As a homeowner, you may not give much thought to the various components that make up your roof. However, understanding the importance of these components, such as the drip edge, can help you protect your home from costly water damage and improve the overall lifespan of your roof.
What is Drip Edge?
The drip edge is a metal flashing that is installed along the edges of your roof, typically at the eaves and rakes. Its primary purpose is to direct water away from the fascia board and prevent water damage to your roof and home.
Why Is Drip Edge Important?
One of the most significant benefits of having a properly installed drip edge is that it helps to prevent water from getting underneath the shingles and causing damage to your roof deck and home’s interior. Additionally, drip edge protects the fascia board, which can weaken the overall structure of your roof and make it more vulnerable to other types of damage.
The International Residential Code requires drip edge to be installed on all new roofs. The code that requires this is code R905.2.8.5. This means that if you’re in the process of building a new home or having a new roof installed, make sure your roofing contractor is following this important code.
Choosing the Right Drip Edge
When it comes to choosing the right drip edge for your roof, there are different types available, including L-shaped, T-shaped, and J-shaped. The type of drip edge you need will depend on the slope of your roof and the size of your shingles. Consulting with a roofing professional can help you determine which type of drip edge is best for your specific roof.
Call in the Professionals
Regular roof inspections by a qualified roofing professional can help identify any issues with your drip edge that may need to be addressed. If you’re in need of roof repair or roof replacement, discussing the importance of the drip edge with your roofing professional can help you make an informed decision about which roofing materials to use.
The Installation Process
The installation of a drip edge involves several steps. First, the roofing contractor will remove any old or damaged drip edge. Then, they will install a moisture barrier over the roof deck to help prevent water from seeping into the roof’s interior. After that, they will install the new drip edge along the roof’s edges and secure it with roofing nails. Finally, they will install the roofing material, such as shingles or tiles, over the drip edge.
It’s important to note that the drip edge should extend at least one inch beyond the roof’s edge to ensure proper water drainage. If the drip edge is not installed correctly, water can seep underneath the shingles or tiles and cause damage to the roof’s underlayment and structure.
Maintaining Your Drip Edge
While drip edges are designed to last for many years, they can become damaged over time due to exposure to the elements. It’s important to schedule regular roof inspections to check for any signs of damage or wear and tear.
Some common signs that your drip edge may need to be replaced include rust, corrosion, or cracks in the metal. If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to contact a roofing professional to repair or replace the drip edge as soon as possible.
Protect Your Home with Absolute Roof & Home Solutions
At Absolute Roof & Home Solutions, we understand the importance of a properly installed drip edge in protecting your home from water damage. Our team of experienced roofers can help ensure that your roof’s drip edge and other components are in good condition. Contact us today to schedule a roof inspection or to learn more about our roofing services.
