A drip edge is a roof trim that directs water into gutters and prevents water damage to the house. It can be added during a roof replacement or inserted into an existing roof. It is available in metal or plastic and should be installed by a professional. Gutters and downspouts should also be properly maintained to prevent water damage to the foundation.
A gutter is a piece of roof trim that directs water into the gutters, ensuring that the water ends up where it’s supposed to go as it drains off the roof. In some homes, a drip edge is not needed due to the way the roof is designed. In others it is necessary. These borders can be added during a roof replacement, or can be carefully inserted into an existing roof if the need for a border is identified before the entire roof needs to be replaced.
Ideally, the roof overhang should direct the water into the gutters. In areas where there are no gutters, as seen on a gable, the roof overhang protrudes enough that dripping water ends up well away from the house. If the edge of the roof is too close to the edge of the walls, water ends up coating the sides of the house and can also get inside the trim, flashings and walls, creating serious problems. A drip edge solves these problems without the need for drastic roof modifications.
The drip tray fits under the roofing and roofing felt in all down roof areas. It can be adjusted to ensure that the water drips neatly into the gutters directly below it. Along the gables, the edge goes under the roof, but above the felt. In both cases a zig zag pattern is used to secure it, and it is carefully secured so that it is flush with the flashing. This ensures that water cannot get into areas where it is not wanted.
Both metal and plastic are used to make drip edges. Borders are available in many hardware and home improvement stores, and people can also order custom products as needed. Installing this siding isn’t terribly complicated, although people need to be comfortable working at heights and working with their roof. You can even hire a contractor to do the job. During installation, it’s a good idea to check for signs of rot, missing shingles, and any other issues that could lead to complications in the future.
A gutter is useless without properly maintained gutters. Gutters and downspouts should be kept clean, with plugs placed at the ends of the gutter where no downspout is available. People should also be careful about how they drain their downspouts. Many older homes have downspouts that discharge water very close to the foundation, which isn’t a good idea. Downspouts should lead water well away from the foundation, directing it downward so it can drain harmlessly into the street or to a lower level on the property.
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