What is eave trim on a metal roof?
Short answer. Eave trim is the formed metal piece along the bottom edge of a metal roof that covers the deck edge and top of the fascia, supports the panel ends, and directs water into the gutter. It is installed before the panels, and on exposed-fastener roofs it works with foam closure strips that seal the gaps under the panel ribs.
What it does
- Carries water off the panel ends and into the gutter.
- Protects the fascia and deck edge from wicking water.
- Gives a clean, straight line at the bottom of the roof.
- On some standing seam systems, provides a hem or cleat that the panel ends hook onto for wind resistance.
Profiles
Eave trims range from simple drip-style angles to profiles with an extended kick that reaches over the gutter, and hemmed edges for standing seam. The right profile depends on the panel system, the fascia height and where the gutter sits. Use the trim the panel maker designs for its system.
Installation order
- Underlayment and eave trim are sequenced per the manufacturer's detail. Many systems put the eave trim on the deck and lap underlayment over it, as with shingle drip edge; some reverse that.
- Butyl tape and foam closures go on top of the trim for exposed-fastener panels.
- Panels are set with the specified overhang past the trim and fastened through the closure area.
Common mistakes
- Panels cut short, so water runs behind the trim.
- Missing closures that let wind-driven rain, wasps and birds in.
- Trim landing behind the gutter instead of over it.
- Fasteners missing the framing, or overdriven.
Color
Eave trim usually matches the panels or the gutters. Ordering it in the same paint system keeps fading even over the years.
See metal roofing in Georgia, drip edge explained and gutters and guards.