Starter shingles play a crucial role in the roofing process, yet they often receive less attention than they deserve. Essential for creating a secure, watertight edge, starter shingles ensure the durability and effectiveness of the entire roofing system. In this comprehensive blog post, we will explore various aspects of starter shingles, including the feasibility of using architectural shingles as starters, the pros and cons of such an approach, and the best alternatives. We’ll also delve into the installation process, the importance of starter shingles in preventing water damage and enhancing wind resistance, and specific considerations for using architectural shingles. Finally, we will conclude with best practices and recommendations to help homeowners and roofers make informed decisions for their roofing projects.
Can You Use Architectural Shingles as Starter Shingles?
Using architectural shingles as starter shingles is a topic of much debate among roofing professionals. Understanding the feasibility and implications of this practice is crucial for making informed decisions about your roofing project. Here, we will delve into the practicality, benefits, and potential drawbacks of using architectural shingles for starter courses.
Understanding Architectural Shingles
Architectural shingles, also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, are designed to provide a more aesthetically pleasing appearance and better durability compared to traditional three-tab shingles. They are thicker, often featuring a multi-layered construction that gives them a distinctive, high-end look. However, their design also makes them more complex to work with in certain applications, such as starter shingles.
The Feasibility of Using Architectural Shingles for Starter Strips
1. Structural Considerations: Starter shingles play a critical role in the overall roofing system. They are installed along the edges of the roof to ensure a proper seal, providing the first line of defense against wind and water infiltration. The flat, uniform edge of a standard starter shingle is designed to offer a clean and straight alignment for the rest of the roof shingles.
Architectural shingles, with their varied thickness and textured surface, do not provide the same uniform edge. This irregularity can make it challenging to achieve the straight, clean edge necessary for an effective starter course. Furthermore, architectural shingles are typically thicker and heavier, which can complicate their use as starter strips.
2. Cost Implications: Using architectural shingles for starter courses can also be more expensive. Architectural shingles are generally more costly than three-tab shingles, and using them for starters could significantly increase the overall cost of the roofing project. Additionally, because you may need to trim and cut the architectural shingles to fit as starter strips, there can be more material waste, further driving up costs.
Practical Application
1. Installation Challenges: The installation of architectural shingles as starter shingles is not straightforward. Roofers may need to cut the shingles to remove the overlying tabs and create a flat, even edge. This process requires precision and can be time-consuming, increasing labor costs. Furthermore, the thicker design of architectural shingles may make cutting them more difficult, requiring specialized tools or blades.
2. Performance Issues: While architectural shingles are designed to be durable, their irregular shape can lead to gaps and inconsistencies when used as starter shingles. These gaps can allow water and wind to penetrate, potentially leading to leaks and damage over time. The main purpose of starter shingles is to provide a secure, watertight seal, and using materials not specifically designed for this purpose can compromise the roof’s integrity.
Benefits and Considerations
Despite these challenges, some roofers and homeowners choose to use architectural shingles as starter strips for aesthetic consistency. By using the same material for the entire roof, they maintain a uniform look, which can be particularly important for high-visibility areas. Additionally, in situations where architectural shingles are readily available and three-tab shingles are not, using the available materials might be a practical, albeit less ideal, solution.
Pros of Using Architectural Shingles as Starter Shingles
Using architectural shingles as starter shingles, while not typically recommended, does come with some potential benefits. These benefits primarily revolve around aesthetics, availability, and material consistency. Here, we explore the detailed advantages of using architectural shingles as starter shingles in a roofing project.
Aesthetic Consistency
1. Uniform Appearance: One of the most significant advantages of using architectural shingles as starter shingles is the aesthetic consistency they provide. Architectural shingles are known for their dimensional appearance and attractive design. By using the same material for both the main field shingles and the starter course, homeowners can ensure a seamless, uniform look across the entire roof. This consistency can be particularly appealing for high-visibility areas where the roof’s edge is prominently displayed.
