How to Repair a Hole in a Gutter With Aluminum Cans
The gutters on your home protect the foundation by diverting water way from the foundation when it rains. Over time, falling tree branches and puddling water cause holes to develop in the gutter. Instead of water diverting through the downspouts, much is simply dripping from the hole and next to your foundation. Holes require immediate repair to avoid damaging your home. It is possible to repair a hole in a gutter with aluminum cans to make a quick temporary fix. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Step ladder
- Extension ladder
- Leather gloves
- Putty knife
- Tin snips
- Tape measure
- Aluminum can
- Tube of roofing cement
- Caulking gun
Instructions
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1
Set a step ladder or extension ladder under the gutter so you can reach the hole comfortably. If using an extension ladder, ask a friend to hold the base of the ladder while you are on it and working.
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2
Wear leather work gloves and clean the area around the hole. Remove all debris away from the hole with a putty knife, and scrub around the hole with a stiff wire brush to remove any remaining debris. If the hole has rusty edges, cut the rust away with a pair of tin snips. Dry the area with a towel.
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3
Measure the length and width of the hole with a tape measure. Cut the top and bottom off an aluminum can with the tin snips. Unroll the side of the can, and cut it 1 inch larger than the hole you are covering.
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4
Apply roofing cement liberally around the hole on the inside of the gutter with a caulking gun. Spread the cement with a putty knife so the cement is a few inches wide around the hole.
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5
Press the aluminum can patch over the hole and into the roofing cement. Apply a second layer of roofing cement over the can patch and spread it over onto the gutter. Use the putty knife to spread the cement over the patch.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't use aluminum cans to patch steel gutters. The aluminum will rust quickly and require another patch.
Replace sections that have holes larger than 6 inches.
