What Are Starter Shingles? Roofing Components To Know

Starter shingles are positioned along the eaves and rakes of your roof. They are the first layer of shingles installed and serve as a roof’s foundation.

Although the roof shingles are the visible part of your roof, the importance of starter shingles can’t be ignored. They serve a vital function to ensure that your roof can adequately protect your home.

Understanding their function, how they’re installed, and what contributes to a longer lifespan will help you gain a better understanding of your home’s construction and the roofing components needed to maintain it.

Starter shingles are the first layer of shingles installed. They are placed along the rakes and eaves of a roof, serving as the foundation of the roof. Starter shingles are sometimes also referred to as starter strips.

What are Starter Shingles Used For?

Starter shingles are used as a stable base for the first layer of shingles. They are important because they prevent water from getting under the roof’s regular shingles. This protects from water damage and wind uplift.

If starter shingles are not used, the roof would be left vulnerable to water and wind damage, among other problems. When starter shingles are used, they create a stable base, setting the stage for other shingles to be placed correctly.

What Does a Starter Shingle Look Like?

Starter shingles are usually rectangular, plain, and generally darker than regular shingles. They have a self-sealing adhesive strip on the back that provides a secure seal along the roof’s rake edges and eaves. This helps to keep water from seeping into the home.

Can Starter Shingles be Used with Any Type of Roofing Material?

Starter shingles are not universal, so material matters. Asphalt starter shingles blend with any shingle color. They are rectangular and are typically covered with darker, uncolored granules.

There are also starter shingles for metal roofing systems. These provide added durability and are specifically designed for use with metal panels. If you have other roofing materials, such as tile or wood, they typically have their own starter shingles that should be used.

How Do They Contribute to Roof Installation?

Since starter shingles provide a roofing base layer for regular shingles, they help to create a clean look on the roof. With starter shingles, you’ll get a straight line for the shingles, creating a professional-looking roof.

When a roofer installs starter shingles, it helps to extend a roof’s longevity and makes it more durable.

How are Starter Shingles Installed?

Your roofing contractor will follow a detailed process to make sure your starter shingles are installed properly. [1]

• First, the roof deck is prepped so that it’s clean and dry. It’s also important that no debris or protruding nails are on the roof.
• The eaves and rakes will be examined to ensure they are straight and properly aligned.
• Next, ensure that the starter shingles you are using are compatible with the main roofing system in terms of material, color, and design. The starter shingles will also require a sealant strip along the bottom edge to ensure they are securely in place.
• The starter strips will be applied at the eaves and rakes of the roof. The bottom edge of the starter strip is also aligned with the roof’s edge, ensuring it is straight and in place.
• There will be a slight overhang of the starter strip at the eaves to ensure the correct amount of coverage. Each strip needs to be parallel to the roof’s edge.
• The starter shingles will be nailed along the tar line just above the sealant strip. The nails will be placed about 6-8 inches apart. Laminated shingles come with a pre-defined nail line.
• When the strips are installed, they will be done in an interlocking design with the first row of regular shingles, enhancing the roofing system’s stability.
• The sealant strip on the starter shingles will be activated as the sun hits the roof. This forms a strong bond within the first row of regular shingles.
• Once the starter shingles are inspected to ensure they are correctly installed, the main roofing shingles can be installed.

Factors That Contribute to the Lifespan of Starter Shingles

Be aware of several factors that can contribute to the lifespan of your starter shingle:

Climate

The climate you’re in will play a significant role in the lifespan of your starter shingles. Extreme heat or cold, as well as heavy rains, can all decrease the lifespan of your starter shingles. You’ll also want to pay attention to the UV exposure.

Material Quality

Don’t skimp on the quality of building materials. Look for high-quality asphalt or fiberglass starter shingles. They can typically withstand the elements better, providing the ultimate protection.

Maintenance Routine

Keeping up on routine maintenance is a good way to extend the lifespan of your starter shingles. Regular inspections can identify problems before they escalate into larger, more expensive ones. Keeping the roof clean of debris also reduces the risk of moisture and mold.

Installation

If starter shingles are correctly installed, they should last longer. This includes tasks such as alignment, nailing, and interlocking with the main roofing shingles. Starter strips also contribute to a secure roofing system. If starter shingles are installed poorly, it can reduce the lifespan and increase the probability of roof damage.

Warranty Options

Check the manufacturer’s warranty. Higher-quality manufacturers typically offer extended warranties. Homeowners should review all warranty terms and coverage periods carefully.

Benefits of Starter Shingles

Using starter shingles has several benefits for your home.

Improves Wind Resistance and Prevents Water Damage

By installing starter shingles, you can prevent water from seeping through cracks and gaps. This allows the roof deck to remain water-tight and resistant to potential water damage.

Since the starter shingles are installed at the rakes and eaves, they also play a big role in overall wind resistance by preventing the shingles from flying off during storms. This prevents damage and can help you save money on repairs and roof replacement.

Creates a Clean Look

When starter shingles are installed, they provide a guide that offers a clean look. Since starter shingles are typically rectangular, they complement any type of overlapping roof shingles well.

Durability

Everyone wants their roof to last as long as possible. Using starter shingles helps to prevent damage and extend the overall lifespan of your roof.

Learn More About Starter Shingles and Keeping Your Roof Solid

If a new roof is in your future, learn about the materials that will be used. This will help ensure that you have everything you need to keep your home safe.