How To Choose And Install Eave Trim For Metal Roofs

Though their strength and durability are well known, the quality of installation can affect how long a metal roof lasts. A crucial but often overlooked detail is installing eave trim. In addition to giving the exterior of your home a polished appearance, eave trim is crucial for preventing water damage to the roof structure. 

In this blog post, we will cover the importance of eave trim for metal roofs, along with a comprehensive guide on how to choose and install the best trim for home.

What Is A Metal Roof Eave Trim?

Eave trim, or a drip edge, is the first trim you put on a metal roof. Installing eave trim is crucial for a long lasting metal roofing system. Its job is to guide water away from the edge, stopping it from getting under the roofing material. Usually, eave trim is around ten to twelve feet long and goes on the lower edges of a sloped roof, known as eaves. It’s essential for finishing the sides of the roof, especially if you don’t have gutters. You attach the trim to the roof deck, and installing it correctly is important for the durability and longevity of the metal roof.

Also Read: Why You Should Pay Attention To The Roof Eave? All About The Roof Overhang

How Do You Choose The Correct Metal Roof Eave Trim?

Aspects like material, design, purpose, compatibility, and installation should all be taken into account when choosing the ideal eave trim for your home or business. Let’s go over each of these factors:

• Material: Copper, steel, or aluminum can be used for eave trims. Every material has its advantages, some are robust, some rust-resistant, and some are more aesthetically pleasing. Prioritize heavier gauge materials for dent resistance and opt for Class 4 hail and Class A fire ratings for added protection. It’s critical to select a material that complements your roof’s color and style as well as your personal architectural tastes. Other than metal, other popular choices include fiberglass and vinyl. 

• Design Considerations: Eave trim is available in various shapes and sizes, including L-shaped, J-shaped, and custom options, to complement your roof’s layout. The secret here is to choose a design that harmonizes with your home’s overall appearance. 

• Use: These trims have various uses, they’re not just for looks. They create a seamless transition between the roof and the sides, keep water out, and stop wind from damaging your roof. For your chosen eave trim to be effective, it must fulfill these requirements.

• Compatibility: It is imperative to ensure that the eave trim complements both your current roof and any other features, such as gutters or downspouts. When choosing eave trim for your metal roof, consider factors like roofing style, fastener type, and proper installation to prevent water-related issues. 

• Installation: The ease of installation varies depending on the type of eave trim you choose, and some might need specific tools or methods. Contemplate the installation procedure of the material before making a final decision.  

It’s important to securely affix the strips with screws, sealants, or nails to ensure a durable and functional eave trim. If you are still unsure which type of eave trim is best for your roof, consult a roofing professional for personalized recommendations that match both your structural needs and aesthetic preferences.

How to Install Metal Roof Eave Trim

To effectively install eave trim on a metal roof, follow the approach outlined in the following steps:

#1. Gather Necessary Tools and Supplies:

Assemble the required tools and supplies, including left, right, and center cutting snips, a hand seamer, a pencil, compatible screws, and, if needed, a caulking gun for sealing gaps.

#2. Prepare the Eave Trim:

Ensure the eave trim is cut to the correct length and shape for your roof. Use a hand seamer if adjustments are needed to fit the trim precisely.

#3. Install the First Piece of Eave Trim:

Position the initial eave trim piece on the roof’s edge, aligning it with the desired location. Secure the top of the eave trim to the roof using a screw or nail.

#4. Install Additional Eave Trim Pieces:

Each piece of trim should overlap by at least 3-inches. Apply caulk to the previously installed eave trim, then press the new piece into place. 

#5. Fasten the Eave Trim:

Secure the top of the eave trim to the roof by using a screw at the center. Maintain proper screw spacing, with one screw 8-inches from the ends of the trim. 

#6. Seal Gaps:

Use a caulking gun to seal gaps between the eave trim pieces and the roofing panels, ensuring a weatherproof seal for added protection.

Also Read: Is A Drip Edge Necessary On A Roof: A Comprehensive Guide

Tips and Best Practices

For a successful eave trim installation on a metal roof, consider the following tips:

#1. Use Appropriate Tools and Supplies:

Ensure you have the right tools, including tin snips, screws, a caulking gun, and proper safety gear, for a precise and efficient installation. 

Select appropriate tools such as circular saws, power shears, nibblers, and jigsaws when cutting metal roofing and cladding sheets. Choose the tool that best suits your cutting needs, considering their advantages and limitations.

#2. Properly Fasten the Eave Trim:

The metal roof is fastened to the top of the eave trim using the right screws or nails. To guarantee a stable and secure attachment, maintain the appropriate screw spacing.

#3. Measure Twice, Cut Once:

Installing eave trim involves cutting multiple pieces of material to ensure the entire roof edge is covered. When measuring the trim, keep in mind how much overlap is needed before making the final cut. 

Is Eave Trim Necessary On A Metal Roof?

Eave trim is crucial for all types of metal roofs, and its installation becomes particularly important when gutters are not installed. It plays an important role in finishing the look of a home while efficiently guiding water off the structure. Eave trim also contributes significantly to achieving a polished appearance by unifying various roofing components.

While it does add a decorative touch, eave trim serves multiple essential functions. One of its primary benefits is its protective quality, it shields the edge of the roof panel from moisture and directs water away from the building. Additionally, eave trim acts as a seal, preventing water from infiltrating the roof joints. 

When selecting eave trim, several factors should be considered, including its application, the style of the roofing, and the desired curb appeal. Proper installation is important to safeguard the building from potential water damage. 

Conclusion

One of the most important steps in guaranteeing the durability and functionality of your roofing system is selecting and installing eave trim for metal roofs. You can improve the longevity and visual appeal of your metal roof by being aware of the function of eave trim and choosing BRH Enterprises for the installation process. We offer top-notch metal roofing services to homeowners in Wisconsin, including eave trim installation. Contact us at  (920) 249-4228 today!