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Why Should I Hire a Certified Roofing Company?

February 9th, 2024

4 min read

By Jeffrey Linta

What is a certified roofing contractor?

Does my roofer’s level of certification really matter?

In short, yes, a roofer’s level of certification really does matter. But it only matters to you if you know what each certification signifies and why it is beneficial for your roofing project.

For instance, we at Linta Roofing are a GAF Master Elite Certified roofing company. Being a Master Elite roofing contractor means we can provide comprehensive warranty packages to our customers. 

“But what makes a Master Elite roofing contractor elite compared to other roofing contractors?” you ask.

In this article we’ll talk about the levels of certification a GAF contractor can have, how they earn it, and warranty information on what non-certified, certified, and master elite roofers can offer you.

 

A GAF certified roofing contractor is a professional who has undergone specific training, met certain qualifications, and obtained certifications relevant to the roofing industry. These certifications demonstrate a contractor’s competence, knowledge, and commitment to quality workmanship.

Certifications for roofing contractors may vary depending on the region, but they often include training in safety practices, proper installation techniques, and adherence to local building codes and regulations. Some common certifications and qualifications for roofing contractors may come from industry organizations, manufacturers, or government agencies.

Hiring a certified roofing contractor can provide several benefits, such as:

  • Quality workmanship that meets industry standards
  • Compliance with local building codes and regulations
  • Best safety practices
  • Manufacturer warranties, helping the customer receive comprehensive warranty coverage
  • Commitment to professionalism and ongoing education in the field

When looking for a roofing contractor, it’s essential to check their credentials, certifications, and references. While all of these factors are important in choosing the right roofing company, it is also important to consider the warranty options each kind of roofing contractor can provide for your roofing system.

A GAF certified roofing contractor undergoes training provided by GAF to ensure they are knowledgeable about the latest roofing practices and products. Not only that, but GAF certified roofers are responsible for adhering to GAF’s high standards for quality and excellence in roofing installation. 

With this certification, a roofer can offer the GAF Systems Plus warranty. This warranty includes GAF Shingles, 3 GAF accessories, and a warranty registration. The material warranty length is 50 years with a 0-year workmanship warranty. 

It is important to note that while GAF Certified contractors have met GAF’s standards for certification, the Master Elite designation represents a higher level within the GAF contractor program.

Master Elite contractors undergo additional training and have a proven track record of excellence, making them eligible to provide the GAF Silver Pledge and Golden Pledge warranties. 

  • The Silver Pledge warranty includes GAF shingles, 4 GAF accessories, and warranty registration. With this warranty you get a workmanship warranty length of 10 years and a non prorated material warranty for 50 years.
  • The Golden Pledge warranty includes GAF shingles, 5 GAF accessories, and warranty registration. With this warranty you get a workmanship warranty length of 25 years and a non prorated material warranty for 50 years.

GAF is a leading roofing manufacturer, and the Master Elite designation is a mark of excellence and expertise in the roofing industry. GAF Master Elite Contractors are roofing professionals who have achieved the highest level of certification within GAF’s contractor program. 

This may make you wonder, “How does GAF choose the roofing companies they are willing to back with these warranties?”

This criteria shows GAF that a roofing company values quality installations and a long-term commitment to serving their customer’s best interests. While there are great roofing contractors that are not certified by GAF, this certification offers you the added peace of mind necessary when making a large financial commitment like a new roofing system. 

GAF Certified

-Licensing and insurance
-Positive reputation
-Commitment to training
-Adherence to GAF installation standards
-Financial stability
-Warranty registration
GAF Master Elite

-GAF Certified status
-Ongoing training and education
-Installation excellence
-Consumer protection excellence
-Positive references

GAF Certified contractors can enhance the value of your roofing install in a significant way today and down the road. When you hire a non-certified contractor, you may not know exactly what you can expect, or what standard you can hold them up to.

A non-certified roofer will not be able to provide advanced warranties through the shingle manufacturer. GAF calls this the limited warranty.

The limited warranty will cover GAF shingles, but no other accessories. The material warranty length is 50 years (prorated) with no workmanship warranty. 

What this means is that your roofer uses GAF shingles, but is not certified with GAF, they are limited to offering a single warranty.

A roofing contractor may lack certification because they either didn’t go through the GAF certification process or did not meet GAF’s certification requirements.

Ultimately, choosing a roofing contractor without certification may make it less evident that you will receive a high quality roof installation, potentially leading to multiple repair costs down the road.

When you see companies boast their certifications, it may make you skeptical. It’s easy to wonder, what does this really have to do with the quality of their work?

When it comes to GAF certifications, they say a lot about the reputation and quality of work a roofing contractor provides. Not only that, but these certifications can ensure both manufacturers and workmanship warranties on your home. 

It is always wise to have layers of protection for your roofing system, everything from a quality installation to warranties that last for up to 25 years. Not only that but when you hire a roofing contractor that is known for top-notch workmanship, you may save yourself the headache of costly roof repairs throughout the lifespan of your roofing system.

If you choose a Master Elite contractor you will have your pick between GAF Systems Plus, Silver Pledge, or Golden Pledge warranties. Meaning that you get a choice in the warranty options that best fit your roofing needs. 

Having the flexibility to customize your warranties according to your specific needs ensures lasting peace of mind for years to come.

Jeffrey Linta

Jeffrey Linta is a 3rd generation roofer who grew up working in his family's roofing business (Linta Roofing, Inc.). He got his start tearing off roofs during the summer while attending North Myrtle Beach High School. Now running one of the most successful roofing businesses in the Grand Strand area, Jeffrey has lived and breathed roofing for his entire working career. Some of his accolades include GAF Master Elite Contractor, SC Safehome certified contractor, Group 5 SC Licensed Commercial Contractor, and GAF Master Commercial roofing contractor. Under his leadership, Linta Roofing, Inc. has served thousands of homeowners and business owners in the Grand Strand area. Linta Roofing achieved awards like the Sun News’s “Best of the Beach” and A+ Rating with the Better Business Bureau all while receiving hundreds of 5-star reviews year after year. Jeffrey is a Grand Strand born and raised local. When he is not running Linta Roofing, he spends time fishing with his wife Erica and walking the beach with his dog Dixie.