Do You Install Starter Shingles and Drip Edge? (Yes—Every Time)

This is one of the most common questions homeowners ask—and for good reason.

At The Roof Champion of Columbus, the answer is always yes. Every roof we install gets:

• Starter shingles at the eaves and rakes

• Drip edge along all edges of the roof

We never skip these. Here’s why they matter for your home.

Why Starter Shingles Are Non-Negotiable

Starter shingles are the foundation layer for your roof’s shingle system.

They:

• Seal the vulnerable roof edges against wind and water

• Prevent wind uplift at the most exposed parts of your roof

• Provide an even edge for the first full course of shingles

Without starter shingles, wind-driven rain can get under your shingles. This leads to leaks, rot, and shingle blow-offs—especially in places like Columbus, Dublin, Powell, and other Ohio towns that see high winds and storms.

Why Drip Edge Is Just as Important

Drip edge is a metal flashing installed at the edges of your roof.

It:

• Directs water away from your fascia and into the gutters

• Protects the roof deck from moisture damage

• Prevents shingle overhang from sagging or curling

It’s required by Ohio Building Code and shingle manufacturers to validate warranties.

Why Some Roofers Skip Them (and Why We Don’t)

Unfortunately, not every roofing company follows best practices.

Some crews skip starter shingles and drip edge to:

• Save time

• Cut corners

• Maximize profit

That’s not how we do things. Travis Haessly, owner of The Roof Champion, puts it this way:

“You’re not just paying for shingles. You’re paying for a system that protects your home. Starter shingles and drip edge are part of that system. We don’t cut corners—period.”

What This Means for You

When you hire us, you’re not just getting shingles nailed to a deck.

You’re getting a complete roofing system—built to perform, protect, and last.

That includes:

• Starter shingles at eaves and rakes

• Drip edge on every edge

• Full compliance with manufacturer warranty specs

• Installations that meet or exceed IRC 2021 and ARMA guidelines

FAQ

Do all roofers install starter shingles and drip edge?
No. Some don’t. And if they leave them out, it can void your manufacturer warranty and lead to early roof failure.

Are these required by building code?
Yes. Both starter shingles and drip edge are required by the 2021 International Residential Code (IRC) and by most major shingle manufacturers.

Will I see these on my roof?
Not really. Starter shingles and drip edge are installed under the visible layers—but they play a critical role in long-term performance.

Can I add them later?
Not easily. They need to be installed at the beginning of a new roof system. If your current roof doesn’t have them, it’s worth considering a full replacement.

Need help with a roof inspection or shingle replacement in Powell, Dublin, or Columbus?
Call Travis directly at (614) 639-3422 or visit www.roofchampcolumbus.com to schedule a free consultation.

We don’t quit.
We fight.
We win.