When using roll roofing, how much should the strip overhang the edge by minimally?

When applying roll roofing, a minimum overhang of 1/4 inch is recommended to ensure that water can effectively shed off the roof without running back under the roofing material. This overhang acts as a safeguard against water infiltration, helping to prevent leaks and potential damage to the underlying structure.

The 1/4 inch overhang strikes a balance between being unobtrusive and providing adequate protection. It is important to have enough of an overhang to allow for expansion and contraction of the roofing material due to temperature changes without compromising the integrity of the installation.

A smaller overhang, such as 1/8 inch, may not be sufficient to manage runoff adequately, while larger overhangs such as 3/8 inch or 1/2 inch could lead to aesthetic issues or complicate the installation process without providing significant additional benefit in protecting against water intrusion. Therefore, the choice of 1/4 inch serves both practical and functional purposes in roofing applications.