The purpose of a drip edge is the same as that of a gutter apron. Because of this, gutter aprons redirect water away from potential problem areas, down the roof edge, and into gutters. Gutter apron vs drip edge’s form and material used to define the preferred gutter apron or drip edge.
A gutter apron’s more L-shaped metal than T-shaped metal makes it stand out among drip edges as the main distinction between them from entering the gutter.
Metal aluminum strips and galvanized steel sheets are also available as gutter aprons. Like a drip edge, a gutter apron is available in colored versions. The most frequent colors for a gutter apron in today’s homes, similar to drip edge, are black, brown, white, and bronze.
Gutter Apron vs Drip Edge
Despite their differences in appearance, drip edges and gutter aprons for metal roofs have very similar functions. So, how do you decide between a drip edge and a gutter apron? It may be tough to choose between the two because there is no clear winner. Both have advantages and disadvantages.
We’ll go through the benefits and drawbacks of both a drip edge and a gutter apron below:
- Plus
- Excellent wind and rain protector
- Shields gaps and the roof deck.
- Long-lasting fascia board protection
- It prevents wood decay.
- Long-lasting fascia protection.
- It prevents tiny animals, insects, and vermin from entering your attic.
- Shingle assistance.
- Low-cost and cost-effective.
- There is a reduction in future maintenance time.
- Save you money on future repairs.
- Minus
- Typically, this is not a part of a conventional roof installation.
- As soon as the roof deck is built, installing it is challenging.
- Has coding requirements.
Do I Need Drip Edge and Gutter Apron
It is crucial to have UV-resistant gutter aprons and drip edges. It may be necessary to consider alternative roofing options if you have not installed the gutter system correctly.
It usually boils down to the style and form of your roof when picking between the gutter apron and drip edge. It is advisable to obtain expert assistance in determining which choice best matches your house and satisfies your requirements.
Read also: What is a Drip Edge on a Roof?
Moreover, you should always use any flashing before creating a roof structure. However, protecting your newly constructed roof from water is simple. When replacing an existing roof, use a type of drip edge. There’s no need to raise the shingles to install a drip edge.
Can You Install a Gutter Apron Over the Drip Edge
Are gutter aprons necessary? Absolutely. A gutter apron is installed on the roof decking’s corners. It is put beneath an attic’s shingles to prevent water from entering the gutter.
In contrast, drip edges hang straight from the trim and are usually attached to the trim. You can use a gutter apron when the shingles are too close to the edge.
It is recommended that you get expert advice before making your selection. Depending on your thoughts on design and roof systems, they can serve many roles. A gutter apron is better than a drip edge if you designed your attic with several sides and curved edges.
When adding a drip edge, ensure it’s oriented to direct water flow into the gutter alongside the roof edges. Securely fasten it with nails.
In an ideal case, you should space the nails every 12 inches. It should be no longer than 16 inches long.
Another thing to think about is the design of your attic. Although the gutter apron cost is similar to the drip edge, it is significantly more visually acceptable if your attic design contains much bending of the borders.
Moreover, if there isn’t much space between the shingles and the gutter’s edge, the gutter apron system is ideal.
While they serve the same purpose and provide equal protection against water damage, insects, small animals, and other hazards, these roof-covering methods are not interchangeable.
The final verdict of gutter apron vs drip edge depends on your roofing condition. Drip edges are preferable if you put a roof covering system on an existing roof structure since building a gutter apron would be exceedingly time-consuming and challenging.
