Common Gutter Issues and How to Fix Them

Most people don’t think about their gutters until the water starts spilling over the sides of the gutter and flowing down the side of the house, creating a mess. By then, you can’t do anything but clean up the water and try to fix the damage.

But what if you could head off those problems before they started? That's what this blog post is for. Read on to learn about some of the most common gutter issues and how you can fix them.

Sagging

If your gutters are sagging or leaning, they're properly not secured to the house. To fix this problem, start by measuring the gutter and cutting hangers to size.

Next, predrill holes into the gutter and screw hangers in place. Be sure to use a level when attaching hangers so that your gutters hang evenly.

Clogs

One of the most common gutter problems is clogs. Gutters can become clogged with leaves, sticks, and other debris. When this happens, water can't flow properly and may start to spill over the sides of the gutter.

To prevent clogs, regularly clean your gutters. You can do this yourself by using a ladder to reach the gutters and remove any debris you see. Or, you can hire a professional to do it for you. The latter may be a better option because professionals have the equipment and experience to do a thorough job.

Holes

Holes can form in gutters for a number of reasons. Sometimes, they're caused by corrosion. Other times, they may be the result of an impact, such as a falling branch. Whatever the cause, you need to repair the holes as soon as possible.

To fix a hole, start by cleaning the area around it. Then, use a patch kit to fill the hole. Be sure to follow the instructions that come with the kit so that you apply the patch correctly. Afterward, check the area around the patch to make sure it's sealed properly.

Downspouts

If water isn't flowing properly through your gutters, the problem may be with your downspouts. Downspouts can become clogged or blocked, preventing water from draining properly. To fix this problem, start by removing any debris that's blocking the downspout.

If that doesn't work, you may need to replace the downspout. To do this, measure the old downspout, and cut a new one to size. Then, attach it to the gutter using screws or hangers. Finally, test it out to make sure it's working properly.

Rust

Gutters are often made of metal, which means they're susceptible to rust. Rust can cause holes and leaks, so it's important to deal with it as soon as you see it.

To remove rust, start by sanding the area around the rust spot. Then, use a wire brush or abrasive pad to remove the rust itself. Once you've removed all the rust, apply primer and paint to the area to protect it from further corrosion.

Spillovers

Spillovers happen when water overflows from the gutters and runs down the side of the house. This can damage your foundation, siding, and landscaping. To prevent spillovers, make sure your gutters are the right size for your roof.

Gutters should be large enough to handle the amount of water that flows off your roof during a rainstorm. If they're too small, they won't be able to hold all the water, and spillovers will occur.

Get Professional Gutter Maintenance Help

Gutters are an important part of your home, but they can be a lot of work to maintain. If you're not up for the task, contact a professional who can help.

At J Taylor Construction, we ensure your gutters are properly installed and maintained. We'll clean them out, repair any damage, and make sure they're the right size for your home. Contact us today to learn more about our gutter maintenance services.