The Importance of Using a Starter Strip on Your Shingle Roofing System

A roof is one of the most critical parts of a house. It serves as protection against the weather and adds to the overall curb appeal of homes. However, many homeowners often overlook the details that make a roofing system functional and long-lasting. One of these crucial details is the use of a shingle starter strip. In this blog post, we will discuss the importance of using a starter strip on your shingle roofing system.

Your Shingle Starter Strip Matters

The purpose of a starter strip is to provide a secure and stable base for the first row of shingles in your roof. Without it, the first row of shingles could easily blow off during heavy storms, leaving your home exposed to the elements. It is recommended that the starter strip overhang at least 1/8″ over the rake and eaves. This overhang helps ensure that the shingles have a solid anchoring point and there is minimal overlap between the first row of shingles and the starter strip.

Shingle Starter Strips Vs. Cutting Your Own

Some roofing contractors may think that cutting three-tab shingles will work as a starter strip. However, this practice is not recommended, as it could result in improperly placed adhesive and an uneven, messy look on the roof edges. Also, cutting your own starter from a three-tab shingle is time-consuming and poses a risk of improper placement of sealant. Alternatively, using a premade starter strip provides a proper fit and tightly sealed adhesive, making it an ideal choice.

The Benefits of Using a Starter Strip

A starter strip is a critical component of your roofing system and can help prevent the first line of shingles from blowing off. Additionally, it helps to shed water away from the roof edges, which can prevent water damage and reduce the likelihood of leaks. Plus, a starter strip makes the installation of the shingle roofing system easier, faster, and more efficient, which reduces installation costs and saves time.

G and Bros Roofing’s Choice of Starter Strip

At G and Bros Roofing, we understand the importance of a shingle starter strip and make sure to use the best quality starter strips in all of our installations. We use GAF Pro-Start as our choice of starter strip because of its unparalleled quality and reliability. GAF Pro-Start is designed to provide a secure base for the shingles, ensuring they remain intact, even in the most severe weather conditions.

A starter strip is a small component of your roofing system, but it plays a critical role in its overall functionality and longevity. The starter strip ensures that the first row of shingles has a strong foundation, reducing the risk of blow-offs and increasing the structural stability of the roof. At G and Bros Roofing, we only use the best quality starter strips in our installations, and we highly recommend using them in yours too. Remember, a functional and long-lasting roof starts with attention to the details, including the use of starter strips.