
You may also find vented drip edges, but the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) does not recommend using them on roofs.

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. The length of the overhang itself commonly ranges from 2 to 5 inches. Roof drip edges are generally sold in 10.5-foot lengths, but they are occasionally sold in 8-foot lengths or smaller. Type D: This profile of drip edge is shaped like a “T,” with a lower flange at the bottom. This profile is frequently called “F style” or “gutter apron.”


And, of course, without any drip edge at all, wind‐driven rain could compromise the roof.ĭrip edges are made of various plastics and metals, which are both acceptable under most building codes so long as the metals are corrosion-resistant or galvanized. The drip edge needs to hang significantly off the edge of the roof and has two to four inches of lower flange to combat this. Wind can easily push the water upwards before gravity pulls the water down. However, on the edges, the drip edge must compete with the wind. Shingles, along with underlayments and ice and water protector, keep wind-driven rain from harming the roof’s deck.

For example, water may cling to the fascia, which may cause rot, or, in severe conditions, a leak into the home. However, without the drip edge, the water sticks to shingles, potentially working its way under the shingles to cause a leak. If the home has no gutter, the drip edge will prevent the water from running down the fascia and onto or into the soffit cavity. A drip edge is designed to take advantage of those forces and, along with gravity, direct water into the gutter. Direct water away from fascia: Due to cohesion, surface tension and other forces, water droplets tend to stick to one another and to the surfaces they are on, albeit slightly.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. Without a drip edge, water may end up beneath the shingles and may cause damage to various parts of the home. Also called drip edge flashing or D-metal, they serve a vital function by directing water away from the fascia and into the gutter.
#INSTALLING DRIP EDGE ON ROOF HOW TO#
How to Replace a Drip Edge on an Existing Roofĭrip edges are metal sheets, usually shaped like an “L,” installed at the edge of the roof.
