Gutter Apron Vs Drip Edge
Gutters perform the useful function of removing water from your home. Gutters protect your roof and walls from water damage by catching rain and directing it downspouts and onto the ground.
A gutter protection system protects your roof. Metal flashing is an additional, and important, component. Flashing is a thin layer of metal sheeting that repels water from critical parts of your roof, such as seams and joints.
In which water can easily cause damage. The gutter apron and drip edge are two types of flashing that are intended to protect the edge of the roof where the shingles end.
What Is a Gutter Apron?
A gutter apron is a drip edge with a 120-degree fold that directs water into your gutter so it can flow properly. A gutter apron is an L-shaped piece of metal that slides under the stairwell and hangs an inch below the back of the gutter.
A gutter apron provides an additional layer of protection immediately below the roof surface. They are available in larger dimensions than drip edge flashing, which allows for additional water protection.
A gutter apron is widely available in different colors. Popular colors include bronze, black and white.
What Is a Drip Edge?
A drip edge is a T-shaped metal flashing. which is installed around the perimeter of the roof to form a waterproof seal. Its purpose is to prevent moisture from penetrating your roof, causing potential damage, such as rotting.
Keep in mind that drip edges are not always installed during the initial construction of a home. According to the International Residential Code, a drip edge must be installed in 49 states (IRC).
A drip edge comes in many colors, but black, brown, and white are the most common. If you want a more uniform look for your home, you can always choose to match the color of the drip edge to your roof shingles and gutters.
Common material types of drip edges:
- Aluminum
- House wrap
- Copper drip edge
- Galvanized Steel Material
- Fiberglass drip edge
- Plastic and Vinyl flashing
Gutter Apron Vs Drip Edge Installation
Gutter aprons are installed under attic shingles to guide water. While the drip edge is attached to the trim, it hangs directly outside the gutter. Usually, when the stair is not far enough from the edge of the gutter, a gutter apron is used.
Drip edges are often attached to the trim and extend behind the gutter. When there is insufficient space between the shingle and the edge of the gutter, gutter aprons are used. Before taking a decision, it is advisable to consult an expert.
If your attic has multiple sides and curved edges, a gutter apron is a better choice than a drip edge. The curved edge of the drip edge may be visible. Make sure, when installing a drip edge, that it is positioned to direct water into the gutter around the perimeter of the roof. Using nails, it can be fixed securely. Ideally, nails should be fixed at intervals of 12 inches. Also Read:Â Gutter Helmet vs LeafFilter
Gutter Apron vs. Drip Edge: Purpose
Purpose of a Gutter Apron:
Roofing professionals generally advise that gutter aprons provide a higher level of protection than drip edges. The gutter apron you choose depends on the annual rainfall in your area and the quality of your roof.
Gutter aprons are only required for guttered roof sections. If your roof has without gutter edges, you should only install drip edges along those edges. The pros and cons of gutter aprons are similar to drip edge flashing. If you live in an area that receives a lot of rain or heavy storms, you are advised to install a gutter apron as an extra layer.
Gutter aprons are the best option if your shingles are of poor quality or improperly installed. A roofing technician will inspect your roof. They will give you more detailed information on which flashing is right for your home. Also Read:Â Gutter Helmet vs Leaf Guard: Which is Better?
Purpose of Drip Edges:
To prevent water damage, flashing around the edge of the roof is essential in every home. A drip edge is a simple option that can be enough to prevent water damage to your home.
Drip edges are essential at the ends of your roof edges, but you can also see them on eaves. High wind storms can cause your shingles to lift along the edges of the rack, exposing the fascia to rain. And can be damaged by water. However, drip edge flashing provides additional protection.
Gutter Apron or Drip Edge: Material types
Gutter Apron Material
Gutter aprons are part of an effective roof design. It is chosen from different materials depending on the climate, specifications of the roofing job, and budget. Aluminum gutter aprons are generally used. Aluminum gutter aprons are corrosion-resistant. Moreover, it is very suitable for areas with high rainfall.
The aluminum gutter apron is available in various shapes and sizes as per its requirement. Additionally, aluminum is lighter than most other metals used in construction. Therefore, it is less expensive to transport than heavy metals such as steel or copper.
Aluminum is the most commonly used material for gutter aprons. Aluminum gutter aprons are a material resistant to damage from natural weather conditions such as high winds, blistering heat, and heavy snowfall.
Drip Edge Material
Drip Edge is a type of roofing material. which helps control the flow of water from the roof. It can be placed permanently on the edge of a roof or used in gutters and valleys during roof replacement. A variety of materials can be used for drip edges, including aluminum, copper, steel, and plastic.
Aluminum drip edges are used for their low cost, durability, and long lifespan. Aluminum material is a lightweight material. An aluminum drip edge is used for the proper drainage system. Additionally, it provides enough strength to protect the edges of the roofing tiles from debris and wildlife.
A steel drip edge serves the same purpose as an aluminum drip edge. But it is usually more expensive due to its heavy weight. Steel is also resistant to corrosion. Moreover, it is able to resist water and other factors for a long time.
