
Do you need a drip edge on a roof?
Whether installing a new roof on a home or undergoing new construction of a home, inclusion of a drip edge should be part of any quality roof installation package. If a new roof is going to maintain soundness, and value is going to be added to a home, a drip edge is a necessity.
Does your roof have drip edge on it?
It is safe to keep in mind that not all roofs have drip edges. However, a drip edge may be added before or after a shingle is placed. So, if you’ve relocated into a property without one, it isn’t too late to add one to preserve and extend the life of the roofing.
How to install roofing drip edge?
Step by Step Install Drip Edge on a Metal Roof
- Build the lower rim of the roof extended away from the fascia. ...
- Install sheet metal drip cap over the lower rim.
- Insert the wide flank of drip cap underneath the first course of shingle or tile all the way through. ...
- Seal the flashing to the roof by using special roofing cement. ...
How to install drip edge properly?
To install drip edge properly, start on the eaves. Begin at the corner of an eave where it meets the next eave or a gable rake. Measure how far the top of the drip extends past the front face (usually 3/4″ or somewhere thereabouts), and allow the first piece to extend that far past the corner of the eave.

Is roof drip edge necessary?
Without a drip edge, water may end up beneath the shingles and may cause damage to various parts of the home. Though your home may not have originally had a drip edge installed, drip edges are now required by most building codes across North America to protect homes from damage.
Why is drip edge important?
The purpose of a drip edge is to help redirect water from the fascia and into the gutters. The gutters then carry this water away. Drip edges can be installed on the rake, eaves, and gable of your roof. They extend beyond the fascia and are a minimum of one-third of the gutter width.
Does drip edge go around the entire roof?
Drip edge is installed around the whole perimeter of the roof. It is used to hold the underlayments down and create a watertight seal around the edge of the roof. Only the face of the metal is seen and is usually just white one to one and half inch stripe located right under the shingles and above the fascia.
Should drip edge be replaced with new roof?
If your roof doesn't have drip edge, water gets behind your gutters and rots out both your fascia board and roof decking. When getting a roof replacement, your drip edge must be replaced. Be aware, some roofing contractors leave it off your estimate to lower their prices to beat out the competition.
What happens without drip edge?
Without a drip edge, your shingles could slouch, causing water to get underneath the roof, inevitably leading to water damage. Without this support, your shingles could even need premature replacement due to the damage incurred.
Are gutters installed under the drip edge?
It is recommended that gutters are placed under or 'behind' the drip edge of your roof. A drip edge refers to a component that hangs over the roof and has an outward projecting lower edge.
Should shingles hang over the drip edge?
Ideal Overhang Length Once the drip edge is installed, the shingles should extend ½ inch to ¾ inch past the drip edge. If the shingles are allowed to extend too far, then they can be caught by the wind and damaged. If they do not extend far enough, driving rain can get under them and damage the roof deck.
Do you nail drip edge?
Nail the drip edge to the roof deck with minimum 12-gage roofing nails spaced 8 to 10-inches on center and 1-½ to 3-inches from the edge of the sheathing. Adjacent drip edge pieces should be lapped minimum 2 inches. Asphalt shingles should overhang the exterior edge of the drip edge by ¼ to ¾-inch.
Can I install drip edge after shingles?
Can Drip Edge Be Installed After Shingles? The most popular time to install a drip edge is when new shingles are installed. However, the drip edge can be installed at any time. The materials involved include: a ladder, a flat pry bar, a hammer, tin snips, eave stripping, and galvanized roofing nails.
What are the 2 types of drip edge?
5 Types of Drip Edges on Metal FlashingsGutter apron.Rake edge flashing.Gravel stop.Chimney caps.Coping.
Should drip edge be tight to fascia?
A metal drip edge will help protect the sheathing under the roof, but if it's installed too closely to the fascia board, it can still cause water to be drawn into the fascia. The best installation method is to leave a gap between the drip edge and the fascia board, about the width of a finger.
Where do you put a drip edge on a roof?
0:336:49How To Install Drip Edge On A Roof - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYour roof might not have drip edge or rake edge. But is required by most codes nowadays. So there'sMoreYour roof might not have drip edge or rake edge. But is required by most codes nowadays. So there's a common misconception when it comes to installing your eaves drip edge most people seem to think
Is drip edge required by code in NC?
Answer: No, if the manufacturer's installation instructions do not require a drip edge per Section R904. 1.
What is the difference between drip edge and rake edge?
Location of the Edge So, the drip edge attracts the rain droplets, snow, all types of precipitation into the eavestroughs, and away from the rest of the roof. Rake edges, on the other hand, are placed along the ends of the gables of a house's roof.
Can drip edge be installed after shingles?
Can Drip Edge Be Installed After Shingles? The most popular time to install a drip edge is when new shingles are installed. However, the drip edge can be installed at any time. The materials involved include: a ladder, a flat pry bar, a hammer, tin snips, eave stripping, and galvanized roofing nails.
