Author: Erika

Services About Contact Blog Join The Team Instant Roof Estimate Services About Contact Blog Join The Team Instant Roof Estimate 614-398-1124 ​​912-446-6951 Roofing Service Day Tips Know How To Prepare For Your New Roof  Inform Your NeighborsReplacing a roof isn’t the quietest job. Giving your neighbors a heads-up gives them time to prepare. They also won’t be startled when the job starts. If your homes are close together, you may also want to let them know that your roofer might hang a tarp from their roofs to avoid damage.  Cover Items In Your Attic There’s a chance that nails, shingles, and other debris may fall into your attic, getting into your insulation or your stored belongings. Make sure to cover everything before the roofers arrive to keep your valuables clean and safe.   Mow Your Lawn When your roof replacement is complete, the roofers will go around your home to pick up fallen nails. Cutting your grass before they begin working will help to make the search easier.  Be Mindful Of What’s On Your Roof If you have a satellite dish on your roof, contact your satellite provider before the project starts. Your provider will relocate the satellite to the siding of your home and recalibrate, so that you can catch the game. If you no longer use the satellite, let the roofer know, and they can remove and discard. Choose Quality Underlayments (if it applies)Your roof works as a layered system. It’s important to know that roofs are not waterproof; they are water shedding. What is underneath your shingles is important. Having a quality synthetic underlayment can be the difference maker and will help extend the life of your roof. Ask QuestionsGet to know the materials being used for your home’s roof. Remember, not all shingle brands are the same. Always inquire about the warranties provided—both from the contractor and the manufacturer. If any issues or concerns arise during the installation process, it’s crucial to know who to contact. Having multiple points of contact can make communication smoother. Additionally, make sure you have a clear understanding of the billing process, as this can often be the most challenging aspect of a roofing project. At Ruffin Roofing, we stand behind our work with a 40-year manufacturer warranty from GAF and a 10-year warranty on workmanship. Make Plans For The DayAs previously mentioned, replacing your roof will be a loud project. You don’t want to sit at home and listen to the banging all day. Not only that, but being outside during the replacement is dangerous. Make some fun plans for the day and leave the roofers to their job. Don’t forget about your furry friends too.  Be Patient While expert roofers work to minimize complications, sometimes, problems arise. If they do, it’s essential that you be patient and work with us to find a solution. Take A Walk Around When The Job Is DoneWhile we will inspect the area around your home for nails, some may escape their thorough inspection. After the job is complete, take a walk around your house and look for any that went undetected. Making the extra effort will help protect you, your children, your pets, and your tires. Replacing a roof is no small task. Being prepared and understanding what to expect will help make the process easier.  Roofing Service Day Tips Services About Contact… Learn more Your Complete Guide to Roofing Insurance Claims​ Services About Contact… Learn more DEMYSTIFYING THE ROOFING INSURANCE PROCESS: A HOMEOWNER’S GUIDE TO PAYMENTS​ Services About Contact… Learn more

Services About Contact Blog Join The Team Instant Roof Estimate Services About Contact Blog Join The Team Instant Roof Estimate 614-398-1124 ​​912-446-6951 Your Complete Guide to Roofing Insurance Claims Hey there, homeowner!   If you’re staring up at a damaged roof after the latest storm, take a deep breath—we’ve got you covered. Ruffin Roofing has built a reputation for excellence in the Columbus area, combining years of experience with a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Our team understands the stress that comes with roof damage, and we’re here to make the repair process as seamless as possible. Let’s walk through the steps of fixing up your roof with Ruffin Roofing, starting from the very beginning:   Step 0: Performing an Inspection Before anything else, we’ll come out to assess the damage to your roof and exterior. Our experts compile a detailed inspection report that we provide to both you and your insurance company. This report is crucial for filing an accurate claim. Ruffin Roofing’s thorough inspection process ensures no damage goes unnoticed. What does the inspection involve? Our team examines your roof thoroughly to identify all damage. We check for leaks, structural damage, and other issues caused by weather or wear. How long does an inspection take? Typically, our inspections take about 1-2 hours, depending on the size and condition of your roof.   Step 1: Filing the Claim Once the inspection is complete, it’s time to file a claim with your insurance. If you find the process daunting, don’t hesitate to reach out. We can guide you through it or even handle it on your behalf. Filing an insurance claim can be daunting, but Ruffin Roofing is here to guide you every step of the way. What information do I need to file a claim? You’ll need your policy number, the date of the incident, a description of the damage, and the inspection report.  