Every detail matters when it comes to roofing, so the components and materials you choose to install in the roofing system will dramatically affect its longevity and effectiveness. In a roofing system, the drip edge overlap is an overlooked but crucial part of the roof.
Yes, sadly, people often overlook the drip edge overlap because it is not visible at a glance from the street. However, it is highly crucial to have it in your roofing system, and many don’t know the reason; that is why this blog post will dive into the world of drip edge overlap, what it is, its function, and more!
Before diving into the world of drip edge overlap, we must know what a drip edge is, its function, and more to get a deeper understanding of your roofing system.
The drip edge is your first line of protection against water infiltration. It means that the function of the drip edge is to redirect the water from the fascia and into the gutter. It is usually placed on the top of the roof’s exterior covers, directly between the fascia board and the sheathing.
The importance of having a drip edge goes beyond since it is also a requirement in the US.
The IBC, or International Building Code, states that having a drip edge is necessary at both the eaves and gables of shingle roofs. But this code does not only mean that you must have drip edge installed but also that you must follow some rules.
According to code R905.2.8.5 of the 2018 IRC:
A drip edge must be provided at the eaves and rake edges of shingle roofs. Adjacent drip edge segments shall be overlapped no less than 2 inches (51 mm).
Drip edges shall extend at least 1/4 inch (6.4 mm) below the roof sheathing and extend back onto the roof deck not less than 2 inches (51 mm).
Drip edges shall be mechanically fastened to the roof deck at not more than 12 inches (305 mm) o.c. with fasteners as specified in Section R905.2.5. Underlayment shall be installed over the drip edge along eaves and under the drip edge along rake edges.
Common Drip Edge Materials
The drip edge has a demanding role in your roofing system, and since we know how important it is, reinforcing it becomes crucial. Here is when drip edge overlap pops up!
So, the function of the drip edge overlap is to serve as a double protection. If your drip edge is not overlapped, the water will seep behind the fascia boards, which will consequently lead to rot and weakening of the roofing system.
Installing a drip edge overlap as an extra layer of protection will help to maintain the integrity of the fascia boards and prolong their lifespan.
An overlapped drip edge will help prevent fascia and soffit damage by preventing water infiltration. This part of the roof system will redirect water away from the fascia soffit and tunnel into the gutters.
If your drip edge is not overlapped, it is more susceptible to water infiltration with time, which will end up in the areas of the fascia and soffit and consequently lead them to discoloration and break because of the excess of moisture.
This way, you can rest assured that your roofing system will remain safe and dry.
Invest in high-quality materials; they generally have a longer lifespan and are more durable against corrosion and other factors. Remember that the roofing is the ultimate element against the weather elements, and the entire roofing system will be as strong as the weakest part of it.
You may have top-quality drip edge overlap materials, but they must be installed correctly. Otherwise, the water will not flow into the gutters perfectly, resulting in significant consequences like wood rot and other water damage, which can destroy the fascia and soffit.
Damages caused by an incorrectly installed drip edge may lead to costly repairs in the future. So, to avoid havoc, the best you can do is to let this task into the hands of professional roofers.
The drip edge is vital in every home, and having a drip edge is not just a suggestion but also a mandatory set for the IBC. However, you must be clear that the importance goes beyond obeying a rule. Remember that a properly installed drip edge overlap will keep your home safe and dry.
For reliable roofing solutions, you should contact JDB Construction LLC. We understand the importance of a perfectly installed drip edge with a high-quality overlap. So, don’t hesitate to contact us if you need to install a new one or just do some repairs.
