Underlayment — the secondary water barrier
Underlayment sits between the decking and the roof covering. If wind-driven rain gets past a shingle, underlayment is what stands between water and your decking.
- Synthetic underlayment is lighter, more tear-resistant and more dimensionally stable than traditional felt
- Self-adhering membranes are often used in valleys and around penetrations
- Coverage matters as much as material — ask where each type is being applied
Starter strip — the first line of wind resistance
The starter course seals the first row of shingles at the eave and rake. Purpose-made starter has an adhesive strip positioned to bond the bottom edge of the shingle above it.
Cutting up field shingles to make starter is a common shortcut that can leave the most wind-exposed edge without properly positioned adhesive.
Ridge cap — the most exposed part of the roof
Ridge cap shingles are thicker and designed to bend over the ridge without cracking. Bent field shingles used as cap are more prone to splitting over time, especially with our temperature swings.
Ridge cap also has to work with ridge ventilation, so the two should be planned together.
Why this affects warranties
Manufacturers often tie their stronger warranty coverage to the use of a complete system of their own accessory components installed by a credentialed contractor. Mixing components can affect eligibility.
LoveRain Roof Co. is a GAF Master Elite contractor. Specific warranty coverage always depends on the manufacturer's current terms and the system installed, so ask for the exact warranty document in writing.
How to check a proposal
- Underlayment brand, type and where it's used
- Purpose-made starter strip named explicitly
- Manufactured ridge cap named explicitly
- New flashing and drip edge, not reused
- Whether the accessories match the shingle manufacturer
- Underlayment is your backup water barrier — know the type and coverage.
- Purpose-made starter protects the most wind-exposed edge.
- Manufactured ridge cap resists cracking better than bent field shingles.
- Component substitutions can affect manufacturer warranty eligibility.
- Ask for the accessory list by name on every quote.
Want help comparing two proposals?
We'll walk you through what each scope actually includes, even if you choose someone else.
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