Gravel Stop

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Gravel Stop

What is Gravel Stop?

A metal edge strip or fascia installed at the perimeter of flat or low-slope roofs to contain gravel ballast, provide a finished edge, and prevent gravel from washing or blowing off the roof surface.

Description

A gravel stop is a metal edge strip or fascia installed at the perimeter of flat or low-slope roofs to contain gravel ballast, provide a finished edge, and prevent gravel from washing or blowing off the roof surface during wind and rain events. This essential roofing component serves multiple critical functions including containing loose aggregate surfacing materials, creating a clean architectural edge detail, providing attachment points for roofing membranes, and protecting the roof edge from weather damage. Gravel stops are commonly used on built-up roofs (BUR), modified bitumen systems, and single-ply membrane roofs where gravel or other aggregate materials are used as ballast or surface protection.

The primary purposes of gravel stops include containing gravel ballast and preventing it from being displaced by wind or water, providing a finished architectural edge that enhances building appearance, creating a secure attachment point for roofing membranes and flashing, protecting the roof edge and fascia from weather exposure and damage, facilitating proper drainage by directing water to roof drains or gutters, preventing debris accumulation at roof edges, and ensuring compliance with building codes and roofing system warranties.

Types of gravel stops are classified based on their profile and application, including continuous gravel stops that provide uninterrupted edge protection along straight roof sections, mitered gravel stops with factory-formed corners for clean intersections, adjustable gravel stops that accommodate varying roof slopes and conditions, fascia-style gravel stops that combine edge protection with decorative facing, and specialty gravel stops designed for specific roofing systems or architectural requirements.

FAQs

  • What is a gravel stop?

    A gravel stop is a metal edge strip installed at roof perimeters to contain gravel ballast, provide a finished edge, and prevent gravel from being displaced by wind or water.

  • Where are gravel stops used?

    Gravel stops are used on flat or low-slope roofs with gravel ballast, including built-up roofs, modified bitumen systems, and single-ply membrane roofs.

  • What materials are gravel stops made from?

    Common materials include aluminum (most popular), galvanized steel, stainless steel, copper, and painted steel, each offering different benefits for durability and appearance.

  • How are gravel stops installed?

    Gravel stops are secured to the roof deck or structure with fasteners, aligned continuously along edges, and integrated with roofing membranes and flashing systems.

  • What size gravel stop is needed?

    Gravel stop height typically ranges from 4–12 inches depending on gravel depth, with face widths of 3–8 inches and standard 10-foot lengths.

  • Why are gravel stops important?

    Gravel stops prevent gravel loss, provide finished edges, protect roof perimeters, facilitate drainage, and ensure roofing system performance and warranty compliance.

  • How do you maintain gravel stops?

    Maintenance includes periodic inspection for damage, cleaning debris, checking flashing integrity, monitoring drainage, and prompt repair of any damage or deterioration.

Fun Fact

Fun Fact: Gravel stops became essential when built-up roofing systems gained popularity in the early 1900s. Before gravel stops, building owners would lose tons of gravel annually to wind and rain, creating maintenance headaches and potential safety hazards for pedestrians below. The first gravel stops were simple L-shaped strips, but modern designs incorporate sophisticated drainage features and can withstand hurricane-force winds exceeding 150 mph!

CSI Code

07 71 00

NAHB Code

770