When homeowners think about a new roof, they usually focus on the shingles they can see. However, one of the most important parts of a quality roofing system is hidden in plain sight—the starter shingles.
Starter shingles are installed along the eaves and rake edges before the main shingles are laid. While they may seem like a small detail, they provide the foundation for the entire roofing system. At 570 New Roof, we never cut corners on materials because every component plays an important role in protecting homes throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania.
What Are Starter Shingles?
Starter shingles are specially designed roofing products that create a secure first row for the rest of the roof. Unlike regular shingles, they include factory-applied adhesive strips that help lock the first course of shingles into place.
Without properly installed starter shingles, the edges of your roof become much more vulnerable to wind-driven rain and high winds.
Why They Are So Important
The edges of a roof experience some of the highest wind pressures during storms. In Pennsylvania, strong wind gusts can easily work underneath improperly installed shingles.
Starter shingles help by:
- Creating a watertight seal at the roof edge
- Helping prevent shingles from lifting in high winds
- Reducing the chance of water infiltration
- Providing a straight, secure base for the first row of shingles
- Improving the overall durability of the roofing system
Although homeowners rarely notice them, starter shingles contribute significantly to the lifespan of a new roof.
Common Installation Mistakes
Unfortunately, not every roofing contractor uses manufacturer-approved starter shingles. Some try to save money by cutting three-tab shingles into strips instead.
While this shortcut may appear similar, it often lacks the proper adhesive placement and wind resistance engineered into factory-made starter products. Over time, this can increase the risk of edge damage and premature repairs.
At 570 New Roof, we install complete roofing systems according to manufacturer specifications—not shortcuts.
Why This Matters in Northeastern Pennsylvania
Homes throughout Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, Hazleton, Bloomsburg, and surrounding communities experience heavy rain, snow, ice, and seasonal windstorms. These weather conditions place extra stress on roof edges.
Proper starter shingles provide an additional layer of defense against the freeze-thaw cycles and severe weather common throughout NEPA.
A Complete Roofing System Works Together
A long-lasting roof isn’t just about quality shingles. Underlayment, ice and water protection, ventilation, flashing, ridge components, and starter shingles all work together to protect your home.
Missing or improperly installed starter shingles can compromise an otherwise excellent roof.
If you’re considering a roof replacement, make sure your contractor explains every component that will be installed—not just the shingles you see from the ground.
At 570 New Roof, we believe every homeowner deserves a roofing system built to last. We proudly provide professional roof replacements across Northeastern Pennsylvania using high-quality materials and proven installation methods.
Call 570 New Roof today at (570) 332-1223 or email office@theroofrepairguys.com to schedule your free roof replacement estimate.