How to Install a Shingle Starter Strip

Everyone wants perfectly aligned shingles covering their shingle starter strips. The first step in making this happen is to properly install the shingle starter strips. Once these are in place, you are on your way to a perfect-looking roof. Shingle starter strips is a starter course before installing the actual shingles. They are a cost-saving alternative to the standard preparation of shingles. They can also be used as a rake edge strip to stop wind uplift.

Step 1 - Remove Any Old Shingles

Remove any old shingles remaining on the roof. Use the end of the hammer or a pry bar to remove any old nails. Sand down any uneven areas. Dispose of them properly to ensure safety.

Step 2 - Clean the Roof Area

Make sure the area where you are applying the shingles is rid of all dirt and debris. The easiest way to ensure this is to take a garden hose and spray clean the entire roof. Let the area dry overnight.

Step 3 - Align the Strips

Before peeling the shingle starter strip, trim about 4 inches off an end of the first starter strip and align the strip to the area you are planning to stick it on. The end should overhang over the edge about 1/4 to 3/4 of an inch. You will want the roof granular side up when applying the strip. Align this side close to the lowest part of the roof. Remove the release backer from the back of the strip. Now put pressure down onto the strip to ensure that it will stick to the surface. Repress the strip to ensure that sticking is taking place.

Step 4 - Nail

Sometimes nailing is needed. Always hammer nails within 1 inch onto the starter strips.

Step 5 - Remove the Release Tape

Once you press the shingle starter strip to your surface and it is in the desired place you want it, remove the release tape.

Step 6 - Apply Shingles

Once the shingle starter strips are properly put on, you can begin to apply the shingles. There are many shingles to choose from. Your choice should match the type and grade of the asphalt shingle needed for the type of building you will be working on. Make sure each shingle bumps into the next shingle at the center of the shingle. You will want the shingles to go in both directions on your roof.

Shingle starter strips are high-quality strips with the right amount of adhesive already applied. They are easy to install and require no cutting on the roof which makes this job safe. Not only do they eliminate waste, but they come in different sizes making your job easier.