Every strong roof starts with a solid foundation — and it’s not just about the wood decking or underlayment. The real foundation of an asphalt shingle roof begins with something many homeowners never see: the starter shingles.
These often-overlooked components play a vital role in protecting your roof and home. At Matlock Roofing & Construction, your trusted roofing company in Purvis, MS, we know that small details like starter shingles can make the biggest difference in how well your roof performs over the years. Let’s explore why they matter so much and how they help your roof stand the test of time.
What Are Starter Shingles?
Starter shingles are the very first layer of material installed before the main shingles go down. They’re placed along the roof’s eaves (the bottom edge) and rakes (the sloped sides).
Although they look similar to regular shingles, starter shingles have a unique design. Instead of decorative cutouts or tabs, they have a smooth edge with a special adhesive strip. This adhesive helps seal the first course of shingles to the roof’s perimeter, creating a tight, weather-resistant bond that keeps water and wind out.
Think of starter shingles as the “base coat” of your roof — they’re not visible once the job’s done, but they’re absolutely essential for keeping your home dry and your roof secure.
Why Starter Shingles Matter
The outer edges of your roof take the most abuse from weather. Without proper protection, these vulnerable areas can become weak points where wind and water sneak in. Starter shingles help prevent that by offering three major benefits:
1. Wind Protection
Strong winds often start lifting shingles from the edges. The adhesive strip on starter shingles locks the first row of field shingles in place, making it harder for wind to get underneath and cause damage.
2. Waterproofing
Rainwater tends to collect and flow toward the edges of your roof. Without starter shingles, water can creep under the first row of shingles, leading to leaks, mold, or rot. A starter strip forms a watertight seal, guiding rain safely into your gutters instead of behind them.
3. Perfect Alignment
Starter shingles create a straight, even base that ensures the rest of your shingles line up neatly. This not only improves the look of your roof but also helps prevent gaps that could lead to leaks later on.
So, while they may seem like just another step in the installation process, starter shingles actually set the stage for a durable, beautiful, and long-lasting roof.
Eave Starters vs. Rake Starters
Many homeowners assume all starter shingles are the same, but there’s a small difference depending on where they’re installed.
Eave starters are placed along the bottom edge of the roof. Their job is to stop water from getting under the first row of shingles as it runs down the roof.
Rake starters, on the other hand, go along the sloped sides. They help prevent wind from lifting shingles and tearing them away from the roof.
Using both ensures that every edge of your roof is sealed and protected from the elements. It’s one of those details that separates a well-installed roof from a mediocre one — and it’s something our team at Matlock Roofing & Construction takes seriously on every job.
Common Mistakes When Installing Starter Shingles
Even though starter shingles are simple in concept, they must be installed correctly to do their job. Here are a few common mistakes inexperienced installers make:
Installing them backward or upside down. This prevents the adhesive strip from bonding properly with the first shingle layer.
Skipping the rake edges. Some roofers only install starter shingles along the eaves, leaving the sides exposed to wind damage.
Incorrect overhang. The starter shingles should extend slightly beyond the edge of the roof to help water flow into the gutters — not behind them.
The good news? These problems are easy to avoid when you hire a professional roofing company in Hattiesburg MS, like Matlock Roofing & Construction. Our experienced team knows the small details that keep your roof strong and watertight for decades.
Factory-Made vs. Cut Starter Shingles
In the past, roofers often made starter shingles by cutting off the tabs from standard three-tab shingles. While that method still works, most professionals today use factory-made starter strips because they’re specifically designed for the job.
Factory-made starter shingles come with:
A perfectly placed adhesive strip for superior bonding.
Consistent dimensions for a cleaner, more precise look.
Faster installation, saving time without sacrificing quality.
While they may cost a little more upfront, the long-term benefits—stronger adhesion, better protection, and fewer repairs—make them worth every penny.
Longevity and Maintenance
Starter shingles are built to last as long as your main roof, but they’re still exposed to harsh weather at the edges. Over time, wind, rain, or debris can wear them down.
Homeowners should periodically inspect their roof edges (or schedule a professional roof inspection) to check for:
Loose or lifted shingle corners.
Cracks or gaps near the drip edge.
Missing adhesive bonding.
Spotting these issues early can help prevent water damage and extend the life of your entire roofing system.
If you’re unsure what to look for, don’t worry — Matlock Roofing & Construction offers inspections to make sure everything is holding up as it should.
Thinking About Adding Skylights?
If you’re already thinking about a roof upgrade, it might be the perfect time to bring more natural light into your home with a skylight. As an experienced Skylight Contractor, our team at Matlock Roofing & Construction can help you design and install a skylight that brightens your living space and adds a modern touch.
Skylights aren’t just beautiful — they also improve ventilation and can even help lower energy costs. Whether you want a fixed skylight for extra sunlight or a vented one to let in fresh air, we’ll make sure it’s installed correctly and sealed tight against leaks.
Our experienced installers know how to integrate skylights seamlessly with your roofing system for a long-lasting, leak-free result.
Trust Matlock Roofing & Construction — Your Local Roofing Experts
Your roof protects everything you value inside your home. That’s why it’s so important to choose a roofing contractor who cares about the small details like starter shingles, flashing, and sealants just as much as the big picture.
At Matlock Roofing & Construction, we’re proud to be a top-rated roofing company in Purvis, MS, serving homeowners in Purvis, Petal, Hattiesburg, and Sumrall. From complete roof replacements to skylight installations, we do it all with quality, honesty, and care.
If you’re ready to strengthen your roof or add a beautiful new skylight, give us a call today at 601-299-4219 or visit matlockconstruction.com to schedule your free consultation.
