When it comes to roofing, proper ventilation and water management are essential for preventing damage and ensuring longevity. One often-overlooked component that plays a crucial role in protecting the roofline is the eave support tray. These trays help maintain airflow while preventing water ingress and sagging underlay, which can lead to costly repairs.
For homeowners and contractors alike, understanding how to properly install eave support trays is key to maintaining a strong and durable roof structure.
What Are Eave Support Trays?
Eave support trays, also known as felt support trays or eaves protectors, are rigid plastic trays installed at the eaves of a roof to support roofing felt and prevent it from sagging into the gutter. Without them, roofing felt can dip over time due to exposure to moisture, causing water to collect and potentially leading to leaks.
These trays are especially important in the UK, where frequent rainfall and damp conditions can accelerate roof wear and tear.
Why Are Eave Support Trays Important?
- Prevents Felt Deterioration – Roofing felt can become weak and brittle over time, leading to sagging and water pooling.
- Enhances Roof Drainage – Proper installation directs rainwater into the gutters, preventing leaks and damp issues.
- Protects Against Wind Uplift – Strong winds can lift roofing felt, causing structural weaknesses; eave trays help keep it secure.
- Improves Ventilation – By maintaining a gap for airflow, eave trays reduce condensation buildup in loft spaces.
How to Properly Install EVE Support Trays in UK Roofs
Installing eave support trays is a straightforward process, but precision is key to ensuring they function correctly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a proper installation:
Step 1: Gather Materials
Before starting, make sure you have the necessary materials:
✔ Eave support trays
✔ Roofing nails or screws
✔ Hammer or screwdriver
✔ Roofing felt (if replacing)
✔ Ladder and safety equipment
Step 2: Prepare the Roof Area
- If you are working on a new roof, ensure the rafters and underlay are properly installed.
- If you are replacing existing trays, remove any damaged felt and clean the area before installation.
Step 3: Position the First Tray
Place the first eave support tray at the lower edge of the roof, ensuring it overhangs slightly into the gutter. The tray should extend under the roofing felt but above the fascia board.
Step 4: Secure the Tray
Use roofing nails or screws to fix the tray onto the rafters or roof battens, ensuring it is firmly in place. If using multiple trays, overlap each one by at least 50mm to create a continuous support system.
Now, you’re ready to move forward with ensuring your roof is in excellent condition. For a more detailed guide on installation, learn How to Properly Install EVE Support Trays in UK Roofs to ensure you’re using the correct techniques and materials.
Step 5: Lay the Roofing Felt Over the Trays
- Pull the roofing felt over the eave support trays, ensuring it lies flat without creases.
- Secure the felt with nails at appropriate intervals to prevent movement.
Step 6: Final Checks
- Ensure there are no gaps between the trays and that the felt is securely attached.
- Check that water can flow freely into the gutter without obstruction.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
🚫 Skipping the Overlap – Not overlapping trays properly can create weak spots where water can seep in.
🚫 Misaligning the Trays – Uneven trays can disrupt water drainage, leading to pooling and leaks.
🚫 Neglecting Ventilation – Blocking airflow can result in condensation buildup in loft spaces.
🚫 Using Weak Fasteners – Ensure nails or screws are strong enough to withstand wind and weather conditions.
Final Thoughts
Proper installation of eave support trays is essential for maintaining a sturdy, weather-resistant roof. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to improve your roof’s lifespan or a contractor ensuring compliance with UK roofing standards, taking the time to install these trays correctly can prevent costly repairs in the future.
