It is necessary for gutter maintenance to include caulk.If rotted leaves or other organic matter gets caught in the cracks of the rain gutter, it can cause the seams to rust.caulk needs to be replaced every decade or so, but professionally installed gutter should have been caulked already.
Step 1: Remove caulk.
Special caulk removal products are designed to make it easier to remove the caulk, so that you don't have to chip or chisel it.
Step 2: The caulk can be sliced with a blade.
To slice the softened caulk, use a clean blade on a utility knife.The caulk should be freed.
Step 3: The caulk needs to be removed.
Since gutter caulk can be thick, you may need to use needle-nose pliers to grip it.Most of the old caulk should come up.
Step 4: Remove remaining caulk.
Use a small chisel or hook end of a painter's five-in-one tool to rake away any leftover chunks until the area is completely clean.
Step 5: The area should be cleaned.
Use a toothbrush or sponge to scrub it.The area should be scrubbed with a solution made with 1/3 cup of bleach and 1 gallon of water.The area will be cleaned to remove any leaves that may have fallen into the caulk.
Step 6: The area should be dry.
The area should be completely dry before applying new caulk.If rain, other precipitation, or humidity threatens to create a problem, you can dry it out by hand using a clean, dry towel.
Step 7: You can use a caulk.
Silicone caulk is better for integrity in sunlight and extreme temperatures than latex caulk.Silicone caulk works better in gaps that expand and contract, which gutter often do in response to changes in temperature.White caulk can be used if you have white gutter.Clear caulk is the best choice if your gutter is painted in another color.It is possible to get a caulk that is specifically formulated for gutter.They last much longer than non-gutter caulks because they are designed to work in the gutter face.
Step 8: Make the surface rougher.
Rub the edge of the seam with a wire brush.Silicone caulk is better at adhering to a rough surface than it is at a smooth surface.The metal does not need to be jagged, but it does help if it is a little coarse.
Step 9: The caulk tube should be cut at an angle.
The tip should not be cut straight across.It is easier to fit the tube into the seam if the tip is cut at an angle.
Step 10: The caulk tube needs to be put into a caulk gun.
At both ends of the gun, the tube should be securely fitted.
Step 11: The caulk should be applied with a small bead across the seam.
The caulking gun should be pulled at the front of the seam.A small dot of caulk should come from the nozzle as you squeeze.To maintain the same size dot along the entire seam, drag the nozzle down the length of the seam.
Step 12: Use a screwdriver to push the caulk into the joint.
Use the tip of a screwdriver to work the caulk under the joint after you have applied it.You ensure a stronger seal by working it into the joint.
Step 13: Apply more caulk.
Draw a second line of caulk above the first using the same method and amount of pressure.Don't push this line under the joint.
Step 14: Use your finger to smooth the caulk.
To smooth the beaded line, use your finger.The entire line should have the same width.
Step 15: Allow the caulk to dry.
Check your work after the caulk has dried to make sure it's secured.