Starter course shingles are the foundation of a wind-resistant roof. They seal the first course of field shingles to the eave and rake edges, preventing wind uplift and water infiltration.
Yet, when you review an initial insurance estimate, you will almost never see a specific line item for starter shingles (RFG 220).
When confronted, the adjuster's standard response is almost always the same: "Starter is included in the 10% (or 15%) waste factor applied to the field shingles."
This is a widespread industry myth, and accepting it costs you hundreds of dollars per job.
The Problem with the "Waste Factor" Argument
Historically, roofers would take a standard 3-tab shingle, cut off the tabs, and use the remaining headlap as a starter strip. In that scenario, the material was technically drawn from the field shingle inventory, which gave rise to the idea that it was "part of the waste."
However, modern roofing systems—especially architectural and dimensional shingles—require specific, manufactured starter strips.
Using cut-up field shingles as starter for architectural shingles creates an uneven surface and compromises the wind seal. More importantly, it voids the manufacturer's warranty.
The Manufacturer Specification Strategy
Insurance policies owe for materials and methods that comply with the manufacturer's installation instructions to ensure the homeowner receives a fully warranted roof. This is your primary weapon.
Every major shingle manufacturer (GAF, Owens Corning, CertainTeed, Tamko) explicitly states that their specific starter product must be used.
For example, GAF's installation instructions for Timberline shingles state: "Use only GAF Pro-Start, WeatherBlocker, or other GAF approved starter strip shingles."
Owens Corning states: "Use Owens Corning Starter Shingle products... Failure to use Owens Corning Starter Shingle products may void the wind warranty."
How to Supplement for Starter (RFG 220)
When the carrier omits starter strips, you must supplement for them as a distinct line item.
1. Calculate the Perimeter: Starter must be installed along all eaves and rakes. Add the total linear footage of the eaves and the total linear footage of the rakes.
2. Add RFG 220: Add the Xactimate code RFG 220 (Roofing - Starter roll/strip) to your supplement, using the total perimeter linear footage as the quantity.
3. Cite the Manufacturer: In your supplement letter, explicitly state the brand of shingles being installed and quote their installation instructions regarding starter strips. Emphasize that failing to use the specific starter product will void the homeowner's wind warranty, leaving the carrier liable for future damages.
Stop Arguing, Start Automating
Writing these justifications and pulling manufacturer specs for every claim is a massive time sink.
EstimateDelta eliminates this friction. When you upload an estimate, our system calculates the total perimeter. If RFG 220 is missing or the quantity doesn't match the perimeter, it flags the item.
The generated Supplement Letter automatically includes the argument that starter is not included in waste for modern architectural shingles and cites the necessity of maintaining the manufacturer's warranty.
Don't let carriers dictate your installation methods or your margins. [Use EstimateDelta to get your starter strips approved today](/pricing).