2. Enhanced Curb Appeal: Architectural shingles are often chosen for their superior visual appeal compared to traditional three-tab shingles. They offer a more textured and layered look, which can enhance the overall curb appeal of a home. Using them as starter shingles ensures that this enhanced aesthetic extends to every part of the roof, including the edges, contributing to a more polished and high-end appearance.
Material Availability and Convenience
1. Readily Available Materials: In some situations, architectural shingles may be more readily available than traditional starter shingles or three-tab shingles. If a roofing project is underway and there is a shortage of standard starter shingles, using available architectural shingles can keep the project on schedule without significant delays. This can be particularly advantageous in remote areas or during periods of high demand when certain roofing materials may be in short supply.
2. Simplified Inventory Management: For contractors and roofing professionals, using a single type of shingle for both the main roof and the starter course can simplify inventory management. Instead of ordering and storing multiple types of shingles, they can streamline their inventory by using architectural shingles throughout the project. This can reduce the complexity of managing different materials and ensure that sufficient quantities are on hand to complete the job.
Durability and Performance
1. Increased Thickness and Strength: Architectural shingles are generally thicker and more robust than three-tab shingles. When used as starter shingles, this increased thickness can provide added strength and durability to the roof’s edge. This can be beneficial in areas prone to high winds or severe weather, where the additional sturdiness can offer better protection against the elements.
2. Potential for Enhanced Wind Resistance: While the primary role of starter shingles is to provide a secure, watertight seal at the roof’s edge, the added thickness and weight of architectural shingles can potentially enhance wind resistance. In areas with frequent high winds, using heavier and more substantial shingles at the roof’s edge can contribute to the overall stability and resilience of the roofing system.
Practical Considerations
1. Waste Minimization: In some cases, using architectural shingles as starter shingles can help minimize waste, particularly if there are leftover shingles from the main roofing job. Rather than disposing of excess materials, they can be repurposed for the starter course, making the project more environmentally friendly and cost-effective. This approach can also appeal to homeowners and contractors who prioritize sustainability and resource efficiency.
2. Simplified Procurement: For smaller roofing projects or repairs, using architectural shingles for both the main roof and the starter course can simplify the procurement process. Homeowners and contractors need to purchase only one type of shingle, which can save time and reduce the complexity of ordering and logistics.
Cons of Using Architectural Shingles as Starter Shingles
While there are some advantages to using architectural shingles as starter shingles, there are also several significant drawbacks that can impact the effectiveness and efficiency of your roofing project. These drawbacks range from structural and performance issues to increased costs and installation challenges. Here, we explore the detailed disadvantages of using architectural shingles as starter shingles.
Structural and Performance Issues
1. Irregular Edges: Architectural shingles are designed to be thicker and more textured than traditional three-tab shingles. This design, while beneficial for the main roofing area, creates an irregular edge that is not ideal for a starter course. Starter shingles need to provide a clean, straight edge to ensure a proper seal against water and wind. The irregular edges of architectural shingles can lead to gaps and inconsistencies, compromising the roof’s integrity and making it more susceptible to leaks and wind damage.
2. Sealant Effectiveness: Starter shingles typically have a continuous adhesive strip to secure the first row of shingles and prevent wind uplift. Architectural shingles do not have this adhesive strip along the bottom edge, which is crucial for a starter course. Without this strip, the bond between the starter course and the first row of shingles may not be as strong, potentially reducing the roof’s ability to withstand high winds and severe weather conditions.
Increased Costs
1. Higher Material Costs: Architectural shingles are generally more expensive than standard three-tab shingles. Using them as starter shingles increases the overall cost of the roofing project unnecessarily. Since starter shingles are not visible once the main shingles are installed, investing in the more expensive architectural shingles for this purpose does not provide any added aesthetic or functional value.
2. Material Waste: Using architectural shingles as starter shingles often requires trimming and cutting to fit the purpose. This process can generate significant material waste, as the excess pieces may not be usable elsewhere on the roof. The increased waste not only drives up material costs but also contributes to a less environmentally friendly project.
Installation Challenges
1. Complex Cutting and Trimming: Architectural shingles are thicker and more rigid than three-tab shingles, making them more difficult to cut and trim. The process of converting architectural shingles into starter shingles requires precision and can be time-consuming. This increased labor can lead to higher installation costs and longer project timelines. Additionally, specialized tools may be needed to cut the thicker shingles, adding to the complexity and expense of the installation.
