Gutter repair
A drip at the corner or one run bent by a falling limb doesn't always mean new gutters. Plenty of problems can be fixed.
Repair covers the work that keeps an existing gutter system doing its job: resealing joints, adding or replacing hangers, re-pitching a run, swapping a damaged section or reattaching a gutter that's come away from the house. An installer can usually tell in one visit whether a fix will last or whether the system is due for replacement.
What gets repaired most often?
- Leaking corners and end caps. Sealant dries and cracks with age and repeated freezing. Joints can be cleaned and resealed, and bad miters replaced.
- Sagging runs. Usually loose or widely spaced hangers, or the weight of wet leaves and standing water. New hidden hangers into solid wood fix most sags.
- Gutters leaning away from the house. Often rotten fascia behind them. The wood has to be repaired before any fastener will hold.
- Standing water. The run has lost its slope and needs re-hanging.
- Ice and snow damage. Heavy snow sliding off a roof or ice building in a clogged gutter can bend hangers and pull gutters down.
- Downspouts apart at the elbows. Loose straps and joints dump roof water right at the foundation.
A storm knocked my gutter loose. What now?
- Keep everyone clear of a hanging section, including cars in the driveway.
- Stay off the ladder if anything is near power lines.
- Take photos of the damage and any fallen limbs for your insurer.
- Call. An installer can secure or take down the loose piece and quote the repair.
Should I repair or replace?
Repair makes sense when the trouble is limited to a few joints, some hangers or one bent section and the rest of the system is solid. Replacement is usually smarter when leaks keep coming back at many seams, the metal is rusted or cracked, the gutters are too small for the roof, or you're about to add guards and want them on a sound system.
Why does my gutter overflow when it's clean?
Common causes are too few downspouts, a downspout or buried drain clogged lower down, a run sloped the wrong way, or a gutter that's simply too small for the roof above it. Valleys that send two roof planes into one corner are the usual trouble spot. A diverter at the corner, an extra downspout or a larger gutter often solves it.
What affects the cost of a repair?
- What failed. Resealing a corner is quicker than re-hanging a whole side.
- Wood damage. Rotten fascia has to be replaced first.
- Height and access.
- Matching. Older profiles and colors can be hard to find.
We don't quote prices. An installer prices the job after measuring your gutter runs, counting downspouts and seeing how high and steep the roof is, so any number over the phone is a rough guess at best.
Where we connect you with help
Common questions
Will homeowners insurance pay for gutter damage?
Sometimes, when the damage comes from a covered event such as a falling tree or a windstorm. Gradual wear usually isn't covered. Ask your insurer.
Can I fix a leaky seam myself?
Gutter sealant on a clean, dry joint can work as a stopgap. If joints keep failing, the run may need new end caps, new miters or replacement.
Related services
More background: Roanoke Valley gutter guard guide.
Done cleaning gutters off a ladder?
Call and a Roanoke Valley gutter guard installer will come look at your roofline and quote it.