cutting the downspout and attaching the hinge according to the provided instructions.
3. Fix Leaks
Leaks can severely jeopardize your gutter system by allowing water to drip where it shouldn’t. For repairs, Lantz recommends using gutter sealant, specifically Geocel 2320, available at most hardware stores. After locating the leak, you will need to scrape away the old sealant, dry the area, and apply the new sealant.
4. Replace Gutter Hangers
If your gutters appear loose or saggy, they may need new hangers. Most modern gutters are attached with hidden hangers that can easily be replaced. In contrast, older “spike and ferrule” systems are more challenging to fix and may warrant a complete gutter replacement if they show signs of severe wear.
5. Stop Overflow at Valleys
Roof valleys can channel excess rainwater directly onto gutters, leading to overflow. To mitigate this, Lantz suggests mitered corner pieces—especially “extreme miters”—which can handle more water flow, or adding splash guards to help direct water.
6. Add a Downspout
If you’re experiencing overflow or rusting gutters, adding an additional downspout may provide a solution. This involves drilling a hole and adding a drop outlet to allow water to flow directly to the ground.
7. Secure a Downspout
Ensure your new downspout is properly secured to your home with downspout straps. This helps add stability and can improve the aesthetic appearance of your gutter system.
8. Stop Water From Getting Behind Gutters
A drip edge installed at your roof’s edge can help ensure water is channeled correctly into your gutters. If your gutter is improperly aligned, you may need to reinstall it or add flashing to redirect water.
9. Repair the Gutter With a Slip Joint
For small damages, you can use slip joints to join new sections of gutter. However, Lantz warns that this can create noticeable seams, which are often prone to leaks. In most cases, replacing the entire run of gutter is recommended to avoid future issues.
About the Expert
Noah Lantz is a recognized authority in the gutter industry, serving as the director of the Rain Gutter Association, which establishes training and standards for gutter installation, and is the owner of Gutter Hunks, a prominent service company in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
By following these tips and taking proactive steps, homeowners can maintain their gutters and prevent potential water damage, safeguarding their homes for years to come.
For a free quote, visit www.raintechgutters.com or call us at +1 (407) 276-1252.