The first step in repairing a rusting eavestrough is to ascertain if it should be replaced instead. If there are too many rust spots or places where there are leaks, then gutter repair is probably a short-term solution at best and that particular section should be replaced now rather than later. However, if the rust spots are small and the number of leaks is limited to a handful, the gutters can be mended in such a way as to extend their life span for several more years.
For gutter repair of rusting gutters:
- Remove debris from the gutters and scrub away any residual grime
- Scrape off the rust with a stiff-bristle wire brush or a piece of steel wool.
- Make sure you remove as much of the rust as possible.
- Wipe or rinse away any residue. You want the area to be absolutely clean.
- Use polyurethane sealant to caulk the bottom of the gutters.
- Cover the section in need of repair with strips of heavy aluminum foil – not the kind for cooking, but rather the aluminum sheet metal used for industrial purposes.
- Apply the polyurethane caulking to the back of each strip.
- The pieces should be cut so that they fit tightly and smoothly inside the gutter. Press the foil exactly into place using a dry cloth.
- If two pieces of foil need to be joined to create the desired length, ensure that the overlap is placed in the direction of the water flow. Then cement the edges securely together with polyurethane sealant. This will prevent water from entering the seam.
- While polyurethane adhesive can be used in place of polyurethane sealant, the adhesive tends to become rigid over time. Polyurethane sealant will remain flexible, allowing metal gutters to expand and contract without damage to the eavestrough.