2. Potential for Improper Installation: The irregular shape and thickness of architectural shingles can make it challenging to achieve a proper fit and seal when used as starter shingles. Roofers who are not experienced with this unconventional approach may struggle to install them correctly, leading to potential problems down the line. Improper installation can result in leaks, reduced wind resistance, and a shorter lifespan for the roofing system.
Aesthetic and Practical Considerations
1. Visual Inconsistencies: Although architectural shingles are typically used for their visual appeal, using them as starter shingles can create aesthetic inconsistencies if they are not cut and aligned perfectly. While the starter shingles are not visible from the ground, any misalignment can affect the appearance of the roof edges when viewed up close, detracting from the overall polished look of the roofing project.
2. Matching Issues: Architectural shingles often come in a variety of colors and patterns, which may not match exactly when cut and used as starter shingles. This can result in slight color and pattern variations at the roof’s edge, which, while not always noticeable from a distance, can be problematic for homeowners seeking a perfectly uniform look.
Alternatives to Using Architectural Shingles for Starter Shingles
When considering the best options for starter shingles, it’s important to explore alternatives that are specifically designed to fulfill this critical role in your roofing system. Using the appropriate materials ensures optimal performance, durability, and ease of installation. Here, we explore the most effective alternatives to using architectural shingles for starter shingles.
Standard Three-Tab Shingles
1. Overview
Three-tab shingles are a traditional and widely used option for roofing projects. They are flat, uniform, and easy to cut, making them an ideal choice for starter shingles.
2. Benefits
- Straight Edge: Three-tab shingles provide a clean, straight edge that is essential for the initial row of shingles, ensuring a proper seal against water and wind.
- Cost-Effective: These shingles are generally more affordable than architectural shingles, reducing overall material costs.
- Ease of Installation: Their uniform shape and lighter weight make them easier to cut and install, which can save time and labor costs.
3. Considerations
- Appearance: While they provide a functional base, they lack the dimensional look of architectural shingles. However, since starter shingles are not visible, this is not typically a concern.
Dedicated Starter Strip Shingles
1. Overview
Starter strip shingles are specifically manufactured for use as starter shingles. They come with a continuous adhesive strip that enhances their wind resistance and ensures a secure seal.
2. Benefits
- Optimal Design: These shingles are designed to provide the best base for the first row of shingles, ensuring maximum protection against wind uplift and water infiltration.
- Ease of Use: Starter strip shingles are pre-cut to the correct width and include adhesive strips, making them straightforward to install and reducing installation time.
- Enhanced Performance: The adhesive strip provides superior bonding, which is crucial for the roof’s edge where wind and water exposure are highest.
3. Considerations
- Slightly Higher Cost: While they might be more expensive than cutting three-tab shingles yourself, the ease of installation and enhanced performance often justify the cost.
Rolled Roofing
1. Overview
Rolled roofing is another alternative that can be used for starter shingles. It’s a flat, continuous sheet of roofing material that can be cut to size.
2. Benefits
- Uniform Coverage: Rolled roofing provides a continuous, flat base for the first row of shingles, ensuring a smooth edge.
- Cost-Effective: It is often less expensive than dedicated starter strip shingles and can be purchased in bulk.
- Quick Installation: The material can be rolled out and cut to the required length, making the installation process faster and more efficient.
3. Considerations
- Durability: Rolled roofing may not be as durable as dedicated starter strip shingles, and it does not have the adhesive strip for enhanced wind resistance.
- Application Specificity: While effective, it is less commonly used specifically for starter shingles compared to three-tab and starter strip shingles.
Modified Bitumen Strips
1. Overview
Modified bitumen strips are a type of asphalt-based material that can be used for roofing, including as starter shingles.
2. Benefits
- Strong Adhesion: These strips offer excellent adhesion properties, which help in creating a watertight seal.
- Durability: Modified bitumen is known for its durability and resistance to weather extremes, making it a reliable option for starter shingles.
