What is a Universal Dry Verge?

23rd January 2021

What is Universal Dry Verge?

Universal dry verges are common on properties all over the world as they provide an attractive finish to roof edges. However, they are not until used for aesthetic purposes. Universal dry verges help secure the roof tiles and protect the cohesion between the mortar and tile at the edge of the roof from being exposed to water damage or any uplifting from strong winds.

In this Wonkee Donkee universal dry verge guide, we explain what is universal dry verge? What are the benefits of universal dry verge? Plus what are the different parts of universal dry verge?

What is Universal Dry Verge?

As we touched on in the introduction of this guide, universal dry verge is attached to the edge of roofing in order to provide stability and protection. Universal dry verge comes in sections which are installed matching the tile pattern and have clever interlocking systems in order to provide the perfect even finish. The design incorporates clips that fit over the tiles, which not only holds the universal dry verge in place but also allows for them to create a waterproof seal.

The most common material used to manufacture universal dry verge is high grade polypropylene. The reason polypropylene is used is because it is highly resistant to corrosion, watertight and strong. The fact that universal dry verge is highly resistant to corrosion is important as roofing is constantly exposed to the natural elements. The characteristic of being totally watertight when sealed correctly, is also a key reason why polypropylene is used.

A complete waterproof seal prevents water from entering any gaps and pooling which eventually causes structural damage to the roof. The final reason polypropylene is used is down to its strength. Some manufacturers have now created universal dry verges that interlock with tiles and require no mortar in order for them to be fastened down. Instead their interlocking design and material strength allow them to stay in place.

What are the benefits of a Dry Verge?

The verge is the term used in order to describe the outer edges of a roof at gable ends of a property. Typically, verges are sealed with mortar to prevent the invasion or ingress of living things such as plants, insects, birds or small animals from entering the space surrounding roof tiles.

In the roofing industry this style of roof edge is called a wet verge and was commonly used before the invention of dry verges. The issue with wet verges is that mortar is not the most durable of materials and constant exposure to the environment such as fluctuation in temperatures or natural weather deterioration can cause damage over time. To keep on top of a wet verge it requires regular maintenance, from cleaning to prevent anything from growing to small repair jobs in any weak spots.

Dry verge systems counter this issue by providing a protective sealing around the verge area using what has now become known as universal dry verge. The first and most obvious advantage to using a dry verge is the protection it provides against the elements in comparison to an exposed wet verge. The polypropylene plastic used in the manufacturing of dry verges provide a waterproof and corrosion-resistant barrier. This makes it much less maintenance and also helps protect the structure of your roof for longer.

You can also purchase some universal dry verge sections which come with vents included within the design. This aids in helping to properly ventilate your roof which can prevent condensation build-up and protect the structure.

The final advantage of universal dry verges is simply that it provides an attractive finish to your properties roofing. Wet verges with mortar on show are not the most attractive finish and dry verges can now be purchased in a range of different styles and colours to match your properties decor.

What are the parts of a Dry Verge?

Universal dry verge is made up of several key components. They are typically sold together in order to match the design and style. However, you can purchase them separately which can come in handy if you only need to replace one section. The different parts of universal dry verge are:

Ridge Joint