What Is a Drip Edge?

A drip edge is a metal flashing installed at the edges of a roof to direct water away from the fascia and underlying roofing components. It helps protect the building from water damage, rot, and pest intrusion by ensuring that runoff flows into the gutters and away from the structure.

Drip edges are a standard in both residential and commercial roofing systems and are often required by building codes in North America and other regions due to their role in prolonging roof life.

Why Drip Edges Matter in Roofing

• Moisture Protection: Prevents water infiltration under shingles or roofing panels.

• Fascia Protection: Shields wooden fascia boards from water staining and rot.

• Gutter Efficiency: Ensures water flows directly into the gutter system.

• Aesthetic Finish: Offers a clean, finished look to the roofline.

Types of Drip Edge Profiles

Drip edge profiles vary based on regional preferences, building codes, and roofing materials. The most common types include:

1. Type C (L-Style)

• Resembles a 90-degree angle.

• Common in older homes.

• Simple to install.

2. Type D (T-Style or D-Metal)

• Features a flange that kicks water away from the fascia.

• Offers better water redirection than Type C.

• Most popular for modern roofing systems.

3. Type F (Gutter Apron)

• Extends further back on the roof deck.

• Ideal for reroofing and drip edge replacement.

4. Hemmed Drip Edge

• Rolled edge for added safety and strength.

• Often used in commercial metal roofing.

5. Custom Profiles

• Designed for specific architectural or industrial applications.

• Often made using roll forming machines tailored to unique sizes.

Drip Edge Materials

Different environments and roof types require specific materials. Common materials include:

Drip Edge Sizes

Typical drip edge dimensions:

• Vertical leg (fascia drop): 1" to 4"

• Roof flange (under-shingle): 2" to 5"

• Drip kick-out lip: ¼" to ½"

• Material thickness (gauge):

  • Aluminum: 0.019" to 0.032"

  • Steel: 24 to 30 gauge

  • Copper: 16 to 20 oz

Larger and custom sizes are available through manufacturers or on-site fabrication.

Industries That Use Drip Edges

Drip edges aren’t just for residential homes. They're used in:

• Residential construction

• Commercial buildings

• Modular and prefab housing

• Warehouses and industrial roofs

• Agricultural buildings

• Container conversions

• Solar panel sheds and outbuildings

How to Install a Drip Edge

Tools Needed:

• Roofing nails or screws

• Roofing cement or sealant (if required)

• Tin snips

• Hammer or drill

• Chalk line

• Measuring tape

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Install underlayment: Place roofing underlayment across the roof deck.

2. Install eaves drip edge: Start at the eaves. Place the drip edge with the flange extending away from the fascia. Nail every 8–10 inches.

3. Install side rake edge: Overlap the rake edge over the eave drip edge. This ensures proper water runoff.

4. Seal overlaps: Where sections meet, overlap by 1–2 inches. Seal joints if in a high wind or ice-prone area.

5. Add shingles or roofing panels: Install roofing over the drip edge flange for best protection.

Choosing the Right Drip Edge

When selecting a drip edge, consider:

• Climate: Use aluminum or stainless steel in coastal zones.

• Roof type: Type D or F for steep-slope or metal roofs.

• Color and aesthetics: Painted or copper drip edges for visible applications.

• Building codes: Always check local requirements (e.g., IRC in the U.S.).

Top Drip Edge Manufacturers in the USA

Here are notable U.S.-based manufacturers:

1. ABC Supply Co., Inc.

2. Amerimax Building Products

3. Petersen Aluminum (PAC-CLAD)

4. Fabral

5. MBCI (Metal Building Components Inc.)

6. Englert Inc.

7. Rollex

8. Metal Sales Manufacturing Corporation

9. Westlake Royal Building Products

10. TAMKO Building Products

11. CertainTeed

12. Gibraltar Industries

13. Mid-America Siding Components

14. Union Corrugating

15. Berger Building Products

16. Berridge Manufacturing Company

17. Firestone Building Products (now part of Holcim)

18. ATAS International

19. Georgia-Pacific Building Products

20. Mule-Hide Products Co., Inc.

Top 20 Global Drip Edge or Roof Accessory Manufacturers

1. Kingspan Group (Ireland)

2. ArcelorMittal Construction (Global)

3. Ruukki (Finland)

4. Tata BlueScope Steel (India/Australia)

5. Metecno Group (Italy/Global)

6. Blachotrapez (Poland)

7. Lindab (Sweden)

8. Swisspearl Group (Switzerland)

9. Isopan (Italy)

10. Dongkuk Steel (South Korea)

11. CSM Metal Deck (Thailand)

12. Zamil Steel (Saudi Arabia)

13. JSW Steel (India)

14. Shandong Goldensun Steel (China)

15. Dongbu Steel (South Korea)

16. Xiamen Liming Machinery Co., Ltd. (China)

17. SAF – Southern Aluminum Finishing (USA/Global)

18. VMZinc (France)

19. Marcegaglia (Italy)

20. Jindal Steel & Power (India)

Drip Edge in Roll Forming

Modern roll forming machines produce precision drip edges at high speed using:

• GCr15 hardened rollers

• Servo-feeding and punching units

• Automated shearing and stacking systems

Machine Matcher offers customized drip edge roll forming machines tailored to your profile needs—designed for aluminum, steel, copper, and painted coils.

FAQ Section

Q: Do I need a drip edge on my roof?

A: Yes. It prevents water damage, extends the life of your roof, and is often required by building codes.

Q: Can I install drip edge on an existing roof?

A: Yes, but it’s more challenging. A Type F (gutter apron) is recommended for retrofits.

Q: What’s the best material for coastal areas?

A: Aluminum or stainless steel due to their corrosion resistance.

Q: Can drip edge be painted?

A: Yes. Many drip edges come pre-painted to match the roof or trim.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Drip Edge with Machine Matcher

Whether you're a contractor, architect, or metal fabricator, choosing the right drip edge is critical for roof integrity. Machine Matcher connects you with drip edge roll forming machines and global suppliers to match your material, profile, and production needs.