Who contacts the insurance, me or Ruffin Roofing? While you typically initiate the claim, we can assist you throughout the process or take over communication with your consent.   Step 2: Providing Consent for Direct Communication Granting us permission to speak directly with your insurer can simplify and expedite the process. This ensures your claim is handled efficiently and all necessary repairs are covered.   Why is my consent necessary?   Your consent allows us to discuss claim details directly with your insurer, ensuring a smoother and more accurate claim process.   How do I provide consent?   We’ll provide you with a simple form to sign that grants us the needed authorization.   Step 3: Initial Assessment and Estimate   An adjuster from your insurance will assess the damage and provide an initial estimate. Let us review this estimate to ensure it covers all necessary repairs.   What if the initial estimate misses something?   It’s common for initial assessments to overlook some damages. We’ll ensure that everything is accounted for in our review.   Step 4: Supplementing the Claim   We often find that additional repairs are needed beyond the initial estimate. We handle the process of supplementing your claim to request further funds, ensuring that your roof is fully restored. We ensure your insurance estimate covers all necessary repairs.  What exactly does supplementing the claim involve?   It involves submitting additional documentation to cover repairs not included in the initial estimate.  Is supplementing the claim common? Yes, it’s quite common as initial estimates often do not cover all necessary repairs.   Note:   Navigating insurance jargon can be confusing, but understanding a few key terms can help simplify the process. The deductible is the amount you, the policyholder, pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Actual Cash Value (ACV) is the current value of your roof after depreciation, meaning it accounts for wear and tear over time. Replacement Cost Value (RCV), on the other hand, covers the full amount to replace or repair your roof without considering depreciation. Understanding these terms can help you navigate the insurance claim process more confidently and ensure you receive the necessary coverage for your roof repairs. If you have any questions or need further clarification, don’t hesitate to reach out to Ruffin Roofing so we can help.   Step 5: Approval and Scheduling   Once the supplemented claim is approved, we’ll schedule the repair work at a time that works best for you. We aim to start repairs quickly and efficiently.   How long does approval take?   This can vary but generally takes a few days to a few weeks, depending on your insurer and the complexity of the claim.  What if I need to reschedule the repairs? We’re flexible! Just let us know, and we’ll accommodate your schedule as best as possible.   How do I prepare for the job?   There are several things to be prepared for this, please check out our other post that goes through Service Day Tips.   Step 6: Repair and Final Walkthrough Our team will carry out the repairs or replacement using high-quality materials from GAF, ensuring your roof is built to last. We’ll conduct a final walkthrough with you to ensure everything meets your satisfaction. Our final walkthrough ensures your complete satisfaction with the repair work.   What if issues are found during the final walkthrough?   If any issues arise, we’re committed to resolving them promptly. Do you provide a warranty for the restoration?  Yes, we offer a 40-year manufacturer warranty from GAF for new roofs and a 10 year labor warranty.   Step 7: Post-Repair Support  Our relationship doesn’t end after the repairs. We’re here for any further questions or additional roofing needs you might have. Can I contact Ruffin Roofing for regular maintenance?  Absolutely! We offer ongoing maintenance services to keep your roof in top condition.   What if I have questions later?  We’re just a call or click away. Don’t hesitate to reach out!    Ready to Get Started?   With Ruffin Roofing, you’re choosing a partner who values quality, transparency, and your peace of mind.… Continue reading Your Complete Guide to Roofing Insurance Claims​

