Repairing the seal in a plastic gutter seam will keep the water from pouring into your woodwork.
How to seal vinyl gutters.
For sealing and joining lap seams in aluminum or vinyl gutters and downspouts we recommend a permanently flexible and water resistant sealant.
Step 3 seal or patch holes.
See step 1 for more instructions.
See below for a shopping list and tools subscribe to this old house.
Knowing how to repair plastic gutter seams early on reduces the chance of further damage and possibly a major repair.
If the offending hole is larger than a pinhole it s best to replace the section of gutter all together.
Gutters are normally made of aluminum but some gutters are vinyl and many years ago if you have an old home you may find your gutters are made of galvanized steel.
Sealing gutters and downspouts.
Loctite clear silicone sealant is ideal for sealing and joining lap seams in aluminum or vinyl gutters and downspouts.
It s uncommon to find vinyl gutter systems spring holes but it isn t impossible.
Occasionally gutter seams or joints open producing major leaks.
A high quality silicone caulk can fix small holes.
Depending on the material rain gutters generally last anywhere from a decade to 100 years with vinyl and steel the most popular and affordable gutter materials least durable and copper the.
No matter what the material that makes up your gutter system it is important that at every seam a sealer is applied to prevent leaking.
This old house general contractor tom silva has a fast fix for a dripping rain gutter.
For joining gutters apply a continuous bead along the line of fasteners staying within the overlap.
To use the silicone you will need to clean the area around the hole thoroughly.
Vinyl gutters are inexpensive and easy to use and to install.
It creates a powerful and waterproof protective seal making it perfect for repairing not only gutters but also doorframes windows vents toys appliances gaskets weather stripping and even clothing.
Taking the time to reseal the seams on your vinyl rain gutters could avoid costly repairs in the future.