How to Install Drip Edge on a Shingle Roof (and Why It Matters)

If you're a homeowner or property manager in Colorado or Georgia, you know how unpredictable the weather can be. That’s why getting the small details right—like drip edge installation—is key to extending the life of your roof and protecting your home.

Let’s break down what a drip edge is, where it belongs, and how to install it correctly under shingle roofing.

What Is a Drip Edge?

A drip edge is a metal flashing installed at the edges of your roof. It’s designed to:

• Guide water away from the fascia and into the gutter

• Prevent wind-driven rain from getting underneath shingles

• Reduce the risk of wood rot and ice dam damage

Why Drip Edge Installation Matters

Proper drip edge installation is required by both the International Residential Code (IRC) and the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA). Skipping it can void warranties and lead to water infiltration.

In areas like Denver, Colorado Springs, Atlanta, and Macon—where snow, ice, and rain can hit hard—drip edge is especially critical to preventing long-term water damage.

Where to Install Drip Edge

Drip edge should be installed in two key locations:

• Along the eaves (bottom edge of roof): under the underlayment

• Along the rakes (sloped edges): over the underlayment

This layering helps direct water away properly and prevents capillary action from drawing water under the roofing materials.

How to Install Drip Edge on a Shingle Roof

Tools & Materials:

• Metal drip edge flashing (aluminum or galvanized steel)

• Roofing nails or corrosion-resistant screws

• Roofing hammer or nail gun

• Tin snips

• Chalk line

Step-by-Step:

1. Install at the Eaves First

• Start at the bottom edge of the roof.

• Place the drip edge directly on the sheathing.

• Nail it every 8 to 10 inches.

• Run your underlayment over the top of the drip edge (this prevents wind-blown rain from seeping in).

2. Then Install on the Rakes

• Lay the drip edge over the underlayment here.

• Overlap joints by at least 2 inches.

• Use tin snips to miter corners for a clean fit.

3. Make Sure It Overhangs the Fascia

• The vertical leg should hang at least ½ inch beyond the roof deck and fascia.

• A kick-out or outward bend at the bottom helps water clear the fascia and fall into the gutter.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not overlapping pieces properly

• Cutting corners too short or without mitering

• Forgetting to install at both eaves and rakes

• Placing underlayment on top of the drip edge at the eaves

FAQ

Does drip edge go under or over shingles?

It goes under the shingles and either under or over the underlayment depending on roof edge: under it at the eaves, over it at the rakes.

Is drip edge required by code?

Yes. IRC Section R905.2.8.5 requires it for asphalt shingles on all roofs.

What size drip edge should I use?

For most homes, a 2"x3" L-style metal flashing works well. In high-wind zones or areas prone to ice dams, consider a wider flange.

Can I retrofit drip edge on an existing roof?

Yes—but it’s more labor-intensive and may require lifting shingles. In some cases, specialized retrofit drip edge products are available.

For expert installation in Colorado or Georgia, contact Roof Nuts at:

Colorado: RoofNutsCO.com | 303-276-2403
Georgia: RoofNutsGA.com | 404-476-6851

Let us help you protect what matters—shingle by shingle.