​Understanding uPVC Gutters

uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) gutters are a common choice in Norfolk and Norwich, selected for their affordability, durability, and low maintenance. They’re engineered to allow for expansion and contraction in fluctuating temperatures. 

 

Why Do uPVC Gutters Fail? 

To accommodate expansion and contraction, lengths of gutter are joined by rubber-sealed unions.  As time passes, the seals perish, crack, or become compacted, leading to leaks and failure.

 

uPVC Repairs 

Wherever possible Gutter Tech repairs uPVC gutters by replacing damaged components with high-quality compatible parts. This includes:

 

• Unions.

• End caps.

• Union brackets.

• Outlets.

• Support clips/ Fascia Brackets

• Entire lengths of gutter.

• Seals (where available).

 

However, older or proprietary systems can be obsolete, making part replacement impossible. In these cases, we use advanced sealants and coatings to prolong the system’s life. These solutions only work when the gutter can still expand freely — if it’s locked into place at a corner or outlet, sealing may not be effective. Gutter Tech guarantees all repairs for 12 months.

 

 

Systemic Repairs

Sometimes a gutter issue is localised — a failed union or a sagging bracket. Other times, it’s a system-wide problem. In these cases we can advise you on the best course of action based on our extensive experience. We’re problem-solvers at heart so we love finding solutions to the unique challenges that are presented by each system. 

 

Metal Gutters on Period and Heritage Properties

Many older homes in Norwich and Norfolk feature cast iron or aluminium gutters, and a few newer homes use aluminium or galvanised steel gutters. These materials are more robust than uPVC but can be more complex to repair.

 

 

 

Cast Iron Gutters

• Extremely durable when well maintained, but prone to rust over time.

• Often protected under heritage listing rules, meaning replacement with uPVC may not be permitted.

• Components usually can't be swapped out so repairs involve sealing and coating. Sealant repairs can offer a cost effective short term solution that protects the property whilst a comprehensive refurbishment or replacement is arranged.

 

 

Aluminium and Galvanised Steel Gutters

• Highly resistant to weathering.

• Repairs require specialist techniques or sealant and durable coatings. Sealant repairs can offer a cost effective short term solution that protects the property whilst a comprehensive refurbishment or replacement is arranged.

 

 

When Is Repair the Right Option?

Repairing your gutters makes sense when:

• Seals have perished but many fittings are still structurally sound.

• Brackets or clips are broken but easily replaced.

• The system is obsolete but mostly intact — and sealing won’t impede expansion.

• Cast iron or aluminium gutters can’t be replaced due to listed building restrictions.

• The fittings are damaged/inoperative but the gutter itself is intact — the fittings can all be changed but the original gutter can be retained for a cost-effective balance between a repair and a refit. 

 

When to Replace Your Gutter System

Full gutter replacement is usually the better option when:

• Your system is obsolete and parts aren’t available.

• There are multiple points of failure - not just leaky unions - throughout the system.

• Gutters are warped, cracked, deformed, or pulling away from the fascia — all signs of structural damage.

 

 

An efficient and well-installed system improves performance, better protecting your home from water damage.

 

 

Why Choose Gutter Tech For Your Gutter Repairs and Replacements? 

Every property is unique so we pride ourselves on finding solutions that are tailored to your individual needs. All our repairs are guaranteed for 12 months, and we provide before and after photographs with every service. Explore your options with our comprehensive services. 

 

We’ve honed our gutter repair systems through extensive experience, inventing our own tools and techniques to achieve excellent results on our repairs.  We use our wealth of knowledge to offer honest and reliable advice that’s specific to your property. We clean gutters at the roofline using a combination of industrial vacuum cleaners and ladders which allows us to spot potential problems up close.

 

Find the best solution for your leaky gutters by arranging a free comprehensive quote CONTACT FORM.