Gutters are an important part of your home’s water removal system. They work to direct water away from the roof so that it doesn’t build up or leak, while at the same time, they protect from ground erosion and foundation damage.
Over time, your gutters may appear dull or weathered. If you have worn gutters that are in good shape, putting a coat of paint on your gutters can rejuvenate them and increase your home’s curb appeal.
Should You Paint Your Gutters?
If your gutters are weather-worn, you might be tempted to paint them to give them a fresh look.
Before you decide to paint them, do a thorough inspection to make sure that your gutters are still functioning properly and aren’t sagging, bent, leaking, clogged, or in disrepair.
In all of those cases, it’s better to get an estimate on new gutters before you consider painting them since painting can be a labor-intensive process.
There are some physical constraints that are important to consider when painting your gutters. You will either need to remove them, which requires more than one person, and can offset any potential cost savings over replacing them, or you need to paint them from a ladder. If you aren’t comfortable cleaning your gutters, this probably isn’t a DIY project for you.
If your gutters are in good condition but are weathered, painting can help add a coat of protectiveness to the gutter. A coat of paint can also stop rusting on steel gutters. It can also add a pop of color or a fresh look to your home.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need to Paint Your Gutters
First, you’ll need the correct type of paint for your gutters. If you have vinyl gutters, you’ll need an epoxy-based acrylic latex paint, an epoxy-based primer, and an epoxy-based sealer. If you have aluminum gutters, you’ll want acrylic bonding primer and 100% acrylic paint. Make sure your paint is ammonia-free since the aluminum can react with ammonia.
You’ll also need the following:
- Paint
- Primer
- Brush*
- Ladder
- Scrub Brush
- Bucket
- Drop Clothes / Tarps
- Utility Gloves
- Plastic Putty Knife / Scraper
- Sand Paper, Wire Brush, or a Brush attachment for a drill.
*Note – You can also use a paint sprayer to paint your gutters on the ground. You’ll need the appropriate protective equipment. We don’t recommend it, simply because of the time it takes to take the gutters off and rehang them and the risk of damage to the gutters during removal/reinstallation.
Preparing Your Gutters
Before you begin, ensure your ladder is stable and on a level surface. Use safety equipment to protect yourself from debris, especially when removing old paint and rust.
Start by removing any loose debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt from your gutters. Use a gloved hand or a small trowel to scoop out the debris. You can also use your dry scrub brush to remove dirt.
With your wire brush, sandpaper, or drill attachment, scrape off any loose or peeling paint.This step is important to create a clean and smooth surface for the new paint to adhere to.
Using your bucket of soapy water and a scrub brush or sponge, thoroughly clean the gutters. This will help remove any remaining dirt, grime, and loose paint.Rinse the gutters with clean water to ensure all soap residue is removed.
Let the gutters air dry completely before proceeding. If there are any rough or uneven areas on the gutters after drying, use fine-grit sandpaper to smooth them out. This step helps achieve an even finish. You’ll then need to wipe off the area with a cloth to remove the sanding residue.
Cover any nearby surfaces or objects, such as your roof or the ground, to protect them from paint splatters. Use drop cloths, tarps, or plastic sheeting.
By thoroughly cleaning and preparing your gutters, you create a clean, smooth surface for the new paint to adhere to. Removing dirt, rust, and old paint is essential to ensure that the paint job will look great and last for years to come. Proper preparation will help you achieve a professional finish and protect your gutters from the elements.
Paint Your Gutters
Apply the primer evenly to the gutters and allow it to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Stir the paint thoroughly before use to ensure an even consistency. Start at one end of the gutter and work your way to the other, applying a smooth, even coat of paint. Avoid leaving brush marks.
Pay special attention to corners, seams, and any areas with exposed metal.
Apply a second coat if necessary, following the paint manufacturer’s recommendations for drying times between coats.
Let the paint dry completely.
When Is the Best Time To Paint Your Gutters?
The best time to paint your gutters is in the spring, once the temperature is high enough that the paint will properly cure. Check your paint can for specific directions, but usually 45-50 degrees fahrenheit is the lowest temperature that paints can tolerate.
You can still paint your gutters in the spring or summer, but it will be more challenging if you have falling debris.
Replacing Your Gutters
Painting gutters is not for everyone or every situtation. There are also many points in the painting process where you might discover that what you really need is gutter repair or replacement. If you decide that you’d be better off with replacement gutters, contact us and we’ll get you a free quote on new gutters.