Services About Contact Blog Join The Team Instant Roof Estimate Services About Contact Blog Join The Team Instant Roof Estimate 614-398-1124 ​​912-446-6951 Demystifying the Roofing Insurance Process: A Homeowner’s Guide to Payments   When your insurance company has fully accepted your roofing claim after a storm or other damage, understanding the payment process is crucial. Here’s a step-by-step guide that explains what happens once your claim is accepted, so you can navigate this process smoothly, with confidence.   1. Claim Acceptance & Initial Payment (ACV minus Deductible)   Once your insurance company approves the claim, the first payment you will receive is called the Actual Cash Value (ACV). This payment represents the value of your roof at the time of loss, considering depreciation due to age and wear.   However, before you receive this payment, your deductible will be subtracted. Think of your deductible like a copay for health insurance—it’s the amount you are responsible for, required to unlock the insurance payout. For example:   Roof Replacement Cost: $10,000 Depreciation (due to age): $3,000 Deductible: $1,000 Initial Payment (ACV minus deductible): $6,000   You will need to pay the deductible directly to your contractor, and the initial ACV payment will be used to order materials and schedule the project.   2. Starting the Work   Once the initial payment (ACV minus deductible) is received by you, it will be handed over to the contractor to begin the job. This is a crucial step because the funds are necessary to purchase materials and set a date for the work to commence.   3. Completion of the Job & Documentation (COC)   When the job is completed, your contractor will document the work thoroughly. They will submit a Certificate of Completion (COC) along with photos and other requested documentation (such as permits or additional inspection reports) to the insurance company. This documentation certifies that the work has been done as outlined in the insurance claim.   4. Releasing the Second Payment: Depreciation & Paid-When-Incurred (PWI) Items  Once the insurance company verifies that the job is complete, they will release the second payment. This payment will include:  Depreciation Payment: Remember that depreciation was withheld in the first check. Once the roof is completed, the insurance company will release the amount they had previously held back for depreciation. In our earlier example, that would be $3,000. Paid-When-Incurred (PWI) Items: Sometimes, the insurance claim includes optional upgrades or code-required items (such as an upgrade to code-compliant materials). These are only paid after they are completed and properly documented. For instance, if your insurance scope included an optional upgrade for impact-resistant shingles, you will need to provide proof that this was installed to receive the PWI payment.   5. Final Payment: Supplementation (If Required)   In some cases, a third and final payment may be necessary due to supplementation. This occurs when additional work is needed beyond what was initially included in the insurance claim. For example, during the roof replacement, the contractor may discover damaged decking (the wood beneath the shingles), which wasn’t part of the original estimate.   When this happens, the contractor will document the issue and submit it to the insurance company for approval. Once approved, the insurance will cover this additional cost as part of the overall project. Importantly, this extra payment is not the responsibility of the homeowner—it is covered by insurance with proper documentation and approval.   Example of Supplementation:   Original Claim: Roof replacement for $10,000 Additional cost for damaged decking: $1,200 Supplementation approved: $1,200 Final total: $11,200   6. Payment Process and Responsibilities   All payments made by the insurance company will go directly to you, the policyholder. As the homeowner, it’s your responsibility to transfer these funds to your contractor in a timely manner to avoid delays or complications.   Failing to pay the contractor could cause problems, including potential legal issues. Additionally, not using the insurance funds for the intended work can be considered insurance fraud, which can lead to significant legal risks for both you and your contractor.   Key Takeaways   Deductible: This is your portion of the cost (like a copay) and must be paid. ACV Payment: The initial payment that covers the depreciated value of your roof, minus the deductible. Depreciation & PWI Payment: The second payment is released after the work is done, covering the held-back depreciation and any optional or required upgrades. Supplementation: Any additional work discovered during the project may result in an additional payment from insurance, with proper documentation.   To make sure your roofing project goes smoothly and matches your insurance agreement, it’s important to understand how the insurance payment process works. Ruffin Roofing is dedicated to helping you understand each step and will keep you updated on the progress.     DEMYSTIFYING THE ROOFING INSURANCE PROCESS: A HOMEOWNER’S GUIDE TO PAYMENTS​ Services About Contact… Learn more HOW DOES SNOW IMPACT MY ROOF? Services About Contact… Learn more Understanding the Effects of Ice Damming on Your Roof Services About Contact… Learn more

