How Much Does It Cost To Install A Drip Edge In 2025?

To divert rainwater away from your roof and fascia into your gutters, a drip edge is very important. One important question that may come to your mind is the cost of installing drip edges on your roof.

At BRH Enterprises LLC, we are your local roofers in Wisconsin and we always want to keep homeowners informed about their roofs. 

In today’s article, we will walk you through everything you should know about the cost of installing a drip edge on your roof in 2025.

*Please note, price ranges listed in this article may not reflect the final cost of your project. Prices are subject to change based on various factors such as local labor rates, material quality, and more. All costs established in this article are rough estimates based on average industry rates. 

What is the General Cost to Install A Drip Edge in 2025?

The average cost to install drip edges can be anywhere from $150 to $1,000 for most residential roofs in 2025.

Most homeowners generally spend around $575 for a complete drip edge installation. But of course, like every other part of your roof, the exact cost depends on many things that we will discuss further in this article.

When calculating your budget for roof drip edge installation, it’s helpful to think in terms of linear feet. On average, you can expect to pay between $1.50 and $3 per linear foot when installing drip edge during a roof replacement. 

However, adding a drip edge to an existing roof is considerably more expensive, ranging from $5 to $9 per linear foot due to the additional labor involved.

Also Read: Is A Drip Edge Necessary On A Roof? 

What Are The Factors That Affect The Cost Of Installing Drip Edge Flashing?

Here are some important considerations that will impact the final drip edge installation cost for your roof.

#1 New Roof vs. Existing Roof Installation

The timing of your drip edge installation significantly impacts the overall cost. Installing a drip edge during a new roof installation or complete roof replacement is much more cost-effective than adding it to an existing roof. 

During new roof construction, the process is straightforward as the drip edge can be positioned correctly along with the shingles and underlayment. This typically costs between $1.50 and $3 per linear foot.

In contrast, fitting a drip edge onto an existing roof requires removing the bottom row of shingles, installing the drip edge, and then reinstalling the shingles. 

This comparatively lengthy process can increase the price to $5 to $9 per linear foot. Additionally, the effectiveness of a drip edge installed on an existing roof might be compromised compared to one installed during the initial roofing phase. 

If your roof is due for replacement soon, it might be more economical to wait and include the drip edge installation as part of the complete roofing project.

#2 Roof Size and Linear Footage Requirements

The size of your roofing system directly correlates with the amount of drip edge needed, which in turn affects the total cost. Drip edge pricing is calculated based on linear feet along the roof’s perimeter where it meets the gutters. 

A standard single-story rectangular home might require around 150 to 300 linear feet of drip edge, while larger or more complex roof designs could need 600 linear feet or more.

To determine the exact amount needed, measure the total length of all eaves and rakes (sloped edges) of your roof. Remember to add approximately 10% extra material for overlaps and waste during installation. 

For a normal 2,000-square-foot home, you might need approximately 200 to 250 linear feet of drip edge, resulting in a material cost of $300 to $700, plus labor. Larger homes with more complex roof designs, multiple gables, dormers, or irregular shapes will require more materials and installation time, increasing both material and labor costs proportionally.

#3 Roof Height and Accessibility 

The height and accessibility of your roof are other important considerations that will also affect the final cost of installing drip edges on your roof. 

Single-story homes with easily accessible roofs generally incur standard labor rates, typically $45 to $75 per hour. However, as roof height increases, so does the complexity and risk associated with the installation process, leading to higher labor costs.

Multi-story homes or buildings with steep roof pitches require specialized equipment like taller ladders, scaffolding, or lifts, all of which add to the overall expense. 

#4 Roof Layout and Complexity Considerations

The architectural design and complexity of your roof significantly impact drip edge installation costs. Simple gable roofs with straight edges are the most cost-effective to outfit with drip edge flashing, as they require minimal cutting and fitting. 

However, more intricate roof designs with multiple angles, valleys, dormers, and custom features necessitate additional materials and skilled labor to ensure proper water diversion.

Hipped roofs, mansard styles, or designs with numerous intersections require more precise cutting and fitting of drip edge sections. Each corner and junction point of your roof needs careful attention to create proper overlaps and seals to prevent water infiltration. 

These complex configurations can increase labor time by 25% to 40% compared to straightforward designs. 

#5 Material Selection for Drip Edge

The material you choose for your drip edge flashing also influences both cost and performance. 

👉 Aluminum remains the most popular and economical option, priced between $3 and $10 per 10 linear feet. Its lightweight nature, resistance to corrosion, and availability in various colors make it suitable for most residential applications. Aluminum drip edges typically last 20 to 25 years under normal conditions.

