A reglet in roofing is a metal or material channel that sits at the edge of a roof where it meets a wall or chimney. It catches water and directs it down the roof so it doesn’t leak into your home. Reglets are also called roof crickets or saddles. They are a key part of keeping your roof dry and protected. Without a reglet, water can pool and seep into walls. Most roofing experts say reglets are essential for any roof that touches a vertical surface.
Why Do Roofs Need Reglets?
Water is the biggest enemy of any roof. When rain hits where your roof meets a wall, the water needs a clear path to flow down. A reglet creates that path.
According to IBISWorld, the U.S. roofing contractor industry reached $81.3 billion in 2025, and much of that work focuses on fixing leaks and water damage. A reglet prevents costly leaks that can damage your home’s walls, insulation, and interior spaces. Installing a reglet costs far less than fixing water damage later.
Reglets also protect your home’s foundation and basement from seeping water.
Related articles:
- How Much Should a New Roof Cost in 2025
- What Should Be in Roofing Estimate in Cumming Ga
- What Is the 80% Rule in Homeowners Insurance
- What Is a Cricket in Roofing
- What Does Epdm Stand for in Roofing
- What Is a Square in Roofing
- How Many Bundles in a Roofing Square
- How to Start a Roofing Company in Texas
Where Are Reglets Used?
Reglets are found in several key places on a roof. They sit where a roof meets a chimney, a wall, or a skylight. Any spot where the roof meets a vertical surface needs a reglet. Metal reglets work best because they don’t rust easily and last a long time.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the roofing industry employs 135,140 roofers who specialize in these details. A good roofer knows exactly where to place a reglet for maximum water protection. Reglets can be made from copper, aluminum, or galvanized steel. Copper reglets last the longest, sometimes 70+ years or more.
How Are Reglets Installed?
A roofer cuts a groove or channel into the roof deck at the base of a wall or chimney. The reglet sits in this groove. Flashing is then installed to work with the reglet, creating a tight seal that stops water from sneaking underneath.
According to RubyHome (2025), roof installation costs range from $4 to $40 per square foot, depending on materials and complexity. Adding a reglet during new roof installation costs less than adding one later. Proper installation is critical. A poorly installed reglet can fail and cause leaks within months.
Reglet Materials and Costs
| Material | Lifespan | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Copper | 70+ years | Long-lasting, premium option |
| Aluminum | 30-40 years | Budget-friendly, good durability |
| Galvanized Steel | 20-30 years | Affordable, standard choice |
According to industry data, most residential roof replacements cost between $5,868 and $13,217 total. A quality reglet adds only a small cost to that total. Most homeowners spend $200 to $500 for a reglet installation during a roof replacement. Installing reglets during new roof work saves money and headaches later.
A reglet is a small detail with big results. It protects your entire home from water damage. If your roof meets a wall or chimney, you need a reglet. Talk to your roofer about reglet placement and materials before your next roof project.
Related articles:
- Whats a Square in Roofing
- What Should a New Roof Cost in 2025
- How to Make 100k in Roofing Sales
- What Is Included in a Roofing Quote
- What Is the Tax Credit for a New Roof in 2025
- How Big Is a Square in Roofing
- How to Get a Roofing License in Florida
- Should You Pay a Roofer in Cash
Contact a qualified roof contractor for expert guidance on roof repair, replacement, or installation.