The Importance of Drip Edges in Roof Maintenance
You may not have heard it called by its official name, but you’ve definitely seen a drip edge. It is that metal strip along the edges of your roof that looks like an upside-down U. And while it might not seem like it, this seemingly small element plays a big role in roof maintenance and longevity. Here’s why it matters and how to make sure yours is up to snuff.
What Is a Drip Edge?
A drip edge is essentially a piece of metal flashing that is installed on the eaves and rakes of your roof. It helps protect the edges of your roof by providing additional protection against water penetration. The metal flashing also helps direct water away from the fascia and soffit boards, helping to keep them dry. This prevents damage to the wood underneath and extends its life expectancy.
In addition to protecting the structure of your roof, a drip edge also provides aesthetic value to your home or commercial building. That’s because it can be made from colored materials like aluminum or copper that can add visual interest to your roofline when properly installed.
What are the benefits of having a properly functioning drip edge on your roofing system?
- Prevents Water Damage – Any extra moisture caused by water dripping down your walls can cause major damage to both the interior and exterior of your home or building. A properly functioning drip edge will prevent any extra moisture buildup on the sides of your house, which will help keep both your interior and exterior dry.
- Increases Home Value – If you plan on selling your property in the future, installing a drip edge can increase its value significantly; buyers know that they won’t have to worry about any water damage due to faulty drainage systems if there have already been preventive measures put into place like installing a proper drip edge.
- Enhances Roof Aesthetics – Not only do drip edges help protect against water damage, but they also enhance the aesthetics of your home or building by providing an even flow around the eaves while still looking neat and clean along the edges of your roofline. This means that when potential buyers come to look at your property, they’ll be able to appreciate how well taken care of it looks from top to bottom.
How do you know if your drip edge needs to be replaced or repaired?
Although some signs are more obvious than others, there are several indicators that can help you determine whether or not your drip edge needs repair or replacement. Some telltale signs include visible rust, bent edges, damaged flashing, missing pieces, and gaps in the sealant around the drip edge where moisture may be entering your home or building. If you notice any of these issues on your roof it may be time to call in an expert for further inspection and advice on what should be done next.
Additionally, it’s important to note that age plays an important role in determining when it might be time to replace or repair your drip edge. Generally speaking, most roofs should last anywhere between 20-30 years depending on their condition and the quality of materials used during installation. So if your current roof is nearing this age range then it might be worth looking into replacing or repairing your drip edge before any major damage occurs.
What are some common causes of damage to a drip edge?
- UV Rays
Your drip edge is made of metal, which makes it vulnerable to oxidation caused by exposure to UV rays. The more exposed it is, the faster it will succumb to oxidation, so try to keep trees and other shrubbery around your home trimmed back so they don’t block out sunlight on your roof. That way, you can enjoy those sunny days without having to worry about replacing your drip edge too soon.
- Wind Damage
When fierce winds blow through town, they can take bits and pieces of debris with them—like shingles or pieces of metal from your drip edge! This kind of wind damage needs to be addressed quickly because leaving it unattended could lead to further damage down the line. If you live in an area where strong winds are frequent visitors, make sure you regularly inspect your roof for any signs of damage.
- Improper Installation
A properly installed drip edge is essential for proper drainage and avoiding leaks inside your home. Make sure yours has been professionally installed by someone who knows what they’re doing; otherwise, there could be gaps between the eaves and fascia boards that will allow water to penetrate through them during rainfall or snowmelt events.
How Do I Know If Mine Are Working Properly?
To check if your drip edges are functioning correctly look for any signs of rust or deterioration; if you see any then you may need to replace them altogether or at least repair them with sealant or caulk. Additionally, be sure to inspect them after major storms; if they appear bent or damaged in any way then you should call a professional immediately to assess further damage done by wind or hail. While drip edges do require some upkeep they are well worth it since they can save homeowners thousands in repairs down the line!
How much does it cost to replace or repair a drip edge on a roofing system?
The cost of repairing or replacing your drip edge will depend on several factors including size and material used. Generally speaking, repairs will cost less than replacements since they require less labor and materials. In most cases, repairs will run between $50-$100 while replacement costs can range anywhere from $200-$500 depending on the size of the roof area being covered. Keep in mind that these estimates do not include any additional materials such as flashing or sealant which may be required for repair jobs or replacements.
If you’re unsure whether you should repair or replace your drip edge, consider consulting with a professional roofer who can provide you with an inspection and estimate for both options. This way, you can rest assured that whatever option you choose is best for your budget and situation.
Conclusion:
Drip edges might not be one of those things we think about daily (or ever!) but their importance shouldn’t be underestimated when it comes to protecting our homes from water damage. That being said, make sure you check yours regularly for signs of wear and tear so that you can avoid costly repairs down the road! Homeowners and commercial building owners alike should invest some time into understanding why these little strips are so important for maintaining roof health – after all prevention is always better than cure!
