Plastic verges for roofs: Universal Dry Verge System

How to fit a dry verge

At Roofing Superstore we have a number of dry verge products to choose from. From brands such as Kytun, Manthorpe and Corovent, there are a number of different dry verge systems that can be used to create a durable and weatherproof verge on your latest roofing project. But what is a dry verge and why would your roof benefit from one? Read on to find out more about why dry verges are so beneficial, and how to install a dry verge on your roof.


Table of contents:

  1. What is a verge?
  2. What is a dry verge?
  3. Why opt for a dry verge?
  4. How to fit a dry verge

What is a verge?

A roof verge is the part of the roof where the tiles end, where the roof meets the gable. Traditionally, a roof verge is fixed with mortar to create a waterproof and weatherproof finish.


What is a dry verge?

Dry verge systems, or dry-fixing, is a roofing system that involves caps or verges that interlock, clipping over the edge of the roof tiles, protecting the tiles, keeping them secured and preventing water and pests from entering the roof space.


Why opt for a dry verge system?

Traditionally, roof verges, which are outer ends of the roof at gable ends, are fixed with mortar – known as a wet verge. This is done to prevent the ingress of living creatures and water into your roof space. The issue with a wet verge is that mortar is not very durable – thermal movements and expansion can cause cracks within the mortar, and weather can also contribute to the deterioration of mortar over time. This means that wet verge systems require high levels of maintenance, such as repointing, to ensure they are functional.

A dry verge system provides all the protection of a wet verge system, but with a number of benefits.

Dry verge systems are typically manufactured from plastic, which provides more durability, and also requires less maintenance. Additionally, plastic dry verges can provide a uniform, clean and attractive finish to your home, which will help increase the potential selling value.

Dry verge systems can be purchased with in-built vents, which allow for ventilation into the roof space. This helps to reduce the potential for damp and mildew to occur in the roof, as well as reducing the amount of warm air and moisture that exists in the roof space.


How to fit a dry verge

The easy installation process is another benefit of dry verge systems. Each dry verge system may have slightly different installation processes due to the varied designs and manufacturers, therefore we’d always recommend following the manufacturer’s instructions. However, we’ve created a quick guide below, to outline the steps required to fit a dry verge.

Step 1:

Install the underlay if required, and ensure all battens extend beyond the gable wall or bargeboard by 20-40mm – they must extend by the same distance to create a straight and even line. If the tiling battens are rotting or showing signs of wear and tear, the alternative is to fix a batten strip along the verge instead.

Step 2:

Fix the batten end clips to the end of each batten. This will create a secure place on which you can fix the verge units.

Step 3:

Fit the eaves closure unit over the first tile. This will prevent the ingress of pests and water into the roof, but also act as a secure unit on which the eaves clips can be fixed.

Step 4:

Fix the eaves closure unit onto the bargeboard using the screws provided. This can also be fixed to the fascia board with the L shaped clip.

Step 5:

In some cases, the verge units are suitable for both left and right-handed verges – if this is the case, just remove the tab to make the verge suitable for the side you are working on. If not, just ensure you have the correct verge unit for the side you are working on.

Clip the first verge unit over the eaves closure unit, then slide it along until the end lines up with the edge of the roof tile. Once this is done, nail the top of the verge unit into the batten end clip.

Step 6:

Position the second verge unit in the slots of the first one (if the product features slots). If working on a “flex” dry verge system, ply the verge unit open and push it onto the tail of the first verge unit, ensuring the end of the verge lines up with the end of the tail, and nail the top into the batten end clip.

Step 7:

Repeat this process on each side of the gable until you reach the apex of the roof.

Step 8:

Finish the dry verge system with an end cap or block end, using screws provided or the method shown in the manufacturer’s guide.


How much does dry verge cost?

For the refurbishment of an existing roof, it can be hard to decide between repointing mortar or using plastic dry verge caps. Dry verge caps are a little more expensive than repointing generally, but the benefits given are worth the cost. Dry verge caps cost more but they last a lot longer. They are manufactured to be durable and stand the test of high-speed winds, whereas mortar needs regular maintenance and checks to make sure it’s still in place.


