What Causes Gutter Leaks at Corners?
It always seems to show up after a classic Seattle rain — that steady little drip from the gutter corner that refuses to stop. You wipe it down, hope it’ll dry out, and then the next storm comes, and there it is again.
Corner leaks are one of the most common issues we see at CR Gutters, Inc.™, thanks to Seattle’s damp, ever-changing weather. The good news? They’re easy to spot and usually just as easy to fix once you know what’s causing them.
Why Gutters Leak at the Corners
Quick answer: Sealant failure or metal expansion.
Seattle’s constant rain, combined with cool nights and mild days, puts gutters through a lot of movement. Over time, the small seams at the corners expand and contract until the sealant gives out. Once that bond breaks, water finds its way through every tiny gap.
Debris makes it worse. Leaves, pine needles, and moss trap moisture around those seams, softening the sealant faster. In older systems, the metal may have shifted slightly, pulling joints apart just enough for water to start dripping.
If you notice leaks only after a rain, that’s usually your first clue — and the longer it drips, the more it wears away at the fascia and siding below.
How to Fix It
Try this: Reseal the joints with a flexible, high-quality gutter sealant.
Start by clearing the corner completely — no leaves, dirt, or residue. Dry the area as best you can before applying new sealant. Use a flexible formula that can expand and contract with the metal instead of hardening and cracking.
In some cases, especially with older gutters, you may need to replace the corner piece altogether. Aluminum and steel gutters can be patched easily, but seamless systems or copper gutters require a bit more care and experience to keep the look consistent.
If leaks keep coming back, it might be time for a full inspection. Sagging sections, loose hangers, or improper slope can cause water to pool at the corners, slowly breaking down sealant again.
Warning Signs You Shouldn’t Ignore
Stop signs:
- Dripping at corners after every rain
- Peeling paint or soft wood near joints
- Rust spots or green streaks around seams
- Damp areas under the eaves
Catching these early can save you from larger repairs later.
Typical Cost
Professional corner repair in Seattle usually costs $150–$300 per corner, depending on material and access. If you’re sealing it yourself, a single tube of gutter sealant is inexpensive — but if the problem keeps returning, a professional fix will save money (and frustration) in the long run.
Stop the Drip Before It Starts
Even a small corner leak can lead to bigger water problems if it’s left alone. Whether your gutters are aluminum, steel, or copper, our crew can find the source, seal it up right, and keep everything dry through Seattle’s wettest months.
If that constant drip is starting to wear on you, give us a call. CR Gutters, Inc.™ is local, straightforward, and ready to help. Reach us at (253) 447-1419 for a free, no-pressure estimate, and we’ll make sure your gutters stay solid and leak-free — rain or shine.