What are end caps on a metal roof?
Short answer. End caps are small metal pieces, or folded closures, that seal the open ends of ridge caps, hip caps and some rake and eave trims where they would otherwise leave a hollow opening. They keep wind-driven rain, wasps, birds and debris out of the gap and give the roof a finished look at the gable ends.
Where they go
- Ridge ends at gables: the most common spot, where the ridge cap would otherwise show an open profile.
- Hip bottoms: where a hip cap meets the eave.
- Rake trim ends: at the bottom of a rake where it meets the eave trim.
- Dormer and porch peaks: smaller ridges that end in open air or against walls.
Types
- Preformed end caps: stamped or formed pieces sized to a specific ridge profile, riveted or screwed in place with sealant.
- Field-formed closures: the ridge cap end is notched and folded down to close itself, sealed with butyl and sealant.
- Foam or vented closures: inside the ridge, closing off the panel ribs, used in addition to an end cap.
Why they matter
An open ridge end is a funnel for wind-driven rain and an invitation to wasps and birds, which Georgia has plenty of. Water entering there can run along the ridge and drip onto the deck far from the source, making the leak hard to trace.
Tips
- Match the end cap to the exact ridge profile and paint color.
- Use butyl tape and compatible sealant behind the cap.
- Fasten with color-matched rivets or screws.
- Check end caps after strong storms, since they take the brunt of gable-end wind.
Shingle roofs
Shingle roofs do not use end caps; the ridge cap shingles simply run to the edge and the last piece is face-nailed and sealed. If your shingle ridge ends look open, that is a different problem worth checking.