Leaking Gutter Seams and Corners: How They Are Fixed
Updated
Short answer
Seams, corners and end caps leak when the sealant fails. The joint is cleaned, dried and resealed. HomeGuide lists gutter leak repair at $100 to $225; added to a cleaning, minor resealing is $50 to $150 (Housecall Pro).
Why seams leak
Sealant ages, and metal expands and contracts through hot summers and freezing winters. Debris holding water at a seam speeds it up. Sectional gutters have a seam every 10 feet or so; seamless gutters only at corners and ends, which is why Angi notes seamed gutters clog more easily and have a shorter life span.
How it is fixed
- Clean the joint down to bare metal.
- Let it dry completely.
- Apply gutter sealant inside the joint; tighten or replace rivets or screws.
- Flush to test.
If most seams leak, replacement with seamless gutters may cost less over time. See seamless vs sectional.
Quick answers
Can I just caulk a leaking gutter seam?
Only after cleaning it to bare metal and letting it dry. Sealant over dirt or water fails quickly.
Rather have someone else do it?
Tell us the address, how tall the house is and what you need. A local crew calls back with a price before anything is booked.