Difference Between Gutter Apron VS Drip Edge
- Installation. A gutter apron is installed on the corners above roof decking. ...
- Durability. Both gutter aprons and drip edges should be strong enough to bear UV rays and moisture at the same time.
- Installation on Existing Roof. It is always recommended to install any kind of flashing before constructing a roof structure. ...
- Cost Difference. ...
Can you install gutter apron over drip edge?
While you may install a gutter apron over a drip edge on a new roof, this would be redundant. You would either need a gutter apron or a drip edge. As these two roofing components are there to achieve the same job and are installed in the same space, you would not want to install both on the corresponding edges.
Should gutters be installed under drip edge?
Yes, gutters should be installed under a drip edge. The reason that gutters are always installed beneath the drip edge is to place them so that the water cannot drip behind the gutter or exceed the outward edge of the gutter. The gutter should be installed between 2 and 3 inches away from the roof and the back of the gutter should rest on the ...
Do you need drip edge if you have gutters?
Do you still need a drip edge if you have gutters? The answer is yes! The gutter will tuck behind the drip edge giving you maximum protection to your roof deck structure. A cousin of the drip edge is the drip cap. Builders locate this item above your windows and exterior doors and serves in the same capacity of diverting water away from the ...
What are some tips for installing drip edges and gutters?
- Make sure the drip edge coming from the shingle is bending against the fascia board because when it rains, it’s going to come down the roof and stick to the ...
- There are two reasons for water getting behind the gutter. ...
- Rain gutter installation can be a tricky job, and a lot of of.complexities can ensue upon proper installation of the rain gutter.
Do you have to have a gutter apron?
If your shingles weren't installed properly or directing water to your gutter and behind it is an issue, gutter aprons are a must-have roof material to install as part of your roof system.
What is a gutter apron on a house?
A gutter apron is a long piece of metal fold that starts under the first course of shingles and hangs over the sheathing of the roof. Gutter aprons take on an additional role by hanging down an inch or so into the back of the gutter to prevent water from dripping or splashing behind the gutter.
Do gutter guards go under drip edge?
No matter what kind of gutter guard you choose, it must be properly positioned under the roofing materials. If you have drip edge (metal flashing that's installed at the edges of the roof), gutter screens clamp onto the front of the gutter, go underneath the entire roof, and sit on the drip edge.
Does drip edge overlap gutter?
The face of the drip edge should be overlapping the gutter so that no water is going in between the gutter and fascia and possibly rotting out the fascia that's holding the gutter up.
Do you need drip edge with gutters?
If the home has no gutter, the drip edge will prevent the water from running down the fascia and onto or into the soffit cavity. However, without the drip edge, the water sticks to shingles, potentially working its way under the shingles to cause a leak.
What is a drip edge?
Drip edge is a metal flashing that is installed at the edges of the roof to help control the flow of water away from the fascia and to protect the underlying roofing components. Drip edge overhangs the sides of the roof and has a small metal flange that is bent away from the fascia.
How far should gutter be from drip edge?
If the gutter distance is more than 3 inches, the rain will run off the roof and won't drain properly.
Is it OK to put gutter guards under shingles?
This has become an urban legend — spread by gutter guard makers over the years — in an attempt to sway consumer sentiment their way. Installing gutter guards under shingles WILL void your shingle warranty!
Do you install drip edge before fascia?
A metal drip edge will help protect the sheathing under the roof, but if it's installed too closely to the fascia board, it can still cause water to be drawn into the fascia. The best installation method is to leave a gap between the drip edge and the fascia board, about the width of a finger.
How do you attach a gutter apron?
1:2017:31Roofing Gutter apron and edge metal - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo you can hang your shingles down a little bit but you're not reducing the effectiveness as much ofMoreSo you can hang your shingles down a little bit but you're not reducing the effectiveness as much of your gutter catching the rain. So you'll put these pieces down on the bottom.
How do you install drip edge with existing gutters?
1:563:26How To Properly Install Drip Edge on your Roof -Jonny DIY - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipBefore you mount it about a half inch. So you want about a half inch between the drip edge and theMoreBefore you mount it about a half inch. So you want about a half inch between the drip edge and the fascia a gap. So that the water just doesn't run off the edge onto your fascia.
