I have a new home where the builder didn't put a drip edge on but I will do that myself. My question is should I also put it along the sides of the roof up to the peak? The shingles only come over the edge of the roof approx. 1 1/2". I have noticed that down close to the gutter that there is an approx. gap of 1 1/2" where the sheeting does not meet the side of the framing. I am afraid it might be like that all the way up. By putting the drip edge along the side I think it will cover the opening. I don't want bugs, bees, birds nor water getting in the attic. I had the builder out and they said it was up to their standards. Thanks for any advice.

 

the quote from your builder, "that it's up to their standards" doesn't inspire much confidence in the rest of their work. Skipping drip edge is a pretty poor way to cut corners. If you can put the drip edge on yourself, I'd say go for it.

 

I would call out a home inspector before doing anything, Having someone thats not affilated with the builder can turn up alot of things that you might be able to get the builder to fix. Is your builder a memeber of a local builders association? If they are then after you get the report send a copy to them if the builder doesnt fix any problems that arise.

Mike

 

I will install the drip edge along the gutter but my question is it normal to install a drip edge or something similar along the side of the house where the shingles overhang up to the point of the roof line? Or would something like this just look silly. Thanks

 

You mentioned that the shingles overhang 1-1/2" this is plenty. But the concern is that the sheathing does not meet up with the trim boards. In this case I would install the drip edge and not worry about the apperance to prevent future problems like you mentioned.

 

In our area, gutter apron is installed above the gutters. Along the gable ends, 5" d-style drip edge is used.

http://pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/thexsleeper/detail?.dir=af9d&.dnm=750b.jpg

In our area, it is normal to use flashings everywhere they are meant to be used. In some areas of the country, they skip flashings because they don't get much rain. In other areas they don't even know what gutter apron is- they only use d-style drip edge, which does not provide as much protection near the gutter.

 

thanks to all for the advice. I will check at the local lumber center and see what they have available. I do know the gutter company, if nothing else maybe they could form something for me. Thanks again...