For advice or recommendations on dry verge systems and the best products for your project, call our team on 01752 692 760 or use the live chat and they will be more than happy to help.

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Roof Verges: Repoint or plastic

I have a modern 4 bed detached house with two gable ends and two other verges over windows. I recently lost a chunk of mortar/cement out of a small section and am trying to decide whether to have it all checked and re-pointed or go for plastic dry verges. Any thoughts on price for each and if repointing what is the best mix for the job?

7

7 Answers from MyBuilder Roofers

Best Answer

oatley bricklaying and building service

Wells • Member since 10 Feb 2011 •
No feedback

i would take off the tiles and re point as its cheaper and it looks better.the mix should be 4:1.

i would normally charge £200

having a dry verge would cost close to £1000 but they would last longer.

gary

2011-03-20T15:30:01+00:00

Answered 20th Mar 2011

DIAMOND CONSTRUCTION NW

Bury • Member since 11 Jan 2011 •

1
job,
0% positive
feedback

First of all is it a tile roof as you can not fix dry verge to slate.

Second dry verge all the way not only will it last longer and look far neater it will stop unwanted pest like squirrels.

If you are to re point 1:4 ratio is right.

2011-03-09T14:40:01+00:00

Answered 9th Mar 2011

Flat Roofs UK

Nottingham • Member since 19 Jan 2010 •

7
jobs,
100% positive
feedback

we can offer both choices to you . we would have to check first to see if the dry verge would be suitable for your type of tiles. they must fit correctly or they will look a mess and be liable to come off in high winds.

to re point a gable end we will always remove the tiles and use a 3and 1 mix with uni bond.

dry verge price -£600-£700

re point-£ 550

2011-04-10T09:50:02+01:00

Answered 10th Apr 2011

domestic roofingandbuilding

Prestwich • Member since 15 Aug 2008 •

62
jobs,
98% positive
feedback

hi, i would always go with pointing. i think dry verge looks cheap, (my opinion). a 4 to 1 mix building sand and cement with a good plasticiser is best. cheers

2011-03-08T18:05:02+00:00

Answered 8th Mar 2011

Bayley Property Services

Burntwood • Member since 21 Nov 2010 •
No feedback

I think long term you are better going for the plastic verges and also look a lot neater and hold the tiles in place a lot better.

The dry verge system is more expensive but you will probably end up mortaring the verge 2 maybe 3 times in life of the plastic dry verges so will work out cheaper in the end

For repointing you probably want a 1:4 mix

2011-03-08T18:05:02+00:00

Answered 8th Mar 2011

B.T.B Roofing Services

Burton Upon Trent • Member since 13 Apr 2008 •

160
jobs,
100% positive
feedback

My advice would be dry verge. Its works out a little more expensive than mortar but it becomes maintainence free. The only sure way with mortar is to remove all gable tiles then re-bed and re-point in cement mortar (1:3).

I hope this helps. Our costs for supplying and fitting dry verge to 2 gables plus a couple of dormers is roughly £ 950.00. I,d need to take a look first and be within 50 mile radius of DE15.

Thanks

Joe

2011-03-08T18:05:02+00:00

Answered 8th Mar 2011

Congreve Roofing Limited

Congreve Nr. Penkridge. • Member since 24 Jan 2017 •

11
jobs,
100% positive
feedback

I would recommend the dry verge option, but make sure it is fitted correctly, it gives you a maintenance free warranty, as it is mechanically fixed, it also secures the verge tiles against wind uplift and potential future mortar failure.

Should you go with bedded verges, the correct mix for roofing is 3 parts sand to 1 part cement, and no compromise on this. Cost wise is likely to be the same, as there is a higher labour content for bedded verges.

2017-06-10T21:30:01+01:00

Answered 10th Jun 2017

Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge Systems

Kytun™ Dry Fixed Systems

Our Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge systems create a seamless and clean dry verge detail which aesthetically enhances the finish to gable ends on your roofing project. The Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge secures the slate on your roof at the verge. This weathertight system ensures there is no water penetration, with all rainwater directed to the gutter line which provides a high level of protection for your roof. As well as being weatherproof, strong and durable, our slate dry verge system also comes with a 30-year guarantee.

