The harsh weather in Wisconsin, including the heavy rains and snowfall, can make your roof and home vulnerable. When there is a downpour, if your roof isn’t properly sealed or is damaged, water can seep into your attic, causing significant problems. However, specific components help your roof stay durable and leak-free.
One of those materials is a drip edge, which helps guide water from your roof into the gutters and keep your house safe from water damage. This article will help you navigate all your questions about drip edges and explore what it is, why it matters, and how it works to protect your home.
What Is A Drip Edge On A Roof?
Usually made out of aluminum or galvanized steel, a drip edge is a type of metal flashing installed at the edges of a roof to help control the flow of water away from the fascia and protect the underlying roofing components. It is designed to direct water off the roof and into the gutters or away from the structure, preventing water damage to the roof deck, fascia, and soffit.
It’s shaped like an upside-down “L” or sometimes a “T.” This shape lets it tuck under your roof shingles and stick out just a bit past the edge of your roof. This little overhang is key – it’s what makes the water “drip” away from your house instead of running down the walls.
Why Is Drip Edge Flashing Important?
You might wonder why such a small component matters so much. Without drip edge flashing, rainwater might find its way under your roof shingles or seep into the wooden parts of your roof. Over time, this can cause big problems like rot, mold, or even damage to your home’s structure.
Types Of Drip Edge Flashing
Drip edges come in different varieties based on their shape. Here are some of the most common types of drip edges for shingle roofs.
👉Type C (L-Shaped Drip Edge)
The L-shaped drip edge is a basic, flat piece of metal with a 90-degree bend. One side lays against the roof deck, while the other extends downward over the fascia. It’s simple but effective in directing water away from the roof edge, preventing damage to the underlying wood and fascia. This type is commonly used on shingled or low-slope roofs and is installed along the eaves, providing straightforward protection from rainwater runoff.
👉Type D (T-Style Drip Edge)
The T-style drip edge, also called Type D, features a “T” shape with a curved lower lip, offering more water protection than standard L-shaped edges. The top part sits flat on the roof, while the wider, outward-bent bottom piece directs water away from the fascia. This type is highly effective for both eaves and rake edges, offering better coverage and water diversion, making it ideal for homes in areas with frequent heavy rainfall.
👉Type F (Gutter Apron)
The Type F drip edge, or gutter apron, has an extended leading edge, providing greater coverage over the fascia and into the gutter. The longer, bent edge ensures water is channeled directly into the gutters, preventing any overflow or fascia damage. It’s especially effective in areas that experience heavy or frequent rain and for steep-sloped roofs, ensuring water is managed effectively away from the roof structure.
Advantages and Limitations Of Drip Edge Flashing
| Types Of Drip Edge | Shape | Advantages | Limitations |
| Type L | The drip edge is shaped in the letter “L.” | 1. Cost-effective at $0.30 to $1 per linear foot 2. Recommended for low-incline and flat roofs 3. Particularly effective on metal roofing systems | 1. Limited application to specific roof inclines 2. Flange doesn’t extend as far away from the roof as other styles |
| Type D | It resembles a “T” with a curved outer edge. | 1. This type is recommended for homes by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers 2. Association Extended flange is more effective at directing water away from roofs than other styles | 1. Slightly pricier than other styles at $1 to $1.50 per linear foot 2. Mostly recommended for cold climates |
| Type F | Similar to the L-shape but with a longer leading edge | 1. Good protection against wind-driven rain 2. Its longer edge makes installation over existing roofing easier 3. Cost-effective pricing relative to other drip edge types | 1. Has a longer top edge than other roof drip edge styles 2. Typically requires professional installation |
Materials Used for Drip Edges
Drip edges are not only available in different styles, they also come in different materials to suit varying home needs. Here are some popular options:
👉Aluminum:
Cost: $0.30 to $1 per linear foot
Aluminum is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, making it an attractive roof drip edge material. Aluminum drip edges aren’t as strong as other material types, but are available in different enamel finishes for improved aesthetics.
👉Galvanized Steel:
Cost: $0.50 to $1.20 per linear foot
Galvanized steel is also a popular choice for drip edge flashing due to its long-lasting durability and rust-free properties due to the galvanized coating on the surface. They are also better at resisting wind and are less expensive than other materials like aluminum and copper.
👉Copper:
Cost: $3.50 to $7.50 per linear foot
Even though copper is considered a costly material among all the metals used for roofing and drip edge flashing, its durability makes it worth the money you spend after installing it. Copper also has unique aesthetic properties that can improve your home’s curb appeal.
👉Vinyl or PVC:
Cost: $0.50 to $1 per linear foot
A PVC drip edge is a lightweight, affordable flashing option made from plastic. It is often used in budget-friendly or DIY roofing projects.
Trust Wisconsin’s Best Roofing Company For Quality Roofing Services
Roof drip edge flashing is a necessary part of any roofing system, as it helps you prevent damage from water, snow, pests, and more. While you might think of it as a small component of your roof, ignoring it can affect your roofing system’s longevity.
Whether you are installing a new roof or repairing an existing one, our team can help. At Prestige Roofing, we will take care of all your roofing needs, including installing or repairing drip edge flashing. Remember, investing in quality materials and professional installation will not only help maintain the structural integrity of your home but also help you maintain its efficiency for many years to come. Call us at (920) 791-0414 today for a consultation.