When installing a roof, it is important to get the first layer right. And that’s the starter strip. Before installing shingles, a starter strip, which is also known as a starter shingle, must be laid down. They’re quite important as they allow the first layer of shingles to adhere to the edge of the roof.
In this blog post, we will explore how to install starter shingles. This blog is equally important for people planning a roof installation or for a handy homeowner ready to take on a DIY roof project.
What is a Starter Strip?
A starter strip or starter shingle is the first row of roofing material that is installed along the eaves of the roof. It serves as the foundation for the first layer of shingles. Moreover, it seals the roof edge and prevents water and wind intrusion.
Tools & Materials Needed for Starter Strip Installation
You should have the following tools and materials when installing starter shingles:
- Starter strip shingles (or 3-tab shingles for a DIY project)
- Hammer or roofing nail gun
- Roofing nails
- Measuring tape
- Chalk line
- Utility knife
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles, harness, etc)
- Ladder
- Roofing cement for adhesion in high-wind zones
Step 1: Prep the Roof
Before installing a starter strip, make sure that you’ve installed the drip edge, underlayment, and ice and water shield. After that, clean and dry the roof deck. If not already installed, then place a drip edge along the eaves.
You can use a chalk line to snap a straight reference across the edge to keep your starter strip aligned.
Step 2: Choose the Starter Strip Type
Next, you should select the starter strip type. You can:
- Buy manufactured starter strip shingles or
- Create your own by cutting the tabs off standard 3-tab shingles.
However, it is recommended to go for pre-manufactured starter strips as they offer uniformity and great installation.
Either way, make sure the adhesive edge faces up and towards the roof edge.
Step 3: Align the Starter Strip
Start at the lower left corner of your roof (if you use your right hand) and align the starter shingles with the eave. Give a room for a slight overhang of ¼ to ¾ inches over the fascia and drip edge. This aids in directing water off the roof and into the gutter system.
Step 4: Nail the Starter Strip
When installing the starter shingle, put 4-6 nails per shingle. We at Ricks Main Roofing recommend placing nails about 1 to 3 inches above the adhesive tape.
Make sure the nail heads sit flush with the surface. Avoid overdriven and underdriven nails as they can cause shingles to push through and pop out quickly.
But how to ensure the proper placement of nails? To ensure the nails are flushed properly, your compressor shouldn’t be too high.
Step 5: Continue Along the Eave
Continue the starter strip installation across the whole eave. Cut it as needed to fit, ensuring no vertical seams are lining up with those of the shingles above.
For rake edges, you have to repeat the process vertically. Ensure the adhesive edge has the correct orientation, i.e., facing the edge of the roof.
Step 6: Install the First Row of Shingles
Now your starter strip is installed, go for your first full row of shingles directly on top. The shingles should overhang the starter shingle slightly but follow the same line. The adhesive on the strip allows the two layers to bond together, which improves wind resistance.
A properly installed starter strip allows shingles to stick properly, protecting against water and wind damage. It is also essential to use the underlayment and starter strip from the same manufacturer to have brand coherence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
You should avoid these mistakes to properly install starter shingles:
- Improper nail placement
- Misaligned starter shingles
- Inadequate overhang
- Forgetting to install starter strips on rake edges
- Using full 3-tab shingles without cutting tabs
Hire Ricks Main Roofing for an Expert Starter Strip Installation
You might’ve learned how to install a starter strip on a shingle roof, but it is important to let the experts do their job professionally. With a bit of care, the right knowledge, and tools, our team at Ricks Main Roofing is always ready to tackle any roofing issue. We specialize in roofing solutions, delivering excellence in every project we take.
We can expertly and flawlessly install a starter strip on your shingle roof without compromising on quality. So, contact us today and hire our roofers for high-end starter shingle installation!
