Box Gutters
This is a very complicated subject and will require a thoughtful decision on your part.
Box gutters are a constant pain. One reason good roofing contractors really do not want to repair them is that they know that eventually they will probably leak again somewhere, if not at the repair. They have a reputation and don't want to tarnish it through a dissatisfied customer. Another reason is that it is not a big money maker for them. They could probably do three or more complete roofs in the time it would take them to repair yours.
The best time of the year to contract this job to a roofer would be during their slow season. In PA it would be in the very late fall (after the really cold weather sets) and before the heavy snows of January (when the ice dams cause problems). You may even want to look into a quality general contractor. Check their references and ask them to explain in detail how they are going to repair the gutters.
My personal choice would be to remove and replace the entire system with new wood all the way around and new lining. I realize cost is a factor, but if done properly you would have many years of service before repairs would be required again. Avoid using the common pressure treated wood, as these have a tendency to walk over time.
Your wanting to retain the look is a capital idea. Here in Pittsburgh, we have many old homes that used box gutters and when people installed aluminum gutters it took away the charm of the house. If you do opt to extend the roofline for the aluminum, do not let them throw a piece of wood over the box gutters. This fix has a tendency to bow over time creating a leaking situation.
One last item. If you go for the repair or replacement, have them line the interior of the whole gutter with a rubber membrane. If properly sealed it should last a good 20 or 30 years. If I missed anything let me know...
Thanks!
Thanks for any info on this subject.
patch and cover with the holes with metal then line inside with rubber.you can also make a new cap to go over the top too keep the look
the wood can be replaced and painted or replace and cover with
metal so you will not have to paint them. you can also seal the inside with a silicone coating that we use. But what ever action you take it is not cheap. If you remove the and extend the roof
and hang gutter that also may cost more then the repair.most
box gutter are 30 to40 feet high that also makes the cost go up
ive also had someone tell me i need a boxgutter, im worried as i dont have money for anything big, and dont know where water is getting in? have you any idea what i need or where its coming from. tiles on my roof have also been checked. please reply as im at my wits end where this bit of water is coming from, on the plasterbd bits of small plaster has dropped off and it seems the plasterd bd may be holding water.
thank you jayne
The company I choose is called SHIELD Roofing they gave an estimate that included replacing the metal and lining of the box gutters so we could keep the original profile of the home. Other contractors quotes just covered them put on standard rain gutters
I specialize in box gutters with several different tiers of repair and replacement options depending on the condition of the gutters. There are good products available for protective coating for box gutters that need maintenance but are in generally good condition, and patching options for small localized areas of decay, as well as holistic re-lining with seamless hot air welded PVC membranes or full rebuilding of the boxes and installation of new soldered copper panels. We can help to assess and recommend a strategy specific to your home.
You can reach me at joseph@eastenders.co or call 412-376-3435 and we'll do our best to assist you.
Thank you, Joseph
I am about to take on a box gutter repair.
♡ Sonya