How to Treat Rusty Gutters

Rust forms on many metal objects that are exposed to water over an extended period of time. A gutter is just such an item. Once your gutters begin to rust, it is important to treat them immediately. Gutters that are allowed to rust will eventually deteriorate to the point they will have holes. The result could very well be the gutters will need to be replaced. You treat rusty gutters by cleaning, priming and then painting them.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves
• Aluminum foil
• Wire brush
• Steel wool
• Sandpaper
• Rust remover
• Painter's brush
• Detergent
• Metal primer
• Paint

Instructions

1. Remove gutter, if practicable, and put on a pair of gloves to protect your hands.

2. Remove rust from the surface of the gutter with crumpled aluminum foil, a wire brush, steel wool or sandpaper. Scrape off all flakes until surface is clear of rust. The surface should have a shiny and new appearance.

3. Apply a rust remover (or rust stripper) to the gutter with a brush. Allow the rust remover to sink in for at least 15 minutes.

4. Scrub off the rust remover with soapy water. Rinse off the gutter with water, and allow it to dry.

5. Brush an anti-corrosive primer on the gutter as soon as you can. If you wait too long then rust may begin to form again and the surface will get dirty.

6. Allow the gutter to completely dry. Paint the gutter as soon as you can with a paint that is recommended for metal gutters.

References

• Guide to Painting Metal Surfaces
• A Primer on Rust
• How to Get Rid of Rust

Resources

• You Tube
• Hot Tip: Use Aluminum Foil to Remove Rust
• Maintaining Your Gutters