How much should a gutter overhang?
between 2 and 3 inchesThe gutter should extend slightly past your roof's shingles. 3/4 of your gutter's width should stick beyond the shingles to catch all the water and lead it properly down the downspouts. The gutter should be between 2 and 3 inches away from the roof's edge.
What Is A Drip Edge?
The drip edge is installed on the house roof’s edge to filter all water from the roof system. All water is directed away from the fascia and into the gutter. Drip edges are typically provided in a ‘T’ form. D-metal is another name for them.
Drawback Of Drip Edge
Drip edge has the disadvantage of having code specifications. You can’t just slap it on any old roof edge. If you’re not sure what drip edge requirements are, seek professional assistance. Some key norms of conduct
Gutter Apron
You’ve learned everything there is to know about drip edge! The function of a gutter apron is similar to that of a drip edge, but the material and shape are different.
Advantages Of Gutter Apron
The gutter apron has various benefits and is an outstanding roof system option! Exceptional Defense It protects the attic from deterioration. It will keep your house safe during storms by channeling rainwater directly into a gutter.
Drawback Of Gutter Apron
It also has code requirements that vary depending on the roof’s style and borders. It can’t be put on top of an existing roof. If the gutter is distant from the shingles’ edge, a gutter apron is not necessary.
Difference Between Gutter Apron vs Drip Edge
We’ll compare the primary distinctions between the gutter apron and the drip edge after we’ve learned everything there is to know about each one. Make sure you don’t forget any of the facts.
What Is A Drip Edge?
The gutter system prevents the roof from leaking by allowing the water to drain. It ensures small pools of water do not collect on the roof after rains. If water does collect on a roof, the shingles will soak in the water and leaks can occur. The shingles will also rot and get permanent stains.
What Is A Gutter Apron?
A gutter apron can be an alternative to the drip edge, but these come in different materials. Gutter Aprons come in an L shape and are common in roofs with low slopes.
Benefits Of Having Gutter Apron And Drip Edge
Although gutter aprons and drip edges are different in appearance, they serve a similar purpose. As a result, homeowners also get the following benefits from the two:
Comparing Drip Edge vs. Gutter Apron
Now that you know the similar properties of drip edge roofing and gutter apron roofing, here are their differences. These factors will help you decide which type is best for your home.
Final Words
Comparing a gutter apron vs. drip edge is essential before purchasing either. Buying the most suitable material is crucial because it saves you maintenance costs. Once you choose, hire a professional installer for a perfect installation. Contact us today for more information regarding a gutter apron vs. drip edge.
What is the difference between a gutter apron and a drip edge?
Click to see full answer. Moreover, what's the difference between drip edge and gutter apron? Drip Edge Plus Similar to a drip edge , a gutter apron is a long piece of metal folded at about 120 degrees. While a drip edge is about 2 1/2 inches wide on both sides of the fold, a gutter apron will usually measure 4 inches or more above and below ...
Where does a gutter apron go?
Gutter apron goes over the roof deck, under the shingles and over the edge of the gutters. Drip edge goes over the roof deck, under the shingles and directly to the trim (facia or rake boards), behind the back of the gutter. It could be used where you have no gutters, if you use gutter apron everywhere else.
Do I need a drip edge or gutter apron?
In most states, it is not required to have a Drip Edge or a Gutter Apron but it is highly recommended .
Is a drip edge the same as flashing?
Is drip edge the same as flashing? So as rain drips off the shingle, the drip edge keeps the wind from blowing the water back behind the gutter or back up under the shingles. Flashing is the general term for metal used where roofing meets a wall or a roof edge to keep rain from getting under shingles.
How long is a gutter apron?
These aprons are commonly found in 10 foot long measures and are anywhere between 2 and 4 inches. The size of apron you will need for your gutter and roof will vary depending on the size of your gutter. You will also need to take into account how much water you can expect the system to handle in a season with heavy rains.
What is the purpose of gutter apron?
A gutter apron is a long piece of metal, typically 10 feet in length, that is installed under the first course of shingles and is used to prevent water from splashing behind the gutter. They protect your roofing members from severe water damage. This apron looks like a shaped piece of metal that faced down toward the bottom of a gutter.
Why do you need a drip edge?
A drip edge should be installed in all areas that do do not have a gutter to drip into, it is there to direct water away from your facia and away from your roofing members that are susceptible to water damage and wood rot.
