if you’re already tearing off shingles, it’s like adding guac to your burrito—cheap, and you’ll thank yourself later.
That’s a good way to put it. In my experience, skipping drip edge might save a few bucks up front, but you’ll pay for it in fascia repairs or repainting down the line. I’ve managed properties where roofs without drip edge ended up with rot, and it’s never a small fix. Even if code doesn’t require it, I’d still budget for it if you’re already doing new shingles. It’s one of those little things that makes a big difference over time.
- Drip edge is one of those things you don’t notice until it’s missing and water’s sneaking in where it shouldn’t.
- I’ve seen storms peel back shingles, and without that metal strip, the plywood edges get soggy fast.
- Not saying it’s magic, but for the price, it’s way cheaper than fixing rotten wood or repainting trim every couple years.
- Some folks skip it if their overhang is big enough, but honestly, I wouldn’t risk it—especially if you’re in a windy or rainy area.
- It’s like paying for windshield wipers... not exciting, but you’ll be glad you did when the weather turns.
I’m with you on not skipping it, especially after what I’ve seen on my place. I used to think the overhang would be enough, but after a couple of good wind-driven rains, I noticed the paint on my fascia bubbling. Pulled it apart, and sure enough, the plywood edge was starting to get soft. Turns out, water can wick up under the shingles way easier than you’d expect, especially if you get those sideways storms.
I installed drip edge when I re-roofed last year—honestly, it wasn’t a huge extra cost or much more work. The peace of mind is worth it for me. I will say, though, if you’ve got a super steep roof and big overhangs in a dry climate, maybe you could get away without it... but for most folks, skipping that metal strip just seems like asking for trouble down the line. The small details really do save headaches later.
You nailed it—those little details like drip edge seem minor until you see what happens without them. I’ve lost count of how many inspections I’ve done where the fascia and sheathing were rotted out, all because water found its way in at the edge. Folks are always surprised how far water can travel sideways or even uphill with a strong wind. It’s not just about rain coming straight down.
I get that in some dry spots with big overhangs, people might roll the dice and skip it, but honestly, the cost to fix water damage later is way more than just putting in that metal strip up front. I’ve seen jobs where skipping drip edge led to needing new plywood and even interior repairs. Not fun.
You’re right about peace of mind too—once it’s on there, you don’t have to think about it every time a storm rolls through. For me, that’s worth a lot.
That’s really eye-opening about how water can sneak in even with a big overhang. I keep hearing people say, “If you live somewhere dry, you can skip it,” but honestly, I’m not sure I’d want to take that risk. My house is in a spot that gets some pretty strong wind-driven rain a few times a year, and I’ve seen what a little leak can do over time.
Folks are always surprised how far water can travel sideways or even uphill with a strong wind.
I’m curious—does drip edge make much difference if you’ve already got gutters installed? Or is it more about protecting the wood underneath regardless of gutters? I had a contractor tell me “the gutter does the same job,” but that seems off based on what you’re saying. Anyone ever had issues even with both in place? Just trying to figure out if it’s worth retrofitting drip edge on an older roof, or if that’s overkill.