- Versatility: They can be easily cut to size and adapted to fit the edge of the roof.
3. Considerations
- Cost: The cost can vary, and in some cases, it may be more expensive than traditional three-tab shingles.
- Availability: It might not be as readily available as more common roofing materials, depending on your location.
Synthetic Underlayment with Adhesive Strips
1. Overview
Some modern synthetic underlayment products come with adhesive strips designed to provide additional sealing at the edges of the roof.
2. Benefits
- Enhanced Protection: Synthetic underlayments offer superior protection against moisture and can complement the primary roofing material effectively.
- Ease of Installation: These products are lightweight and easy to handle, with adhesive strips simplifying the sealing process.
- Compatibility: They are designed to work with various types of shingles, including architectural shingles.
3. Considerations
- Specialized Use: While they can serve as a starter course, synthetic underlayments are primarily designed as an underlayer for the entire roof, so using them exclusively for the starter row may not be the most cost-effective option.
Comparison: Starter Shingles vs. Regular Shingles
Understanding the differences and similarities between starter shingles and regular shingles is crucial for anyone undertaking a roofing project. Each type serves specific roles in the roofing system, and knowing their unique characteristics can help ensure the best performance and longevity of your roof. Here, we will explore the key distinctions and commonalities between starter shingles and regular shingles.
Purpose and Function
1. Starter Shingles
- Primary Role: The main function of starter shingles is to provide a secure, watertight seal along the edges of the roof. They serve as the initial layer that the first row of regular shingles is placed upon, preventing water from infiltrating the seams between shingles and protecting against wind uplift.
- Wind Resistance: Starter shingles typically have an adhesive strip that helps to bond the first course of shingles securely, enhancing the roof’s wind resistance.
- Edge Protection: By creating a smooth, straight edge, starter shingles help guide the placement of the first row of regular shingles, ensuring a clean and professional look.
2. Regular Shingles
- Primary Role: Regular shingles cover the bulk of the roof, providing the main barrier against the elements. They are designed to overlap each other to create a continuous, waterproof surface.
- Aesthetic Appeal: Regular shingles are available in a variety of styles, colors, and textures, contributing to the overall appearance and curb appeal of the roof.
- Durability and Protection: These shingles are the primary defense against weather conditions, including rain, snow, hail, and UV radiation. They are designed to be durable and long-lasting, offering protection for many years.
Design and Construction
1. Starter Shingles
- Shape and Size: Starter shingles are usually pre-cut to provide a straight, flat edge. They are typically narrower than regular shingles and come in long strips that are easy to install along the roof’s perimeter.
- Adhesive Strip: A key feature of starter shingles is the adhesive strip along the bottom edge, which helps secure the first course of shingles and prevents wind uplift.
- Material: Starter shingles are made from the same materials as regular shingles, ensuring compatibility and uniformity in the roofing system.
2. Regular Shingles
- Shape and Size: Regular shingles come in a variety of shapes and sizes, including three-tab, architectural, and laminated designs. They are designed to overlap, creating a layered effect that provides both aesthetic appeal and weather protection.
- Variety: Regular shingles are available in a wide range of colors, textures, and styles, allowing homeowners to choose a look that complements their home’s architecture.
- Material: Regular shingles are typically made from asphalt, fiberglass, or other composite materials, designed to withstand various weather conditions and provide long-term durability.
Installation Process
1. Starter Shingles
- Placement: Starter shingles are installed along the eaves and rakes of the roof. They are the first layer applied before any regular shingles are laid.
- Nailing: Starter shingles are nailed down in a way that secures them to the roof deck, with nails placed at specific intervals to ensure a tight seal and proper alignment.
- Adhesion: The adhesive strip on starter shingles plays a crucial role in bonding them to the first course of regular shingles, enhancing the roof’s overall wind resistance and waterproofing.
2. Regular Shingles
- Placement: Regular shingles are installed starting from the bottom edge of the roof and working upward. Each row overlaps the previous one to create a continuous, weatherproof surface.
