Starter Strip Shingles: Why and How to Install

Starter strip shingles are the first layer of shingles installed along the eaves, and often the rakes, before the first full course. They have an adhesive strip near the roof edge that seals down the first course of shingles, helping resist wind uplift. They also fill the gaps between tabs or cutouts in the first course so water does not reach the deck. Most manufacturers require a starter course for their wind warranties.

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Why starter strips matter

Wind resistance: sealant bonds the first course at the edge, where wind uplift starts.
Water protection: covers joints and cutouts in the first course.
Clean edge: creates a straight line along eaves and rakes.

Pre-made vs cut shingles

Option	Notes
Pre-made starter strip	Sealant positioned at the edge; fast to install
3-tab with tabs cut off	Traditional method; sealant must be at the eave edge
Upside-down full shingle	Not recommended; sealant ends up in the wrong place

Architectural shingles cannot easily be cut into starter strips, so pre-made starters are standard.

Installation steps

Install drip edge and underlayment. See drip edge for shingles.
Position starter strip with the sealant near the eave edge.
Overhang the drip edge about 1/4 to 3/4 inch, per the shingle maker.
Nail as directed, keeping nails above the sealant.
Offset joints so starter seams do not line up with first-course seams.
Repeat along rakes if the manufacturer recommends it.

See how many nails per shingle for fastening guidance.

How much to buy

Starter strip is sold by the bundle, with coverage often around 100 to 120 linear feet per bundle depending on brand. Measure total eave length, add rakes if you are using starter there, and divide by bundle coverage.

Common mistakes

Skipping starter on rakes in high-wind areas.
Installing sealant facing the wrong way.
Lining up seams with the first course.
Too little or too much overhang.

Ridge and hip caps

Starter strips are one of several specialty shingles on a roof, along with hip and ridge caps. See ridge cap shingles.

Starter on rakes in windy areas

Wind tends to peel shingles from the rake edges as well as the eaves. In coastal and high-wind regions, installing starter strip along the rakes, with the sealant at the outer edge, bonds the end of each course and reduces blow-offs. Some manufacturers require it for their highest wind ratings. The cost is small compared with repairing storm damage.

Cutting your own from 3-tab

If you make starters from 3-tab shingles, cut off the tabs and install the remaining strip with the factory sealant along the eave edge. Trim the first piece by several inches so its joints do not line up with the first full course.

Bottom line

Starter strip shingles seal the first course at the eaves and rakes, improving wind resistance and covering gaps. Use pre-made starters, position sealant at the edge, overhang the drip edge slightly, and offset seams from the first course.

Questions people ask

Do I need starter shingles?

Yes, most manufacturers require them for wind warranties.

Can I use 3-tab shingles as starters?

Yes, with tabs cut off and sealant at the eave edge.

Should starter strips go on rakes too?

Many manufacturers recommend it, especially in windy areas.

How much does a bundle of starter strip cover?

Often about 100 to 120 linear feet.

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