Gutter leaking at seams or corners

Symptoms

• Water dripping from a specific joint rather than overflowing generally
• Visible gap or crack at a corner or seam
• Staining on siding below a particular seam

Likely causes

• CommonDried-out or failed gutter sealantSealant at seams shrinks and cracks with age and temperature swings.
• PossibleSeam slightly separated from expansion and contractionMetal gutters expand and contract with temperature, which can widen a seam over years.
• Less commonCorroded metal at the seamRust can eat through a seam in old steel gutters.

What to do

1. Clean and dry the leaking seam thoroughly, since sealant won't stick well to dirt or moisture.
2. Remove any old, cracked sealant with a putty knife or wire brush.
3. Apply a gutter-specific sealant along the inside of the seam, smoothing it into the joint.
4. Let it cure fully per the product's instructions before testing with water.
5. Test with a garden hose and check the seam from below for any remaining drip.
6. Apply a second bead if needed, and reseal other visible seams while you're up there as preventive maintenance.
7. Replace a badly corroded section rather than resealing it if rust has eaten through the metal.

Tools and parts

• Ladder
• Putty knife or wire brush
• Caulking gun

When to call a pro

Call a gutter contractor if multiple seams are failing or a section is badly corroded.

Safety