Roofing Contractor Certifications: Which Ones Actually Matter?

You’re shopping for a new roof and quickly notice that nearly every Myrtle Beach roofer claims some kind of elite certification. Whether it’s GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed ShingleMaster, or Owens Corning Platinum Preferred.

It sounds impressive. But what does it actually mean?

Unless you work in construction, you probably don’t have time to decode what these certifications really represent…or why they even matter.

When we first earned our GAF Master Elite status, we proudly touted it in our marketing. It sounds like a sign of quality, so we leaned into it.

But here’s the truth: nothing about how we install roofs, communicate with customers, or serve Myrtle Beach homeowners has changed since we received the GAF Master Elite distinction. 

So, do roofing certifications really matter? Let’s talk about it.

What are Roofing Contractor Certifications?

Roofing contractor certifications like GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Platinum Preferred, and CertainTeed ShingleMaster are often promoted as elite badges of quality. Manufacturers position these titles as signals of expertise.

Contractors are typically required to:

• Complete specific training courses
• Sell a minimum number of extended warranties
• Purchase a certain volume of products each year

While only a small percentage of roofing contractors earn these certifications, the requirements focus more on meeting these requirements than on quality workmanship.

Are Roofing Certifications a Sign of Skill or a Marketing Tool?

The roofing industry can be quite cutthroat. With most roofing companies expected to fail within the first 5 years of business there is certainly a level of expertise that allows them to meet the requirements listed above. However, earning this certification is not based on a history of inspections completed by the manufacturer. 

This may make you wonder: are these certifications designed to promote brand loyalty? Or to ensure quality craftsmanship?

Let’s look at the signs:

• Often brands will pay a certain amount to roofing companies for promotions like adding their logo on trucks, online ads, and uniforms.
• Brands will offer a way for roofers to be discovered on their website.

It’s a mutually beneficial offer on the surface. The more products a roofing company purchases from a manufacturer, the more they will help you sell. But does any of this have anything to do with quality workmanship?

Why Roofing Certifications Don’t Guarantee Skilled Work

Regardless of their status, a roofing company is typically its own entity, not directly affiliated with manufacturers in decision-making within its own business. In Myrtle Beach, you’re much more likely to see roofing companies with layers of accountability within their own organization. Meaning final inspections on completed work are typically completed by an employee of the roofing company, not the manufacturer.

FAQs About Roofing Contractor Certifications

Which certifications genuinely matter for quality assurance?

Certifications from major manufacturers (e.g. GAF Master Elite, Owens Corning Platinum, CertainTeed Select) may offer access to extended warranties and suggest a history of consistent performance.

Certifications from reputable organizations (like OSHA safety training) can further indicate commitment to industry best practices and safe execution.

Should I only hire certified contractors?

Not necessarily. Certification is a useful filter, but not a deciding factor. You should also vet for local experience, in-house workmanship warranties, verifiable reviews, and willingness to answer tough questions. Trust and communication often differentiate the best installers, not just the badges they display.

Are roofing licenses and certifications the same?

No. Licenses are mandated by state and local authorities. Certifications are voluntary and industry-specific, often tied to warranties and marketing perks, but are not legal requirements.

What Actually Matters in Choosing a Roofer

• Workmanship Warranty

A strong workmanship warranty—offered directly by the contractor—is often more reliable than a manufacturer’s guarantee. Why? Because when problems arise, you want the people who installed the roof to take responsibility without delays or finger-pointing.

As one of our project managers, Brinson, puts it “When the manufacturer is behind it, you get slower response times and a lot of back-and-forth while you’re still stuck with a leak.”

• Customer Reviews and References

Want to know how a contractor performs? Ask their past clients. Online reviews and personal referrals offer honest insights into things certifications don’t measure, like punctuality, responsiveness, and follow-through.

• Local Reputation

Contractors who are embedded in their community have more to lose from a bad job. They tend to care more about maintaining trust than racking up points with a manufacturer.

• Transparent Communication

Look for roofers who are upfront about materials, timelines, and pricing. Certifications can’t guarantee honesty, but real conversations can.

Do Roofing Certifications Matter in Choosing the Right Roofing Company?

The moment you realize you need a new roof, you may feel like you’ve entered into a whole new world of roofing. Especially here in Myrtle Beach, where competition is fierce and marketing teams may toss around terms that sound elite.

We can only speak for ourselves at the end of the day. And it’s a natural part of our mission at Linta Roofing to consistently improve customer satisfaction with our service. So, while we are a GAF Master Elite roofing contractor, that distinction wasn’t necessarily awarded based on our commitment to excellence, even though we hold ourselves to a high standard. Though it sounds nice, we are not accountable to GAF for ensuring high-quality service. That’s just our goal each day.

To learn more about how to spot a great roofer, check out our article ‘How Do I Choose a Roofer?’ and download our contractor comparison worksheet. With this tool you’ll be able to look at the most important signs a roofing company is going to do right by you. 

Our last word of advice is what we tell all of our customers who are comparing roofing contractors: go with your gut. If something feels off about a roofing company, it might be better to go with a company you feel like you can trust. And if you have questions in regards to your needs, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re happy to provide information that helps you make the best decision for your home.