Drip Edge

Component - Drip edge is a metal flashing piece installed at the edge of the roof that directs water away from the roof deck, fascia and wall below.
A human hand with a watch on an asphalt roof showing the drip edge at the rakes with a chimney and its flashing in the background.

Why Do Roofs Have Drip Edge

Drip edge is most commonly discussed on steep-slope roofs, although it is often found on low-slope roofs as well. It is installed at the eaves and rakes, where water drains off the roof. Without drip edge, water can cling to the edge of the roof the same way it curls around the underside of a cup or spoon instead of falling straight down. Drip edge often has a flange at the bottom that projects water outward into the gutter instead of allowing it to run behind the gutter against the fascia.

Most homeowners encounter the term during roof replacement, gutter installation or fascia repair. Drip edge also guides water into gutters rather than behind them, which makes it part of the roof and drainage system.

While drip edge is typically associated with steep-slope roofs, it may similarly be used on low-slope membrane roofs to protect the roof edge and terminate the membrane at the perimeter of the roof.

Further Reading

5″ vs 6″ Gutters: Which Is Better For Your Home?
Drip edge is a critical part of steep-slope water drainage systems. Without the correct gutters for the roof, steep-slope drainage systems cannot function, however.

Galvanized vs Bonderized Roof Flashings 
Drip edge is typically made with painted bonderized metal. Compare standard bonderized metal to another metal used in flashings: galvanized.

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