23. Repairing Rusted Metal Gutters with Tape
Most gutter leaks start at:
- Rust spots
- Seams stressed by expansion and contraction
If the gutter is basically sound, you can patch it with roof-and-gutter repair tape.
Steps:
- Scrape out old tar/caulk as much as possible.
- Wire-brush to remove rust and give a clean bonding surface.
- If heavily rusted or loaded with old tar, spray on an adhesive primer first.
- Cut tape to length with scissors or a knife.
- Stick one edge at the top of the gutter, then roll it down into curves and corners, pressing firmly.
- Flatten any wrinkles or bubbles.
- Overlap long seams by at least 1 in., end seams by 4 in.
Handle the roof and gutter issues above now and you’ll avoid a lot of “mystery leaks,” moldy insulation, and rotten wood later. Small stains and drips are almost never “nothing” — they’re an early warning. Treat them that way.
