We like do-it-yourself projects because they give us a sense of satisfaction and save us money. As DIYers, we have a specific way of doing things, those little tricks that have worked for us through replacing the bathroom sink with a double vanity to installing a new gutter system. But we’ve all been there – finding out that the way we’ve done something in the past might be doing more harm than good. Here are some DIY gutter repair tips to help you avoid some common pitfalls when doing home maintenance this summer.
Use a Ladder Stabilizer
If you start out your gutter cleaning or DIY gutter repair project by leaning your straight ladder up against your aluminum gutters, you risk denting the gutter system. Use a ladder stabilizer, also known as a ladder standoff. This handy attachment allows the ladder to rest against the wall rather than directly on the gutter section. Even a small dent can restrict runoff from making its way to the downspouts, resulting in overflowing gutters, a flooded basement, or mould or wood rot.
Use the Proper Tools
Many homeowners when doing do-it-yourself projects are in the habit of using what ever is handy or nearby.
Don’t have a gutter scoop? Grab a metal garden trowel. A metal scraper will make short work of a stubborn clump of sludgy debris. You use a pressure washer to rinse off the gutter system after cleaning the downspouts or making a repair because it’s quicker. A leaf blower is much faster than manually removing gunk from the gutter channel.
While these tools might have worked for you in the past, as the gutter system ages using the wrong tools can do permanent damage.
A plastic gutter scoop and plastic scrapers designed to fit the gutter channel won’t harm the gutter’s protective finish, preventing early corrosion. A garden hose with a pistol-grip trigger spray nozzle is preferable to a pressure washer since it won’t dent aluminum gutters or crack vinyl gutters. Skip the leaf blower – the debris on top might appear dry but damp leaves, twigs, and wet silt could be splashed up into the soffit, on to the siding, or forced into a downspout elbow where it’s difficult to remove.
Use the Right Materials
When repairing aluminum gutters, copper gutters, or steel gutters, use the right materials. Mismatched gutter materials and metals can trigger a chemical reaction, causing deterioration, broken seals, and structural issues. If flashing for aluminum gutters, for example, needs replacing, the flashing material should be aluminum and not copper or zinc. The same applies to any hardware used to repair any part of the gutter system including brackets and elbows for downspouts.
If you are repairing leaks, ensure you use the proper sealant. The sealant you buy should be made specifically for your zinc, copper, vinyl or aluminum gutters.
Whatever material your gutter system is made of, when cleaning the gutters or making gutter repairs, use non-evasive cleaning solutions, cloths, and brushes to prevent damage to the system’s protective coating or finish.
