Why is my gutter dripping out of one corner?

Why do gutter corners leak more than straight runs?

Gutter corners leak more than straight runs because they're where two lengths meet at an angle. Water arriving from two directions collides and slows down, debris collects, and the joint takes extra strain as the gutter expands and contracts with the temperature. On uPVC systems, the rubber seals inside each corner piece harden and shrink over time.

What are the common causes of a dripping corner?

The common causes of a dripping corner are:

• Perished corner seals: the most frequent cause on uPVC gutters. The corner piece usually needs replacing.
• A blocked outlet nearby: water backs up and spills over the lowest point, which is often the corner.
• Cracked corner piece: older or brittle plastic can split, especially after cold weather or impact.
• Movement at the corner: loose brackets either side let the joint flex and open up.
• Water overshooting: at the corner of a steep roof, fast water can shoot past the gutter edge in heavy rain.
• Rusted joints: on cast iron gutters, the sealant at the corner fails and rust opens a gap.

Why might Paignton homes see more corner leaks?

Paignton homes can see more corner leaks because many roofs here face strong winds and heavy, wind-driven rain coming in off the bay, which pushes extra water into the corners. Debris from trees and gull nesting also tends to collect at corners. On coastal homes, salty air speeds up rust on cast iron joints and metal brackets near the corner.

How is a dripping corner fixed?

A dripping corner is fixed by replacing the corner piece or its seal on uPVC gutters, or by cleaning, resealing and repainting the joint on cast iron. The contractor also checks the brackets either side, clears any nearby outlet, and confirms that water flows away from the corner, not towards it. If the gutter is overshooting, a different gutter profile or a corner guard can help.

Should you fix it yourself?

It's best not to fix it yourself, because corners are often at the hardest-to-reach point of the roof, and sealant on its own rarely lasts. A gutter specialist can replace the part properly and check the rest of the run. See how to stop a dripping gutter.

What should you do next?

Note which corner is dripping and whether it happens during rain or after, then request quotes. Read whether a leaky gutter can be repaired and how much it costs to repair a gutter leak.

Answer the questions on this page to get quotes from up to four local contractors.