Services About Contact Blog Join The Team Instant Roof Estimate Services About Contact Blog Join The Team Instant Roof Estimate 614-398-1124 ​​912-446-6951 How does Snow Impact my Roof? The Impact of Snow and Ice on Your Roof     Imagine this: a peaceful winter morning, snow gently falling outside, and you, cozy inside with a warm cup of coffee. Suddenly, you hear a concerning cracking sound from the ceiling. Upon inspection, you discover a water stain slowly spreading across your living room ceiling. This is a common scenario for many homeowners during the winter months when snow and ice wreak havoc on roofs.     As a homeowner, it’s crucial to understand the impact that winter weather can have on your roof. Your roof is your home’s primary defense against the elements, and snow and ice can cause a variety of problems, from minor leaks to major structural damage.     This guide will walk you through how snow and ice can damage your roof, how to spot the signs, and what you can do to prevent it. It also explores different roofing materials and their resistance to snow damage, emphasizing the importance of regular roof inspections and maintenance.     How Snow and Ice Can Damage Your Roof     Snow and ice can affect your roof in several ways. Here are the most common issues:   • Weight: Snow can accumulate to significant weight, especially when wet, putting tremendous pressure on your roof’s structure. Flat roofs and those with inadequate support are particularly vulnerable, potentially leading to sagging, cracking, or even collapse. Snow weight varies, from 3 pounds per cubic foot for light snow to over 20 pounds per cubic foot for wet, packed snow.   • Leaks: Melting snow can damage roofs as it seeps through cracks or damaged shingles. The freeze-thaw cycle exacerbates this, forcing water into vulnerable areas and leading to leaks, insulation damage, and mold growth. Early spring rainstorms can worsen the situation by saturating snow on your roof, increasing weight and leak risks.   • Ice Dams: These form when snow melts on warmer parts of your roof and refreezes at the eaves. Ice dams block proper drainage, causing water to pool and back up under shingles, leading to leaks and gutter damage.   • Attic Condensation: Excess snow and ice can block ventilation, trapping warm, moist air in the attic. This moisture can condense on the roof deck, causing mold growth and reducing energy efficiency.     Different Types of Roofing Materials and Their Resistance to Snow Damage     The type of roofing material you have significantly affects how well your roof withstands snow and ice. Here’s a breakdown:   Material Pros Cons Asphalt shingles Affordable, easy to install Less durable, susceptible to ice dams Metal roofing Durable, lightweight, sheds snow easily Can be expensive Slate roofing Long-lasting, resistant to snow damage Expensive, heavy Wood shingles or shakes Aesthetic, good insulation Requires regular maintenance Clay or concrete tile Durable, fire-resistant Heavy, costly Synthetic tile Lightweight, freeze-thaw resistant More expensive than some options     Proper ventilation and insulation are essential for all materials to prevent ice dams and moisture buildup.     How to Prevent Snow Damage to Your Roof     Preventing damage requires proactive measures:   • Clean gutters: Regularly clear debris to ensure proper drainage.   • Remove snow: Use a roof rake or hire professionals to prevent overloading.   • Insulate and ventilate: Ensure proper attic insulation and airflow to reduce heat loss and condensation.   • Install ice and water shields: These barriers prevent leaks from ice dams.   • Trim trees: Remove overhanging branches that could fall and cause damage.     Ice Dams: Formation, Prevention, and Removal     Ice dams are a major winter concern. Prevent them by insulating and ventilating your attic, sealing air leaks, and installing heated cables if necessary. If an ice dam forms, use calcium chloride in a nylon stocking to melt channels, or call a professional for safe removal.     How to Identify Signs of Snow Damage on Your Roof     Inspect your roof regularly for:   • Inside: Sagging ceilings, water stains, peeling paint, or cracking sounds.   • Outside: Sagging roofs, ice dams, damaged shingles, or clogged gutters.     The Importance of Regular Roof Inspections and Maintenance     Regular inspections help identify problems early, prolong roof lifespan, ensure safety, and maintain insurance compliance. Professional roofing contractors can provide expert advice, perform repairs, and offer preventative services.     Our Services     We can assist with inspections, ice dam removal, snow clearing, repairs, and preventative maintenance, ensuring your roof is ready to withstand winter weather.     Conclusion     Protecting your roof from snow and ice is essential for your home’s integrity. Understanding potential damage, recognizing warning signs, and taking preventative measures can save you from costly repairs. Contact us today for a free roof inspection and consultation to ensure your home stays safe and secure all winter long.         HOW DOES SNOW IMPACT MY ROOF? Services About Contact… Learn more Understanding the Effects of Ice Damming on Your Roof Services About Contact… Learn more

