What is a drip edge and where should it be installed?

What is a drip edge and where should it be installed?

• A. A metal edging along eaves and rakes to direct water into gutters and prevent water behind fascia
• B. A plastic seal around vents
• C. A wood trim at the ridge
• D. A protective coating on shingles

Answer: (A)

A drip edge is metal edging installed along the roof’s edges—the eaves and rakes. Its purpose is to direct rainwater into the gutters and keep water from seeping behind the fascia boards. The outward bend at the bottom creates a drip so water stops wicking back under the shingles or into the fascia, protecting the roof deck and fascia from rot and leaks. It’s installed exactly at the roof edge, secured to the roof, and extends slightly beyond the fascia to reliably shed water into the gutter system. The other options describe unrelated components (vent seals, ridge trim, or shingles coatings) and do not perform this edge-drainage function.

A drip edge is metal edging installed along the roof’s edges—the eaves and rakes. Its purpose is to direct rainwater into the gutters and keep water from seeping behind the fascia boards. The outward bend at the bottom creates a drip so water stops wicking back under the shingles or into the fascia, protecting the roof deck and fascia from rot and leaks. It’s installed exactly at the roof edge, secured to the roof, and extends slightly beyond the fascia to reliably shed water into the gutter system. The other options describe unrelated components (vent seals, ridge trim, or shingles coatings) and do not perform this edge-drainage function.