Asphalt shingles flashing requirements- The edge on the "Drip Edge"

This has been a pet peeve of mine for a very long time. When installing a new roof covering many roofing contractors omitted the drip edge flashing. It was only required if the shingle manufacturer required it. These flashings are relatively cheap yet were often not installed in my area.

Now that is not the case, the 2012 IRC has now made it a requirement for asphalt shingle roofs to have a drip edge flashing installed, no exception.  All I can say it was about time.

There are various forms of these drip edges. I prefer what is called a "D" style drip edge that allows the shingle to overhang the facia a little farther.  Water does not always play nice so the "D" style give a little more space for gravity to overcome surface tension.

So per the 2012 International Residential Code-

R905.2.8 Flashing. Flashing for asphalt shingles shall comply with this section

R905.2.8.5 Drip edge. (Bold and underline is mine)

A drip edge shall be provided at eaves and gables of shingle roofs. Adjacent pieces of drip edge shall be overlapped a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm). Drip edges shall extend a minimum of 0.25 inch (6.4 mm) below the roof sheathing and extend up the roof deck a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm). Drip edges shall be mechanically fastened to the roof deck at a maximum of 12 inches (305 mm) o.c. with fasteners as specified in Section R905.2.5. Underlayment shall be installed over the drip edge along eaves and under the underlayment on gables. Unless specified differently by the shingle manufacturer, shingles are permitted to be flush with the drip edge.

Okay this will be fun when I am out in the world doing new construction inspections and phase inspections and see who is keeping up on the requirements, both builders and municipalities.

“If you think it's expensive to hire a professional to do the job, wait until you hire an amateur.”

Red Adair

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