It is common for houses and properties in the UK to develop a gap between the roof line and the rain gutters over time. This gap allows water to pour behind the gutter instead of being caught by it, which can lead to rot, mold growth, interior water damage and a variety of structural issues. Properly fixing this issue is therefore very important for homeowners.
Identifying the Gap
The first step is confirming that a gap exists between your roof line and gutters by thoroughly inspecting from different vantage points:
Checking from Ground Level
Stand in various areas around your property and visually examine the roof line. Look for sections where daylight is visible through a gap behind the gutters. Also check downspouts to see if water pours unevenly from a particular section of gutter.
Using a Ladder for a Closer Look
Use a sturdy ladder to safely access areas along the roof line for closer inspection. Bring along a flashlight. Look to see if the shingles have lifted or warped away from the gutter causing a gap, if the gutters have come loose from the fasteners, or if the issue is deteriorating sealant. Measure any gaps.
Assessing the Extent of the Gap
Note the locations and size of each gap. This will help determine the necessary materials and tools for repairs. Take pictures of affected areas for further analysis of where underlying issues may have occurred. Consult local building codes regarding maximum allowed gap size.
Understanding Potential Causes
Typical causes of gaps between roof and gutters include:
- Natural movement of building materials over time
- Improper gutter installation
- Loose gutter fasteners from corrosion
- Warping or cracked shingles near roof edge
- Failing caulk or roofing cement deterioration
Safety Precautions
Proper safety precautions are absolutely vital when working at height repairing roof and gutter gaps.
Importance of Safety Gear
Wear protective eyewear, sturdy gloves to handle materials, slip resistant shoes, and protective headgear. For working at roof height, use a body harness securely tethered to a stable anchor point.
Using a Secure Ladder
Ensure ladders are placed on firm, level ground and secured at the top and bottom. Have an assistant brace the ladder. Never overreach from a ladder causing tipping hazards. Use scaffolding for extensive access needs.
Working in Pairs for Assistance
Having a helper pass materials, brace ladders, monitor footing hazards and check your safety tether makes repairs significantly safer. It also provides assistance if an accident occurs.
Weather Considerations
Avoid repairs in rainy, extremely windy conditions or other hazardous weather which amplifies falling and slipping risks while working at height and handling wet materials. Reschedule work if conditions deteriorate.
Materials and Tools Needed
Gather the necessary materials and tools beforehand to efficiently complete repairs in one session.
List of Required Materials
- Caulk or Roof & Flashing Sealant – Contractor-grade polymer formula preferred
- Aluminium Flashing – Pre-bent or flexible to contour roof pitch
- Corrosion-Resistant Screws – Appropriate length for thickness of gutter backboard
- Damp Wood Filler, Epoxy or Grout – For filling any rotted roof decking
Tools Necessary for the Job
- Sturdy Ladder or Scaffolding – For safe roof access
- Safety Harness with Tether – Attach to stable anchor when at roof height
- Work Gloves & Protective Eyewear – For handling materials
- Caulk Gun, Hammer & Screwdriver – For repairs
- Utility Knife & Tin Snips – For modifications
Repair Methods
There are a few good methods to fix troublesome gaps between roofing shingles and gutters, depending on the specifics of your situation:
Using Sealant
Sealing the gap is the most convenient DIY approach. Consider the following:
Choosing the Right Sealant
For best adherence and flexibility, use a high-grade professional roof and gutter sealant meeting BS ISO 11600 standards instead of basic caulk. Silicone or advanced polymer formulas like polyether or polyurethane work well.
Application Process
Follow product instructions for preparation. Load sealant into caulk gun, then run a generous bead the full length of the gap, about 1-2 inches deep to allow for spreading by tool. Slowly run the smoother tool along bead to spread sealant into a uniform layer without gaps from roof edge to back gutter rim.
Installing Flashing
For larger gaps or when sealant isn’t adequately preventing water intrusion, install metal flashing strips:
Measuring and Cutting
Measure from roof edge to 4 inches past gutter backside. Cut aluminium flashing to this length using tin snips. For pitch, cut one end higher measured up roof line. Repeat for all required sections.
Securing the Flashing
Lay first piece over shingles with the pitched end at roof edge. Hammer in fastener screws every 12 inches along length to secure. Repeat overlapping pieces minimum 2 inches. Caulk seams. The angled flashing will divert flowing water properly into gutters.
Tightening Screws
If inspecting from ladder shows gutter fasteners are loose or corroded allowing entire units to sag, simply tighten and reinforce:
Identifying Loose Screws
Look for perforations at screw points on gutter backboard. Try jostling gutters to check for looseness. Mark each one needing repair.
Properly Tightening Them
Rescrew each loose fastener into the fascia or rafter tails. For security, add new screws in openings without. Use upgraded corrosion-resistant screws. Check that gutters are properly re-secured.
Preventive Measures
Implementing preventive maintenance can help minimize roof and gutter gap recurrence:
Regular Roof and Gutter Maintenance
- Clear roof drains, valleys and gutters thoroughly when choked with leaves or debris to prevent storm water overflow eroding sealing points
- Inspect visible roof areas and full gutter runs semi-annually checking for any loosening, leakage points, or damage needing repair
- Reapply protective sealant beads proactively before gaps reappear
Installing Gutter Guards
Channels allowing water in while shielding gutters from clogging debris are very useful:
Types of Gutter Guards
- Foam inserts – inexpensive; may detach in heavy rain
- Plastic or steel mesh – moderate cost; must be sized correctly
- Surface tension types – complex install; 10-20 year lifespan
Proper Installation
Measure and cut guards to recommended length gaps so water can flow underneath unimpeded. Follow manufacturer instructions for needed slope. Secure tightly with screws to prevent shifting. Check periodically. Reseal any loose edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes gaps between roof and gutters?
- Natural expansion and contraction of building materials over seasons resulting in warped edges or detached gutters over time.
- Inadequate caulk, roof cement or flashing used when initially installed.
- Overflowing gutters eroding connection points not designed for excessive water pressure.
Can I fix the gap without professional help?
Small gaps under 2 inches can likely be addressed following the sealant method steps above. For large gaps jeopardizing water protection, or if the issue returns, you may need a roofing contractor to fully reseat gutters, replace compromised shingles or refresh flashing.
How often should I inspect my roof and gutters?
Roofs and rain gutters should be thoroughly inspected twice per year – spring and fall – to check for any damage from seasonal storms and identify potential gaps before they worsen. Also check after severe storms.
Are there specific sealants recommended for this task?
For best flexibility and durability exposed to outdoor weathering between dissimilar materials like shingles and aluminium gutters, use a high-grade polyether or polyurethane-based roof and flashing sealant meeting BS ISO 11600 standards rather than basic caulk.
What other signs should I look for to identify potential issues?
When annually inspecting roof areas and gutters yourself or hiring a roofer, look for cracked, warped or loose shingles near edges, sagging gutters detached from fascia board, leaks inside attics aligned with exterior gaps, abnormal moss or plant growth signalling overflow issues, and any signs of water damage on interior ceiling surfaces underneath problem areas. Addressing these promptly is key for avoiding major deterioration and necessary roof replacement otherwise covered by homeowners insurance.
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