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DIY Gutter Repairs to Improve Drainage and Water Runoff

There are many things you can do to prevent moisture and flooding in your home, but one of the best things you can do is improve drainage by inspecting and fixing your gutters. Fixing your gutter leaks and other related issues will also prevent water from running down the side of your house, which causes wood rot and foundation erosion.

Gutters last, on average, 25 to 30 years. If your gutters are older than that, you’ll be better off replacing them. Even if your gutters are in good shape, there may be still some things you want to improve, such as splashing, dripping, and leaks. Take a look at these 6 common problems with gutters and the gutter repairs that remedy them.

6 Gutter Fixes:

  • If your gutters aren’t firmly connected to your house, repair loose connections by adding fascia hanger brackets.
  • Source: familyhandyman
      • Use fascia hanger brackets fasten your loose gutters to your house. Ferrules are still commonly used, but fascia hanger brackets are better. If you have ferrules or spikes already, leave them where they are. Just add the fascia hanger brackets by hooking one side underneath the inside gutter lip and screwing the other side into the fascia.
  • If your gutters are leaking anywhere, make sure you use a proper gutter seam sealer. In fact, you’ll want to apply a sealer to every seam you find to prevent leaking.
  • Source: familyhandyman
      • Before you apply the gutter seam sealer, make sure all clogs and debris are cleared first, and that the surface is dry. Seal from the inside of the gutter, not the outside. Other than that, the only thing you should be aware of is that it could get messy. Wear clothing you don’t care about, bring a rag with you, and wear rubber gloves.
  • If water is getting behind your gutters and running down the wall, you may need to install flashing behind your gutters.
  • Source: familyhandyman
    • Flashing should have been installed behind your gutters to begin with, but if not, you’ll want to add some yourself. Consider using a gutter apron, which is just a curved piece of flashing, to prevent splashing and dripping behind your gutters. They are normally sold at hardware stores in 10-foot sections.
    • Installation can get complex and gutter aprons are best installed during new roof and gutter installations, so if you have any doubts, call a professional with the tools and know-how to get the job done right. If you have regular asphalt shingles, not slate or tile, all you have to do is slip the top part of the gutter apron underneath the shingles and attach it with roofing nails or sheet metal screws.
  • If you just cannot stand the loud dripping of water running down your gutters, one solution is attaching a piece of rope and running it through the downspout.

 

  • Source: familyhandyman
      • Gutter sounds can get very loud and annoying. If you are sick of the dripping sound your gutters make, try tying a long piece of rope to the gutter hanger above your downspout and running the rope all the way through to the bottom. This could cause problems, however, if your gutters are already prone to overflowing and clogging. Make sure your gutters are clear of clogs and debris first before attaching the rope. Also, make sure the rope won’t rot away by choosing synthetic materials, such as nylon.
  • If your gutters are overflowing and running over the edge, you probably have a clog or obstruction somewhere. If water is still spilling over, try installing diverters/splash guards on the outside edge of your gutter corners.
  • Source: familyhandyman
      • During heavy rains, water may spill over your gutters. A splash guard will help keep the water in your gutter where it belongs. Simple attach them to the corners and any other areas prone to overflow with a couple sheet metal screws.
  • If water is gathering around your foundation and finding its way into the home, it’s a good idea to extend your downspouts.

Source: familyhandyman

Typical downspout extenders either get in the way or don’t work. We recommend installing your downspout extender on a hinge so you can easily move it out of the way if necessary. You can do this by using a Zip Hinge to connect your downspout extender. Installation is fairly simple: 1) Cut your downspout at a 45-degree angle with a hacksaw or metal shears (be very careful!). 2) Attach the Zip Hinge with 8 screws. 3) Spray paint the Zip Hinge to match your gutter color.
For more information on improving drainage and water runoff around your home, read our blog on 10 Gutter and Downspout Runoff Drainage Tips.

Since the weather is warming up, now’s a great time to accomplish some of your outdoor maintenance tasks, such as cleaning your gutters and making any necessary repairs.

Click here for more Easy DIY Yard Projects.

If you suspect a flooding scenario, turn off the electrical panel, call your insurance company, and never reenter your home until an official has deemed it safe to do so. Click here to read more flood safety tips from the National Flood Insurance Program.

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