Seamless gutter maintenance is best left to the pros, but there might be instances when you want to do it yourself. Your gutter system serves a critical function, especially if you’re trying to save on resources by gathering rainwater through your roof. Because of this, DIY repair must be done carefully to prevent any damage to the system.
Most problems with seamless gutters, such as cracks or leaks, are quite easy to repair. Here are some common issues with seamless gutters and how you can address them:
Holes
One of the most significant benefits of seamless gutters is, well, the absence of seams. You won’t have to worry about leakage that commonly occurs close to or on the sutures themselves. However, you will have to check for holes and cracks from time to time. Do it regularly, preferably at the start of every season and right after a big storm. This will allow you to detect any potential problem before it even occurs.
If you do see a hole, check for how big it is. A hole smaller than a puncture made by a small nail will need to be tested every so often to make sure it doesn’t worsen. Something bigger would need to be patched. Take a piece of metal flashing and cut a size bigger than the hole. Cover the hole with the metal and seal the patch using either silicone caulk or roof cement.
Blockages
Leaves and other debris can block your seamless gutters, preventing water from passing freely. This is a common occurrence right after a storm, but blockage may accumulate gradually with time, so constant checking is necessary. If not addressed, a blockage can cause stagnant water to pool up in your gutters, which may become a breeding ground for disease-carrying mosquitoes and other insects.
Unfortunately, there is no better way to address the problem than to get your ladder and manually remove leaves and scrape debris with a garden trowel or something similar. Do this from time to time to prevent blockage from becoming a bigger issue. While you’re up on the ladder, check for any cracks and other problems on the gutter.
Special note: Downspout
The downspout connects your gutter to the ground. Making sure it doesn’t have holes, cracks, or blockages will prevent most significant issues. In setting up the downspout, make sure it doesn’t open up on top of a lower roof. This error may lead to the roof having a build-up of water, which can become too heavy and be a cause of leakage.
Seamless gutters are an excellent solution. They are easier to maintain than seamed gutter systems, and they look good on top of that. As a homeowner, it’s best to trust the experts when it comes to repairing and maintaining your seamless gutter system, but it’s possible to do these yourself, especially if nothing major is required. Just make sure that you have the right tools for the job and do it carefully to prevent any damage.
