How Do You Fix A Cracked Gutter?

As a homeowner, you know how important it is to keep your gutters in good condition. Cracked gutters can result in all sorts of expensive problems, like water damage to your home’s foundation, siding, and landscaping. 

But the good news is repairing cracked gutters doesn’t have to be a frustrating task. With the right tools and a little bit of know-how, you can get your gutters back in top shape in no time.

In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about cracked gutter repair, from identifying the problem to choosing the right sealant and getting the job done. By the end, you’ll have the confidence and skills to tackle this important home maintenance task yourself.

What Are The Common Causes of Cracked Gutters In Your Home?

Gutters play a very important role in protecting your home and its foundation from water damage. They’re designed to collect rainwater and channel it away from your foundation, siding, and surroundings. But over time, gutters can become cracked and compromised, leading to all sorts of problems. 

Below are some of the common reasons for cracks in your home’s gutters. Knowing what causes them is an important part of knowing how to fix them!

1. Age, Wear, and Tear: Gutters are constantly exposed to the outdoor elements, and over time, the materials can degrade and become more prone to cracks and leaks.

2. Extreme Weather: Heavy rain, hail, and even strong winds can all take a toll on your gutters, causing them to crack and bend.

3. Lack of Maintenance: If you don’t regularly clean and inspect your gutters, debris can build up and put extra stress on the system, leading to cracks and other issues.

Regardless of the cause, cracked gutters need to be addressed as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your home. Ignoring the problem could lead to water damage, mold growth, and even foundation issues.

What Are The Materials Required To Fix a Cracked Gutter?

You will need to grab the right tools and materials to fix a cracked gutter. Here is what you need:

1. Ladder: You’ll need a sturdy ladder to safely access your gutters.

2. Gloves: Protect your hands from debris and sharp edges with a good pair of work gloves.

3. Scrub brush or wire brush: Use this to clean the area around the crack and remove any rust or corrosion.

4. Gutter sealant: Look for a flexible, waterproof sealant specifically designed for repairing cracks and leaks in gutters.

5. Putty knife or caulking gun: You’ll need a tool to apply the sealant evenly and smoothly.

6. Rags or towels: Have some on hand to wipe up any excess sealant.

Once you have everything you need, it’s time to get started. Begin by carefully inspecting your gutters to identify the location and extent of the crack or damage. Make a note of the problem areas so you can focus your efforts where they’re needed most.

How To Fix A Cracked Gutter

Now that you have the tools and materials ready, it’s time to start the repair process. Here are the steps to follow:

#1 Prepare the Damaged Area 

Before starting with the process of cracked gutter repair, you’ll need to locate the source of your leak. Most commonly, you’ll find these troublesome spots along seams and end caps. 

Once you’ve found the problem area, put on gloves and thoroughly clean it using a wire brush and water. After the surface has completely dried, give it a gentle scrub with an abrasive pad, this creates a slightly rough texture that helps the repair materials stick better.

#2 Apply the Repair Material

When it comes to fixing cracked gutters, the size of the damage determines your approach. For tiny holes, simply apply roofing cement directly over them, ensuring they’re completely filled. 

However, if you’re dealing with larger cracks, you may need to replace entire sections of your gutter system depending on whether you have a sectional or seamless gutter.  

#3 Checking and Fixing the Downspout 

While you’re focused on gutter repair, it’s smart to inspect your downspouts too. Time and gravity can cause joints to separate or become loose. If you spot any issues, start by removing the hardware at the joints. 

You might need to take apart nearby sections to access the problem area properly. When looking for how to seal cracks in gutters and downspouts, pay special attention to the elbows and outlets.

#4 Cleaning and Reassembling

For a lasting repair, clean all joint surfaces thoroughly with a wire brush to remove any old caulk or sealant for cracked gutters. Once everything’s clean, apply a fresh bead of silicone caulk to one of the joining parts. Then, carefully reassemble everything, making sure to secure all fasteners and connectors properly.

#5 Additional Gutter Maintenance

While you’re working on cracked gutters, keep an eye out for other potential issues. Sagging sections are particularly important to address, as they can cause water to pool and overflow onto the roof’s surface. A properly functioning gutter system should have a slight downward slope, about a quarter inch for every 10 feet, leading toward the downspout. If you notice any sagging areas during your gutter repair work, you might need to replace or adjust the supporting hangers.

⭐BONUS

Some Popular Sealants To Repair Cracked Gutters In 2024

Here are some of the best-rated sealants to fix cracked gutters in 2024:

👉 SB 415 – Gutter Sealant

👉 Geocel 2320 Terpolymer Gutter and Narrow Seam Sealant

👉 Liquid Rubber Waterproof Sealant

👉 Amerimax SeamerMate Gutter Sealant

👉 Gorilla Waterproof Patch & Seal Tape

Also Read: 4 Best Gutter Sealants Of 2024 (Cost & Reviews)

We Are Here To Serve You With Top Quality Rain Gutter Services In La Crosse, WI

If you are uncomfortable repairing cracked gutters or want to replace the existing gutter system completely, our team is just a call away. At Kickapoo Roofing, we provide professional gutter installation in La Crosse, and the nearby areas of Wisconsin. We are one of the most trusted roofers and home contractors in our state. 

From small repairs to complete gutter replacements, our skilled team handles every job with care and attention to detail. We know that damaged gutters can cause serious problems for your home, which is why we work quickly and efficiently to fix any issues. 

Our friendly staff will guide you through the process and help you choose the best solution for your home. We take pride in keeping Wisconsin homes safe and well-maintained with quality gutter systems. 
Give us a call today at (608) 352-8688 and experience the peace of mind that comes with professional gutter services from a local company you can trust.