Our Kytun™ Dry Verge systems are made from high grade polyester powder coated Aluminium. The system is compliant to the requirements of BS 5534 and has been tested to BS 8612 as a means of mechanically fixing verge slates.

Slate Dry Verge Systems
Products

Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge Trim (T1)

The Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge System (T1) can be used with both interlocking slates and double lap natural or fibre cement slates. This system permanently secures slate applications on gable…

Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge Trim (T2)

The Kytun™ Aluminium Slate Dry Verge System (T2) permanently secures tiles on gable ends and gives an attractive maintenance-free finish to the roofline. This system permanently secures tile applications on…

Kytun™ Retro-Fit Slate Dry Verge Trim

The Kytun™ Retro-Fit Aluminium Slate Dry Verge System trim is ideal for roofs to which slates have already been fixed, to prevent slates from wind uplift. The design helps protect…

Kytun™ Slate Verge System (T2) PVC

Our Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge systems create a seamless and clean dry verge detail which aesthetically enhances the finish to gable ends on your roofing project. The Kytun™ Slate Dry…

Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge Apex Units

The Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge Apex Unit can be used with most ridge tiles on the market. This system permanently secures slate applications on gable ends securing the verge from…

How
Slate Dry Verge Systems
help our customers

  • The Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge system permanently secures the slate applications on the gable ends securing the verge from wind uplift and rain.
  • The Kytun™ Dry Verge Systems is used in place of the historical system of pointing up verges using mortar. Its extremely easy and quick to install with huge labour saving costs.
  • This Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge System requires no maintenance once installed.
  • The system meets the BS 5534 & BS8612 requirements & NHBC guidelines.

How Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge Systems can benefit your build

  • Kytun™ Slate Dry Verge Systems provide a crisp, sharp edge to the roof verge.
  • Our Kytun™ Dry Verge range are guaranteed for up to 30 years.
  • Patented ‘Drip System’ which allows for self-drainage of rain water into the gutter.
  • Leaves a maintenance free finish.
  • Up to 50% Quick and easy to install.
  • Stops water penetration.
  • Dramatically increases roof lifespan.
  • Allows natural movement of the roof.
  • Protects the most vulnerable parts of the roof.

Frequently Asked Questions

Take a look at some of the most frequently asked questions on this product range

The Kytun™ T1 Aluminium dry Verge system can be joined by overlapping the profile.

The main difference between the Kytun™ T1 and Kytun™ T2 system is the presence of a down leg on the T2 system.

This down leg provides protection to the end of battens increasing your roofs life.

With the Kytun™ T1 system a fascia must provide this function with a run of mastic sealant between the fascia and the underside of our trim.

All our products are designed to be an over batten fix.

We recommend the use of a 40mm long galvanised or stainless-steel Clout nail on every batten.

The system is available in our standard Slate Grey (very close to RAL 7024) and Jet Black (RAL 9005).

Special colour requests can be accommodated on occasion. Please contact the office for more details.

There are no end caps available. The system is designed to run rainwater into the gutter.

The product can be simply mitre cut and butted together at the apex.

Alternatively, an apex piece made to suit your apex angle is available.

These fit over the dry verge and give a sharp, neat appearance.

Other Kytun™ Dry Fixed Systems

You may also be interested in

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What Is A Roof Verge

When a roof meets a gable, the tiles terminate as the roof verge. A roof verge is typically fixed with mortar to produce a watertight and weatherproof surface.

Dry-fixing, also known as dry verge systems, is a type of roofing that uses verges or caps that clip over the edges of the roof tiles to secure them, protect them from damage, and keep out vermin and water.

The total roof system limits the reliability and functionality of a covered roof surface. As a result, a roof’s closing also greatly impacts how long it lasts and how well it can withstand the elements.

Roof closures require special consideration. The verge, also known as the lateral roof closure, is where the façade transitions to the vertical gable.

The verge is often referred to as the front of the house. The verge is the main point of interest when viewing a house. Consequently, it typically has a very intricate design or is richly adorned.

