If you’re looking at your house and thinking, “Those old gutters could use some work,” you may also be asking yourself a second question, “Can you paint gutters?” The answer depends on the condition of the gutters and whether painting or replacement is the better option. Here are some tips and tricks to help you decide if you can paint gutters, how to paint gutters and whether or not this is the right solution for you.
Home buyers will pay more for properties with high-quality gutters than they will for homes with damaged gutters or no gutters at all. After all, clean, well-functioning gutters can protect your home’s foundation, siding and roofing from costly structural and water damage.
Is It a Good idea to Paint Your Gutters?
Whether your gutters are becoming an eyesore or you’re looking for a way to spruce up your home’s appearance, you’ll need to clean your gutters and examine them closely to see if painting can provide the desired results.
It is recommended that homeowners should clean their gutters two to four times per year to keep them free from potential clogs and debris. Before embarking on a painting project, you’ll need to clear your gutters of debris and thoroughly clean them. To complete this step, you can use trisodium phosphate or liquid detergent.
While cleaning, notice:
- Are they clogged?
- Is there damage?
Clogged Gutter
Clogged gutters may point to spots on your home that have a higher risk of damage. Leaves, twigs and other forms of debris that gather in one spot can block the flow of rainwater. They can also cause leaks or an overflow of water that can damage your roof or siding. Additionally, these wet spots may cause rust.
Damaged Gutters
Certain types of gutters can develop rust and bend, warp or sag over time. They may even crack or begin to pull away from your home. These are all signs that repair or replacement may be needed instead of a fresh coat of paint.
If you’ve cleaned your gutters and made sure they’re in top shape, painting your gutters is an option to consider.
How to Paint Gutters
If your gutters are thoroughly clean and good candidates for refinishing, the next step is to learn how to paint your gutters.
Gutters are made from several materials, including steel, aluminum and vinyl. Powerhouse Painting says the basic steps for painting each type after cleaning include:
- Scraping off old paint
- Priming if needed, depending on the type (multiple coats may be required)
- Painting
Steel Gutters
You’ll need to paint steel gutters with an oil-based primer and paint.
Aluminum Gutters
Aluminum gutters require an ammonia-free primer and paint. You can use an acrylic or oil-based paint as long as you use the same type of primer.
Vinyl Gutters
Vinyl gutters are typically the easiest to paint. Start with a well-binding primer. Then, cover with a latex paint.
Alternatives to Painting Gutters
Now you have the answer to the question, “Can you paint gutters?” and you’ve learned how to complete the process. However, if you’ve decided that your gutters are too rusty, warped or worn and that painting may not be the best long-term solution, replacing your gutters may be your best option.
Ideally, gutters should require as little maintenance or repairs as possible. After all, the less you have to clean or worry about your gutters clogging and rusting, the more time you’ll have to spend doing things that you enjoy.
At Thompson Creek, our gutters come with streamlined hoods. These not only keep debris out of your downspouts but have a seamless design that eliminates potential clogs from forming around cracks and joints. Additionally, our gutters come in 16 long-lasting, weatherproof shades designed to complement your home. Call our professionals today to receive a free price estimate and custom proposal. It’s time to make cleaning your gutters a thing of the past.