To protect your home from the harsh weather conditions in Wisconsin, or any other state in the Midwest, every piece of the roofing system plays a crucial role.
As a homeowner, we do not need to tell you how important the roofing material or underlayment is for your roof. However, the part that you might overlook is the drip edge. This small piece plays a large part in how effectively your roof functions, especially if you have a metal roofing system.
As a premier roofing company, we understand that homeowners want the best for their exteriors. That’s why we prioritize educating our customers on the importance of proper roofing components. In this blog post, we’ll explain what a metal roof drip edge is, why it’s necessary, and how it benefits your home.
What Does A Drip Edge Do For a Metal Roof?
A drip edge is a form of metal flashing installed along the edges of your roof. It is designed to direct water away from the fascia and prevent it from seeping under the roofing materials. They’re typically made from aluminum, galvanized steel, or another durable metal and come in various profiles to suit different roofing styles.
For metal roofs, a drip edge serves as an added layer of protection that ensures water runoff is properly managed. Without it, water can get beneath the roof deck, leading to moisture damage, mold growth, and even structural issues.
Do I Need a Drip Edge on a Metal Roof?
A drip edge is crucial for asphalt shingle roofs, as it prevents water from seeping underneath and causing damage to the roof deck and fascia. Many homeowners wonder whether the same applies to metal roofing systems, and the answer is yes! A drip edge is just as essential for metal roofs as it is for shingle roofs.
Metal roofs are highly efficient at shedding water, but without a drip edge, rainwater can flow unpredictably, potentially seeping into the fascia and underlayment instead of traveling into the gutters. This exposure can lead to moisture damage, mold growth, and even structural issues over time. Additionally, many building codes mandate that a drip edge be installed on all roofing systems, including metal roofs. Complying not only protects your home but also helps prevent expensive penalties. By directing water safely into the gutters and away from the roof deck, a drip edge reinforces the overall integrity and longevity of your roofing system.
Benefits of Installing a Drip Edge On A Metal Roof
Beyond its necessity, a drip edge provides a range of benefits that improve the overall performance of your roof. Here’s what you gain by installing one:
Protect Your Home from Water Damage
One of the leading causes of roof failure is water intrusion or water-related damage. A drip edge ensures that rainwater flows directly into the gutters, preventing it from seeping into vulnerable areas of your roof and even your interiors.
Also Read: What to Do After a Failed Roof Inspection
Improve Gutter Functionality
By guiding water efficiently into the gutters, a drip edge prevents overflow, which can lead to soil erosion around your home’s foundation and basement flooding.
Enhance Curb Appeal
When a drip edge is installed correctly, it can make the final roof look complete. It creates a clean transition between the roofing material and fascia, contributing to your home’s curb appeal.
Prevents Ice Dams in Cold Climates
In colder regions, ice dams form at the roof’s edge, causing water to back up under the roofing materials and contributing to water damage. A drip edge helps direct melting snow away from the structure, reducing the chance of ice dams forming to start with.
Reduce Maintenance and Repair Costs
Since a drip edge helps minimize water-related damage, it ultimately lowers long-term maintenance and repair expenses. It is a small investment that has the potential to save homeowners hundreds of dollars in repair.
Best Drip Edges On The Market For Metal Roofs!
Before you install a drip edge on your home, it is important to know about the best products out there. There are different styles of drip edges available, such as L-style and T-style drip edges. Choosing the right one depends on your roof’s structure and local climate conditions.
At Home Depot, you can find quality brands such as Gibraltar Building Products and Amerimax that offer durable, weather-resistant options in multiple colors to match your metal roofing system.
Need Drip Edge Installation For A Metal Roof? We Can Help!
Whether you’re installing a new metal roof or upgrading an existing one, ensuring that a drip edge is included in the installation is a smart decision. At Prestige Roofing LLC, we offer best-in-class roof installation and replacement services throughout Northeastern Wisconsin and the surrounding area.
We take care of everything, including the quality of roofing materials like a metal drip edge. Give us a call today at (920) 791-0414, and learn how we can help you make your roofing needs a reality.