How to Repair a Leaking Gutter: Complete DIY & Professional Guide

A leaking gutter might seem like a small issue, but left untreated, it can lead to serious water damage to your roof, walls, and foundation. The good news? Whether you’re a hands-on DIY homeowner or you’d rather call in the experts, fixing a gutter leak can be straightforward. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify the problem, repair it step-by-step, and keep your gutter system working perfectly all year round.

1. Find the Source of the Leak

Before you start fixing, you need to diagnose the problem. Running straight to the sealant without understanding the cause can waste your time and money.

• Clogs & Debris: Leaves, twigs, and dirt can cause overflow, making it look like you have a leak.
• Rust & Corrosion: Particularly in steel gutters, these weaken the metal and create holes.
• Joint Failures: The seams where two gutter sections meet can lose their sealant over time.
• Loose or Sagging Gutters: Improper slope prevents water from draining to the downspout.
• Cracks from Impact: Falling branches or ladder mishandling can dent or tear the gutter

Pro Tip: On a dry day, run water from a garden hose into the gutter. Watch closely to see where it escapes. Mark problem spots with painter’s tape.

2. DIY Fixes for Common Gutter Problems

Cleaning Out Blockages

• Put on gloves and scoop out leaves and debris.
• Flush the system with a hose to check water flow.
• If you see slow drainage, check the downspout for clogs
• Consider installing gutter guards to reduce future clogs.

Sealing Small Holes or Cracks

• Materials Needed: Wire brush, PVC roofing cement, putty knife, gloves.
• Scrub away rust or debris around the hole.
• Apply PVC roofing cement over the area and spread evenly.
• Let dry completely before testing.

Patching Larger Holes

• Cut a piece of metal flashing slightly larger than the hole.
• Apply roofing cement over the damaged area.
• Press the flashing into place and smooth the edges with more cement.
• Smooth out with a putty knife for a watertight seal

Fixing Leaking Joints or Seams

• Remove any old, failing sealant.
• Dry the area thoroughly.
• Apply a high-quality, flexible gutter sealant to both sides of the joint.
• Press the joint together and hold for a few seconds to secure

Re-Sloping and Securing Gutters

• Gutters should slope about 6 mm per 3 metres (¼ inch per 10 feet) toward the downspout.
• If water is pooling, reposition hangers or brackets.
• Add new brackets every 60 cm (2 feet) for extra support.
• Seal any old screw holes to prevent water ingress.

When to Call a Professional

While DIY repairs can be effective, you should consider calling a licensed plumber or gutter specialist if:

• The damage is widespread.
• You have multiple leaks in hard-to-reach areas.
• The gutters are rusted through and need replacing.
• You’re not comfortable working at height.

SPS Roofing offers fast, reliable gutter repairs across Sydney, ensuring your home is protected from costly water damage.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Regular preventative maintenance is the secret to keeping your gutters leak-free for decades. By taking a proactive approach, you can avoid emergency repairs and expensive replacements.

Why Maintenance Matters:

• Prevents blockages that cause overflow and water damage.
• Reduces rust and corrosion on metal gutters.
• Keeps slope alignment correct for optimal drainage.
• Extends gutter lifespan by 5–10 years.

Best Practices:

• Seasonal Cleaning: At least twice a year—spring and autumn.
• After Storm Checks: Look for loosened hangers, cracks, and debris.
• Gutter Guards: Reduce clogging and maintenance needs.
• Paint or Seal Metal Gutters: Helps slow corrosion.

Key Takeaways

A leaking gutter is not something you should ignore. Quick action can save you from costly repairs to your roof, walls, and foundation. Whether you tackle the job yourself or hire a pro, the goal is the same: keep water moving away from your home.

If you want a long-lasting, worry-free repair, contact SPS Roofing. Our experienced team will assess the damage, recommend the best fix, and ensure your gutters are leak-free in no time.