Drip Edge Length Calculator
Total the drip edge for your eaves and rakes and convert it to 10-foot pieces, accounting for the overlap at each joint.
How it works
Perimeter = eave + rake · Coverage per piece = piece length − overlap ÷ 12 · Pieces = ceil(perimeter × (1 + waste%) ÷ coverage per piece)
Drip edge is the L-shaped metal that runs along the eaves and rakes to send water into the gutter and keep it off the fascia. Because each piece overlaps the next by an inch or two, its effective coverage is a little less than its nominal length. Add the eave and rake runs, grow by a small waste factor for corners and short cuts, then divide by the coverage per piece and round up.
Worked example
With 120 ft of eave and 80 ft of rake, the perimeter is 200 ft. Ten-foot pieces overlapping 2 inches each cover 9.83 ft; a 5% waste allowance makes the need 210 ft, so 210 ÷ 9.83 ≈ 22 pieces.
Frequently asked questions
Does drip edge go on both eaves and rakes?
Yes. Along the eaves it is installed under the underlayment; along the rakes it goes over the underlayment. Both edges need it, so add the eave and rake lengths together for the total.
How much do drip edge pieces overlap?
End laps are usually 1 to 2 inches so water cannot get behind the joint. This calculator subtracts the overlap from each piece so the count reflects real coverage rather than nominal length.
What length does drip edge come in?
The common stock length is 10 feet (some suppliers sell 10.5 ft). Set the piece length to match what your supplier stocks so the piece count is accurate.
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This calculator is for educational purposes. Double-check important results before acting on them.