Do you really need drip edge flashing? How should it be installed? Where should it be installed? And what is a drip edge for? If you?ve ever thought about re-roofing your home, it?s likely you might?ve asked a few of these questions.

For starters, you do need a drip edge. Why? Because a drip edge is what prevents water from running down your home?s fascias, soffits, and walls ? and maybe even inside your home. A drip edge is installed under the roof?s shingles, under the underlayment, and behind the roof gutter. In the place of no gutter, a drip edge directs water off of your roof away from the walls. If there is a gutter, a drip edge directs water into the gutter, and not behind it where it can run down your home?s walls.

But a drip edge also needs to be installed with some space between the drip edge and the fascia board. When it is installed too tightly against the fascia board, it is impossible to get the upper edge of the gutter behind the drip edge. And what this means is that water can still run behind the gutter and not into it ? where it shouldn?t go.

When it is installed properly, a drip edge keeps water from collecting where it shouldn?t ? which is anywhere near your home. But when there is no drip edge, or it is not installed properly ? such as leaving a gap between the drip edge and the gutter, or fastening it too tightly against the roof fascia board water can be sent behind the gutter, or if there is no gutter, against the fascia board and walls of your home. The result? Water damage in the best case scenario, and water damage plus mold and mildew in the worst case scenario.

Whether installing a drip edge, or any roofing material, it is always helpful to remember a fundamental axiom of roofing ? all materials should be installed such that they direct water back out onto the roof surface ? toward daylight, and not into the roof layers or structure.

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Does the Company Have a License?

Any company that does work on your house needs to have the correct business licenses for your region. Various online resources can be used to help you determine what the correct licenses, and the contractor should provide proof of the certification. In addition, ask for the tax identification number, and official contact information for the business.

Do They Have Insurance?

While it may not be required, it is a good idea to be sure that the contractor has insurance, including liability and worker?s compensation. In the event that a worker gets injured while working on your property, this will protect you from lawsuits.

Can They Provide References?

Any roofing contractor should be willing and able to provide references to satisfied customers. Nowadays, online reviews can substitute for references, and let you know that others have had a good experience with the company.

Do They Provide a Warranty on Their Services?

A roof is a big investment. If you are replacing your roof, you need to have the peace of mind of knowing that it is built to last, and that if something goes wrong, the company will fix it.

What is the Estimate for the Work?

The inspection the contractor gives you should include not only a price inspection, but also a schedule of when the work will take place. Be sure to find out what hours the workers will be at your house.

If you?ve just built a shed, you will need an equally protective roofing for sheds as you do your home! Sheds can be pushed aside when it comes to weather, but they will need the same protective measures your house gets if you plan on using it to store wood, tools, or other equipment. Below are the three most common roofing materials for sheds along with the benefits and downsides to point you in the right direction.

Roll Roofing

Roll roofing is by far the least expensive option to go. Resembling asphalt shingles in appearance, roll roofing comes in 100 square foot, three foot wide rolls. Roll roofing is in fact composed the same as the asphalt shingles, but is typically thinner than asphalt shingles. Usually installed on low angle roofs, roll roofing makes a convenient roof for most sheds. The life expectancy for roll roofing is only five to eight years and is aesthetically lacking according to popular belief.

Wood Shingles and Shakes

Shakes and wood shingles provide a very beautiful aesthetic roofing for sheds. The price of your shed?s roof does go up with this option, but there are also many more options for you to choose from. Both shingles and shakes come in a variety of wood types and colors as well as multiple shape patterns. The difference between the two also gives you another option; with shingles being thin and manufactured smooth slats of wood and shakes being hand split from logs giving it a tapered, textured, and more natural appearance. Being made of wood, they will need to be treated to withstand exposure from the elements. Good quality shakes and shingles can last 30 to 40 years.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are probably the most common roofing for sheds. More expensive than roll roofing but less that wood roofs, asphalt shingles still come in a variety of shapes and colors. This can allow you to match your house, or have its own style and flair. With a life expectancy of 20 to 30 years, all the choices, and moderate price, adding the ease of installation makes the popularity of this option puts this roofing material ?on top? of this list.

Here in the Pacific Northwest, managing gutters and downspouts is an almost constant struggle. It?s all fun and games in the Summer. But if we?re not prepared for Fall, clogs, misaligned downspouts, and other problems can sneak up, requiring hasty repairs to get ahead of the bad weather.

If you plan ahead for the rainy seasons this year, though, you could enjoying a little something extra: the soothing sound of rain rushing down the chains you?ve used to replace your downspouts.

Rain chains have been used in Japan for centuries, but they?ve recently been catching on in the U.S. as an attractive downspout alternative. Some use actual chains, but many different shapes are available, like cups or bells that ring as the rain travels down them. Rain chains can improve your home?s curb appeal and sound lovely, but if you?re thinking of installing them, it?s important to do it correctly. When in doubt,aask a professional for help.

An improperly installed rain chain can lead to the same problems you may have with any downspout. Poor drainage leads to standing water around the home?s foundation, which can contribute to mold and mildew and invite insects. Too much water can even start to break down the foundation directly. Meanwhile, the yard can become a soggy, muddy mess.

Disadvantages of Rain Chains

When using rain chains, being proactive about drainage is even more important. They are less sturdy and can?t handle the same amount of water as a traditional downspout, so you?ll want to consider installing a backup downspout for heavy rainfall. Wind can also make a rain chain less effective in directing water, so there again you have cause to install a backup.

You also need an effective collection system. Downspouts can be used to direct the stream of water away from your home, but a chain can?t do that. You?ll need a barrel or possibly a water feature to catch the water and prevent damage to your home.

Advantages of Rain Chains

The great thing about rain chains, of course, is that they so much more attractive than regular downspouts. You can choose from many different styles and finishes, including copper, which will develop a beautiful weathered look over time called ?patina.? Some rain chains also make musical sounds, which can be a lovely complement to the rain.

Installing rain chains can be relatively easy, but if you?re not comfortable working on your roof it?s best to hire a pro for help. If you?re worried about high winds, anchor the chain to keep it in place, and remember to inspect it regularly to ensure it works well. As long as you?re working on the gutters, it?s the perfect time to inspect them, remove debris, and attend to any broken or damaged sections.

Now that you know how to make rain chains work for your home, you can now go out and choose the style you love! If you need any help, don?t hesitate to give us a call!