Drip Edge is required in Georgia
Effective January 1, 2014, Drip Edge became a code requirement in the state of Georgia with the adoption of the International Residential Code, 2012 edition. This metal edging not only has waterproofing features, but also gives a finished look to roof installations. Prior to 2014, many homes in Georgia did not have drip edge installed on their roofs.
Drip edge is installed under the underlayment along all eaves (horizontal edges) and above the underlayment on all rakes (diagonal / gable edges).
Aesthetically, drip edge gives a finished look because of the defined lines it creates. Think back to childhood coloring books, and the bold lines that made a picture pop off the page. The same effect can be created with a roof line, and many homeowners are taking notice by selecting black for their metal color. While it doesn’t seem like the obvious first choice, Total Pro Roofing has seen a growing trend in the Metro-Atlanta and Gwinnett County areas to select black drip edge to match the underside of the shingles. This is a great alternative to attempting to match existing trim colors to the limited stock shades.
Want more information straight from the state? http://www.dca.state.ga.us/development/ConstructionCodes/programs/downloads/CodesUpdateSummer2014.pdf
“ The International Residential Code, 2012 Edition with Georgia Amendments is the current Georgia State Minimum Standard Residential Code. This code went into effect January 1, 2014 and is a mandatory code, meaning it is applicable statewide regardless of whether the local jurisdiction adopts or enforces the code. The 2014 IRC applies to the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair, equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of detached one- and two-family dwellings or townhouses. This means that this code does apply to the reroofing of any home in the state of Georgia. Under the Uniform Codes Act, final interpretation of the Georgia State Minimum Standard Codes for construction ultimately lies with the local jurisdiction. While there may be some local governments that do not enforce the State Minimum Standard Codes; the Georgia State Law still requires the mandatory State Minimum Standard Residential Code applies to the entire State of Georgia. If you have specific questions or need further assistance, please contact the Office of Construction Codes at [email protected] or 404-679-3118.”
Their publication also provided additional information:
“DRIP EDGES NOW REQUIRED BY CODE AT EAVES AND GABLES OF SHINGLE ROOFS IN GA: Drip edges are now required at the eaves and gables of asphalt shingle roofs by the current Georgia State Minimum Standard Residential Code. This new mandatory code requirement became effective statewide in GA when the new 2012 Edition of the International Residential Code (IRC) went into effect on January 1, 2014. Drip edges were not required previously by the GA State Residential Code for the installation of asphalt shingles unless it was part of the roofing manufacturer’s installation instructions. Section R905.2.8.5 ‘Drip edge’ of the 2012 International Residential Code for One and Two Family Dwellings (State Minimum Standard Residential Code) states: “A drip edge shall be provided at eaves and gables of shingle roofs. Adjacent pieces of drip edge shall be overlapped a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm). Drip edges shall extend a minimum of 0.25 inch (6.4 mm) below the roof sheathing and extend up the roof deck a minimum of 2 inches (51 mm). Drip edges shall be mechanically fastened to the roof deck at a maximum of 12 inches (305 mm) o.c. with fasteners as specified in Section R905.2.5. underlayment shall be installed over the drip edge along eaves and under the underlayment on gables. Unless specified differently by the shingle manufacturer, shingles are permitted to be flush with the drip edge. ”A drip edge provides additional support for the shingles at the perimeter of the roof, minimizing curling, and directs water away from fascia and rake trim. The 2012 IRC now requires a drip edge for all asphalt shingle roof installations and provides direction for its proper installation. Underlayment must lap over the drip edge at the eaves. At the rake edges (the sloped edges that are referred to as “gables” in the code text), the drip edge must be installed over the underlayment. Fastening is accomplished using nails approved for asphalt shingles and spaced at no more than 12 inches on center.In addition, IRC Section R905.2.8.3 ‘Sidewall Flashing’ now recognizes both step and continuous type base flashings where sloped roofs meet walls. It is also important to note for existing roof replacements, IRC Section R907.5 ‘Reinstallation of materials’ requires any existing flashings, edgings, outlets, vents or similar devices that are a part of the assembly shall be replaced when rusted, damaged or deteriorated. If you have any questions about the new requirement for drip edges, please contact the DCA Construction Codes Office at 404-679-3118 or [email protected]”