Shopping for a new asphalt shingle roof? Asphalt shingle roofs are the most common roofing style in America and for good reason. While they are the most common and are pleasing to the eye, asphalt shingle roofs offer many other benefits including affordability, they’re low maintenance and they have a long lifespan.
Something that goes hand in hand with shingle roofs? Drip edges. Today we’re going to discuss drip edges and whether or not they’re necessary for shingle roofs. Before we answer that question, let’s explain what a drip edge is.
WHAT IS A DRIP EDGE?
A drip edge is made of metal sheet that is installed on the edge of a roof in the shape of an L. The function of a drip edge is to direct all water that drains from the roof away from the fascia and into the home’s gutter system.
Drip edges play a huge role in your roofing system by prolonging the lifespan of your shingles. Think about it like this: heavy rain and accumulating storm water that isn’t properly directed away from the roof can seep under the fascia and shingles, causing many issues like wood rot and leaks. Sounds awful, right?
While wood rot and water damage can become a living nightmare for homeowners, critters can also pose a threat if your roofing system lacks drip edges. Pests don’t stand a chance against drip edges because they seal the space in between the decking and the fascia, making it nearly impossible for them to get in between these tiny spaces and make their way into your home.
Drip edges are strongly recommended by most roofing contractors and for good reason. Below are just some of the benefits of installing drip edges on your home’s roof:
● They collect and drain water away from the roof and fascia
● They keep your roof dryer and help prevent issues that can arise from excessive moisture
● They protect shingles from water damage
● They keep insects and pests away from the fascia
While there are additional benefits to installing drip edges than those listed above, it’s easy to see why they’re a wise investment.
SO, ARE DRIP EDGES NECESSARY?
This brings us to a frequently asked question we often get here at K-Guard: “are drip edges necessary for shingle roofs?” All of us here at K-Guard strongly recommended that drip edges be installed on all shingle roofs. However, they’re actually a requirement in many states across North America.
While certain counties and cities have differing building codes, International Building Code (IBC) states that “a drip edge shall be provided at eaves and gables of shingle roofs.” Again, it’s important to note that certain jurisdictions have different requirements. Roofing contractors will know what is required and will stick to code so there’s no need for you to worry about regulations.
ARE DRIP EDGES BENEFICIAL TO MY GUTTERS?
Absolutely! We install our K-Guard gutter systems directly under drip edges to keep the water draining from your roof moving in the right direction. If your shingle roof has drip edges, the water directed from the drip edge will be collected and pointed down the gutters away from your home.
If your home doesn’t already have drip edges installed, it’s a good idea to contact a roofing contractor. Installing drip edges protects your roof, one of the more expensive investments you’ll make when it comes to your home.
In addition to installing drip edges, gutter cover installation can prolong the life of your existing roof. Our leaf free gutter system can handle more water than any other gutter system on the market and is backed by a lifetime warranty. Another plus? K-Guard is seamless and will attract potential home buyers along with keeping neighbors happy. Visit our Facebook page (and give us a “like”!) to see past installations we’ve done to see just how seamless they truly are.
Our gutter system will never void your roof’s warranty. Your roof, whether it’s asphalt shingles, metal, tiles, etc., won’t be affected by K-Guard.
Now is the time to make the switch to K-Guard, especially with fall and winter inching closer with each passing day. Call 303-476-4323 to request your free in-home estimate today!