Contents

  • Why Should You Consider A Dry Roof Verge?
  • Built-In Vents In Dry Roof Verge Are Important For Ventilation
  • Dry Verge Roof Fixing Is More Durable Than Wet Verge
  • Why Do You Need To Consider Roof Verge’s Maintenance?
  • What Would Be The Cost For Roof Dry Verge Installation?
  • Bottom Line

Why Should You Consider A Dry Roof Verge?

The wet verge mortar is traditionally used to fix roof verges, which are the outer edges of the roof at gable ends. This stops water and living things from getting into your roof space. Mortar is not resilient in wet verge.

Thermal motions and expansion can lead to cracks in the mortar, and weather can further hasten the mortar’s degeneration over time. As a result, wet verge systems need intensive maintenance, including repointing, to be operational. A dry verge offers a great protection system for a wet verge with several advantages.

Built-In Vents In Dry Roof Verge Are Important For Ventilation

Plastic is typically used to create dry verge systems because it offers greater durability and requires less upkeep. You can give your home a consistent look with a dry plastic verge and a spotless finish that will boost its potential market value.

Dry verge systems are available with built-in vents that permit roof space ventilation. A dry verge system aids in lowering the likelihood of damp and mildew developing in the roof and the amount of warm air and moisture in the roof space.

Dry Verge Roof Fixing Is More Durable Than Wet Verge

To keep water out and pests like birds from building nests on your roof, these sections near the edge of your roof are typically fastened with mortar. We refer to these roofs as having wet verges, which are mortar-rendering roofs.

Without a doubt, mortar performs the function it was designed for; it prevents insects from entering your roof and prevents water from pouring through. The durability of mortar is really where the issue resides.

Mortar deteriorates naturally over time due to weathering brought on by exposure to the elements and natural movement within a building structure, which can cause the mortar to become loose. This causes the mortar to crack, resulting in the issues it is designed to avoid. Your roofline may also become rather unattractive as a result.

Fortunately, there are alternatives to mortar that can help keep pests and water out of your roofing. With the growing popularity of dry fixing as a roofing alternative, your roof can be protected from the elements and pests without needing mortar.

Why Do You Need To Consider Roof Verge’s Maintenance?

While many areas of your roof are prone to being pummelling by inclement weather, ridge tiles are different from ordinary tiles in that they will only be directly hit by rain, as opposed to being allowed to channel flowing water.

They are also exposed to areas where the wind changes course. The importance of ridge tiles to the overall integrity of your roof makes all of this understandably concerning. When storms and strong winds loosen the ridge tiles that bind down the roof’s two closest rows of tiles, other tiles may also fall off.

The roof’s entire tiling structure may end up tumbling off as different rows of tiles work to support one another. As a result, that’s more of a worst-case situation, but the main point is still valid: those ridges are essential to the overall integrity of your roof and are not merely accidental characteristics.

What Would Be The Cost For Roof Dry Verge Installation?

Choosing between employing plastic dry verge caps or repointing mortar to renovate an old roof can be challenging. Dry verge caps cost more than standard repointing, but the advantages outweigh the price.

Even though dry verge caps are more expensive, they endure much longer. In contrast to masonry, which requires routine maintenance and inspections to ensure it is still in place, they are built to be resilient and withstand high-speed winds.

Bottom Line

Since mortar has a propensity to degrade with time, it is likely that your current verges and ridges heavily rely on it. This could be cause for concern. Because of this, every roof’s mortar will ultimately need to be replaced, often with a better long-term alternative.

Above all, dry verge roofing provides all the necessary roofline protection just as efficiently as wet verges, if not better. Selecting dry verge caps also comes with some clear benefits in terms of ventilation.

Dry Verge Systems for Slate and Clay Tiles

Dry Verge Systems for Slate and Clay Tiles

Snowdon/Shetland J-Trim (Type 1)

Snowdon/Shetland J-Trim (Type 1)

Customised specifically for the LBS Snowdon/Shetland Clay the J Trim provides a weather tight dry fix verge detail on the roof and does away with any kind of mortar bedding in line with recent roof fixing recommendations.   

  • Quick and easy to install
  • Gives a maintenance free finish
  • Rain and wind uplift protection
  • Available as a 3m length





Suitable for: Snowdon/Shetland Clay
Colour Black
Finish Powder Coated Aluminium
Depth of Recess 50mm
PDF Drawings


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