Welcome to our complete guide on drip edge for metal roofing. Drip edges aren’t just about
protecting your roof; they offer multiple benefits that contribute to its longevity and functionality.
Besides shielding from rain and wind, drip edges also reduce noise and ensure proper water
drainage. In this guide, we’ll explore how drip edges enhance structural integrity, prevent water
damage, and elevate the visual appeal of your property. Whether you’re installing a new roof or
planning repairs, understanding the importance of drip edges is crucial. Join us as we uncover the
essential aspects and key considerations surrounding drip edges for metal roofing, empowering you
to make informed decisions for your roofing needs.
Why You Should Use Drip Edge For Metal Roofing?
- Drip edges for metal roofing are crucial because they help direct water away from the fascia,
preventing damage to the roof and home structure. - They use natural forces like gravity, cohesion, and surface tension to guide water into the gutter
system, keeping it from pooling on the roof’s edges or seeping into the soffit cavity. - Without drip edges, water can stick to shingles, potentially causing leaks and rot in the fascia, which
could harm the roof’s integrity. - Drip edges also protect against wind-driven rain, a common issue in severe weather.
- They extend beyond the roof’s edge, with a lower flange of two to four inches, to prevent wind-driven rain from pushing water upward and getting under the roofing materials.
- In simple terms, drip edges for metal roofing are essential for preventing water damage and
maintaining the roof’s strength, especially during bad weather.
Read more about blue metal roofing
Different Materials For Drip Edges In Metal Roofing
Drip edges for metal roofing are crafted from various materials, each with distinct properties
Alumium:
This widely used material is resistant to corrosion and comes in a variety of colors that
can seamlessly blend with your home’s exterior. While not as robust as steel, aluminum drip edges
offer durability and aesthetic appeal.
Galvanized steel:
Steel drip edges are galvanized to prevent rust since they’re constantly exposed
to water. Opting for a minimum of 24-gauge steel ensures resilience against strong winds and lasting
performance.
Copper:
Renowned for its durability and distinctive appearance, copper drip edges add a touch of
elegance to your roof. It’s essential to choose copper with a minimum thickness of 0.69 mm or 20
ounces for optimal functionality
While plastic, vinyl, and fiberglass options exist, they’re more suited for non-roofing applications due
to their limitations in durability and weather resistance. Therefore, for metal roofing, aluminum,
galvanized steel, and copper are the preferred materials for drip edges, offering a balance of
functionality and aesthetics.
Different Types of Drip Edge Profiles for Metal Roofing:
When it comes to drip edge profiles for metal roofing, there are several options available, each with
its own unique design and advantages:
- Type C: Also known as the “L style,” this classic drip edge features a 90-degree angle bend, forming an “L” shape with a lower flange at the bottom. It provides effective water redirection away from the fascia.
- Type D: Shaped like a “T,” this drip edge profile, also known as “D-metal” or “T style,” boasts a lower
flange at the bottom, offering enhanced protection by keeping water further away from the fascia. It’s a preferred choice by organizations like the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). - Type F: The “F style” or “gutter apron” is an extended drip edge with a longer leading edge. This
profile is particularly useful for installations over existing shingles or on rake edges, providing
additional coverage and protection.
These drip edge profiles are typically available in 10.5-foot lengths, although variations in length and
overhang size (ranging from 2 to 5 inches) may be found. While other styles like “J-channel” drip
edges exist for different applications such as windows and doors, it’s important to note that they are
not suitable for roofing purposes.
Additionally, vented drip edges, although available, are not
recommended for roof use by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).
How To Install Drip Edge for Metal Roofing
Understanding how to install drip edges for eaves and rakes is important. Before you lay down
underlayment, get the drip edges set up at the eaves. Once the underlayment is down, you can move
on to installing drip edges on the rakes. This guide also covers cutting drip edges for corners and
peaks.
- Get Ready: Consider using a furring strip to make Type C drip edges work better. This strip,made of one-by-two wood, goes beneath the roof’s edge to keep the lower flange away from the home’s siding and prevent water from getting in.
- Start with Eaves: Place drip edges on the eaves, making sure they’re positioned to guide water
into the gutters. Make sure the end points down and away from the roof. - Nail Them Down: Use roofing nails to attach the drip edge securely. Nail high up on the drip
edge so that shingles will cover the nails. Space the nails about every 12 inches, and overlap
subsequent drip edge pieces by about an inch for full coverage. - Corner Cut: When you get to a corner where the eave and rake edges meet, you’ll need to cut
the drip edge to fit nicely. First, place the drip edge on the rake edge. Then, mark where it starts
to hang over, and also one inch further from that point - Trim and Shape: Cut along the second mark, so the drip edge only hangs over by an inch. Then, cut out the top part of the drip edge where you marked it to hang over. After that, make a perpendicular cut to remove a small square from the drip edge, like in the picture.
- Bend and Install: Now, install the drip edge as usual. Then, bend the flap of the drip edge to
make a corner. You’ll complete this corner when you install the drip edges on the rakes. - Underlayment Placement: Once you’ve covered the eaves with the drip edge, it’s time to put on
the underlayment. This way, the underlayment goes over the drip edge on the eaves, but under
the drip edge on the rakes. - Installing Drip Edges on Rakes: Next, attach drip edges to the sloping edges of the roof using
nails, just like you did before. - Corner Connection at Rake and Eave: When you reach a corner where the sloping edge meets
the edge of the roof, place the drip edge for the sloping edge on top of the part you left from
installing the edge drip. - Trimming Drip Edge at Roof Ridge: As you approach the peak of the roof, you’ll need to trim the
drip edge again. Hold it up to the peak and mark where it extends beyond the roof. Then, cut off
the excess with tin snips. - Folding Drip Edge Over Roof Ridge: Fold the drip edge over the peak, aligning it with the
centerline. Trim the top part along this line for a neat finish. Secure it with a nail on the outside
Remember to check your local building codes for any additional requirements during drip edge
installation.
How to Replace a Drip Edge on an Existing Roof
Replacing or installing a drip edge on your existing roof is totally manageable. Here’s a step-by-step
guide to help you through the process:
1: Gently lift up the shingles at the edge of your roof to expose the nails holding the old drip
edge in place.
2: With a flat pry bar and hammer, carefully remove the nails securing the old drip edge.
3: Once the nails are out, slide out the old drip edge and dispose of it properly.
4: Now, it’s time to install the new drip edge. Follow the same process as you would for a
new installation, using cement and nails to secure it in place. It’s best to have someone hold up the
shingles while you work.
Don’t forget to check your local building codes for any specific rules about drip edge replacement.
While drip edges might not have always been required, they play a significant role in improving your roof’s performance and longevity.
So, by replacing or installing drip edges correctly, you’re investing in a better roofing system for your home.
Conclusion
In wrapping up, recognizing the significance of drip edges for metal roofing is key for homeowners
and building owners. This guide has shed light on their diverse benefits, from redirecting water away
from the fascia to shielding against wind-driven rain.
Whether you’re installing a new roof or upgrading an existing one, integrating drip edges into your roofing plan is vital for prolonging its lifespan, reducing water damage, and improving overall effectiveness. By following the step-by-step instructions provided for installation or replacement, you ensure proper implementation of drip edges, bolstering protection for your property.
Moreover, consulting local building codes ensures adherence to regulations, further fortifying your investment. Ultimately, by prioritizing drip edge installation or replacement, you not only enhance your property’s appearance but also fortify its long-term durability and resilience against weather challenges
