What Is a Drip Edge on a Roof?

November 2025

If you've ever watched rain slide off your roof and thought nothing wrong can come out of that you probably have overlooked some critical factors. Most homeowners don't think twice about how that water leaves the roof until they notice peeling paint or soft wood near the edges. That's usually when they learn about something simple but powerful: the drip edge.

At B-Cheema Roofing, we often meet homeowners across Surrey, Langley, and Vancouver who ask, “What is a drip edge on a roof, and do I really need it?” The short answer? Yes, and here’s why.

Understanding the Basics: What Exactly Is a Drip Edge?

A drip edge  is a thin piece of metal flashing installed along the edges of your roof at the eaves and rakes that helps direct water away from the fascia and into the gutter. Think of it as a small but mighty guard that keeps rain from sneaking under your shingles.

Without it, water can crawl beneath your shingles, soak your roof deck, and eventually lead to water damage or rot. Over time, this can harm not just your roof but also your home’s structure.

When we install a new roof at B-Cheema Roofing, the drip edge flashing is never optional, it’s part of what keeps your roof strong and your home dry year-round

The Role of a Drip Edge (Why It’s So Important)

So, why does this small metal strip matter so much?
Because it acts as your roof’s first line of defense against wind-driven rain, snow, and moisture.

Here’s what a properly drip edge installed does:

• Protects the fascia and directs water into the gutter, preventing leaks and rot. 
• Stops pests or insects from crawling under shingles.
• Guides water cleanly into gutters rather than behind them.
• Meets local building code requirements in many BC areas.

We’ve seen roofs in Burnaby and Coquitlam where a missing drip edge led to hundreds of dollars in fascia repair. It’s a small detail, but it makes a big difference.

Different Types of Drip Edge You Should Know

When talking about types of drip edges, not all are the same. Here are the most common styles roofers like us use:

1. L-Type (Standard)

This is the most common one: an “L”-shaped piece of metal that sits at the edge of the roof. It’s perfect for homes with simple roof designs.

2. C-Type (Curved)

It bends slightly inward, helping guide water more effectively into gutters. Great for regions that get heavy rainfall, like Surrey or Vancouver.

3. T-Type

This version offers extra coverage and is ideal for steep or complex roofs. It’s often used in commercial buildings.

Each type serves a unique purpose, and at B-Cheema Roofing, we choose the best drip edge based on your roof’s shape, slope, and local weather conditions.

How Professionals Install Drip Edge Flashing

Many homeowners wonder how we get that perfect clean line along the roof’s edge. The process may look simple, but precision matters.

Here’s how a drip edge flashing install usually happens:

1. The roof decking and underlayment go on first.
2. Next, the drip edge flashing is installed at the eaves (the bottom edge of the roof).
3. Then, the roofing material like shingles or panels is placed over it.
4. Finally, another drip edge section is added along the rakes for full coverage.

Every cut and angle must be exact. If the drip edge flashing isn’t properly aligned, water can still sneak through, causing issues later. That’s why at B-Cheema Roofing, our team double-checks every measurement before the first nail goes in.

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Common Mistakes Homeowners Make

Mistakes happen when DIYers do the following: 

• Use the wrong size or material. (Not all galvanized steel or aluminum edges fit every roof.)
• Skip sealant or fasteners.
• Do not overlap  properly at corners or valleys.
• Forget to seal sharp cuts made when shaping or trimming.

Even a tiny gap can allow wind-driven rain to creep in — leading to early water damage or a damaged drip edge.

When to Replace or Repair Your Drip Edge

If your home is older or you notice paint peeling near the roofline, it might be time to inspect your drip edge.
Signs it’s time for a replacement include:

• Visible rust or corrosion.
• Loose or missing sections.
• Water marks along the fascia or soffit.

At B-Cheema Roofing, we check the drip edge flashing as part of every roof inspection. Sometimes, just replacing a few feet of flashing can prevent much bigger problems down the road.

A Roofer’s Tip from B-Cheema Roofing

When we install a roof, we don’t just think about shingles or underlayment, we think about how every drop of rain moves.

A well-fitted drip edge flashing doesn’t just protect the edges; it helps your roof last longer, reduces maintenance, and keeps your home looking sharp even after years of BC weather.

Final Thoughts: Why Every Roof Needs a Drip Edge

Now that you know what is a drip edge on a roof, you can see it’s not just an add-on. It’s essential. This small strip of metal flashing installed along your roof’s edge quietly does one of the most important jobs: keeping water away from the fascia, roof deck, and walls.

If you’re planning a new roof or need repairs, make sure your roofer includes a drip edge flashing install done the right way. And if you’re in Surrey, Vancouver, Langley, or nearby areas our team at B-Cheema Roofing is here to help.

We bring over two decades of experience in professional roofing services across BC, ensuring every project from shingles to drip edge flashing is handled with care and precision.

Learn more about our expert roofing services here. Because when it comes to your roof, the little details make the biggest difference.