When most homeowners plan a new asphalt roof, their attention naturally goes to the color, style, and durability of the main shingles. But beneath the surface—literally—there’s a smaller, often overlooked component doing a whole lot of heavy lifting: starter shingles.

These aren’t just roofing accessories; they’re essential to protecting your home from wind, water, and long-term wear. At James Russell Roofing & Restorations, we’ve seen firsthand how skipping this crucial step leads to costly roof repair in Munford TN and the greater Memphis area.

Let’s break down why starter shingles matter, how they work, and how you can make sure your next roofing job is done right the first time.

What Are Starter Shingles, Exactly?

Starter shingles—also known as starter strips—are a special type of asphalt shingle installed along the eaves (bottom edge) and rakes (side edges) of the roof. Unlike standard shingles, they:

Have no decorative tabs or cutouts
Include an adhesive strip to bond with the first row of shingles
Create a clean, straight edge for alignment

You can think of them as the “anchor” for the rest of your roof. Without them, even top-of-the-line shingles are vulnerable to damage.

Why Starter Shingles Should Never Be Skipped

You’d be surprised how many times we’re called for roof repair in Munford TN only to discover the issue started because someone didn’t use proper starter strips—or skipped them altogether. Here’s what makes them so essential:

1. Wind Protection Where It’s Needed Most

The edges of your roof—especially the eaves and rakes—are where wind damage usually begins. Starter shingles are designed to create a seal with the first row of field shingles. That seal helps prevent wind from getting underneath and ripping them off.

Especially in areas like West Tennessee, where sudden storms are common, that extra layer of wind resistance makes a big difference.

2. Leak Prevention

Starter strips help form a continuous barrier against water infiltration. They’re positioned to cover the seams between the roof deck and the first course of shingles, guiding water off the roof properly.

Without starter shingles, water can seep in at the edges—leading to leaks, wood rot, and mold growth inside your home.

3. A Straight Edge That Keeps Things Looking Sharp

Aside from functionality, starter shingles help ensure your roof looks clean and professionally done. They give the first row of shingles a level, straight foundation. If your contractor skips this step or improvises, you might see crooked lines or uneven gaps. Not exactly curb appeal!

4. Warranty Compliance

Here’s a fact many homeowners miss: Most asphalt shingle manufacturers require the use of approved starter shingles to maintain their warranty. If your installer cuts corners and your shingles fail, you might be out of luck trying to make a claim.

At James Russell Roofing, we never take shortcuts that could cost you in the long run.

Common Installation Mistakes to Watch For

Sadly, not every roofing contractor in Memphis TN follows best practices. We’ve seen it all—especially when doing repairs after a quick-and-cheap job by someone else. Here are a few common red flags:

Cutting field shingles to make starter strips – These won’t have the proper adhesive or sizing and may not hold up over time.
Improper alignment – Starter shingles must precisely align with field shingles to maintain wind resistance and drainage.
Skipping the rakes – Some contractors only install starter strips at the eaves, not the rakes, where wind is just as much of a threat.

If you’re hiring a roofer, ask how they handle starter shingles. It’s a small detail with big consequences.

Types of Starter Shingles

Not all starter shingles are the same. Depending on your location and shingle type, your roofing contractor should choose the right fit:

Standard Starter Strips – Suitable for most residential roofs in calm-weather areas.
High-Wind Starter Strips – Heavier duty with more adhesive, perfect for storm-prone regions like West Tennessee.
Brand-Specific Starter Shingles – Designed to match the color, shape, and performance specs of specific field shingles.

Choosing the wrong type can impact both aesthetics and durability—yet another reason to trust a qualified, local expert.

How to Ensure They’re Installed Right

You don’t have to climb up on the roof yourself to ensure your starter shingles are installed correctly. Here are a few smart homeowner tips:

Ask upfront if the contractor uses manufacturer-approved starter shingles.
Request confirmation that strips will be installed at both the eaves and rakes.
Check for straight alignment on the first row of shingles—visible from the ground in many cases.

Final Thoughts: Small Detail, Big Impact

Starter shingles may not be glamorous, but they play a critical role in your roof’s long-term success. They’re your first line of defense against wind, water, and the costly repairs that follow if things go wrong.

At James Russell Roofing & Restorations, we’ve built our reputation by focusing on quality from the first nail to the last shingle. Whether you’re looking for a complete roof replacement or roof repair in Munford TN, you can trust our team to do it right—no shortcuts, no surprises.

Looking for a trusted roofing contractor in Memphis TN? Give us a call at (901) 444-1231, or visit jamesrussellroofing.com to schedule a free estimate. We proudly serve homeowners in Memphis, Munford, Arlington, Germantown, and beyond.

Why Starter Shingles Are a Must-Have for Every Asphalt Roof