How to Install a Roofing Drip Cap

Drip caps are on the edges of roofs edges; they divert the flow of water away from the frame of a building when it rains or snow melts. Normally water accumulates on a roof, but gutters, drain spouts and caps carry it from the roof through the gutters, down the spouts and caps. You can use a cap above a window or door; you can make it decorative as well as functional.

• 1

  Remove any old drip cap that is in the way of your putting up a new one. Hook a screwdriver behind the old cap and pull it out carefully. It should come off easily.

• 2

  Clean the area where you are placing the new drip cap, using an all-purpose cleaner and a scrub brush. Rinse with a hose and cold water.

• 3

  Let the area dry for a few hours after cleaning. Slide the flat, wide end of the drip cap underneath the first row of shingles. The outer edge of the cap should protrude beyond the gutter.

• 4

  Take the adhesive that is in the kit and place the nozzle under the top edge of the cap. Apply a thin layer all the way across. Secure the ends of the cap with small roofing nails.

• 5

  Press the shingles down on top of the cap for a more secure hold on to the cap. Caulk the ends of the shingles into place.