Where Does Asphalt Starter Go on a Roof

Where Asphalt Starter Shingles Should Be Installed on a Roof

Asphalt starter shingles play a crucial role in the roofing process, especially for asphalt shingle roofs. Designed to provide a secure foundation and enhance weather resistance, these shingles are not merely decorative but an essential roofing component. Proper placement of asphalt starter shingles is vital to ensure durability, prevent leaks, and improve the overall performance of the roof. This article explains exactly where asphalt starter goes on a roof and why it is important to install them correctly.

The Purpose of Asphalt Starter Shingles on a Roof

Asphalt starter shingles are installed to strengthen the roof edge and create a secure base for the first row of regular shingles. These starter strips reduce the chance of wind-driven rain or uplift causing damage by sealing the stepped edges of typical shingles. They also improve the roof’s aesthetic by providing a neat, uniform edge along eaves and rakes. Additionally, starter shingles help prevent algae growth and debris from accumulating in vulnerable sections.

Exact Placement of Asphalt Starter Shingles on a Roof

Starter shingles should be installed directly on the roof deck at the following locations:

• Along the eaves (the lower edges of the roof where water runs off) – This is the most critical placement area because eaves are exposed to heavy water flow and ice dam formation.
• Along the rakes (the sloping edges of the roof) – Starter shingles installed here provide extra protection against wind uplift at the exposed sides of the roof.

In both locations, the starter strip is nailed flush with the roof edges before installing the first course of full-sized asphalt shingles.

How to Properly Install Asphalt Starter Shingles

Installation begins by laying a drip edge metal flashing at the eaves and rake edges for added protection. Then, asphalt starter shingles are applied as follows:

1. Trim full-sized asphalt shingles into starter strips by removing tabs or use factory-made starter shingles.
2. Align the starter strip flush with the eave’s edge, ensuring that the adhesive strip is facing upward to create a seal with the first course of shingles.
3. Nail starter strips according to manufacturer recommendations, typically 4 nails per strip placed in the designated nail zone.
4. Overlap starter strips along rakes and eaves to form a continuous water barrier.
5. Install the first course of full shingles so their tabs cover the starter strip’s exposed adhesive strip.

This method guarantees a secure bond between starter and main shingles, enhancing wind resistance and water shedding.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Placing Asphalt Starter Shingles

• Installing starter shingles away from roof edges: This can expose the roof underlayment and decking to wind damage and leaks.
• Not overlapping starter strips properly: This can allow water infiltration and disrupt the continuous barrier.
• Using regular shingles instead of starter strips: Regular shingles lack adhesive backing on the edge and can cause shingle lifting.
• Incorrect nailing positions or insufficient nails: This reduces holding power and increases risk of damage in storms.

The Role of Starter Shingles in Roof Longevity and Performance

By reinforcing edges vulnerable to harsh weather, starter shingles promote the overall longevity of the roof system. They prevent premature shingle blow-off by sealing nail holes and protecting edges from wind uplift. Additionally, starter shingles assist in proper water drainage, reducing the risk of ice dams or water infiltration that may cause structural damage. Their correct installation helps maintain the warranty and performance standards of asphalt roofing products.

Different Types of Asphalt Starter Shingles and Their Applications

Starter shingles come in two main types:

• Factory-manufactured starter shingles: These are precut and created specifically for starter use, featuring a continuous adhesive strip and easy installation.
• Cut-down regular shingles: Full-size shingles trimmed to remove tabs, producing starter strips. This method is more economical but requires precise cutting.

Both types serve the same essential function, but factory-made starters often provide consistent edge protection and improved ease of installation for roofing contractors.

How Asphalt Starter Shingles Complement Other Roofing Components

Starter shingles work synergistically with other roofing materials such as drip edge flashing, underlayment, and ridge caps. Drip edges channel water away from the roof deck, while starters provide a sealed foundation for shingles. The underlayment acts as an additional waterproof barrier beneath starter strips, and ridge caps protect the roof peaks. Together, these components create a comprehensive defense system against severe weather impacts.

Frequently Asked Questions About Asphalt Starter Shingles

Can I install regular shingles as starter strips?

While possible by cutting tabs off regular shingles, it may lead to weaker adhesion and reduced wind resistance. It is recommended to use starter shingles designed specifically for this purpose.

Do all asphalt shingle roofs require starter shingles?

Most manufacturers recommend starter shingles for any asphalt shingle roof because they significantly reduce ice dam damage and wind uplift risks.

How do starter shingles affect roof aesthetics?

Starter shingles create a clean, uniform edge along eaves and rakes, improving the roof’s finished look.

Is the starter strip applied before or after the drip edge?

The typical sequence is installing the drip edge first, then the starter shingles are applied on top at the eaves and rakes.

Summary Table: Key Points for Asphalt Starter Shingles Placement