What are the different types of drip edge?
5 Types of Drip Edges on Metal FlashingsGutter apron.Rake edge flashing.Gravel stop.Chimney caps.Coping.
What is drip edge?
The first thing to know about drip edge is what it actually is and where it’s located on your roof.
How far should drip edge be from roof deck?
Drip edge shall extend a minimum of a ¼ of an inch below roof decking and extend up a minimum of 2 inches. Underlayment must be installed over the drip edge along the eaves and under the underlayment on gables.
When getting a roof replacement, must your drip edge be replaced?
When getting a roof replacement, your drip edge must be replaced. Be aware, some roofing contractors leave it off your estimate to lower their prices to beat out the competition.
Do you need drip edge on aluminum fascia?
Just like normal drip edge, aluminum fascia and rake molding goes along the eaves and covers the edge of your roof’s deck to prevent water from going where it’s not supposed to. If your home has either one, you don't need drip edge.
Who is Bill Ragan roofing?
The team at Bill Ragan Roofing has helped homeowners in Nashville understand what exactly they’re paying for when they get a new roof. We go over all the roofing materials and your options to ensure you get a roof system that fits your budget and lasts for decades. Even if you don’t go work with us, at least you’ll have the power to make the right purchasing decisions.
Is drip edge included in roof replacement?
Drip edge is always going to be included in your roof replacement . Because of this, it’s going to have an impact on the price you’ll pay for your new roof .
Why is Drip Edge Important?
The reason why drip edge is important is because of surface tension. When water flows down your roof to the edge of your shingles, it can actually roll over the edge of the shingle and flow back to the fascia. In a way, water can defy gravity through surface tension. Without a drip edge in place, the water will run down the fascia of your home and even flow back to your decking. This constant contact with water will cause the wood to eventually rot.
What are the Different Kinds of Drip Edge?
There are a wide range of sizes of drip edge pieces. Some go under the shingles 3 inches, some go under the shingles 4 inches, some 6 inches, and so on. There are drip edges that are flat as they go down the fascia and some that have a 45 degree bend at the end to flick water away from the fascia boards. At Restoration Roofing, we use drip edge that utilizes the 45 degree kick out as we have found that it works the best at guiding water away from wood trim and siding.
Is Drip Edge Required by Building Code?
These codes dictate what practices must be followed when performing construction on a home. Drip edge on all waves and rakes of your home is one of those code requirements. However, it is not commonly enforced in the Memphis area by code enforcement officers. That is why you will see a lot of new homes with new roofs and no drip edge to be found.
Why do you need a drip edge?
The most important purpose of a drip edge is to protect your roof and house from water damage by directing water away from your roof and fascia. A drip edge is now required in most states for a roof to meet code.
What is drip edge?
A drip edge is a type of angled roof flashing typically made with a metal like aluminum, copper, or steel. If installed properly, the drip edge is on the edges of a roof around the entire house.
Why is a Drip Edge Important?
The most important purpose of a drip edge is to protect your roof and house from water damage by directing water away from your roof and fascia. A drip edge is now required in most states for a roof to meet code.
What is a T style drip edge?
A t-style drip edge is a popular choice for many homeowners, especially for those that live in cold, snowy regions. Compared to the other two styles, t-style drip edges are arguably the most effective at moving water flow off the roof and into the gutter.
What is flashing on a roof?
Unsure of what a flashing system is? Simply put, it’s a strategically placed set of metal tiles on your roof that directs water away from the most vulnerable spots of your house.
Do drip edges come in different shapes?
While all drip edges have the same end goal, they do come in different shapes depending on the type and style of the roof.
Can you add drip edges to a roof?
Yes, you can add drip edges to an existing roof.
What is drip edge?
Drip edges are metal sheets, usually shaped like an “L,” installed at the edge of the roof. Also called drip edge flashing or D-metal, they serve a vital function by directing water away from the fascia and into the gutter. Without a drip edge, water may end up beneath the shingles and may cause damage to various parts of the home.
How long is a drip edge?
The length of the overhang itself commonly ranges from 2 to 5 inches. You may find other styles and sizes of drip edges in the store, including “J-channel” drip edges, but these are intended for windows, doors and other applications. You may also find vented drip edges, but the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) does not recommend using them on roofs.
What is a type F gutter?
Type F: This is an extended drip edge that has a longer leading edge, which is useful when installing new drip edges over existing shingles or on rake edges. This profile is frequently called “F style” or “gutter apron.”
What happens if you don't have a drip edge?
Without a drip edge, water may end up beneath the shingles and may cause damage to various parts of the home. Though your home may not have originally had a drip edge installed, drip edges are now required by most building codes across North America to protect homes from damage.
How many ounces of drip edge?
When used as a drip edge, it should be a minimum of 0.69 mm or 20 ounces. While plastic, vinyl and fiberglass drip edges may also be available in your area, these materials are best suited for use in nonroofing applications, such as above doors and windows.