👉 Galvanized steel provides increased durability at a slightly higher price point of $5 to $12 per 10 linear feet. Its greater strength makes it suitable for areas with high winds or severe weather conditions. Steel drip edges require a minimum 24-gauge thickness to withstand environmental stresses and typically last 25 to 30 years with proper installation.

👉 For premium applications, copper drip edges come at a high price point of $35 to $75 per 10 linear feet. While substantially more expensive, copper develops a distinctive patina over time and can last over 50 years, often outliving the roof itself. 

Just remember that the material choice should balance your budget and local climate considerations, aesthetic preferences, and the expected lifespan of your roofing system. 

Each material provides different benefits in terms of durability, appearance, and resistance to various environmental factors.

#6 Drip Edge Type Options

The type of drip edge you select influences both its functionality and cost. 

👉 Type C (L-style) drip edge features a simple 90-degree bend with a bottom flange and costs approximately $3 to $10 per 10 linear feet. This basic design works well for most standard roof configurations and is the most economical option for roofing drip edge installation.

👉 Type D (T-style) drip edge, priced between $10 and $15 per 10 linear feet, provides enhanced water diversion capabilities. Its T-shaped design includes an extended flange that keeps water further away from the fascia board, providing advanced protection in areas with heavy rainfall or where water damage is a particular concern. The additional material and more complex shape account for the price premium.

👉 Type F (F-style or gutter apron) drip edge costs about $3 to $10 per 10 linear feet and features an extended leading edge that makes it a good choice for installation over existing shingles or on rake edges. This style is often chosen when retrofitting a drip edge onto an existing roof. 

#7 Labor and Installation Complexity

Professional roofers generally charge between $45 and $75 per hour for their expertise. The complexity of the installation directly affects the time required to complete the project, therefore influencing the total labor cost.

Standard installations on single-story homes with straightforward roof designs might require just a few hours of labor. 

However, factors such as multiple stories, steep pitches, complicated roof lines, or the need to remove and replace existing materials can extend the project to a full day or more. 

If your project involves repairing damaged fascia or addressing other roofing issues discovered during installation, these additional tasks will add to the labor time and cost.

Can You Install A Drip Edge By Yourself?

Yes, you can install drip edge by yourself if you have some basic DIY skills and the proper tools, but it’s important to understand that even a single mistake can allow water to enter your roofing structure rather than your gutters. 

For a successful DIY drip edge installation, you’ll need tools like a ladder, hammer, roofing nails, tin snips, measuring tape, and safety equipment. The materials cost will be around $1 to $15 per linear foot, depending on the type of drip edge you choose. However, keep in mind that roof work can be dangerous, especially on multi-story homes or steep pitches.

The installation process requires precise positioning. The drip edge must extend over the fascia by at least ¼ inch and needs to be properly overlapped at corners and transitions. 

Incorrect installation might void roofing warranties or lead to water damage that far exceeds any installation savings.

Unless you have experience with roofing projects and are comfortable working at heights, hiring a professional roofer is generally the safer and more reliable option that ensures your roof’s water management system functions properly for years to come.

How to Lower Your Drip Edge Installation Costs

There are several ways to reduce your drip edge installation costs without compromising on quality or protection for your home:

👉  Time your installation strategically by including drip edge during a scheduled roof replacement or new roof installation rather than as a separate project. This approach can save you on installation costs compared to retrofitting an existing roof. The work is more efficient when done alongside other roofing tasks, reducing labor hours significantly.

👉 Choose cost-effective materials like aluminum or galvanized steel instead of premium options like copper. Aluminum offers excellent corrosion resistance and durability at just 10% to 15% of the cost of copper drip edge. Standard Type C or Type F styles are typically less expensive than Type D configurations while still providing effective water diversion for most homes.

👉 Consider the scope of your project carefully. Some homes may only need drip edges along the eaves (horizontal roof edges) rather than the entire roof perimeter. Prioritizing areas where water management is most critical can reduce your material needs and overall project cost.

👉 Request multiple estimates from reputable local roofing contractors. Prices can vary significantly between companies, so collecting at least three quotes helps you find the best value. When comparing estimates, make sure they include the same scope of work, materials, and labor specifications for a meaningful comparison.

👉 Check if your contractor offers seasonal discounts. Many roofing companies provide special pricing during their slower seasons (typically late fall through winter in most regions) to keep their crews busy. Planning your installation during these periods could result in savings on the total project cost.

Get Professional Roofing Services In Wisconsin

At BRH Enetprises LLC, we are your local roofing company serving Mayville and the surrounding areas of Wisconsin. Our team is here to make sure that each part of your roof, from drip edge to shingles, lasts and performs to its fullest. We only use high-quality materials and industry-proven practices. For a no-obligation and free consultation with our professionals, call us today at (920) 249-4228.