Discover how much it costs to install a drip edge, exploring how factors like your roof’s size, height, and layout affect your final costs.
What to Know About Installing a Drip Edge on an Existing Roof
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Installing a drip edge on your existing roof protects the fascia and roofline by directing water away, preventing seepage under shingles that causes rot and mold.
Expect to pay $150 to $1,000 for drip edge installation, with average costs around $575, or about $1 to $3 per linear foot.
Inspect your fascia and soffits before installation to confirm they're in good condition, then measure roof edges and cut drip edge strips to fit properly.
Hiring a local roof repair professional keeps installation safe and precise, ensuring proper alignment and secure fastening for lasting water protection.
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If you live somewhere with lots of rainy days, installing a drip edge can make a world of difference to your roof’s health. A drip edge keeps water from seeping under your roof and saturating it—an issue that could quickly lead to mold and rot. But you may wonder if it’s possible to add a drip edge on your home’s roof without totally replacing your roof. The good news is yes, you can. Here’s what you need to know about installing a drip edge on an existing roof.
What Is a Drip Edge on a Roof?
A drip edge is a metal or plastic strip installed along the edges of a roof, designed to direct water away from the fascia and prevent it from seeping under the roofing materials. It sits beneath the shingles and extends slightly beyond the edge of the roof, allowing water to drip off and flow into the gutters. The drip edge helps protect the roof’s structure, including the fascia, soffits, and siding, from water damage and also helps prevent issues like wood rot and mold.
Pros and Cons of Installing Drip Edge on Existing Roof
If you’re on the fence about whether or not your home can benefit from a drip edge, consider these advantages and disadvantages.
Pros
Prevents water damage: A drip edge helps direct water away from the fascia and roofline, reducing the risk of water damage to the underlying structure.
Protects roofing materials: It helps prevent water from seeping under shingles, which can cause deterioration and leaks.
Enhances roof longevity: A drip edge safeguards the fascia and soffits, prolonging the life of your roof and preventing costly repairs down the road.
Improves aesthetic appeal: A drip edge provides a clean, finished look to the edges of your roof, adding to the overall curb appeal of your home.
Helps with gutter function: It can also improve the function of gutters by ensuring water flows directly into them, reducing the risk of overflowing.
Cons
Additional cost: While relatively affordable, installing a drip edge still adds to the cost of roof repairs or replacements, ranging from $150 to $1,000.
Potential for damage during installation: If not installed correctly, the process could cause damage to shingles or gutters, especially if they need to be adjusted or removed.
Labor-intensive for DIYers: Installing a drip edge can be a challenging task for those without roofing experience, requiring precision to ensure proper water flow and alignment.
How to Install Drip Edge on Existing Roof
Photo: OceanProd / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images
Even if you’re an avid DIYer, it’s always best to hire a roof repair professional near you for any roofing project. They have the skills and tools necessary to do the job properly—and safely.
But if you’re an advanced DIYer and have prior experience working on a roof, start by inspecting the roof edges to ensure the fascia and soffits are in good condition. If you find any issues, you may need to pause here to make repairs before proceeding. Measure the length of the roof edges and cut the drip edge strips to fit.
Place the drip edge along the roof's edge, positioning the flange (the part that faces the fascia) to direct water away from the roof. Nail the drip edge in place, ensuring the nails are spaced about eight to 10 inches apart, but avoid puncturing the shingles or fascia.
If you're working on multiple roof edges, overlap the strips at the corners for a seamless fit. Check that the drip edge is aligned correctly and securely fastened. After installation, inspect the drip edge to ensure it directs water into the gutters properly and will protect your roof from water damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Roofing services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.3★ avg. • 120 total reviews
- Chance R.
D1 Roofing delivers outstanding service from beginning to end, backed by a strong warranty and expert teams. I highly recommend them for their excellence in meeting and surpassing expectations with unmatched communication. Choosing D1 Roofing was flawless decision
Division 1 Roofing LLC - Jeremy P.
This place took $25,000 for a flat roof job with a five-year warranty and never returned to fix the leaks that were caused by their work. These people are not professionals and should not be doing this type of work. They incorrectly changed the pitch of the roof, and caused more damage than...
- David B.
The technician was very professional and friendly. He answered all my questions and was very thorough. He left the fireplace area very clean . He inspected from the roof and advised me as to other work that might need to be done. There was no pressure there. I was very satisfied with the...
Supreme brick & chimney - Kevin S.
I am really impressed with their timeliness and turnaround. Mitchell came out, and we decided to move forward with their pricing. Our roof was on within a week, and we could not be happier with their team! Amazing company, great prices and honest, dependable craftsmanship. I highly recommend...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio - Rob B.
Manuel Calvillo is the best option in the area for roofing and you won't be disappointed.
- Julie K.
They damaged multiple items on my property, including a marble slab used as a table top, tried to hide it, and refused to pay or replace. Arrived day one without a ladder to access roof & delayed a day. Left a mess in back yard; didn't wear face masks; no show by owner to property to see damages
Grants Tree Service - Marcia L.
I've hired Gary/Cherokee Roofing for two different homes, work quality, responsiveness, and completion have been great both times. And the prices quoted were very competitive. I would definitely hire again.
- Paul F.
Lyle did a great job removing asbestos shingles from our front porch roof. They worked together with our roofer to make sure that the new roof was able to be installed on the same day that Lyle removed the asbestos shingles.
Lyle Environmental - Paul F.
Bradley Builders did a good job replacing the roof on our front porch. They color-matched the existing shingles on the rest of the house and installed a metal ridge roll since we live in a historical neighborhood. They did the job while we were out of town. When we got back, everything was...
Bradley Builders, Inc. - Madison B.
I would absolutely recommend this business. They offer a variety of services, including: painting, roofing, and refinishing wood flooring. I hired them to refinish the original hardwood flooring in my home built in 1874. The job was quite challenging, as the floors were extremely aged and...
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