The Unsung Heroes of Roofing: Why Starter Shingles Are So Important

When you think about a new roof, your mind probably jumps straight to the visible parts the clean lines, the color, and the pattern of the shingles. But there’s a hidden layer beneath those shingles that plays a much bigger role than most homeowners realize. That layer is made up of starter shingles, and they’re one of the most important parts of your roof’s foundation.

At Matlock Roofing & Construction, your go-to roofing company in Purvis, MS, we know a strong roof starts long before the first visible shingle is nailed down. Starter shingles may not look like much, but they’re the quiet protectors that keep wind, water, and time from sneaking in and causing damage. Let’s break down what they are, why they matter, and how choosing the right roofer makes all the difference.

What Are Starter Shingles?

Every reliable asphalt shingle roof begins with starter shingles. These are the very first rows of material installed along the eaves (the bottom edges) and rakes (the sloped sides) before the main shingles are added.

While they may look like regular shingles, they’re designed a bit differently. Instead of having cutouts or tabs, starter shingles have a smooth, straight edge and a strip of powerful adhesive. This helps create a watertight seal along the roof’s perimeter the area most likely to experience wind and water damage.

Think of them as the “base layer” that holds everything together. Without starter shingles, even the best roof installation could fall short in protection and performance.

Why Starter Shingles Matter

The edges of your roof face the harshest elements strong winds, heavy rains, and constant sun exposure. Starter shingles help your roof fight back by providing essential protection where it’s needed most.

1. They Stop Wind Lift

Wind can catch the edges of your shingles and lift them right off. Starter shingles prevent this by anchoring the first row firmly in place. That adhesive strip holds tight during Mississippi’s stormy weather, protecting your home from potential leaks or blow-offs.

2. They Keep Water Out

Rainwater can be sneaky, and without a proper seal, it can creep under the first layer of shingles. Starter shingles act as a barrier, guiding water safely into your gutters instead of behind them.

3. They Keep Everything Lined Up

A perfectly straight first row means a perfectly straight roof. Starter shingles give roofers a clean, even edge to work from, ensuring your finished roof looks neat and professional.

The Difference Between Eave and Rake Starters

Not all starter shingles serve the same purpose. In fact, there are two types—eave starters and rake starters—and both are critical to a well-sealed roof.

• Eave starters go along the bottom edge of your roof to stop water from backing up beneath the first shingle course.

• Rake starters are installed along the sloped sides to keep wind from getting under the shingles and peeling them away.

Together, they form a continuous protective border around your entire roof, keeping out both wind and water.

Common Installation Mistakes

Starter shingles might sound simple, but a few small mistakes can lead to big headaches down the road. Here are some common errors inexperienced installers make:

• Installing them backward or upside down. This prevents the adhesive from bonding correctly.

• Skipping the rake edges. Only installing starters along the eaves leaves the sides vulnerable to wind damage.

• Incorrect overhang. If the starter shingles don’t extend slightly past the edge, water can drip behind the gutters instead of into them.

At Matlock Roofing & Construction, our skilled roofers know that success is in the details. We make sure every shingle—especially the starter course—is installed the right way, so your roof stays solid and leak-free for years to come.

Factory-Made vs. Cut Shingles

In the past, many roofers made starter shingles by cutting the tabs off traditional three-tab shingles. While this old-school method can still work, today’s factory-made starter shingles are designed for superior performance.

Factory starters come with a pre-applied adhesive strip that provides better bonding and faster installation. They’re also uniform in size, which means your roof looks cleaner and stays better aligned.

By using these modern materials, a professional roofing company Hattiesburg MS like Matlock Roofing & Construction can save you time and money while giving your home a more reliable roof.

Maintenance and Longevity

Once installed, starter shingles generally last as long as your roof. However, because they sit at the edges, they’re more exposed to wind, debris, and rain. It’s smart to check your roof edges from time to time—or have a professional inspection—to make sure everything’s still in good shape.

Look for lifted corners, missing adhesive bonds, or small gaps near the drip edge. Catching minor issues early can save you from costly repairs later.

If you ever notice something off, our team at Matlock Roofing & Construction will be glad to take a look. A quick checkup can go a long way toward keeping your home safe and dry.

Thinking About Adding Skylights?

While you’re upgrading your roof, why not brighten up your home with a skylight? At Matlock Roofing & Construction, we’re also your trusted Skylight Contractor. Skylights can bring in beautiful natural light, improve ventilation, and even reduce your energy bills.

Our team handles skylight installations and repairs with precision and care. We make sure your new skylight is sealed properly and integrates perfectly with your roofing system—so you can enjoy sunlight without worrying about leaks. Whether you want to add a touch of modern style or simply make your home feel more open, we’ve got you covered.

Trust Matlock Roofing & Construction—Your Local Roofing Experts

Your roof is one of your home’s biggest investments, and it deserves expert care from start to finish. At Matlock Roofing & Construction, we’re proud to be a leading roofing company in Purvis, MS, serving families in Sumrall, Petal, Hattiesburg, and beyond.

We believe a great roof starts with great craftsmanship. From starter shingles to skylight installations, every detail matters to us because it matters to you.

If you’re ready to repair, replace, or enhance your roof, call us today at 601-299-4219 or visit matlockconstruction.com to schedule your consultation.

With Matlock Roofing & Construction, you’re not just getting a roof you’re getting peace of mind that lasts.