What are starter strip and ridge cap, and does it matter which ones I get?
Starter strips are installed along the bottom edge of the roof, and ridge caps cover the peak. Both areas take the most wind, so shingle manufacturers make separate products for them. Using the manufacturer's starter and ridge products helps the roof resist wind and can matter for the warranty.
Wind damage starts at the edges
Wind usually damages a roof along the edges and the ridge, where it can get under the shingles.
Once a shingle has been lifted again and again, it can crease and no longer lie flat, which lets water in.
What a starter strip does
A starter strip has adhesive along the bottom edge that seals down the first row of shingles at the eave.
Cutting regular shingles to use as a starter can leave the adhesive in the wrong place, so the edge is not sealed as well.
What ridge cap does
Ridge cap shingles are made thicker and shaped to fit over the peak of the roof without cracking.
Most manufacturer warranties are written for a complete system, including the manufacturer's own starter and ridge products.
Questions to ask
Ask whether the quote includes a manufactured starter strip and manufactured ridge cap shingles.
These are small line items, but they help protect the parts of the roof that wind reaches first.
Related questions
How can I tell what my current roof has?
It is usually visible at the ridge and along the eaves. A roof inspection can tell you.
Is ridge cap included in an insurance claim?
Ridge and hip cap is usually listed as its own line item on an insurance estimate.
Should I replace the ridge cap on a roof that is otherwise fine?
Usually not on its own. It matters most when the roof is being replaced.
