To limit the probability of water draining down the face of walls and returning under shingles, shakes or lath, which could lead to rotting of shingles, shakes or lath, or corrosion of fasteners.
This is to limit the probability of the displacement of shingles or shakes, trim and flashing, opening of joints or failure of caulking, which could lead to:
This is to limit the probability of harm to persons.