On steep roofs, the drip edge should extend back over the roof deck by how many inches?

On steep roofs, the drip edge should extend back over the roof deck by how many inches?

• A. 2 inches
• B. 3 inches
• C. 4 inches
• D. 1 inch

Answer: (B)

Three inches is the recommended extension for a drip edge on steep roofs. This amount places the metal edge far enough back over the roof deck so that water starts to shed away from the fascia and into the gutter rather than wicking back toward the deck or behind the fascia. It also helps protect the edge of the roof by providing a solid surface to direct the underlayment and roofing material over the edge, reducing the risk of water infiltration and edge damage, even in windy conditions. Extensions smaller than three inches can leave the edge vulnerable to pooling or seepage, while extending more than necessary (like four inches) isn’t typically required for this purpose and can interfere with other roof components.

Three inches is the recommended extension for a drip edge on steep roofs. This amount places the metal edge far enough back over the roof deck so that water starts to shed away from the fascia and into the gutter rather than wicking back toward the deck or behind the fascia. It also helps protect the edge of the roof by providing a solid surface to direct the underlayment and roofing material over the edge, reducing the risk of water infiltration and edge damage, even in windy conditions. Extensions smaller than three inches can leave the edge vulnerable to pooling or seepage, while extending more than necessary (like four inches) isn’t typically required for this purpose and can interfere with other roof components.