What Is Drip Edge

Why Proper Shingle Overhang and a Well-Installed Drip Edge Are Key to Preventing Fascia Board Leaks

‍

A well-installed roof is a crucial defense against the elements. Most homeowners know the importance of healthy shingles, an overlooked aspect of shingle installations is the combination of shingle overhang and a properly installed drip edge. These two elements work together to protect your home’s fascia board from water damage, ensuring your roofing system performs as it should.  

‍

Indications of a poorly installed shingle overhang and/or drip edge look like this:

‍

Why is Shingle Overhang Important?

• Prevents Water Infiltration: Without enough overhang, water can run off the roof and leak behind the gutters and fascia, causing wood rot and other damage.

• Promotes Proper Drainage: With the right overhang, water flows directly into the gutters, helping maintain proper drainage and reducing the risk of foundation issues.

• Minimizes Wind Damage: An excessive overhang can leave shingles vulnerable to strong winds, which may lift or tear them off. Striking the right balance is key.

Ideally, shingles should overhang the roof edge by about 1 to 1.5 inches. This overhang ensures water is directed into the eavestrough, preventing it from seeping behind the fascia board.

‍

‍

Why a Properly Installed Drip Edge Matters

• Protects Fascia from Water Damage: The drip edge acts as a guide, preventing water from sneaking behind your gutters and soaking into the fascia board.  Additionally, it protects your underlayment and roof decking from water intrusion.

• Prevents Soil Erosion and Foundation Damage: Without a drip edge, water running off the roof may drip straight down, causing soil erosion and possible damage to your home’s foundation.

Metal drip edge, or flashing, is installed at the edges of your roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutter system. Drip edge works together with the shingle overhang to prevent water damage.

‍

‍

‍

The Risk of Inadequate Shingle Overhang or Missing Drip Edge

When shingles don’t overhang enough, or if the drip edge is missing or improperly installed, water can wreak havoc. Without the right protection, water seeps behind gutters and saturates the fascia board, leading to:

• Rotting Fascia and Roof Decking: Constant water exposure weakens and rots the wood, which can also damage adjacent soffits.

• Fall Risks:  In Edmonton, our climate goes from warm to cold throughout winter.  Warm sunny days melt the snow on the roof.  This water gets behind the gutter onto the cold walkways below and freezes.

• Structural Damage & Soil Erosion: Ongoing leaks from poor drainage may lead to costly structural repairs, especially if water reaches your home’s foundation.

‍

How to Ensure Proper Installation

• Check the Overhang: Make sure the shingles overhang the roof edge by 1 to 1.5 inches.

• Install a Drip Edge: A properly designed and installed drip edge is essential. It should sit under the first row of shingles and extend slightly over the edge to direct water into the gutters.

• Hire a Professional: Drip edge installation is a critical task best left to professionals. Incorrect installation can lead to leaks and long-term damage.

‍

Conclusion

Adequate shingle overhang and a well-installed drip edge are essential for keeping your home protected from water damage. These seemingly small components of your roof play a huge role in maintaining your fascia board and overall roof integrity.

If you suspect issues with your roof or want to ensure your shingle overhang and drip edge installation is done right, contact Splashdown Exteriors. We’re here to help keep your home safe and dry!

‍