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How to Fix a Leaking Industrial Gutter Joint: Ways to Repair It
A leaky guttering system can cause significant and costly damage to both your industrial roof and the building itself. We look at how to fix a leaking industrial gutter joint, as well as suitable ways to repair it.
What are the Common Causes and Solutions for a Leaking Gutter?
Leaking gutter joints can lead to excessive pooling on areas not designed to withstand large volumes of water. As a result, areas of the roof and walls may be compromised, leading to water leaks and damp conditions inside the building. We have listed several scenarios below, which can cause guttering joints to leak.
Blockages in the Gutter System
Regular inspections of a gutter system are necessary to ensure there are no blockages. Debris can accumulate, especially after a storm or if you have birds roosting on your rooftop. Organic matter, such as moss, lichen and other plant life can grow within a guttering system that has not been cleaned for some time. When a gutter system becomes blocked, rainwater can overspill and run down the side of the building or across lower roof areas.
Rubber Seal is Missing
Whether the gutter was installed without the rubber seal or if it has corroded over time, this missing item can lead to leaks. Guttering needs to be sealed to ensure its integrity. A purpose-designed gutter treatment system will provide resilience and long-term protection.
Wear and Tear Caused By The Weather Over Time
With constant exposure to the elements and the vagaries of the British weather, guttering has to endure a lot of wear and tear. Over time, extreme conditions, such as ice, snow, heavy rain and heatwaves, all take their toll on a guttering system.
Weakness and Deformation Caused By Heat Changes
Hot and cold temperatures have an adverse effect on gutter components. Heat can cause expansion, while icy weather can cause the gutter to contract. This places a strain on the gutter and its protective coating, as well as causing gaps between the seals and joints.
Seal Contains Debris
During temperature changes, dirt and grit can become trapped within the seal, which stops it from working correctly. This is common in colder weather, when the seal contracts, and then in warmer temperatures the seal expands, and the debris is enclosed.
Poorly Installed or Damaged Gutter Fittings
Due to its exposed location along the roofline, gutter systems can be damaged by slipped ladders and equipment. Storms can also cause damage as result of strong winds, heavy rain or snowfall. If the guttering system was poorly installed, it is likely to have weaknesses.
How to Repair a Leaking Gutter Joint?
There are many different ways that a contractor can repair a leaking gutter joint. The components need to be checked and thoroughly cleaned before a treatment can be applied. Depending on the amount of damage, you may need to unclip the entire section of guttering before applying the treatment. Giromax® Guttercoat has been developed to withstand extreme weather conditions, as well as offering outstanding protection. Our moisture-tolerant solution can be applied to damp surfaces and is highly resistant to UV, as well as extreme weather conditions. Using laminar flake, anti-corrosion technology, the elastomeric coating also has breathable vapour properties.
Giromax® Guttercoat can be used on a variety of industrial guttering systems, such as including aluminium, galvanised steel, cast iron, lead, copper, and concrete asbestos. Our proven product will help you prolong the lifespan of your guttering system. If the gutter joint is beyond the point of repair, it will need to be replaced. This involves sourcing and matching the correct replacement gutter joint.
FAQs
What is the best sealant for leaking gutter joint?
If you need to add a gutter joint sealant, then it needs to be strong and flexible to withstand a variety of weather conditions. We recommend Giromax® Sealant, which is applied before you treat the gutter with Giromax® Guttercoat. Ideally, you would replace the gutter joint and then apply a gutter treatment.
How do you fix a leaking corner joint on a gutter?
The type of gutter repair carried out will depend on the problem and what the gutter is made from. The best way to fix a leaking corner joint is to replace the faulty component. First, unclip the gutter from the union, carefully sliding this away. Next, remove the existing gutter union, and then thoroughly clean the gutter ends. You will then be able to install your new gutter joint. Treat and refit the guttering. We advise flushing water along the length of the gutter length to check the leak has been fixed.
Should you use silicone on gutter joints?
We avoid using silicone as it’s prone to bird attacks and deteriorates quickly over time. First, check whether you need to replace the gutter joint or whether you can seal and treat the guttering while in situ. If you need to use a sealant, use Giromax® Sealant. Treat the faulty gutter joint with Giromax® Guttercoat. Our entire product range has been developed using highly resilient polymers.
How much does it cost to fix a leaking gutter joint?
The cost to fix a leaky gutter joint will depend on the type of gutter you have. First, let’s look at the different types of gutter joints. Plastic gutter brackets are usually around £6 each plus VAT. Galvanised steel gutter unions are a little cheaper at around £5 plus VAT. An aluminium box gutter union usually costs just under £7, and a cast iron union is the costliest at just under £10 (both excluding VAT). You will then need to add on labour costs.
If you need technical advice on gutter repair or application or our products, speak to the Giromax team or call 01455 558969 today.
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How to Fix a Leaking Industrial Gutter Joint: Ways to Repair It
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