Drip Edge
An L-shaped metal strip installed along the edges of a roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutter system. Required by most building codes.
An L-shaped metal strip installed along the edges of a roof to direct water away from the fascia and into the gutter system. Required by most building codes.
Why Drip Edge Matters for Insurance Claims
Drip edge is a code-required component that protects the fascia board and prevents water from wicking back under the roof edge. When adjusters write estimates for roof replacement, drip edge should appear as a separate line item. Homes that were roofed before drip edge was required by code may need it added during a replacement, and this cost can be included under ordinance or law coverage if the policy includes that endorsement.
Drip Edge in Xactimate Estimates
In Xactimate, drip edge is listed under the RFG trade category and measured in linear feet. The estimate should account for drip edge along both the eaves (bottom edges) and rakes (sloped edges) of the roof. Different profiles and materials (aluminum, galvanized steel) have separate selector codes. Verify that the quantity matches the perimeter measurements from the roof sketch.
Installation and Code Requirements
Drip edge is installed beneath the underlayment at the eave and over the underlayment at the rake. This sequencing ensures water flows off the roof and into the gutter rather than behind the fascia. Proper installation is a manufacturer warranty requirement for most shingle products. Missing or improperly installed drip edge is a common deficiency found during building inspections and should be corrected during any insurance-funded re-roof.
Frequently asked questions
The International Residential Code (IRC) requires drip edge on asphalt shingle roofs. If an older home did not have drip edge, a re-roof triggered by an insurance claim may require adding it as a code upgrade line item.
Drip edge is measured in linear feet in Xactimate and appears as a separate line item under the RFG category. It should be measured along both the eaves and rakes of the roof.
Yes. Drip edge is part of the roofing system and is included in a full roof replacement estimate. If the existing roof lacked drip edge and code now requires it, the cost may be covered under an ordinance or law endorsement.
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