Starter Shingles

Starter shingles are specifically designed to begin the roofing system at the roof edges.

Unlike regular shingles, they are manufactured with a factory-applied adhesive strip that helps bond the first course of shingles to the roof. This adhesive creates a strong seal along the roof edge, which is often the area most vulnerable to wind uplift.

Starter shingles are installed along the eaves and rakes before the main shingles are applied. Once the field shingles are installed, the starter shingles are no longer visible, but they continue to provide protection throughout the life of the roof.

Although homeowners never see them after installation, starter shingles help complete the roofing system and improve the performance of the shingles installed above them.

Why Use Starter Shingles Instead of Cutting Regular Shingles?

For many years, it was common for contractors to create starter strips by cutting standard three-tab shingles. While that method was widely used, today's roofing systems are designed as complete systems, and manufacturers now produce starter shingles specifically for this application.

Factory-manufactured starter shingles offer several advantages over cutting regular shingles:

• Factory-applied adhesive strip is positioned correctly to seal the first course of shingles.

• Consistent width and appearance along the roof edge.

• Faster and more consistent installation.

• Designed to work with the manufacturer's roofing system.

• Helps meet manufacturer installation requirements.

• Can contribute to higher wind resistance when installed as part of a complete roofing system.

While cut shingles may still be acceptable in certain situations, manufacturer-designed starter shingles generally provide more consistent performance and are the preferred choice for most modern roof replacements.

Typical Cost

Starter shingles are typically included as part of a complete roof replacement and are not usually priced as a separate item.

Although they represent a small portion of the overall roofing investment, they provide valuable protection that helps improve the performance and longevity of the roofing system.

Benefits

• Helps resist high winds

• Creates a secure seal at the roof edge

• Reduces the risk of shingle blow-offs

• Helps protect against wind-driven rain

• Supports manufacturer installation requirements

• Improves the performance of the roofing system

• Provides consistent installation

• Helps extend the life of the roof

Why It Matters in Michigan

Homes throughout West Michigan and Northern Michigan experience strong winds, severe thunderstorms, lake-effect snow, and repeated freeze-thaw cycles. The roof edges are often the first areas exposed to these weather conditions.

Properly installed starter shingles help secure the first row of shingles and improve the roof's ability to withstand Michigan's changing climate. When combined with quality shingles, synthetic underlayment, ice and water shield, flashing, and proper ventilation, they help create a roofing system designed for long-term protection.

Our Recommendation

At VanderLaans, we install manufacturer-approved starter shingles as part of every complete roof replacement.

Using starter shingles that are designed to work with the roofing system helps ensure proper installation, improves wind resistance, and provides a more consistent finished product. While they remain hidden after the roof is complete, they play an important role in protecting your home.

Did You Know?

The first row of shingles along the roof edge experiences some of the highest wind pressure during a storm. Starter shingles are specifically designed to strengthen this vulnerable area by creating a secure seal beneath the first course of shingles, helping the roofing system perform as intended during severe weather.