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Does the roof of your home have a drip edge? If not, it probably should.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, drip edge is one of the best ways to prevent moisture from entering the home. But what is the purpose of drip edge and why do I need it on my roof? Without drip edge, excess water can damage your roof, eaves, siding, etc.
What Is Drip Edge?
Drip edge is an angled portion of flashing that is installed over top of the trim on the fascia board. The purpose of the drip edge is to redirect water away from the fascia and off the framing into the gutters. The gutters then carry this water away.
Drip edge can be installed on the rake, eaves, and/or gable of the roof. It extends off the fascia and is usually at least a third of the width of the gutter.
Metal drip edge is made of a nonporous, noncorroding material, like galvanized steel, aluminum, or copper. It is also often constructed out of durable plastic, vinyl, or fiberglass.
Why Do I Need a Drip Edge on My Roof?
A homeowner who is interested in protecting their home and lengthening the lifespan of their roof should have drip edge installed. The benefits of installing drip edge are:
- It prevents fascia and soffit damage: The drip edge redirects water away from the roof’s vulnerable soffit and fascia areas and channels it into the gutters. If the soffit and fascia are left exposed, they can be damaged by the extra moisture. This damage can cause staining and wood rot.
- Drip edge keeps pests out of the home: Drip edge covers the gap of the roof. This gap is the area of space between the roof deck and the fascia board. This part of the roof is often responsible for allowing small animals or other pests to enter the home through the attic.
- It can keep the porch dry: Because drip edge redirects water into the gutters, there’s no need to worry about a downpour washing down from the roof and onto the porch during heavy rain.
- It stabilizes the roof: Drip edge flashing helps stabilize the roof during strong wind or rain. Since wind damage is one of the main reasons homeowners file an insurance claim, this is one benefit that should not be ignored.
- Drip edge protects the roof from ice dams: Winter can be a dangerous time for the roof. Ice dams are a culmination of ice that collects and freezes on the edge of a roof. Ice dams prevent snow from thawing and draining correctly. If snow is unable to thaw and drain, that moisture gets backed up and trapped on the roof, which adds weight and can cause wood rot. Should this moisture enter the home, it can lead to mildew or mold growth. Drip edge flashing helps prevent ice dams from forming.
Understanding Drip Edge
Although the importance of drip edge is undeniable, many homeowners have questions about drip edge installation.
Can a Drip Edge Be Installed on an Existing Roof?
Although the ideal time to install drip edges is with gutters during the initial construction of your home or roof, it’s possible to install them on existing roofs. In fact, in many places across the United States, building codes require structures to be equipped with drip edge because of how beneficial it is. For the same reason, many homeowners are choosing to install drip edge flashing on their existing roof.
Are Different Kinds of Drip Edge Available?
Multiple styles and types of drip edges are available. When selecting drip edge, make sure to choose a material and color that matches or complements the home’s style. A cohesive exterior will boost the home’s curb appeal.
Three common types of drip edge are:
- C-style drip edge: C-style drip edge is curved like the letter and help roll water away from roof decking. It is placed under the roofing material and under the decking. C-shaped edges are typically applied to roofs that do not have fascia boards.
- L-style drip edge: L-shaped drip edge is bent in the center, forming a 90-degree angle. One end of the “L” is under the roofing material, and the other rests on top of the fascia, keeping it safe. L-style drip edge is usually used on low-incline roofs.
- T-style drip edge: Although more complex than C- and L-style flashing, T-shaped roof drip edge is very efficient at keeping water away from a roof. T-style drip edge uses an extra piece to form a triangular shape between the roof deck and the house.
Who Should Install Drip Edge?
When it comes to a drip edge install, it’s best to let experienced professionals take care of it. If drip edge is installed incorrectly, water will not flow away from the house properly. This issue can lead to wood rot and other water damage, which can destroy the fascia and soffit. Damages caused by an incorrectly installed drip edge may lead to costly repairs in the future.
The drip edge should be angled to allow the rainwater to drip directly into the gutter, however, each roof is unique and may require the drip edge to be bent or installed in a way to allow this action to take place. If water is dripping between the home and the gutter, it may be as simple as readjusting the drip edge.
PinPoint Home Inspection goes through all of the systems of the house and visually inspects and/or tests them to make sure they meet the minimum standards required by the Mississippi Real Estate Commission. We also identify the age and functionality of house components; such as the HVAC (air conditioning and heating), water heater, electrical systems, plumbing, etc for future maintenance purposes. We serve Jackson, Madison, Clinton, Canton, Brandon, Flowood, Gluckstadt, Pearl, Florence, Byram, Terry, Crystal Springs, Hazelhurst, Brookhaven, McComb and surrounding areas of Central Mississippi.
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