What Is Roofing Drip Edge, And Why Does It Matter? 

Did you know that roofing drip edge is essential to any roofing system? Roofing drip edge is a type of flashing that is installed along the edges of a roof to prevent water from seeping under the roofing material and damaging the roof’s underlying structure. When looking at a roof, the drip edge is the cut of metal that goes along the edge of the roof directly under the shingles. Drip edge is typically made of metal, although some types are made of plastic or composite materials. Drip edges are available in various shapes and sizes to fit different types of roofs.

Why Is Roofing Drip Edge So Important?

Not only does the drip edge support your shingles, but it also prevents water from entering your home and helps to keep animals out of your attic! Since drip edges are not always defined in weather code, some contractors won’t install them as readily as others. For your roofing project, it’s important to understand what drip edges offer to ensure your roofer handles them correctly.

There Are Several Reasons Why Roofing Drip Edge Is Important:

1. Prevents water damage:

   Drip edge helps to prevent water from getting under the roofing system and into the interior of your home. If water gets under the roofing materials, it can cause significant damage, including rot, mold and structural damage. Installing a drip edge under the ice and water shield at the end of your roof prevents water from running behind your gutters, down the side of your house, and causing damage over time.

2. Protects the fascia:

   With a properly installed drip edge, water is directed into the gutter, not down the side, which ruins the fascia. If your fascia is already ruined and needs to be repaired, be sure to get a drip edge installed before you damage newly-installed boards.

3. Supports your shingles:

   A roofing system is only as strong as its weakest link. The drip edge helps to maintain the integrity of your roof by preventing water from entering under the roofing materials and compromising the structure. Without a drip edge, your shingles could slouch and could even need premature replacement due to the damage incurred.

4. Prevents animals from entering your home:

   A drip edge can seal the gap in your roof that many animals, such as squirrels and other rodents, crawl through. Having pests in your attic can be both dangerous to your family and damaging to your home.

5. Inexpensive and cost-effective:

   Adding a drip edge to your roof is generally inexpensive, especially if you do it yourself (though this could lead to problems if installed improperly). Even if you decide to have a contractor do it, the cost of drip edge application will almost certainly be cheaper than the cost of repairs you’ll have to make without it.

6. Many roofing contractors do not include them in standard roof installations:

   Because it isn’t always required by code that a drip edge be installed, some contractors may try to save money by not installing one on your roof. If a contractor does install it, it will probably be an added cost on top of the base replacement cost.

7. They can be difficult to install once a roof is complete:

   The drip edge is typically installed while the roof is being constructed. This can present a potential problem as a drip edge needs to be added to a roof. While it is possible to install a drip edge after the roof is complete, it is far easier to install when getting your roof built.

 

Conclusion

The roofing drip edge is a small but essential component of your roofing system. It helps to prevent water damage, protects the fascia, and maintains the integrity of your roof. If you are installing or replacing your roof, include drip edge in your roofing system. If you have any questions, be sure to contact our experts at Bone Dry Roofing.