Gutter Apron vs Drip Edge
Gutter apron and drip edge have been required on houses for about 8 years. You might see this on all roof replacements, and it’s actually one of the building code requirements that has raised the quality of roofs in the US. Gutter apron vs drip edge is a common question asked by homeowners looking to renovate their roof.
Read on to find out what drip edge and gutter apron are, and which one you should install on your house.
If you’re looking to add more accessories to your roof, such as roof strips, check out our zinc vs copper article here.
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Drip Edge vs Gutter Apron Comparison
[amazon table=”719″]What is Drip Edge?
Drip edge is actually something that’s required by state code. As of 2014 it became a building code requirement. The drip edge goes along the rakes of your roof, and what it does is it helps keep the shingles from curling over, and also keeps your baseboards from running out.
The drip edge’s job is to protect the end caps of your roof to make sure that water doesn’t go up underneath the shingles and rot into the wood towards the edge. It also helps keep water off of your fascia.
2 Types of Drip Edge
C-Type: This is your more economical version, but both types come in the same type of metal options which is galvanized steel or aluminium. Galvanized steel is stronger and more durable, but the aluminium holds up better against rust.
D-Type: This is much better at keeping the water off your fascia because of its’ shape. There is a slight bend at the bottom which makes it easier for the water to drip from. But the best way to protect your fascia is either by using high quality paint, or installing gutters onto it.
What is Gutter Apron?
Gutter apron goes where your gutters are and it actually covers the builder’s gap. Gutter apron is drippage with curved edges built into it to go along the pitch of the roof.
Installing a gutter apron system helps keep squirrels out of your gutters, and also prevents water from getting in along the edges, and it also directs water into your gutters. You might see this on all roof replacements and it’s actually one of the building code requirements this really raise the quality of roofs in our area.
Drip Edge VS Gutter Apron
The Gutter apron and drip edge serve the primary role of directing water into the gutter, they’re contrasting sizes and installed to the roof edge in different ways.
Shape
Drip edge it usually comes in “T” shaped metal design whereas a gutter apron comes in an “L” shape design. In addition, gutter aprons are ideal for low slope roofs.
One of the main advantages of installing drip edge is to provide protection against your fascia board. Water and excess moisture are dangerous to the health of your fascia board.
Drip edge installed directs water into the gutter. On the other hand, the gutter apron has the advantage of providing you with less maintenance over time. Better flashing or gutter apron serves as the primary purpose of collecting all the water. This spares you the hassle stress having collected water from the gutter yourself and clean it.
Installation
In terms of installation, both gutter aprons and drip edges are easy to install. The gutter apron is a little bit bigger, but that doesn’t mean that it’s going to be any harder to install. Both are very simple to install any season. Roofing contractors will be able to install them with no problem.
If you know what you’re doing, drip edge installation could be carried out by yourself, but you must be wearing roofing footwear when carrying out work on your roof. You need to ensure your gutter apron or drip edges are installed correctly, as this will prevent roof damage, and save you money on future repairs.
Reliability
In regards to reliability, both the gutter apron and drip edge are durable roofing materials against UV rays and moisture. The only problem is if they’re installed poorly doesn’t really matter which one you choose to install.
If you do install drip edge incorrectly, it is extremely easy to take back off. Whereas gutter apron can be be a little bit more difficult to fix. If you don’t have any experience installing gutter apron or drip edge, the latter might be a better choice.
Costs
The cost difference between gutter apron and drip edge is a lot. Drip edge costs significantly more than gutter apron. However, you do not want to choose the cheaper option just to save money, as this could be the wrong choice for your home.
If you have a house that has a very high-pitched roof, then drip edge is probably going to be the better option of the 2. On the other hand, if you have a low pitch roof, gutter aprons are going to be a little bit better.
Compared to other parts of a house, both parts are really inexpensive, so speak with a roofing contractor and ask which one is going to be the best for your build your project.
Is it Worth Installing a Gutter Apron or Drip Edge?
The short answer is yes, absolutely! If your contractor is telling you to install gutter apron instead of drip edge, then listen your contractor. Professional advice is the best.The difference between drip edge and gutter apron is minute, so your contractor is not trying to stuff every extra money in his pocket.
If you are currently experiencing a problem with your existing roofing system, it is likely to do with whether you need drip edge and gutter apron installed. Your roof structure will decide if you need gutter apron or drip edge.
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