What is the best material for drip edges?
Aluminum: A common material for drip edges, aluminum isn’t as strong as steel. It doesn’t corrode and is often sold in colors that match the rest of the home exactly.
How many profiles of drip edge flashing?
There are three basic profiles of drip edge flashing, but each goes by more than one name, which can be confusing.
Where is drip edge on a roof?
Drip edge is installed around the whole perimeter of the roof. It is used to hold the underlayments down and create a watertight seal around the edge of the roof. Only the face of the metal is seen and is usually just white one to one and half inch stripe located right under the shingles and above the fascia. ...
Why do people overlook drip edge on roof?
A lot of people overlook the drip edge on the roof because it is hardly seen from the road. Most people do not even know that it is available in different sizes and colors. Custom color drip edge must be decided on a few weeks ahead of time to allow the lead time it will take a metal shop to fabricate the flashing.
Why should the drip edge be notched out?
If the gutter rides up high along the roofs eave then the drip edge should be notched out at all gutter hangers to allow the the drip edge to form a tight bond ...
What is Albany roofing?
Most Albany roofing companies that are familiar with commercial roofing are used to using drip edge that is color match to the gutter systems. Commercial roofing usually uses a thicker gauge of metal that is already being custom bent so it can be ordered in any color metal coil. Roof Repair. Roof Replacement.
What color is drip edge?
The most common colors for drip edge are white and brown. However, some roofing companies can provide color match drip edge. The color is often chosen to match the shingles or the gutters to create a seamless look. The color can also be chosen to match the shutters or trim of the house and act as an accent color.
Should drip edge be cut?
Drip edge should always be cut with as few seams as possible to give a cleaner more seamless look. Learn all you need to know when it comes to the shingles on your roof. Learn all about the quality and features that comes with a metal roof.
Why do we need drip edge on roof?
In addition, drip-edges are sometimes excluded from a project in order to save money. While lacking a drip edge on your roof may save you money in the short-term, it can cause costly damage that will be expensive to fix. As a homeowner, it is important to fully understand how and why a drip edge is used. Here are some of the most common drip edge related questions and answers to be aware of as a homeowner.
What Is a Drip Edge?
A drip edge is a non-staining and non-corroding material applied on a roof’s edge to give water the ability to filter out of the roof system. In other words, it is the metal flashing located at the edge of a roof. A drip edge is installed with an intended tilt, which is specifically meant to direct water away from a roof while assuring the foundation of your roof is not exhausted prematurely by holes or fissures.
Where Should Drip Edges Be Placed?
The correct placement of a roof drip edge is on top of the roof’s exterior cover directly between the sheathing and the fasci a board , which forms a drainage gap between the drip edge and the fascia board. As a result, the drainage improves water flow and protects the roof from potential water damage.
Why Is a Drip Edge Important?
Drip edges not only act to preserve the appearance of your roof, but they help shield your property from potential damages:
What is hemmed drip edge?
Hemmed Drip Edge: Applied with metal and standing seam roofing, an open hemmed drip edge will deter water from going upward as a result of capillary action and passing the drip-edge metal.
What is the purpose of a gutter guard?
Safeguards the edge of a deck from water during rainstorms. Guards the underlying roofline against damage in the winter months such as ice and snow damage, which could result in rotting.
What happens if you have a gap in your gutter?
If there is a gap resulting from an unsuccessful overlay, it may result in water flowing behind the edge instead of into the gutter . This is known as back flowing gutters, which can cause water damage to your home and roof system. If you run into issues with the overlap and need to resolve the gap, review the following tips:
What is wind driven rain?
Wind driven rain is a serious condition in which the wind forcefully pushes water all around the roof of a home. Each layer of the roofing system is designed to keep the moisture from harming the roof’s deck, which include the shingles, underlayment’s, and ice & water.
What color is a copper roof?
Copper: Many people choose copper because of its aesthetics, it has a beautiful golden color that makes the roof pop.
Do you need to replace it when replacing the roof?
No you do not have to replace it but you should, the old drip edge is most likely “old” looking and dirty from being outside for so long. If you are making the effort to replace you roof, you should replace everything so the entire roofing system looks nice. Leaving old materials to save a few bucks isn’t worth loosing on the appearance. If you want your roof to last as long as possible, everything should be replaced when doing a re-roof.
Do you need to install drip edge before underlayment?
It is installed different on the eaves and rakes, once the roof deck is prepared the drip edge will be installed before the underlayment. Always consult with your local roofing company before doing any DIY work. Your roof is the most important part of your home, look for the best roofing company in your area to be sure the job is done correctly.
Can you install it on existing roof?
It is most often replaced when a new roof is installed, but it is possible to replace the drip edge at any time. We would not recommend a local roofing contract or who suggests leaving the old drip edge. It is best to replace the it on an existing roof in the warmer months, shingles can become brittle in the cold and break.
