Did you know the edge of your roof not only affects your whole roof but many additional parts of your home?
That’s right.
A poorly designed roof-edge can compromise the condition of your roof, damage your fascia board, decking, siding, and even erode your home’s foundation. That’s why roof conditions and design influence your home insurance rates and the value of your home.
But don’t worry.
We’ve got the secret edge to protecting your roof and your home exterior. Keep reading to learn about roof drip edges and why you need one.
What is a Roof Drip Edge?
A roof drip edge is a type of metal flashing designed to protect your roof from water damage. It is installed at the edge of the roof beneath the roofing and overhangs the sides of the roof.
The bent design allows the drip edge to keep water flowing away from the roof and the fascia. This prevents erosion of the fascia board by keeping it dry and keeps water from getting under your roofing.
One of the best things about roof flashings is they are extremely durable. They are waterproof and made of non-corroding and non-staining components such as copper, aluminum, or steel.
Types of Drip Edges
There are three main types of drip edges.
- Hemmed drip edge or D-Metal: A hemmed drip edge also called D-metal or T-Style, have an opened hemmed edge at the bottom of the flashing that folds backward toward the house. It uses capillary action to keep water moving downward and ultimately keeping water away from the fascia more effectively. Hemmed drip flashings are primarily used for standing seam and metal roofing.
- L-Shaped Drip or L-Style: This drip edge has a classic L shape bent at 90 degrees and a shorter flange at the bottom. It is typically used with lower incline roofs and is the most simplistic and short design.
- F-Style or Gutter Apron: The F-style, also called the gutter apron, is similar to the L-shape but has a longer leading edge. It drips farther away from the existing roof and often over the gutter (hence the name).
No matter the type you choose, each roof flashing will get the job done and provide extra protection.
Why Should You Invest in a Drip Edge for Your Roof?
Drip edges do more than keep water away from your roof and fascia. They offer many protective advantages for your home.
1. They Cover Gaps
The design of drip edges allows it to completely cover any gaps that lay between the fascia and your roof. This keeps water, especially wind-driven water, from your roof foundation. It also keeps out insects and small animals that could harm your decking, roof, or get into your attic.
Nobody wants to find mice in their home due to a gap in their roofline. Luckily with a drip edge, you won’t have to.
2. They Safeguard the Edges of Your Home
Keeping water away from the fascia board as well as the edges of your deck or patio adds additional protection and longevity. Drip edges will keep your railing, posts, and outdoor surfaces protected from water damage.
Roof flashings will also protect your home’s foundation. Over time, standing water near your foundation can cause the foundation to erode and lead to some major problems.
Keeping water away from your home’s exterior parts and foundation means saving you money in future repairs.
3. They Extend the Life of Your Roof
Obviously, protecting your roof and roofline from water damage and erosion will greatly increase the lifespan of your roof. In addition, having consistent water flow away from the roof will help keep it clean of dirt and algae, things that can cause rotting.
Protecting your roof from the elements means extending the life of your roof, saving you money, and maintaining your home’s value.
4. They Provide Extra Winter Protection
Snow and ice are hard on your roof. With roof flashings, you have extra protection for your roofline during the winter months.
For example, ice cycles will build on the sturdy drip edge rather than the less sturdy fascia board or shingles. Heavy snow won’t be sitting on your roof edge and weighing it down.
5. They Improve Gutter Performance
With the assistance of the drip flashing, water moves more easily into the gutter and maintains a continuous flow. This means your gutters get to do their job more efficiently and effectively.
It also helps means less clogging of the gutters because the water will help keep things moving along. Hooray for less time spent cleaning out those gutters!
6. They Provide Additional Constructive Support
The drip edge is nailed into the roof decking at the edge of your roof and then connects to the fascia board below. This helps provide extra support to prevent movement of the deck boards and fascia.
Because the foundation of your roof is essentially the heart of your roof, having sturdy roof decking is of extreme importance to prevent malfunctioning. With a roof flashing, you’ll have extra stability and less worry.
7. Adds Backup Protection if Shingles Fail
Many may think if their shingles extend over the edge by a few inches this will be enough to keep water away from the fascia and home. However, roofline shingles wear and tear easily, meaning they are prone to breakage especially in stormy or wintery weather.
Having a drip edge will provide additional protection under the shingles to ensure water, snow, and ice stay away from the foundations of your home.
Ensure Your Roof Has the Edge It Needs
A roof drip edge protects your roof and fascia from water damage, extends the life of your roof and decking, and protects the exterior parts of your home. With the right drip edging, you can enjoy your home and the outdoors without having to worry about weather damage.
To learn more about roof edge installation in Southern Maryland and Annapolis, check out our roofing products and services. We can install a roof drip edge that will fit the design of your desire and the budget you need.
Contact us today to learn more and schedule a free no-pressure estimate.