What comes to mind when you hear the word “roofing” is shingles, tiles, or perhaps underlayment. But there’s one little, usually underappreciated part that works hard to keep your house safe, that is drip edge.
It’s not glamorous. It’s not something that you can even see driving down the street. But without it, your roof is vulnerable to major water damage, mold, and early ageing.
In this blog, we’ll break down what a drip edge is, how it works, and why every home, especially in areas like Long Island and the Tri-State area, absolutely needs one.
What Is Drip Edge?
Drip edge is a narrow strip of metal flashing placed on the edges of your roof. Its purpose is to channel water away from the fascia and into the gutters, rather than allowing water to slip under the roofing material and lead to damage.
Usually constructed from aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper, drip edge is applied to the eaves and rakes (sloping edges) of a roof. It creates a small overhang and usually possesses a slight lip that directs water down and off the edge cleanly.
Consider the following:
Shingles are made to shed water. But water does not always drop directly down. Rain that is blown by wind, ice dams, or just surface tension can cause water to be forced back up behind the shingles. That’s where the drip edge comes in.
It leaves water with absolutely no opportunity to sneak back inside.
Why Is Drip Edge So Crucial?
It seems like a small thing, but the effect drip edge has on the life of your roof is enormous. Here’s why:
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Saves Fascia and Roof Decking
Without drip edge, rainwater can drip down behind the gutter and seep into the fascia board (the wood behind your gutters) and roof decking. Eventually, this leads to:
- Wood rot
- Growth of mold
- Weakening of structure
Once that happens, fixes become costly in a hurry.
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Keeps Pests Out
When there’s no drip edge, gaps may form under the shingles near the roof edge. Small rodents, insects, and birds can find their way in. And once they do, good luck getting them out.
Drip edge seals that space, making it much harder for unwanted guests to sneak into your attic.
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Prevents Ice Dams and Wind Damage
In northern climates, ice dams can be a genuine reality. Melting snow can back up under shingles and refreeze, resulting in lifting and cracking. Properly installed drip edge allows water to exit the roof prior to refreezing.
Strong wind also has the tendency to lift shingles around the edge if they aren’t held down. The drip edge keeps everything in place tighter and provides your roof with a better anchor point.
- Enhances Water Flow to Gutters
Water that flows directly off the roof edge can bypass the gutters altogether and pour next to your foundation. Drip edge keeps water flowing into the gutter system, minimizing basement leaks, soil erosion, and splash back on side.
Is Drip Edge a Building Code Requirement?
Yes. The majority of current building codes mandate drip edge flashing, particularly new roof installations.
The International Residential Code (IRC) requires it on eaves and rakes of asphalt shingle roofs. Local building authorities, such as Nassau, Suffolk, and the surrounding regions, tend to have even more stringent regulations.
If your roof lacks drip edge and particularly if it was installed prior to 2012, it may be time to get an upgrade.
How Is Drip Edge Installed?
At Shield Roof Proofing, we ensure drip edge installation is done correctly the first time. Here is how we do it:
Step-by-Step Process:
Placement: Drip edge is placed prior to underlayment on the eaves, and after underlayment on rakes.
- Nailing: It is nailed using roofing nails at 8 to 12-inch intervals.
- Overlap: Each piece overlaps the last one by a minimum of 2 inches to avoid gaps.
- Sealing: Sealants can be applied at joints or corners to form a watertight seal.
- Shingle Installation: Shingles are subsequently put over the drip edge, which fastens in place.
Important: Sloppy installation can undermine the whole system. Always use a licensed, insured roofer who is familiar with the code and local weather.
Signs Your Roof Might Be Missing Drip Edge
Not certain if your roof lacks drip edge? Here’s what to check:
- Water spots on fascia or soffits
- Sagging or rotten wood along the roofline
- Dripping water behind the gutters rather than through them
- Gaps in the shingles visible underneath at roof edges
- Insect or rodent chew marks around the attic
If you see anything on this list, call for a free roof inspection by our professionals. We will get up close and personal and advise what’s best for your home.
Can Drip Edge Be Installed on an Existing Roof?
Yes—most of the time. Although easier to do at the time of roof replacement, retrofitting a drip edge can be done, particularly if your shingles are in good condition.
At Shield Roof Proofing, we’ve retrofitted drip edge onto hundreds of roofs without having to lift any of the shingles. We employ a method known as a “drip edge insert” that inserts the flashing under the first row of shingles and secures it in place.
Types of Drip Edge
Not all drip edges are created equal. Here are the most popular profiles:
Type C (L-Style)
- Classic 90-degree bend
- Easy and functional
- Found in older houses
Type D (T-Style or Gutter Apron)
- Has an added flare at the bottom
- Improved water deflection
- Preferred with new installations
Type F (F-Style)
- Longer face
- Typically used in re-roofing projects
- Great for hiding existing damage
The type that we use is determined by your roof’s structure, gutter system, and overall condition.
Why Use Shield Roof Proofing for Drip Edge Installation?
Because we don’t take shortcuts.
We’re not merely roofers, we’re roofing experts. Our crew works on Long Island, Brooklyn, Queens, and the surrounding area with complete dedication to quality and defense.
By hiring us, you receive:
- Code-compliant drip edge installation
- Long-lasting, rust-proof materials
- Exact flashing to avoid leaks
- Rigorous inspections and honest guidance
- Competitive pricing with no surprises
Last Thoughts
Drip edge may not be high on your list of considerations when designing a roof, but it should be near number one. It safeguards your house from rotting, insects, water damage, and other complications—all for relatively little money.
If you’re in New York, particularly on Long Island or the nearby boroughs, and you’re not certain if your roof has adequate drip edge protection, now is the time to find out.
Contact Shield Roof Proofing today. We’ll inspect, provide an honest recommendation, and assist you in determining the next best action.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does drip edge last?
The typical installation of metal drip edge lasts 30-50 years, particularly when constructed of aluminum or galvanized steel.
Can I install drip edge myself?
Technically yes, but don’t. Improper installation can result in leaks, compromised gutter flow, and code issues. Have a pro to do it.
How much does it cost to install drip edge?
It depends, but the cost of installing drip edge to a roof that already exists tends to be between $1.50 and $3.00 a linear foot for both materials and labor.
Need assistance safeguarding your roof?
Book a Free Estimate with Shield Roof Proofing and ensure your home remains dry, secure, and safe season upon season.
