Aluminum is a popular gutter material, and what makes it so popular is that it is rust-proof! But wait, how then is aluminum gutter rust an issue? Stick around to find out.
Gutters can rust under certain conditions. The problem is when this happens; there’s usually no going back. So, if ignored, your gutter system will be in a lot more trouble.
Here’s what causes aluminum gutters to rust:
- Plant pollen
In spring, most plants release their seed pods and pollen (pollen is acidic). When the pollen grains find their way into your gutter system, their acidity starts to eat away the coating on aluminum gutters, leaving them vulnerable to corrosion. And all it takes is a little moisture for the corrosion process to be activated.
- Fluctuations in temperature
When temperatures change extremely fast, say a daytime temperature of 90 degrees and a nighttime temperature of 40, it can quickly wear down your aluminum gutters, causing rust to start forming.
These extreme temperature fluctuations are mostly experienced in coastal and mountain regions. There’s nothing humanly possible you can do about it besides replacing your gutters.
- Interaction with other metals
Metals are known to form something known as galvanic corrosion when they come into contact with a dissimilar metal in the presence of water.
A more straightforward explanation is aluminum gutters should only be fixed with stainless steel hardware, and copper guttering should stick with copper hardware components. Any mix-up will cause corrosion.
- Gutter neglect
If you fail to clean your gutters, you’re leaving room for pollen to take residence in your gutters.
So, is there a solution?
Sure, there is:
- You can sand down the rusted area; if you catch the problem early enough, get rid of the rust and then prime your gutter surface. Remember, this is not possible if the rust has penetrated through to the aluminum leaving rust holes.
- Remove the rusted section and replace it with a new section. This is a temporary solution to cut costs.
- Another temporary solution is to caulk the rust holes; it will not stop the rust from spreading.
- Replace the rusted aluminum with galvalume gutter material – this is a solid substitute to the aluminum gutter since it’s more rust-resistant and a more permanent fix, but it’s costly.
Conclusively, the most recommendable fix to a rust problem is a complete replacement.
Need Gutter Installation Services in Denver, CO, and the Surrounding Areas?
Our experts at A1 Contracting can help. We install long-lasting products, and our gutters come in a wide variety of colors and styles to match your home.
So, contact us today if you need new gutter installation or gutter repair.