anyone notice more problems one way or the other?
On the cost side, I’ve found the drip edge is one of the cheapest line items—labor to install it is almost nothing if you’re already putting on shingles. I’d agree with the concern about slope. On low-slope roofs, water doesn’t shed as quickly, so the edge detail matters more. I’ve seen “no drip edge” lead to rot in fascia and sheathing after just a few years, especially where snow piles up. Steeper roofs seem a bit more forgiving, but it’s still a code requirement in a lot of places now. For a detached garage, you might get away with it, but the risk is definitely higher with a shallow pitch.
I get where you’re coming from, but honestly, I’ve seen plenty of older houses around here (Midwest, lots of snow and ice) that never had a drip edge and they’re still hanging in there after decades. Not saying it’s ideal—definitely seen some rough fascia boards and a few spots where water got behind the gutters—but it’s not always a disaster if you skip it, especially on outbuildings or sheds.
That said, I did add drip edge when I redid my own roof a few years back. It was cheap, like you said, and it just seemed like one of those “might as well” things. But if you’re dealing with a steep roof and good overhang, I don’t think it’s an automatic must-have. Local code is a different story, though—inspectors can be sticklers.
Bottom line, I wouldn’t panic if you don’t have it, but if you’re already up there doing shingles, it’s a no-brainer to add. Just my two cents from crawling around a few too many attics over the years...
Bottom line, I wouldn’t panic if you don’t have it, but if you’re already up there doing shingles, it’s a no-brainer to add.
That’s pretty much how I look at it too. I’ve managed a bunch of properties—some with drip edge, some without—and honestly, the ones without usually just end up with a bit more maintenance on the fascia over the years. Not catastrophic, but it adds up. Local code enforcement is definitely something to watch for, though. If you’re already re-roofing, it’s such a minor extra step for the peace of mind. But yeah, I’ve seen plenty of old barns and garages holding up just fine without it... just depends how much you want to gamble with future repairs.
That lines up with what I see during inspections. Drip edge isn’t strictly “make or break” for every roof, but it does help keep water off the fascia and out of the soffit, especially in areas with wind-driven rain. Like you said, older buildings without it can last, but you’ll usually spot more wood rot or peeling paint over time. If you’re already re-roofing, it’s a cheap bit of insurance. Some local codes are starting to require it, too, so it’s worth double-checking before skipping.
Drip edge isn’t strictly “make or break” for every roof, but it does help keep water off the fascia and out of the soffit, especially in areas with wind-driven rain.
Honestly, I used to think the drip edge was just a fancy trim piece until I saw what happens when it’s missing. Step one: water sneaks under the shingles, then step two: it starts munching away at your fascia like a midnight raccoon raid. If you’re in a spot that gets sideways rain (looking at you, Midwest), it’s not just “nice to have”—it’s pretty much your roof’s umbrella.
I’ve crawled through enough attics to know that old houses without drip edge can survive, but you’ll see a lot more chewed-up wood and paint that looks like it’s been through a blender. Not a dealbreaker if you’re on a tight budget, but if you’re already tearing off shingles, it’s like adding guac to your burrito—cheap, and you’ll thank yourself later.
One thing I’d double-check: local code. Some towns are sticklers, some couldn’t care less. But if you skip it and the inspector’s having a bad day...well, let’s just say you might be seeing more of me than you want.
