Are you considering using architectural shingles as a starter shingle strip on your roof? We’re here to tell you that while it is technically possible to use architectural shingles as a starter— it’s not the best option. In fact, there’s a reason why starter strips exist, and it’s not just to confuse you.
In this blog post, we’ll explain the purpose of starter strips and why architectural shingles are not the best choice for this important role on your roof.
So, Can You Use Architectural Shingles For Starter Shingles?
To answer this question, it’s important to understand the purpose and function of starter strips. These strip shingles, also known as starter shingles, are a crucial component to assure your shingles are properly installed on your roof. They are installed at the rakes, eaves, and ridges of a roof and serve to protect the roof from water and wind damage.
Starter strips are designed to create a watertight seal along the roof’s edge and are installed after the underlayment and before the regular shingles. This helps prevent leaks and other damage to the roof and the building as a whole.
So, can you use architectural shingles as starter strips? Theoretically, yes. However, there are a few reasons why you shouldn’t. Let’s examine the pros and cons of using architectural shingles as starter strips.
Pros And Cons Of Using Architectural Shingles As A Starter Strip
Here are some additional pros and cons of using architectural shingles as a starter strip:
Pros:
- You may save time and money by using architectural shingles as a starter strip, as you won’t have to purchase and install a separate starter strip product.
- Architectural shingles are typically more durable and long-lasting than traditional 3-tab shingles, so using them as a starter strip may provide additional protection to your roof.
Cons:
- Architectural shingles are not designed for use as a starter strip, and may not provide the same level of protection and sealing capabilities as a dedicated starter strip.
- Using architectural shingles as a starter strip may compromise your roof’s overall appearance and aesthetic. While they are known for their attractive, textured appearance, they are not intended to be used as the first layer of shingles on a roof. This can affect the overall appearance and curb appeal of your home.
- Using architectural shingles as a starter strip may void any warranty or guarantees offered by the manufacturer, as it falls outside their recommended use.
Roofing professionals generally do not recommend using architectural shingles as a starter strip due to the potential negative effects on the performance and appearance of your roof. It is generally recommended to use starter strips dedicated for this purpose to ensure optimal protection and performance.
Alternatives To Using Architectural Shingles As A Starter
When installing a new roof, it’s important to use the right materials to ensure optimal protection and performance. A starter strip is a strip of shingles that is installed along the edges of the roof (the rakes, eaves, and ridges) to protect the roof from water and wind damage.
There are several options for starter strip shingles, including Owens Corning’s Woodstart Starter Shingles, Starter Strip Plus, Starter Strip Shingle, or Beacon Roofing Supply’s Tri Built Starter Strip. These strips are specifically designed for use as a starter shingle and are made of asphalt material with a self-adhesive layer of tar at the bottom to help them seal with the regular shingles that will be installed above them.
Note: Our last blog post, “Are Starter Shingles Necessary?”, was a deep dive into the importance of using starter shingles in your roofing project. We discussed how starter shingles protect roofs from water and wind damage and form a watertight seal along the roof’s edge. We also addressed common misconceptions about starter shingles and the potential consequences of skipping this crucial step in the roofing process. If you’re wondering whether starter shingles are necessary for your roof, check out our full article for more information!
Can You Use Regular Shingles For Starter Shingles?
While it is technically possible to use other types of shingles, such as self-sealing three-tab shingles, as a starter strip, it is not recommended. Using the wrong type of shingle as a starter strip may compromise your roof’s overall performance and longevity. It’s important to use dedicated starter strip shingles, even if they cost a little more than other options.
These shingles are specifically designed for starting the row of shingles on your roof, and provide the necessary protection and sealing capabilities to ensure a watertight and wind-resistant roof. Don’t cheap out on this important component of your roofing system. Investing in quality starter strip shingles is worth the added cost in the long run.
When choosing starter strip shingles for your roofing project, making sure to use the same brand as your asphalt shingles are important. Using two different brands may lead to gaps and overlaps that could result in water infiltration and damage to your home.
Using the same brand of starter strips as your asphalt shingles ensures a cohesive appearance and can make it easier to obtain matching shingles for future repairs or replacements. To ensure the best performance and appearance of your roof, be sure to use the same brand of starter strips as your asphalt shingles.
Get Expert Advice On Your Roofing Projects
In conclusion, it is possible to use architectural shingles as a starter strip, but it is not recommended due to their lack of suitability for this purpose, and the potential negative effects on the performance and appearance of your roof.
As a homeowner, it’s important to consult with a professional when it comes to your roofing projects. A reputable roofing contractor will be able to advise you on the best materials and techniques to use for your specific roofing needs.
At A. Fricker Roofing & Waterproofing, we are a local company in Tulsa with years of experience in the roofing industry. We prioritize the quality and longevity of our roofing installations and always recommend using dedicated starter strip shingles to ensure the best possible performance and protection for your roof. Contact us for a free quote on your roofing project, and to learn more about how we can help you at (918) 402-7167!
