The front of a piece of drip edge while water is running off of it.

Everyday roofers are tasked with keeping your home dry and the drip edge is an efficient way to protect your home. There is a reason that this piece of flashing is required for many roof warranties throughout the United States and is even required in some states. It works.  

A drip edge is a thin piece of metal that is mounted under the edge of your shingles and helps move water directly into your gutters.  

What is Drip Edge? 

A drip edge is a piece of non-porous metal flashing that rests under your shingles. This strip of metal has a slight flange that directs water away and into your gutters. It will not rust and is made from aluminum, galvanized steel, or copper. You probably have drip edge installed on your roof and don’t even know it!  

Where Is Drip Edge Installed?  

It covers the perimeter of your home and rests over the top of the fascia board. It should also be installed on the rakes and the eaves of your home.  

Why Do I Need Drip Edge Installed on my Roof? 

First, Kearns Brothers install drip edges on all new roof replacements. It’s been proven to help with water and is a requirement for roof warranties.  

Second, the benefits of drip edges outweigh the cons by a longshot. Southeast Michigan gets nearly 3 feet of rainfall annually. That’s a fair amount of water that needs to be whisked away from your roof. Now your gutter system handles the bulk of the water but the drip edge is an extra layer of protection for any remaining water. 

Third, the drip edge, by design, helps shield your eaves from taking on water. 

Finally, it helps seal off any potential openings for insects and small animals. 

While drip edge isn’t the most exciting part of your roof, it has a clearly defined and beneficial role in keeping your home dry and free from critters and moisture damage.  

What Are The Benefits of Having Drip Edge? 

Having a drip edge is a small but mighty component of your roof system.  

With drip edge 

  • Stops water from backing up into your eaves 

  • Blocks wind-driven rain from getting pushed into small cracks 

  • Directs water into your gutters and helps keep water away from your foundation 

  • Strengthens the base of your shingles 

  • Reduced the opportunity for ice dam formation by preventing ice from backing up under the shingle 

Without it 

  • Water can get behind your gutters and potentially back up to the roof decking 

  • Fascia can begin to rot early 

  • Roof decking can rot leading to early roof failure 

  • You may void your roof warranty 

  • Wind-driven rain can be forced into exposed edges of your home 

The Roofing Experts at Kearns Brothers are Here to Help 

For nearly 40 years, metro Detroit has relied on Kearns Brothers for all of its roofing needs. Book a complimentary inspection today if your home needs expert attention with exemplary customer service. We’ve earned accolades from Angi, BBB, and Roofing Contractor Magazine and would love to work with you on your home exterior project.