- Nailing: Regular shingles are nailed in place with specific patterns and intervals to ensure they are secure and can withstand various weather conditions. The placement of nails is critical to prevent wind damage and leaks.
- Overlapping: The overlapping design of regular shingles is essential for shedding water and preventing leaks. Proper alignment and spacing are crucial for the roof’s effectiveness and appearance.
Cost Considerations
1. Starter Shingles
- Cost: Starter shingles are generally less expensive than regular shingles because they are simpler in design and are sold in longer strips. However, using regular shingles as a substitute for starter shingles can increase costs due to the need for additional cutting and waste.
2. Regular Shingles
- Cost: The cost of regular shingles varies widely depending on the material, style, and brand. Architectural and premium shingles tend to be more expensive than standard three-tab shingles, reflecting their enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
Installation Process of Starter Shingles
The installation of starter shingles is a crucial step in ensuring a durable and effective roofing system. Proper installation helps prevent water infiltration and wind damage, creating a strong foundation for the subsequent layers of shingles. Here, we will detail where and how roofers install starter shingles, including essential considerations like nail placement and sealant use.
Location and Placement of Starter Shingles
Eaves and Rakes
Starter shingles are installed along the eaves (the horizontal edges of the roof) and the rakes (the sloped edges of the roof). These areas are particularly vulnerable to water and wind damage, making the installation of starter shingles vital for protecting the roof’s integrity.
- Eaves: At the eaves, starter shingles are placed to ensure that water running off the roof does not seep underneath the shingles and into the roofing structure. This placement helps direct water into the gutters and away from the house.
- Rakes: Along the rakes, starter shingles provide additional wind resistance and help prevent wind-driven rain from penetrating under the edges of the shingles.
Alignment and Overhang
Proper alignment of starter shingles is essential for the overall success of the roofing system. Roofers ensure that the starter shingles overhang the edge of the roof slightly, typically by about 1/4 to 1/2 inch. This overhang helps direct water away from the fascia and prevents it from seeping back under the shingles.
Installation Steps
Step 1: Preparing the Roof Edge
Before installing starter shingles, roofers prepare the roof edge by ensuring it is clean and free of debris. This preparation includes inspecting the roof deck for any damage and making necessary repairs to create a smooth, solid surface for the starter shingles.
Step 2: Laying the Starter Shingles
Starter shingles are laid out along the roof edge, starting at one end and working towards the other. Roofers ensure that the adhesive strip (if present) is positioned correctly to bond with the first course of regular shingles.
- Eaves: At the eaves, roofers align the starter shingles with the edge of the roof, ensuring a consistent overhang. Each strip is placed end-to-end without gaps to create a continuous seal.
- Rakes: Along the rakes, roofers may need to cut the starter shingles to fit the slope of the roof. They align these shingles with the edge of the rake, maintaining the same overhang as at the eaves.
Step 3: Nailing the Starter Shingles
Proper nail placement is critical for securing starter shingles and ensuring they provide a strong foundation for the roof.
- Nail Placement: Roofers typically place nails about 2-3 inches from the edge of the starter shingle and 6-8 inches apart along the length of the shingle. This pattern ensures that the shingles are securely fastened to the roof deck.
- Number of Nails: Each starter shingle strip usually requires at least four nails to ensure it stays in place. The exact number may vary depending on the width of the shingle and the manufacturer’s recommendations.
Step 4: Applying Sealant (If Necessary)
In some cases, roofers may use a roofing sealant to enhance the bond between the starter shingles and the roof deck. This sealant can provide additional protection against water infiltration and improve wind resistance.
- Sealant Application: Roofers apply a thin bead of sealant along the edge of the starter shingles before laying them down. This sealant helps create a watertight seal and prevents wind-driven rain from penetrating under the shingles.
- Adhesive Strips: Many starter shingles come with pre-applied adhesive strips. When using these shingles, roofers ensure that the adhesive strip is properly aligned and pressed down to activate the bond with the roof deck and the first course of regular shingles.
Final Steps and Considerations
1. Checking Alignment and Overlap
Once the starter shingles are installed, roofers check the alignment and overlap to ensure that the edge of the roof is straight and uniform. Any adjustments are made at this stage to ensure a clean, professional appearance.
