Proper Shingle Overhang: How Much is Enough?
If you are a homeowner, there is a chance you have had your roof redone, or you are looking to do it yourself. Or maybe, you have looked upwards to see that you can see the underside of the shingles of your roof. The shingle overhang on a roof is the amount of shingle that extends past the lower edge of your roof. So, we will answer the question, “How much should shingles overhang?”
Why is it Important That Your Shingles Extend Past Your Roof?
The shingle that goes beyond your roof’s eedge on a roof is what prevents water from access to the important structure of your roof. The more water protection you have for the structural components of your roof, the longer it will last.
If the wood parts of your roof were to become damaged, you would need to replace them. Shingles are laid starting from the bottom of the roof to the top. Replacing what is underneath would mean tearing the shingles starting from the top in order to reach what is underneath.
Is Too Much Shingle Overhang Possible?
Yes. On a typical roof, shingles overhang the amount of 1/2″-3/4″. Any more than that length, the shingles are without sufficient support and liable to crack and break off. On top of that, wind resistance may be compromised.
Conclusion
If you were ever to replace or repair your own roof, knowing how much shingle should extend past the roof edge is a small part of the job. It takes a lot of work, time, and knowledge. At the end of the day, shingle overhang is a feature of your roof that will maintain the structural integrity of your roof for many years to come, so ensure that it is within the correct standards!
Want to learn more about shingles? Check out this blog post!
