4 Common Causes of Gutter Damage

While gutters can get damaged in lots of ways, there are a few common causes that you should know about. This can help you better prepare to address them with the proper gutter repairs.

Extreme Weather

The most common cause of gutter repair is extreme weather. Heavy rains can flood your gutters, hail can break and dent the material, and winds may detach your gutters.

Trees & Leaf Debris

Trees near your property can also cause damage. Branches can fall and damage your gutters, while leaves can cause clogs and pooling water. Trim your trees regularly.

Age

Age is a cause of damage that you can’t avoid. But you can delay its effects with regular repairs and maintenance.

Humidity & Mold

Moisture and mold is also a common problem, especially in wetter areas. You can remove mold with a water and vinegar mixture applied when you clean your gutters.

Gutter Repair Services

Storm Guard provides comprehensive gutter repair services in Columbus, designed to fulfill every homeowner's needs.

Emergency Gutter Repairs

Heavy storms can leave gutters sagging, leaking, or even detached, creating the perfect conditions for water damage and pest intrusion. Our team responds quickly to assess the damage and restore your existing system before it worsens.

schedule a free inspection

Downspout Repair and Replacement

Downspouts are crucial in directing rainwater away from your home’s foundation. Our team offers expert residential gutter repair in Columbus, including drain repair, resealing joints, replacing damaged sections, and installing new downspouts to ensure better drainage.

schedule a free inspection

Gutter Realignment and Slope Correction

If your existing gutters aren’t draining properly, they may be misaligned or sloped incorrectly. Storm Guard performs careful inspections and slope corrections to ensure smooth, efficient water flow—no more puddles, clogs, or overflows.

schedule a free inspection

Common Gutter Repair Problems & Solutions

If your property has gutters, then chances are that sooner or later you will come across some of these common repair problems. To know what to do when that happens, learn more about them and how you can fix them.

Sagging Gutter

A sagging gutter happens when standing water backs up, which then causes the gutter to loosen. For a temporary fix, wedge shims between the back of the gutter and the fascia board and then nail them into place. Long term, you may need to remove the whole gutter and rebuild the fascia.

Loose Downspouts

The downspout is where the water from the gutter drains away from your house. A loose downspout can cause water leaks and pooling near your foundation. A loose downspout can be fixed with screws and gutter sealant.

Leaky Gutters

Most gutters come in sections, meaning there are areas where leaks form. Even seamless gutters can have leaking from the end caps from rust or damage. End caps and the seams can be fixed with gutter sealant. If you have holes or cracks, you can use tin snips to cut a patch from flashing and then cement it in place using gutter sealant.

Clogs

Clogs impede the water flow in your gutters and cause standing water. It can lead to sagging gutters and leaks. Gutter clogs are made of leaves and debris, which can be removed with gloves. If the clog is inside a downspout, you can use your garden hose on high or a pressure washer to remove it.

Leaking Gutter Caps

If water is dropping out of the ends of your gutters, then you have a problem with your gutter caps. Using a water brush, you can scrub any debris from around the seal and then caulk it.

Correct the Slope

The slope of your gutter is critical for proper function. If your water is not draining, then you may have a slope problem. Remove the gutter and any brackets, and then re-install the gutter so that the slope is about 1/4 inch slope over 10 horizontal feet.

Gutter Styles & Materials

Did you know that the style of gutter you have on your home is extremely important? And it’s not just a matter of style preference. The weather your property withstands and the style of roof it has should both dictate what kind of gutters you install. There are multiple types of gutter styles and materials to choose from.

Aluminum Gutters

If you have a tight budget, aluminum is the way to go. It's the most popular gutter material for its affordable, durable, and weather-resistant properties. With a durable coating, it outlasts steel gutters and offers long-lasting protection—all without breaking the bank.

Vinyl Gutters

Vinyl offers many benefits for gutting systems. It's budget-friendly, easy to install, requires minimal upkeep, lightweight, rust-resistant, and has extensive styling options. However, it's not as durable as many of its counterparts, so it's crucial to consider all factors and choose only quality sources.

Steel Gutters

Steel gutters are designed for homes in regions experiencing severe weather. They don't warp or crack easily, resist rust and corrosion, are eco-friendly, and can be customized for aesthetic purposes. However, this material may require more upkeep than the others, so regular maintenance is essential.

Copper Gutters

Are you looking for a one-time, lifetime gutter solution? Copper gutters are a smart investment, lasting up to 80 years with professional installation and minimal maintenance. Their timeless beauty also significantly boosts your property’s value.

Zinc Gutters

Zinc has a unique feature that enhances its longevity: it forms a protective carbonate layer (also called patina) through weathering, which provides anti-corrosive properties. While zinc is pricier than aluminum and vinyl, it is more cost-effective than copper and has low maintenance, making it a premium choice for gutter systems.

Wood Gutters

Homeowners often favor wood for its rustic, old-fashioned charm, making it a traditional choice for historic or architectural homes. With proper installation, regular maintenance, and higher investment, wood gutters can provide aesthetic appeal and durable performance for years.

Galvalume Gutters

Looking for a modern gutter solution that blends aluminum and zinc? Consider galvalume gutters. Their mixed coating reflects heat and offers strong protection against corrosion, helping maintain a comfortable home temperature. However, installation can be costly and complex, so professional help is recommended.

Get Trusted Gutter Repair in Columbus, OH

Timely, professional gutter repair in Columbus protects your home from foundation issues, roof leaks, and costly water damage. As a trusted gutter repair company in Columbus, Storm Guard combines expert service with quality materials for lasting results.

Schedule your free inspection today and let us keep your home safe and sound.

FAQs

Learn more about our most frequently asked questions

Use tin snips to cut a section that is 4 inches longer than the damaged section. Clean the cut ends with a wire brush so the sealant sticks. Caulk the ends, center the patch and then press into the caulk.

The industry average for labor ranges between $4 and $30 per linear foot. So an average job will cost between $1,600 and $2,175.

If the damage is small, gutters can just be repaired. But, if there are issues with the fascia or major sagging then the gutters may need to be replaced.

The most reliable gutter sealer is a liquid rubber waterproof sealant.

Your gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year, in the fall and the spring. Be sure to clean your gutters after major storms as well.

Gutter Repair in Columbus, OH

4 Common Causes of Gutter Damage

Gutter Repair Services

Emergency Gutter Repairs

Downspout Repair and Replacement

Gutter Realignment and Slope Correction

Common Gutter Repair Problems & Solutions

Gutter Styles & Materials

Aluminum Gutters

Vinyl Gutters

Steel Gutters

Copper Gutters

Zinc Gutters

Wood Gutters

Galvalume Gutters

Get Trusted Gutter Repair in Columbus, OH

FAQs

How do you repair a section of gutter?

How much does it cost to repair all gutters?

Should gutters be repaired or replaced?

What is the best gutter sealer?

How often should gutters be cleaned?