Difference Between Gutter Apron vs Drip Edge
Gutter aprons and drip edges should be made of materials that resist UV radiation and moisture. However, if your gutter apron is not installed properly, you may need to consider another roofing solution.
Drip Edge is available in the market in various forms. It can be reinstalled on the roof. Materials like aluminum and steel for the drip edge offer great durability.
Gutter Apron Vs Drip Edge Cost
Gutter aprons are more expensive than drip edges. Because the gutter apron is installed under the roofing material. Its installation process takes more time.
Additionally, gutter aprons are usually made of more durable and higher-quality materials, which makes gutter aprons more expensive.
Depending on the size and pitch of the roof, gutter apron installation costs between $500 and $1,500. Drip edges are often less expensive than gutter aprons. Drip edges are placed on top of the roofing material. So its installation process is easy and fast. Aluminum material is used to construct the drip edges, thus reducing its cost. Drip edge installation costs between $200 and $500 depending on the materials and complexity of the installation.
Gutter Apron vs. Drip Edge: Advantages & Disadvantages
Advantages of Drip Edge
A drip edge is a type of metal flashing. which are installed at the edges of the roof to help protect the underlying structure from water damage. Here are some benefits of using a drip edge:
- Protects against water damage: Drip edges prevent water from penetrating the underlying roof structure, which can cause rot, mold, and other types of damage.
- Prevent snow dams: A drip edge can also help prevent snow dams from forming at the edge of the roof. It forms a barrier that prevents water from backing up and freezing.
- Improves roof ventilation: By creating a small gap between the roof and the fascia board, a drip edge improves roof ventilation. It prevents moisture from entering the attic.
- Gives a finished look: A drip edge gives a roof a finished look and can improve curb appeal. It comes in different colors and materials. So it matches the roof shingles or other features.
Disadvantages of Drip Edge
- Drip edges can be an economical option to protect your roof. But it also has some drawbacks. Its modest width makes it unsuitable against runoff and heavy rain. It can result in significant ponding on the roof.
- Conventional drip edge profiles do not offer significant overlap on the shingles. Which makes them susceptible to lifting during high winds. Due to their small width, typical drip edges are vulnerable to external elements. Such as nails and other debris, which can penetrate your roofing system over time.
Advantages of Gutter Apron
- Protection: Gutter Apron directs rainwater into gutter channels, during high storms. It also keeps water out of the roof deck and fascia, which keeps them safe. A standard Gutter Apron is made of galvanized metal so that water can flow through the gutter easily.
- Save Money: You can also save money in the long run if you put a gutter apron on your roof. Without a gutter apron, your roof will be constantly exposed to moisture and water damage, shortening its life. So, installing a gutter apron is right for you.
- Low Maintenance: Having a gutter apron on the roof reduces your maintenance costs. It collects the rain and redirects it into the drain. If your home does not have a drain apron or drip edge. In such circumstances, you will need to physically collect the rainwater from your attic and then clean it up.
Disadvantages of Gutter Apron
Like drip edges, gutter aprons also meet strict code requirements depending on the edge and style of your roof. You can’t even put it on top of an old roof. If your gutter is away from the edge of the roof shingles, you won’t need a gutter apron.
Final Thoughts
Gutter aprons and drip edges are something you should learn more about. These two prevent water damage to your roof and home. Your roof will benefit from the installation of any of these materials.
You can be sure that your investment is safe and you can continue to use your home as usual. It’s another step in making sure your drains are doing their job. You can choose between Gutter Apron and Drip Edge to make your home safe.
Gutter Apron Vs Drip Edge Difference
Gutter aprons and drip edges are metal pieces that help direct water into the gutter and protect the roof from moisture damage. The main difference between them is the shape and installation34. Gutter aprons are L-shaped and slide under the shingles, while drip edges are T-shaped and attach to the trim. Gutter aprons are used when the shingles are too close to the gutter edge, while drip edges extend further beyond the facia boards.
Gutter Apron Vs Drip Edge
While a standard drip edge attaches to your roof trim, a gutter apron is inserted under your shingles, providing an extra layer of protection below your roof surface. Gutter aprons come in larger dimensions than drip edge flashing.
Do I Need Drip Edge and Gutter Apron?
In most cases, drip edge and gutter aprons are not necessary. But, in some cases, they can be useful. The drip edge prevents water from flowing below the gutter and causing issues, while the gutter apron prevents debris from clogging the gutter.
What Is a Drip Edge Gutter Apron?
A drain apron is a specially designed drip edge folded at 120 degrees that helps direct water away from your drain. Water under the shingles can damage your roof material in a long time.
Gutter Flashing Vs Drip Edge
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 advantage of providing you with less maintenance over time. Gutter flashing or gutter apron serves the primary purpose of collecting all the water.
Can You Install Gutter Apron Over Drip Edge?
Fasten the gutter aprons with sheet metal screws. If your home also has a drip edge, the gutters may be installed below the drip edge. If this is the case, use a different type of flashing called roll flashing and tuck it under the drip edge and over the top of the gutter.