While newer homes are fitted with pre-coated aluminium or zinc gutters, older homes with galvanised tin gutters will need to perform maintenance as and when required. Where a coating or painted finish fails on a galvanised tin gutter fails, rust soon sets it and it is essential to attend to this as quickly as possible to prevent expensive repairs at a later stage.
Prevention is better than cure
As soon as spots of rust start to appear on gutters or downspouts, the sooner you take remedial action – the less damage done. By attending to rust quickly and before it has time to eat through the metal the homeowner will lessen the possibility of having to replace an entire gutter system.
GOOD TO KNOW
Be aware that peeling paint on galvanised tin gutters will eventually lead to rust. Immediately sand and touch up any areas where paint is cracking and peeling.
HERE’S HOW:
1. At the first sign of rust you will need to use 180-grit sandpaper to sand down and remove any areas of rust. Also sand areas with peeling or cracked paint. For areas with mild rust spots you can apply an all-in-one rust converter and primer.
2. Wipe the surface clean before applying metal primer to the sanded area. A primer not only protects against rust, but also improves adhesion between primer and paint.
3. There are now a wide selection of water- and solvent-based metal paints available to the homeowner. Both products are excellent, with the water-based products obviously being more eco-friendly. Apply according to the manufacturer’s recommended instructions, which normally requires that a minimum of two coats be applied.
Before you pack everything away, do a thorough inspection of gutters and downspouts to check for other areas where rust has started to appear.
Janice Anderssen
Article courtesy of www.easydiy.co.za
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