These are the components that most homeowners never think about, but they play a bigger role than you might expect. Starter shingles protect the most vulnerable edge of the roof. Ridge caps finish the most exposed peak. Getting these wrong compromises the entire installation.
Starter shingles
The first course of shingles along the eaves sits on top of the drip edge and serves as the foundation for every course above it. But shingles have cutouts and gaps between tabs. Without a solid layer underneath, water could get through those gaps right at the most vulnerable edge of the roof.
Starter shingles are a purpose-made product that provides a continuous adhesive strip and full coverage underneath that first course. They seal the bottom edge of the first row of field shingles and provide the wind-resistant bond that keeps the eave edge secure.
Why starter shingles matter
The eaves take the most wind abuse on most roofs. Wind hits the roof edge first and tries to lift the shingles from below. The adhesive bond between the starter shingle and the first course of field shingles is what prevents this. Without a proper starter, or with a starter that was not installed correctly, the bottom edge of your roof is vulnerable to wind uplift.
Some contractors skip purpose-made starter shingles and cut field shingles to use as starters. It can work, but it is a shortcut. Purpose-made starters have the adhesive strip positioned correctly for the specific purpose. They are designed for this job.
"The ridge cap shingles take more abuse than any other shingle on the roof: highest point, fully exposed to wind from every direction, maximum UV, and the full force of every storm."
Ridge cap shingles
Ridge cap shingles cover the peak of the roof where two slopes meet. They fold over the ridge and protect the transition between the two planes. They also cover the ridge vent if one is installed.
Ridge caps take more abuse than any other shingle on the roof. They are the highest point, fully exposed to wind from every direction, maximum UV exposure, and the full force of every storm. They need to be tough.
Why using the right product matters
Like starters, some contractors cut field shingles into thirds and use them as ridge caps. Purpose-made ridge cap shingles are thicker, have better wind ratings, and are designed to bend over the ridge without cracking. They also provide a more attractive, dimensional appearance along the ridgeline.
CertainTeed's purpose-made ridge cap products are designed to complement their field shingle lines. The color matches, the profile matches, and the warranty coverage includes them as part of the system. Using the matched product gives you a better-looking, better-performing installation.
What to look for on your estimate
Your estimate should list both starter shingles and ridge cap shingles as separate line items. If the estimate just says "shingles" with no breakdown, you do not know whether these components are being addressed properly. Ask.
These are small details in the big picture of a roof replacement. But they are the kind of details that separate a professional installation from a cut-corner job. Over the life of the roof, they make a real difference.
Want to understand every component going on your roof? Our estimates break down every line item and we explain what each one does. Contact us for a free inspection and detailed estimate.
"Great quality, very fair price, on-time, and as clean as possible when re-roofing. Thank you!!"Jack K , Google Review