How to Flash Eaves

Eave drip prevents water from staining or rotting fascia boards.

Eave drip installs along the edges of roofs to divert water dripping from the edge of the roof away from the fascia board on the house to help prevent stains and rotting. Eave drip attaches to the roof after installation of the roof felt but before the shingles along the perimeter of the roof edge. Eave drip attaches to the roof edge by using galvanized roofing nails. Building codes vary between regions so it is important to check with your local building department for specific installation instructions for your area.

Things You'll Need

• 1 1/4-inch nails
• Hammer
• Galvanized roofing nails
• Tin snips
• Tape measure

Instructions

1. Install the roof edge starting on a corner of the roof. The tapered edge of the eave drip should run along the fascia board.

2. Nail the eave drip into place using 1 1/4-inch galvanized roofing nails and a hammer to secure it to the roof. Allow the eave drip to overhang the roof edge about 3/4 inch to allow for the installation of gutters if applicable. This will allow gutters to tuck behind the eave drip to catch the runoff.

3. Overlap adjoining pieces of eave drip about 3 inches and press together firmly before nailing for longer runs along the roof edge.

4. Install the eave drip around the entire edge of the roof cutting to length when necessary using a pair of tin snips and a tape measure.

Tips & Warnings

• Sweep the roof deck to remove any debris before installing eave drip.

• Use an asphalt spray or roofing cement to coat the eave drip before installing the shingles to improve adhesion.

• Wear gloves when installing the eave drip. The edges are sharp, especially after cutting with the tin snips.

• Use extreme caution when working on rooftops.

Resources

• RainGutterShop.com: Drip Edge