Services About Contact Blog Join Our Team Services About Contact Blog Join Our Team 614-398-1124 ​​912-446-6951 Understanding the Effects of Ice Damming on Your Roof As winter settles in here in Ohio, homeowners need to be aware of a potential issue that could cause significant damage to their homes: ice damming. Ice dams can lead to costly repairs if not addressed promptly, and understanding how they form and what effects they have on your roof can help you prevent them from causing trouble. In this blog post, we’ll explore the formation of ice dams, their impact on your roof, and the best ways to prevent and handle them.   What Is Ice Damming?       Ice damming occurs when melting snow on your roof refreezes at the eaves (the edges of your roof). This often happens when the heat from your home causes the snow near the roof’s peak to melt, and as the water flows down to the colder eaves, it freezes. Over time, this process creates a barrier of ice that prevents further melting water from draining off the roof. The trapped water then backs up, which can lead to water leaks inside your home.   How Ice Damming Affects Your Roof Water Damage to the Roof and Interior As the water backs up behind the ice dam, it can seep under the shingles and into the layers of your roof. This water intrusion can lead to serious damage to your roof, including rot and deterioration of the roofing materials. But the problems don’t stop there—once the water makes its way under the shingles, it can leak into your attic, insulation, walls, and even down into your living spaces, causing mold and mildew to form. Structural Damage The weight of an ice dam can also be a concern. As the dam grows, it places extra pressure on the edges of your roof, potentially causing structural damage over time. Prolonged exposure to the moisture and weight of the ice dam can warp roof decking and lead to leaks that might not be immediately visible, making it difficult to catch the damage before it worsens. Damage to Gutters and Downspouts Ice dams can also damage your gutters and downspouts. As water freezes and expands, it can cause gutters to crack or detach from the house. This can lead to an expensive gutter replacement or repair job, as well as the potential for water to accumulate near the foundation of your home, which can cause further damage. Increased Energy Costs Ice dams are often a sign that your attic insulation and ventilation may be inadequate. Warm air escaping from your home into the attic can cause uneven roof temperatures, leading to the formation of ice dams. This not only causes damage to your roof, but it can also lead to higher heating bills as the inefficiency in your home’s insulation makes it harder to maintain a comfortable temperature.   How to Prevent Ice Dams The good news is that ice dams are preventable with the right precautions and maintenance. Here are some tips to help protect your roof from ice damming: Improve Attic Insulation and Ventilation Proper attic insulation and ventilation are key to preventing ice dams. By ensuring that your attic is properly insulated, you can reduce the amount of warm air leaking from your living spaces into the attic. Additionally, proper ventilation helps to maintain a consistent temperature across your roof, which prevents melting and refreezing. Consider consulting a professional to assess your insulation and ventilation needs. Keep Gutters Clean and Clear Clogged gutters can contribute to ice dam formation by preventing water from draining off your roof. Make sure your gutters are clear of debris, especially in the fall, before the first snowstorm of the season. Installing gutter guards can also help reduce the likelihood of debris buildup. Use Heat Cables Heat cables can be installed along the roof’s edges and in gutters to keep the water flowing and prevent ice buildup. These cables heat up to melt the snow and ice before they have a chance to form an ice dam. Ensure Proper Roof Pitch and Flashing Roof design can also play a role in ice dam formation. If your roof has a low pitch or inadequate flashing, it may be more prone to ice dams. Ensure that your roof is designed to allow proper drainage and that flashing is in good condition to protect vulnerable areas of the roof. Install Ice and Water Shields When replacing your roof or conducting a roof renovation, ask your contractor to install an ice and water shield along the edges of your roof. This material provides an extra layer of protection to prevent water from seeping under your shingles and causing leaks.   What to Do If You Have an Ice Dam If you already have an ice dam forming, it’s crucial to take action quickly to avoid further damage. Here’s what you can do: Remove Snow from the Roof If it’s safe to do so, use a roof rake to remove excess snow from your roof. Start at the edge and work your way up to avoid pushing snow under the shingles. This helps reduce the amount of melting snow that could contribute to the formation of an ice dam. Use a De-icing Product You can use de-icing products (such as calcium chloride) to help melt the ice. Place the de-icer in a fabric sock or pantyhose and lay it across the ice dam. Avoid using rock salt, as it can damage your roof and gutters. Call RUFFIN ROOFING! If the ice dam is large or causing significant damage, it’s best to call a professional roofing contractor. We can safely remove the ice dam and inspect your roof for any damage that may need repair.   REMEMBER: REGULARLY inspect your roof (at least annually), ensure your attic is properly insulated and ventilated, and take care of your gutters to minimize the risk of ice dam formation. Stay… Continue reading Understanding the Effects of Ice Damming on Your Roof