In construction, a “starter strip” refers to the first row of shingles installed at the eaves and rakes of a roof. The starter strip provides a secure anchor for the first course of full-size shingles, preventing wind uplift and water infiltration at the roof’s edges. Starter strips are essential for ensuring the proper installation and weatherproofing of asphalt shingle roofing systems.
Function
The primary function of a starter strip in construction is to:
- Provide Secure Attachment: The starter strip provides a secure attachment point for the first row of shingles, preventing wind uplift, and water infiltration at the eaves and rakes of the roof.
- Ensure Alignment: The starter strip ensures the proper alignment of the first row of shingles, creating a straight, even edge that enhances the overall appearance and weatherproofing of the roof.
- Prevent Shingle Blow-offs: The starter strip prevents the blow-off of shingles by creating a sealed edge that protects against wind uplift, ensuring the long-term performance and durability of the roofing system.
Installation
Proper installation of a starter strip is essential for ensuring functionality, weather resistance, and longevity. Key aspects of the installation process include:
- Clean the Roof: Clean the eaves and rakes of the roof, removing any debris, dust, or loose materials that could interfere with the installation of the starter strip.
- Apply Underlayment: Apply an appropriate underlayment, such as felt paper or synthetic membrane, over the roof deck to provide an additional layer of protection against water infiltration.
- Install the Starter Strip: Install the starter strip along the eaves and rakes of the roof, ensuring that it overhangs the edge by the required amount, and fasten it securely to the roof deck using nails or staples.
- Apply the First Row of Shingles: Apply the first row of full-size shingles directly above the starter strip, ensuring proper alignment, staggering the joints, and securing the shingles according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Secure the Edges: Secure the edges of the starter strip and shingles with appropriate adhesives or sealants, ensuring a watertight seal and protecting against wind uplift and water infiltration.
Applications
Starter strips are used in a wide range of construction applications, including:
- Residential Roofing: Starter strips are commonly used in residential roofing applications, providing a secure attachment point for asphalt shingles and ensuring the long-term performance and durability of the roofing system.
- Commercial Roofing: Starter strips are used in commercial roofing applications, providing a reliable solution for preventing shingle blow-offs and protecting against wind uplift and water infiltration.
- Outbuildings and Sheds: Starter strips are used in outbuildings, sheds, and other structures, ensuring the proper installation and weatherproofing of asphalt shingle roofing systems.
Conclusion
In construction, a starter strip refers to the first row of shingles installed at the eaves and rakes of a roof. By providing a secure attachment, ensuring alignment, and preventing shingle blow-offs, starter strips are essential for ensuring the proper installation and weatherproofing of asphalt shingle roofing systems in various residential, commercial, and industrial construction projects, as well as outbuildings, sheds, and other structures.
