Anatomy of a Roof System: Roof Drip Edge

What is it, exactly?

As the name implies, a drip edge is an edge—metal flashing— that sits at the edge of your roof to control the water flow and keep it away from the fascia. It helps protect all the things that are under your roof, like roof decking, underlayment, and so on, but it also helps prevent all these things from rotting. When water sits around and does its thing, rot and ruin can set in. No one wants this.

Code Council Says You Must Have It

Yes, there’s an actual building code that requires that a drip edge is installed on the eaves and gables. Here’s what the International Code Council says:

“A drip edge shall be provided at eaves and gables of shingle roofs. Adjacent pieces of drip edge shall be overlapped a minimum of 2 inches or 51 mm”.

So there you have it. Actually, no roofer in his/her right mind would install a shingle roof without them. But it must also be installed correctly. In fact, underlayment must be installed over the drip edge along your eaves and under your gables. Make sure the technician who works on your roof does this.

When A Roof Drip Edge Isn’t (Technically) Required

So we’ve just told you that you must have a drip edge—what gives? Well, there’s actually an exception: when you have prebent aluminum fascia that’s flush with your roof decking and doubles as your drip edge. 

But wait, there’s more!

If you have rake molding on your roof, it also takes the place of a drip edge. If you have either of these scenarios, you’re off the hook.

What’s the Cost?

Basically, if you want a standard drip edge, which is aluminum, you’ll pay around $2.00 a linear foot, but this doesn’t include labor. If you want to get fancier and go for steel or copper, it’ll cost more, not including labor. If you need to retrofit or even add a drip edge to your roof, that’ll drive the price up.

These materials and their cost will be factored into your overall roof estimate, but based on who you hire, it could impact the price.

Peak is all about giving you a good deal, one that’s reasonable and works within your budget. We’re standing by, ready to help you with your every roofing need, whether it’s a new drip edge, retrofitting or upgrading your existing drip edge. Remember, no matter the issue, we’re just a phone call away.

Be sure to read the next article in our series: Anatomy of a Roof System: Roof Starter Shingles