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What is the Purpose of a Starter Shingle?
When it comes to roofing, most homeowners are familiar with shingles. But fewer people know about an essential component called the starter shingle. Although it may seem like a minor detail, starter shingles play a critical role in ensuring the long-term performance, durability, and integrity of your roofing system. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about starter shingles—what they are, why they matter, and how they fit into a proper roof installation.
Table of Contents
- What Are Starter Shingles?
- The Key Functions of Starter Shingles
- Types of Starter Shingles
- Starter Shingles vs. Regular Shingles
- Installation Process of Starter Shingles
- Common Mistakes with Starter Shingles
- Manufacturer Guidelines and Code Compliance
- Starter Shingles and Roof Warranties
- Cost and Value of Starter Shingles
- Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor
- Why S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC Uses Starter Shingles
- Get a Free Estimate Today
1. What Are Starter Shingles?
Starter shingles are the first row of shingles installed along the eaves and sometimes the rakes of a roof. They serve as the foundation for the rest of the roofing shingles. Unlike standard shingles, starter shingles are specifically designed to provide a secure seal and a straight edge for the first course of shingles to be laid upon.
2. The Key Functions of Starter Shingles
- Wind Resistance: Starter shingles help to prevent wind uplift by sealing the edge of the roof.
- Water Barrier: They act as a secondary barrier against water intrusion.
- Alignment: Starter shingles provide a straight and clean edge for the first row of regular shingles, ensuring a symmetrical and visually appealing layout.
- Edge Protection: They protect the edges of your roof from weather damage and help prevent shingle blow-off.
3. Types of Starter Shingles
There are two main types of starter shingles:
- Pre-cut Starter Shingles: Manufactured specifically for use as starter courses.
- Site-cut Starter Shingles: Created by cutting off the tabs of a standard 3-tab shingle.
4. Starter Shingles vs. Regular Shingles
While both types are made from similar materials, starter shingles lack the aesthetic features like tabs and granule patterns. Their main purpose is functional rather than decorative. Using regular shingles in place of starter shingles can compromise wind resistance and water tightness.
5. Installation Process of Starter Shingles
Installing starter shingles involves:
- Laying them along the eaves with the adhesive strip facing up and towards the edge.
- Overlapping joints correctly to prevent leaks.
- Ensuring a straight edge to guide the placement of the first course of shingles.
6. Common Mistakes with Starter Shingles
- Incorrect placement of the adhesive strip.
- Improper overlap or gaps between shingles.
- Using standard shingles instead of starter shingles.
7. Manufacturer Guidelines and Code Compliance
Major roofing manufacturers like Owens Corning and GAF provide specific instructions on how to install starter shingles. Following these ensures compliance with building codes and maintains your roof warranty.
8. Starter Shingles and Roof Warranties
Skipping starter shingles or installing them improperly can void manufacturer warranties. It’s a small detail with major implications for your roof’s long-term protection and your peace of mind.
9. Cost and Value of Starter Shingles
Starter shingles add a minimal cost to a roofing project but provide significant value in terms of wind resistance and water protection. Cutting corners here can lead to costly repairs down the line.
10. Choosing the Right Roofing Contractor
Always ask your contractor about starter shingles. A reputable roofer will include them in the scope of work. At S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC, we follow manufacturer guidelines to the letter and ensure that your roof starts with a solid foundation.
11. Why S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC Uses Starter Shingles
We’re an Owens Corning Preferred Contractor serving homeowners across Northeast Ohio, including Youngstown, Beachwood, Chagrin Falls, Lyndhurst, Medina, Twinsburg, and beyond. We never skip the details that protect your investment, and we believe every great roof starts with a proper foundation—starter shingles included.
12. Get a Free Estimate Today
Want to make sure your roof is installed the right way? Call us today for a free roofing estimate. Most roofs are eligible for financing as low as $200/month. Visit www.skroofingandconstruction.com to learn more or schedule your appointment.
S&K Construction and Remodeling LLC Quality You Can Trust, Service You Deserve.