What is drip edge?
A drip edge is a flashing on the leading edge of your roof. It has the sole purpose of directing water away from your roof and fascia boards. A gutter apron is a type of metal skirting that is installed on the roof edge. It assists in directing water that is flowing off your roof and into your gutter. It also aids in keeping water ...
What does an apron look like?
This apron looks like a shaped piece of metal that faced down toward the bottom of a gutter. Its shape directs water down and into the gutter and allows it to flow into the channel freely.
Do you need a gutter apron and drip edge?
You do not need a drip edge and a gutter apron along the same edge of your roof. But chances are on your entire roof; there will be areas you will need one or the other. In some states it is even governed by law as to whether or not you have to have a drip edge flashing. Consult a roofing professional in your area to find out if it is mandatory ...
Can you put gutter apron over drip edge?
While you may install a gutter apron over a drip edge on a new roof, this would be redundant. You would either need a gutter apron or a drip edge. As these two roofing components are there to achieve the same job and are installed in the same space, you would not want to install both on the corresponding edges.
What is the difference between a gutter apron and drip edge?
For one, a drip edge usually comes in a T-shape design, whereas a gutter apron comes in an L-shaped design.
What is gutter apron?
Gutter aprons also come in larger dimensions compared to a drip edge gutter, wherein the gutter apron hangs over your roof sheathing. If your shingles weren’t installed properly or directing water to your gutter and behind it is an issue, gutter aprons are a must-have roof material to install as part of your roof system.
How much does it cost to install a gutter edge?
Installing a gutter drip edge and gutter apron are cost-effective roofing materials ranging between $1 to $3 per linear foot. Unless you choose a more expensive material, then it would also mean a more costly installation, but aside from that, there isn’t a huge difference between the two.
Why do you need a drip edge?
One of the main advantages of installing a drip edge is it provides protection for your fascia board. Water and excess moisture are dangerous to the health of your fascia board. A drip edge, which is installed along the eaves and roof edge, directs the water away from your fascia board and into the gutter. On the other hand, a gutter apron has the ...
Is a gutter apron reliable?
Reliability. Both your gutter apron and drip edge are reliable and durable roofing materials. Against UV rays and moisture, this shouldn’t be a problem at all for either. The only problem is if it’s installed poorly. A drip edge can be replaced and installed on your roof again easily.
Is it necessary to have a drip edge on a roof?
Installation. Installing a drip edge or a gutter apron is not as difficult as one would expect. In fact, a drip edge is necessary to have for every roof and to protect your attic. The design of your attic though, can affect the installation process. If your attic design has a lot of curvy edges and sides, installing a gutter apron would be ...
Can you install gutter apron yourself?
Although a gutter apron installation is relatively easy, we don’t recommend performing the installation yourself. Lifting the roofing shingles takes delicate handy work. Improper lifting could damage the shingles and result in costly repairs.

Water Protection
Insect and Rodents Infestations
- These parts block any gaps in the roof, protecting your house from insect and rodent infestations. When gaps are not sealed, rodents can build their nests on the roof.
Less Maintenance
- When a drip edge or gutter apron channels all the water to the gutter system, the homeowner will not have to worry about water damage leading to costly maintenance. Roofs without either of these parts are prone to leaks that stain the ceiling and damage shingles.
Fascia Guard
- Without the drip edge and gutter apron, the wooden fascia can swell and rot due to water exposure. If this occurs, the fascia will need to be replaced.
Installation
- When comparing the installation process and location of drip edge roofing vs. gutter apron roofing, you will find they differ in this regard. Roofers install gutter aprons mainly on the corners of a roof, above the roof decking. Installing it under the shingles ensures it directs water away from the edges. The gutter apron is also best for roofs where the attics have curved edges. How…
Lifespan
- Although gutter aprons and drip edges can withstand moisture and heat, other factors reduce their lifespan differently. For example, an incorrect installation of a gutter apron will render it useless because you cannot install it again. Contrarily, a drip edge is easy to manipulate and is available in many styles. Besides, if poorly installed, you ...
Cost
- One significant differentiating factor people consider when buying any roofing parts is the price difference. However, since the gutter aprons and drip edges come from similar materials, they cost almost the same. The cost difference depends on the material you buy and the length of each. The installation fee also depends on the roofing company. For a quote from a reputable co…