Performance Begins Here: The Case for Quality Starter Shingles
The first layer of shingles installed on an asphalt roof plays a critical role in ensuring the entire system performs as intended. While it may not receive the same attention as designer shingles or ridge caps, starter shingles are the foundation for proper adhesion, wind resistance, and long-term roof protection.
What does a starter shingle do?
Starter shingles form the base course of the roof at the eave and, in some applications, along the rake as well. Their primary job is to create a clean, sealed edge that prevents wind uplift and water intrusion beneath the first course of shingles. The starter strips are typically constructed of a fiberglass mat coated on both sides with asphalt and covered in granules. They’re nailed in place following the manufacturer’s specific pattern and are often required by the building code at the roof’s leading edge. In certain wind zones or climates, they may also be required at rake edges for added protection and durability.
A quality starter shingle improves the roof’s ability to shed water efficiently. By covering joints and cutouts at the eave, the starter course ensures that water flows smoothly off the roof, instead of seeping beneath the exposed edges of field shingles. This not only protects against leaks and premature deterioration, but also supports the proper drainage path the roofing system was designed to achieve.
Why quality and installation matter
Using the right starter shingle and installing it properly impacts both the look and performance of the roof.
- Without it, shingles are more vulnerable to wind uplift and moisture intrusion.
- With it, you get stronger adhesion at the eave and a cleaner, more uniform roofline.
- With the right one, contractors save time, reduce waste, and ensure long-term system integrity.
While it might be tempting to cut a standard shingle to use as a starter, that approach is not recommended. Improperly placed sealant lines and uneven thickness can lead to poor adhesion, potentially voiding a manufacturer’s warranty. Starter shingles are engineered to be flatter and narrower than standard shingles, ensuring the first shingle course lies smooth and level.
The PABCO® Universal Starter: A smarter start
PABCO Roofing Products designed its Universal Starter Shingle to simplify installation and deliver reliable performance across its full range of asphalt shingle systems. Now updated with a perforated design, the Universal Starter lets contractors easily split each shingle lengthwise into two clean pieces. This not only saves time on the roof but also helps reduce waste and improve overall efficiency.
Unlike some self-adhering starter rolls that use rubberized materials, the PABCO Universal Starter is a true asphalt shingle. It won’t soften, stretch, or become overly tacky in hot weather, ensuring smooth handling, clean installation, and dependable performance across any climate or region.
Built for performance, designed for efficiency
The Universal Starter is compatible with all PABCO asphalt shingles, including:
- The Paramount, Paramount Advantage, and Cascade series utilize a dual-layer system, featuring a Universal Starter at the edge, followed by a color-matched Paramount Starter for optimal adhesion and appearance beneath thicker designer shingles.
This layered approach offers both functional and aesthetic benefits, providing stronger adhesion at the eave and a seamless, visually consistent roofline from edge to ridge.
Each manufacturer specifies its own requirements for installation, including nailing pattern, overhang, and placement of the sealant line. Following those instructions ensures the starter performs as designed and maintains eligibility for warranty coverage.
Every great roof needs a solid foundation. By starting with a quality starter shingle, contractors can give homeowners the confidence that their roof is built to perform from the first course to the last ridge. With PABCO’s newly improved Universal Starter, you get the perfect combination of performance, simplicity, and reliability, helping every roof you install start strong and stay that way for years to come.
