You may have heard the term drip edge before and wondered what it is, how it works, and do I need it? If you haven’t heard of it, Feazel will walk you through the definitive guide on why you need a drip edge on your home.
What Is Drip Edge and Why Do I Need It on My Home?
Feazel recommends using a drip edge on your roof. Many roof warranties require using it. Let’s chat about why it is an asset to your roof system.
First, controlling the flow of moisture keeps your home safe. Dictating the movement of water off your roof will prevent premature rot, mold issues, and potential health issues.
Second, it rains. Water needs to move from your roof and away from your home and foundation. A great roofer will utilize any tip, trick, or tool to keep your roof system in optimum condition.
Third, it is an easy way to protect your eaves from moisture.
Finally, it acts as an entry barrier for insects and small animals.
What is this remarkable tool for moisture protection and eave and attic protection? Drip edge isn’t the most glamorous part of your roof, however, neglecting to install one could lead to roof failure or other problems. You probably have drip edge installed and don’t even know it.
What is Drip Edge?
Drip edge is a narrow angled strip of metal flashing that rests underneath your shingles and hangs into your gutters. It is typically made from a non-porous metal material that won’t corrode, such as aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper. This strip of thin metal has a flange that helps direct water away from your eaves. The flange directs water into your gutters system and carries it away from your home.
Where is it Installed?
The drip edge covers the perimeter of your home over the top of the fascia board, It should be installed on the rakes and eaves. They shed water from the roof and get it into the gutters. The water carries away safely from your home.
Is Drip Edge Necessary for my Roof?
There are roofing manufacturer requirements that call for drip edge. Without it in place, water will run down your shingles to the lip of your roof. At this point, water can find its way between the fascia and gutters or back up to the roof decking. It directs that water to your gutters and away from your fascia.
Early rot can set in if your fascia gets continually wet. Wet roof decking can lead to rotting or leaks. Adding a metal strip to your roof system feels like a small investment for massive peace of mind.
Benefits of Using Drip Edge?
It prevents water from backing up into the eaves from your gutters.
Wind-driven rain can push into small cracks and crevices. Without it, there is an increased chance that rainwater finds its way into the exposed edges of your home.
Installing a drip edge on your roof also helps prevent rainwater from entering your basement. How so? Water channels into the gutters and away from your foundation. Water can soak through the ground and into the basement without it being present.
Additionally, it acts as a barrier for small animals from digging or chewing a hole in your fascia.
An extra benefit is it supports the shingles. It provides a solid base for the shingles. It comes down over the sheathing and in front of the fascia. Without it, shingles could potentially sag and create the opportunity for moisture to get under your shingles.
Finally, when there is an opportunity for ice dam formation, drip edge can help. It will act as a barrier to prevent ice from backing up under the last shingle.
Call The Best Roofing Contractor Near Me for a Free Quote!
Feazel has been replacing and repairing roofs for over 30 years. We pride ourselves on delivering a job well done. All of our new roof installations include drip edges to help keep your home dry and safe. Feazel serves Columbus, Cleveland, Cincinnati, Dayton, Indianapolis, and Raleigh. Click to schedule a free estimate or call us at (866) 532-5757 if you are looking for a free estimate on your roof system.
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