Why Are My Gutters Dripping?

July 26, 2022

A dripping gutter can be a big source of frustration. The main purpose of rain gutters is to keep the rainwater away from a property and its surrounding areas. If it starts leaking, the gutter is obviously not doing its job. Many factors can make a gutter start dripping water when it shouldn't. The important thing is knowing how to identify the issue and get the best Rain Gutter Repair Service, to assist you in finding a long-lasting solution.

Causes of a Dripping Gutter

A gutter's performance is affected by many things, from the installation method to the quality of the materials. Some causes are more common than others (clogs, a worn-down gutter), but you still need to evaluate the problem from all angles to determine the best course of action. If you can't narrow down the cause of the issue, you can always get the assistance of a professional contractor to save some time while finding a solution. For now, let's describe the main causes of a leaky gutter to hopefully help you recognize a problem on time.


Remember: most of these problems can be prevented in advance with proper gutter maintenance, by inspecting the gutter at least every week and cleaning all the debris that finds its way inside.

• Clogs: Leaks are one of the first obvious consequences of a clogged gutter. When you have debris and leaves obstructing the path toward the downspout, the water will eventually start spilling down the sides of the gutter, forming an actual waterfall around your house when the water flow is intense enough.


• Loose fasteners: The gutter fasteners keep the guttering system attached to the fascia board. They need to be properly secured to keep the gutter aligned under the roof at the right angle to catch all the rainwater rolling down. When the screws or hangers start going loose, it causes a myriad of problems, starting with a saggy gutter and ending with water dripping down the holes or behind the gutter itself. Keep in mind that leaving a loose hanger unattended for too long may also cause damage to the fascia.


• Cracks on the gutter: Wear and tear can eventually leave cracks and holes behind. It might be difficult to find these cracks when they're small, but once you identify the placement of a leak, it's important to fix the holes or they will continue to grow, especially if the material has been exposed to the elements for many years. Caulk and waterproof sealant are good ways to cover the cracks on a gutter. If you see new gaps appearing in a short while, installing a new gutter in a sturdier material might be the better option.


• Improper gutter slope: This happens when the gutter isn't properly pitched. The general rule is to have a slope of 1/2 to 1/4 -inch for every ten feet of gutter. If the gutter misses these measurements, either due to a poor installation job or loose fasteners, the water will inevitably drip out of the gutter and straight into your home's foundations.


• A sagging gutter: We mentioned this problem a few points above. A gutter can start sagging due to loose fasteners, but it can also be due to poor stability when the gutter has been installed the wrong way. Whatever the case, the result is the same: the water will drip from the roof to the sides and pool down around your foundations.

It's obviously difficult to recognize a leak in the middle of a storm so, even if the gutter works normally on the surface, try pouring water inside during your regular inspection. This way, you can see for yourself if all the liquid makes it to the downspout without dripping into your property.


The best gutter cleaning service is within your reach. Miami Gutter Cleaning will give you everything you need to keep your gutters in perfect condition for years, from thorough cleaning services to the most durable gutter accessories. You can count on our skilled specialists to do a fantastic job, no matter the type or size of your gutter. Feel free to call (786) 676-8259 or fill out the form at the bottom of this page, and we'll give you all the assistance you need. Miami Gutter Cleaning is your gutter's best ally.