Do roof rain diverters work?

What are roof rain diverters?

Roof rain diverters, also known as roof drip edges or rain diverters, are devices installed along the edges of a roof to divert and control the flow of rainwater off the roof. They serve several important functions:

• They prevent rainwater from running down the fascia and soffits, which can lead to rot and other damage.
• They channel rainwater into gutters, helping prevent overflow and directing water away from the foundation.
• They provide a finished look along the roof’s edge.

Roof rain diverters are typically made of aluminum or galvanized steel. They consist of an L-shaped piece of metal that runs along the roof’s drip edge. The vertical leg extends down over the fascia and often slightly below it. The horizontal leg extends out over the gutter. This forms a channel to catch rainwater running off the roof and divert it into the gutter system.

How do roof rain diverters work?

As rain falls on a roof, it flows down towards the roof’s edge. Without a rain diverter, the water would drip over the edge and fall freely. Some would land in the gutters, but much of it would hit the fascia boards, soffits and siding. The diverter changes the path of the waterfall.

The vertical leg of the diverter acts as a barrier, blocking the water from running down the fascia. The horizontal leg sticks out slightly past the roof line, overhanging the gutters. This creates a channel that catches the rainwater and redirects it into the gutters.

The key principles are blocking and channeling. The diverter blocks the water from going where you don’t want it (fascia, soffits, etc.) and channels it to where you do want it to go (the gutters).

What are the benefits of roof rain diverters?

Installing roof rain diverters provides several important benefits:

• Protect fascia, soffits and siding – Diverting rainwater away prevents rot, decay, staining, streaking and other damage.
• Improve gutter performance – Channeling water directly into gutters increases efficiency and reduces overflow.
• Enhance roof edge appearance – Rain diverters provide a neat, finished look along the roof line.
• Reduce foundation damage – Keeping rainwater off siding minimizes seepage and flooding issues around the foundation.
• Prolong roof life – Less overflow down fascia means less moisture damage to roof materials.

By controlling water flow off the roof, diverters protect the integrity of the entire structure and extend the lifespan of many components.

What types of roof rain diverters are used?

There are two main categories of roof rain diverters – surface-mounted diverters and fascia-integral diverters:

Surface-Mounted Diverters

These are separate components installed along the roof edge on top of the existing fascia. They attach with screws or sealant. Common options include:

• Aluminum diverter – Low-cost, lightweight, easy to install.
• Galvanized steel diverter – More durable for long life.
• Copper diverter – Higher end, natural patina finish.
• Vinyl diverter – Affordable, low maintenance.
• Sheet metal diverter – Custom fit for non-standard fascias.

These diverters can be added to an existing roof or replaced if damaged. Available in standard lengths or custom cut.

Fascia-Integral Diverters

These diverters are integrated directly into the roof edge system during construction or re-roofing. The fascia and drip edge are a single piece with the diverter profile built-in. This creates a seamless, integrated appearance. Types include:

• Aluminum fascia-diverter system – Lightweight, corrosion resistant.
• Steel fascia-diverter system – Strong, durable, long lasting.
• Wood fascia with aluminum diverter – Warm appearance with protection.
• Composite fascia-diverter system – Molded for seamless built-in diverter.

These systems involve more extensive installation but provide maximum performance and aesthetic value.

How are roof rain diverters installed?

Proper installation is key to proper performance. Here are some general guidelines on how roof diverters are installed:

Surface-Mounted Diverter Installation

1. Cut diverter to length if needed.
2. Clean fascia board where diverter will attach.
3. Apply sealant strip or adhesive pads to back of diverter.
4. Press diverter firmly to fascia board with overhang positioned just above gutter.
5. Use screws to reinforce attachment, pre-drill holes to avoid splitting.
6. Seal screw heads and seam with additional sealant.

Proper alignment, full adhesion and sealing are critical. Fascia boards must also be in good condition.

Fascia-Integral Diverter Installation

1. Remove old fascia and rain diverters.
2. Install new integrated fascia and diverter system.
3. Fasten tightly to rafter ends according to manufacturer instructions.
4. Miter cut joints and seal for watertight performance.
5. Integrate smoothly with new roofing and gutter system.

This requires expertise to install properly. Hiring a roofing contractor is highly recommended.

Maintenance tips for roof rain diverters

Roof rain diverters are relatively low maintenance components. However, periodic inspection and upkeep is advised to get maximum longevity:

• Check alignment and attachment after major storms – re-secure as needed.
• Make sure overhang still lines up with gutters, adjust if necessary.
• Inspect for rust, cracks, wear or damage – replace individual pieces as required.
• Re-apply sealant to attachment points and screw heads if dried or cracked.
• Confirm gutter spikes are securely holding diverter and refasten if needed.
• Clean out any debris buildup behind diverters.
• Check that water is flowing unobstructed into gutters.

Proper gutter cleaning and roof maintenance also helps extend diverter lifespan. Catch issues early before minor problems lead to bigger repairs.

Conclusion

Roof rain diverters offer a simple yet highly effective method for controlling water runoff. Installing diverters enhances aesthetics, boosts curb appeal, and protects against expensive fascia, soffit, siding and foundation damage. Available in a range of styles for any type of roof, diverters properly integrated into the roof edge system divert rainwater directly into gutters for improved drainage and home protection. Periodic inspection and minor upkeep will ensure diverters keep working properly for years. For maximum performance and cost savings over time, roof rain diverters are a worthwhile investment for any home.

References

[1] Dunn, Leigh. “Do You Need a Roof Drip Edge – Pros & Cons.” HomeGuide, 14 Sept. 2021, https://homeguide.com/costs/roof-drip-edge-pros-and-cons

[2] “How Does a Metal Drip Edge Work on Roofs?” Quality Exteriors, https://www.qualityexteriors.net/how-does-a-metal-drip-edge-work-on-roofs/

[3] “Drip Edge Installation.” GutterSupply.com, https://www.guttersupply.com/p/drip-edge-installation.asp

[4] Taylor, B.J. “How to Install a Drip Edge.” The Family Handyman, 11 Aug. 2021, https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/how-to-install-a-drip-edge/

[5] “Roof Drip Edge Installation.” House Plans Helper, https://houseplanshelper.com/roof-drip-edge-installation/