What Is a Drip Edge and Do You Need One?
A drip edge is the metal flashing that guides roof runoff into the gutter and off the fascia. Learn what it does, where it goes, and whether you need one.
Category
Roof Runoff
Before water reaches a gutter it is shaped by roof area, slope and valleys. This section explains how runoff concentrates, why water sometimes runs behind the gutter, and the role of drip edge, fascia and soffit.
Guides · Page 3 of 3
Roof Runoff articles
How Much Water Comes Off a Roof in a Storm?
How much water comes off a roof in a storm is roof area times rainfall intensity. Learn the relationship in plain terms and why runoff volume surprises people.
Roof Runoff and Your Landscaping
Roof runoff concentrates rain onto a few points that can erode beds and drown plants — or feed them. Learn how to work with runoff in your landscaping.
How to Divert Rain Off a Roof Without Gutters
No gutters? Here is how to divert rain off a roof using overhangs, ground gutters, grading, French drains and rain gardens to protect the foundation.
Roof Valley Runoff Problems
Water pouring off a roof valley? Here are the common valley runoff problems, why they happen, and the fixes for overshoot, erosion and behind-gutter water.
Dormer and Multi-Roof Runoff
Dormers and stacked roofs make runoff worse by dumping upper-roof water onto lower ones. Here is how multi-roof runoff concentrates and how to manage it.
Open vs Closed Roof Valley
Open vs closed roof valley, explained. How each handles heavy runoff, debris and durability, and why both still concentrate water on the gutter below.
Hip Roof vs Gable Roof Runoff
Hip vs gable roof runoff, compared. How each roof shape sheds water, where it concentrates, and what that means for gutter placement and capacity.