What Are Starter Shingles?
Starter shingles are a specific type of roofing shingle installed along the eaves and rakes of a roof. They provide a critical foundation layer that seals the edges, blocks wind uplift, and ensures the first course of field shingles is aligned and secured properly.
What Makes Starter Shingles Different?
Starter shingles are unique from the regular field shingles you see across the main area of the roof. They’re designed with a straight, clean edge and a factory-applied adhesive strip that creates a secure seal along the roof perimeter. While they’re hidden from view once the roof is complete, they play an essential role in the system’s long-term performance.
Where Are Starter Shingles Installed?
Starter shingles are installed at the edges of the roof — specifically along the eaves (bottom edges) and rakes (gable ends). These areas are particularly vulnerable to wind-driven rain and uplift forces. By sealing down the first course of shingles, starter shingles reinforce the roof’s ability to resist blow-offs and water intrusion at its most exposed points.
Do You Really Need Starter Shingles?
Yes — skipping starter shingles is one of the most common shortcuts seen on poor-quality roof jobs. Without them, the bottom edge of the first course of shingles is left unsecured, which can allow wind to lift and tear off shingles. Beyond performance, most roofing manufacturers — including GAF — require proper starter shingle installation to validate their warranty coverage.
Starter Shingles vs. Cutting Your Own
Some contractors attempt to cut regular shingles to mimic starter strips, but this approach is outdated and imprecise. Factory-made starter shingles are engineered for this purpose — with adhesive correctly placed and dimensions that match the manufacturer’s specifications. Using real starter shingles ensures better performance and fewer errors.
Starter Shingles in Maryland Roofs
In Maryland’s four-season climate, starter shingles are especially important. Heavy rain, high winds, and freeze-thaw cycles put stress on roof edges. At Matter Roofing & Construction, we always install GAF factory starter shingles to ensure proper sealing, code compliance, and full system warranty eligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of starter shingles?
Starter shingles create a sealed, wind-resistant edge that helps secure the first row of field shingles and protect the roof from uplift and water intrusion.
Are starter shingles required by building code?
In most areas including Maryland, starter shingles are required by modern building codes and roofing manufacturer specifications to maintain warranty eligibility.
Can you use regular shingles as starter shingles?
While possible, it's not recommended. Factory-made starter shingles have specific adhesive placement and sizing that improve performance and reduce risk of installation error.
Where do you put starter shingles?
Starter shingles are installed at the eaves and rake edges—any roof edge exposed to weather and wind.
Do all types of shingles need starters?
Yes. Whether you’re using architectural, 3-tab, or designer shingles, a proper roofing system always includes starter shingles.