What are tapered wood filler strips placed along the butts of old wood shingles to create a level surface when reroofing over existing wood shingle roofs, also called Horsefeathers?

• A. Downspout
• B. Felt
• C. Feathering strips
• D. Eaves flashing

Answer: (C)

Feathering strips are tapered wood filler strips placed along the butts of the old shingles to create a level surface for the new roofing when reroofing over existing wood shingles. They bridge gaps and irregularities in the old roof so the new shingles sit flat, nail cleanly, and align evenly across courses. The taper lets the strip rise gradually to meet the next layer, preventing a high edge that would rock or skew the new shingles and helping water shed smoothly. These strips are sometimes called feathering strips or horsefeathers.

Other items listed serve different functions: a downspout directs water away from the roof edge, roofing felt provides underlayment, and eaves flashing protects the eave edge from water intrusion.