When reroofing over an existing asphalt roof what is used as the started course?

When reroofing over an existing asphalt roof what is used as the started course?

• A. Trimmed shingle
• B. #15 felt
• C. Poly starter course
• D. Wood sheeting

Answer: (A)

The starter course is the first row of shingles laid at the eaves to establish a straight edge and a proper nail line for the rest of the roof. When reroofing over an existing asphalt roof, a trimmed shingle is typically used for this starter row—cut along the bottom edge to remove the tabs and create a clean, straight strip. This approach keeps the edge aligned, provides a consistent overhang, and uses the same material as the other shingles for a uniform look. The other options aren’t used for the starter row here: felt is underlayment, not a starter; a poly starter exists but isn’t the method described in this context; wood sheeting is the roof deck, not the starter course.

The starter course is the first row of shingles laid at the eaves to establish a straight edge and a proper nail line for the rest of the roof. When reroofing over an existing asphalt roof, a trimmed shingle is typically used for this starter row—cut along the bottom edge to remove the tabs and create a clean, straight strip. This approach keeps the edge aligned, provides a consistent overhang, and uses the same material as the other shingles for a uniform look. The other options aren’t used for the starter row here: felt is underlayment, not a starter; a poly starter exists but isn’t the method described in this context; wood sheeting is the roof deck, not the starter course.