Drip Edge: Importance and Benefits

There are numerous components that make up a roofing structure, but since they make up such a significant part of the roofing system, shingles are the ones that homeowners are most familiar with. Being familiar with the various components of your roof and how they work will help you better understand how to care for and maintain it.

We have recently talked about gutter and gutter guards as well as their functions and importance.  This time, let’s talk and know more about another part of the roof that is connected to gutters, the drip edge on a roof or eaves strips.

What is a Drip Edge on a Roof?

Eaves Strip or Drip Edge is a metal flashing that runs under the roof along the eaves of your house.  It helps support the roofing that extends past the roof deck.  Drip edge for roof overhangs the sides of the roof and has a small metal flange that is bent to direct the rainwater away from the fascia and into the gutter, protecting the underlying roofing components.  

What are the Benefits of Drip Edge?

• They provide support to the overhanging shingles at the edge of the roof to not only prevent them from cracking or sagging, but also to keep them in a straight line, giving your roof that stability and nice appearance.
• Roofing drip edge are installed at roof ends, below the shingles and roofing underlayment, preventing water from seeping into the wood structure underneath the roof shingles, a part of the roof not visible to the eyes, yet vulnerable to water damage and prone to rotting.
• They make sure that water is directed away from areas it shouldn’t go, but directly to the gutter, preventing damage to other parts of your home including your porch and basement.
• Drip edge for the roof keeps small animals and pests out of your home since these metal flashing covers the gaps between your roof deck and fascia board, which usually becomes an entrance to these unwanted guests.

Evidently, drip edges play an important role in keeping roofs and other parts of your home protected from damage and to avoid leaking.  But just like with anything else that needs to be done in your house, you would want to have options to choose from.  You’ll be glad to know that there are different types of drip edge that work on everyone’s specific needs.

Different Types of Drip Edge:

L-Style Drip Edge.  Commonly used on low slope roof decks.

C-Style Drip Edge. Commonly used on roofs with no fascia boards.

T-Style Drip Edge.  More complex than other styles but is most effective in driving water away from your house structure.

Drip Edges also come in different materials like aluminum, galvanized steel and copper.  If you are not sure which to get, you can get in touch with your trusted local roofing contractor so they can discuss with you your options and help you decide what is best for your roof.

When to Install Drip Edge

Eaves strips or Drip Edges can be installed or replaced anytime, although the most perfect time to do it is during roof installation, roof replacement and while having roof repairs done. The perfect time to work on drip edges is during warmer seasons, which is also the ideal time to have all roof and exterior repair done on your property. This is because asphalt roof shingles can be brittle during the cold season.

For the majority of homeowners, roof care mostly entails replacing the shingles on the roof, but it’s always a good idea to learn more about the exterior features of your property that are often overlooked yet are crucial to protecting your home from damage. All Weather Exteriors is willing to address any inquiries you may have if you live in Winnipeg and want to learn more about how to make your roof and its parts as useful as possible. Our crew is made up of the top roofing experts in Winnipeg who can provide you with the best recommendations for your exterior needs.

Call us: (204) 510 2959Send us an email: info@allweatherexteriors.ca