2. Installing the First Course of Regular Shingles
With the starter shingles in place, roofers proceed to install the first course of regular shingles. The first row of shingles is laid directly over the starter shingles, with the bottom edge of the regular shingles aligning with the bottom edge of the starter shingles. This alignment ensures a seamless transition and effective protection against water infiltration.
3. Inspecting for Secure Attachment
After installing the starter and first course of shingles, roofers inspect the entire edge of the roof to ensure that all shingles are securely fastened and properly sealed. This inspection helps identify any areas that may need additional nails or sealant to enhance the roof’s durability and performance.
FAQs
Do you need a starter course with architectural shingles?
Yes, you need a starter course with architectural shingles. The starter course is essential for creating a secure, watertight seal along the roof’s edges, providing the foundation for the first row of shingles. This helps prevent water infiltration and wind damage, ensuring the durability and effectiveness of the entire roofing system.
How to do starter strip for architectural shingles?
To install a starter strip for architectural shingles, follow these steps:
- Prepare the Roof Edge: Ensure the roof edge is clean and free of debris.
- Align the Starter Shingles: Place the starter shingles along the eaves and rakes, ensuring a slight overhang of about 1/4 to 1/2 inch.
- Cut and Trim: If using architectural shingles, cut off the tabs to create a flat edge. Ensure the cut shingles align properly.
- Nail Placement: Secure the starter shingles with nails placed about 2-3 inches from the edge and 6-8 inches apart along the length.
- Adhesive Strip: Ensure the adhesive strip on the starter shingles is positioned correctly to bond with the first course of regular shingles.
- Sealant Use: Apply a thin bead of sealant if necessary to enhance the watertight seal and wind resistance.
What is the difference between starter shingles and regular shingles?
Starter shingles and regular shingles differ in their design and purpose:
- Starter Shingles: These are specifically designed to provide a secure, watertight seal at the roof’s edges. They have a straight edge and often come with an adhesive strip to bond with the first row of regular shingles.
- Regular Shingles: These cover the main area of the roof, providing the primary barrier against the elements. They overlap each other to create a continuous, weatherproof surface and come in various styles and colors for aesthetic appeal.
What is the difference between architectural shingles and regular shingles?
Architectural shingles and regular shingles differ in design, durability, and appearance:
- Architectural Shingles: Also known as laminated or dimensional shingles, they are thicker, with multiple layers for added durability and a more textured, high-end appearance. They provide better wind resistance and can last longer than regular shingles.
- Regular Shingles: Often referred to as three-tab shingles, they are single-layered and have a flat, uniform appearance. They are less expensive but also less durable and offer a simpler aesthetic.
What is the advantage of architectural shingles?
Architectural shingles offer several advantages:
- Durability: Their multi-layered construction provides enhanced strength and resistance to wind and impact damage.
- Aesthetic Appeal: The textured, dimensional look adds depth and a high-end appearance to the roof.
- Lifespan: They typically last longer than three-tab shingles, providing better value over time.
- Wind Resistance: Architectural shingles are designed to withstand higher wind speeds, reducing the risk of damage during storms.
- Increased Home Value: The superior appearance and longevity can increase the overall value of the home.
What is the lifespan of architectural shingles?
The lifespan of architectural shingles generally ranges from 25 to 30 years, with some premium options offering up to 50 years of durability. Proper installation and maintenance can extend their lifespan, making them a cost-effective and reliable roofing option for homeowners.
Conclusion
Understanding the importance and proper use of starter shingles is vital for ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your roofing system. While architectural shingles can be used as starter shingles, it is generally more practical to utilize materials specifically designed for this purpose. Dedicated starter strips offer better performance in terms of wind resistance and waterproofing. Exploring alternatives and understanding the differences between starter and regular shingles can guide you in making the best choice for your roofing project. Proper installation, including precise nail placement and the use of sealants, is crucial for maximizing the benefits of starter shingles. By considering these factors and adhering to best practices, homeowners and roofers can achieve a durable, aesthetically pleasing, and well-protected roof.