Drip Edge for Shingles: Placement, Types, and Code
Drip edge for shingles is an L-shaped or T-shaped metal flashing installed along the edges of a roof. It directs water away from the fascia and into gutters, protects the edge of the roof deck from rot, and supports the edge of the shingles. Current model building codes require drip edge at both eaves and rakes on asphalt shingle roofs. The usual rule is under the underlayment at the eaves and over the underlayment at the rakes.
Asphalt tonnage calculator →Where it goes
| Edge | Drip edge placement |
|---|---|
| Eaves (bottom edge) | Under underlayment and ice barrier |
| Rakes (sloped side edges) | Over underlayment |
At the eaves, water running down the underlayment flows onto the drip edge and into the gutter. At the rakes, putting drip edge over the underlayment keeps wind-driven rain from getting under it.
Types of drip edge
| Type | Shape | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| L-style (Type C) | Simple angle | Common, inexpensive |
| T-style (Type D) | Extended lip | Directs water farther out |
| Gutter apron | Longer leg | Reaches into gutters |
Materials include aluminum, galvanized steel, and copper. Colors are available to match trim.
Code basics
Codes commonly call for drip edge to extend at least 1/4 inch below the roof sheathing, extend at least 2 inches back onto the roof deck, overlap adjoining pieces by at least 2 inches, and be fastened about every 12 inches. Check your local code and manufacturer instructions.
Installation steps
- Install eave drip edge first, nailed to the deck.
- Install ice and water shield over the eave drip edge. See ice and water shield.
- Lay underlayment across the roof.
- Install rake drip edge over the underlayment.
- Overlap pieces at least 2 inches, upper piece over lower.
- Install starter strip along the eaves. See starter strip shingles.
Shingle overhang
Shingles typically overhang the drip edge about 1/4 to 3/4 inch, per manufacturer instructions, so water drips clear.
How much to buy
Drip edge usually comes in 10-foot pieces. Add the total eave and rake lengths, divide by about 9.8 feet to allow for overlap, and round up.
Reroofing
Older roofs often lack drip edge. Adding it during a reroof is inexpensive and usually required by code.
Corners and gutters
At the corner where an eave meets a rake, cut and fold the drip edge so the rake piece laps over the eave piece, keeping water flowing downward and outward. Where gutters are installed, the drip edge or a gutter apron should extend into the gutter so water cannot run behind it onto the fascia. If gutters are being replaced at the same time as the roof, coordinate the order of work so the drip edge and gutter hangers fit together properly.
Bottom line
Drip edge protects roof edges and steers water into gutters. Install it under the underlayment at eaves and over the underlayment at rakes, overlap pieces 2 inches, fasten about every 12 inches, and let shingles overhang slightly.
Questions people ask
Is drip edge required on a shingle roof?
Current model codes require it at eaves and rakes.
Does drip edge go under or over felt?
Under at the eaves, over at the rakes.
How much should shingles overhang drip edge?
About 1/4 to 3/4 inch, per manufacturer instructions.
How long are drip edge pieces?
Usually 10 feet.
Related guides
- Ice and Water Shield: Where It Goes and How Much
- Starter Strip Shingles: Why and How to Install
- How Many Nails Per Shingle? Placement and Sizes
- Asphalt Roofing Felt (Tar Paper): 15 lb vs 30 lb, Uses and Synthetic Alternatives
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