What Are Starter Shingles?

Starter shingles, or starter strips, are the base layer of shingles on your roof. They are installed along the eaves and rakes on your roof and provide a strong and smooth base for the rest of the shingles.

At McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, we are your local roofing professionals in Pennsylvania. We have seen many homeowners get confused between regular shingles and starter shingles.

In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about starter shingles. 

If you are looking for trusted roofing professionals in Pittsburgh or the surrounding areas, give us a call at (412) 353-5660. 

What Is A Starter Shingle?

A starter shingle is a rectangular-shaped roofing material that looks just like a regular shingle but without decorative cutouts or tabs. 

These shingles are specifically designed to be installed at the edges of your roof before laying the main shingles. They're made from the same materials as regular shingles (generally fiberglass mats coated with asphalt and covered with mineral granules).

What makes starter shingles different is their special adhesive strip positioned along the bottom edge. This strip helps seal the first row of regular shingles and prevents wind from lifting them. 

Starter shingles don’t necessarily need to match your roof because they'll be hidden under your main shingles. The size of starter shingles is also different from regular shingles. Most starter strips are about 7 inches wide and 36 to 40 inches long. 

Some manufacturers make perforated starter shingles that can be split into two pieces, making them more affordable and easier to handle during installation.

Is It Possible To Install The Primary Material Without Starter Shingles?

While yes, it's technically possible to install regular shingles without starter strips, it is not recommended. Installing shingles without starters leaves your roof vulnerable to many serious problems.

Without starter shingles, the first row of regular shingles won't have proper sealing at the roof's edge. This means the wind can easily get under these shingles and lift them up (which is a common concern during storms). Water can also enter underneath your roofing system, resulting in leaks and damage to your roof deck.

The only exception where you can install the primary material without starter shingles is on small shed roofs or temporary structures. 

However, even in these cases, using starter shingles is still the best practice. The small cost of starter shingles is far less than the potential repair costs from water damage or wind-lifted shingles.

How Much Do Starter Shingles Cost?

The cost of starter shingles generally ranges from $30 to $60 per bundle, depending on the manufacturer and quality. Each bundle usually covers about 120 linear feet of roof edge. For an average-sized home, you might need two or three bundles of starter shingles. Some manufacturers even provide deals where starter shingles are included when you buy their regular shingles in bulk.

Another important thing is investing in quality installation. Professional installation is non-negotiable for the long-term performance of your roofs.

When calculating costs, remember that starter shingles are measured in linear feet rather than square feet since they're only installed at the roof's edges. 

It's always better to buy a little extra than to run short during installation. Your roofing contractor can help you calculate the exact amount needed for your specific roof.

How to Install Starter Shingles

While we do not recommend installing a roof by yourself, here are the general steps that roofers follow to install starter shingles. Knowing these steps will help you ensure your roof is installed correctly.

#1 Prepare the Roof Deck

The very first step is to make sure that your roof deck is clean, dry, and properly prepared. Remove any old roofing materials and repair any damaged areas. Install drip edge along the eaves and rake edges.

#2 Install Underlayment

Once the roof deck is ready, the roofer will lay down the underlayment according to your region's local building codes. In cold climates, ice and water shields should be installed along the eaves before the underlayment.

#3 Measure and Mark

After installing the underlayment, the roofers measure and mark straight lines along the eaves to ensure proper alignment of the starter strips. This step is important for an even appearance of the finished roof.

#4 Position the First Starter Strip

For this step, roofers generally start from the left corner of the eave. Place the starter strip so it overhangs the eave by ¼ to ¾ inch. The adhesive strip should face up and be positioned toward the eave edge.

#5 Secure the Strips

Nail the starter strips approximately 3 to 4 inches up from the bottom edge. Use four nails per strip, or follow the manufacturer’s recommendations, spaced evenly across its length.

#6 Continue Installation

Continue installing starter strips along all eaves and rakes, making sure they're straight and properly aligned. Cut the last piece to fit if needed.

How Long Do Starter Shingles Last?

Starter shingles generally last between 15 to 25 years, matching the lifespan of your regular roofing shingles. However, many things affect their durability and performance. The quality of the materials used in manufacturing plays a very important role. 

Premium quality starter shingles from reputable manufacturers will last longer than low-quality materials. The climate in your area also impacts longevity, with extreme weather conditions potentially shortening their lifespan.

Professional installation is perhaps the most important thing. Properly installed starter shingles that are correctly nailed and sealed will perform better and last longer. 

Regular maintenance and inspections can spot any issues early, preventing premature failure.

How To Maintain The Lifespan Of Your Starter Shingles

Regular maintenance is very important to get the most out of your starter shingles. You should schedule annual roof inspections, preferably in early spring or late fall. 

During these inspections, you should ask your roofer to pay extra attention to the roof edges where starter shingles are installed.

Look for signs of lifting, curling, or separation from the main shingles. Check that the adhesive seal remains intact, especially after severe storms. Keep your gutters clean to prevent water from backing up onto the roof edge, which can damage starter shingles over time.

If you notice any damage, don't wait to address it. Small issues can quickly become bigger problems. Always work with qualified roofing professionals for repairs, as improper fixes can void your warranty and lead to more extensive damage.

You should consider trimming all the extra overhanging tree branches that could scrape against your roof's edge. Also, check for proper attic ventilation to prevent excessive heat buildup, which can prematurely age all your roofing materials, including starter shingles.

Get High-Quality Roofing Services In Pittsburgh

McClellands Contracting and Roofing, LLC, is your local roofing company in Pennsylvania. We understand the importance of your roof for your home’s overall comfort and performance. 

Our team follows industry-certified practices and uses high-quality materials so your roof not only looks great but also performs well. We want to be the only name that comes to your mind when you have any roofing needs. 

Our team pays close attention to each part of your roof, from starter shingles to fascias and soffits. We will make sure each part of your roof is expertly installed. 

To schedule a free roof inspection or for a no-obligation discussion with our roofers, reach out to us today at (412) 353-5660. 

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