NEED ADVICE ON REPLACING AN OLD LEAKY ROOF
Flashing issues are sneaky—seen more leaks from bad flashing than anything else. People always blame the shingles, but it’s usually the details that get missed. Skylights... yeah, they look great in magazines, but unless you want to be up there with a caulk gun every spring, I’d skip them. I’ve had clients swear they’ll keep up with maintenance, then call me two years later with water stains on the ceiling.
Drip edge is one of those things folks try to save a few bucks on and regret it fast. Water finds its way into everything if you let it. Ridge vents are solid—just make sure your soffits are clear or you’re not getting much airflow. And underlayment? The upgraded stuff is worth it, especially if you’re in an area that gets wild weather swings. Cheap felt just doesn’t cut it anymore.
If you’re already tearing off the old roof, might as well do it right the first time. Fixing shortcuts later costs way more than doing it right up front.
Drip edge is one of those things folks try to save a few bucks on and regret it fast.
Had a client who skipped the drip edge—said the overhang was “enough.” Two years later, fascia board was rotted out. It’s always the little details that cost you big down the line.
It’s always the little details that cost you big down the line.
I get what you’re saying, but is it always so black and white? I’ve seen a few jobs where the overhang actually did fine—maybe just lucky weather? Still, as someone who’s seen water stains creep inside from bad flashing, I’d rather not risk it. Is drip edge really that pricey to add, though? Sometimes contractors make it sound like a huge upcharge.
Is drip edge really that pricey to add, though? Sometimes contractors make it sound like a huge upcharge.
I’ve wondered the same thing. When I replaced my garage roof, the contractor made drip edge sound like some luxury add-on, but the actual material cost was pretty minimal. Labor might bump it up a bit, but honestly, peace of mind is worth a little extra. I get wanting to save where you can, but those “little details” really do pay off in the long run—especially if you’re on a tight budget and can’t afford surprise repairs later. Sometimes it’s about investing smart, not just spending less.
Totally agree—those little details like drip edge can seem minor until you’re chasing water stains a year later. I’ve seen clients skip it to save a few bucks, only to regret it when fascia boards rot out. Sometimes the “boring” stuff is what keeps everything else looking good.
