Sealing a Leaking Galvanized Gutter

The galvanized coating protecting a steel gutter will eventually deteriorate and allow rust to form. The rust will begin to eat through the steel, creating holes that allow water to leak out of the gutter. Water leaks reduce the ability of a gutter to direct water away from walkways, house entrances and foundations. Correctly repairing the galvanized steel will reduce the amount of damage to the area under the gutter while stopping leaks from enlarging the hole.

Ladder
Paint scraper
Rag
Wire brush
Aerosol rust converter
Tape measure
Aluminum flashing
Utility knife
Roof cement
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Set up a ladder next to the galvanized gutter leak.
- 2
  Push a paint scraper over the leaking area. Wipe the scraper blade with a rag when it is covered with debris. Remove small debris and loose rust from the gutter by running a wire brush over the leak.
- 3
  Spray an aerosol rust converter over the cleaned area. Allow the rust converter to dry for 30 to 60 minutes.
- 4
  Measure the bottom width of the gutter. Cut a piece of aluminum flashing to the measured width with a utility knife. Cut the flashing to a length at least four inches larger than the leaking area or hole.
- 5
  Apply a 1/8-inch-thick layer of roof cement to the cleaned area of the gutter with a paintbrush. Make sure the cement extends at least six inches past each side of the leak. Set the cut piece of aluminum inside the coated section of gutter. Push the flashing into the cement with the blade of the paint scraper.
- 6
  Apply a second 1/8-inch layer of roof cement on top of the aluminum flashing. Make sure the second layer of cement extends one inch past the edges of the aluminum flashing.

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