Hiring a roofing contractor is one of the most consequential decisions a homeowner or property manager can make. Roofs safeguard the structure, improve energy efficiency, and influence curb appeal and resale value. Yet the marketplace is crowded, and it’s not always easy to tell a seasoned, certified contractor from a general handyman. Understanding contractor credentials—especially manufacturer-backed programs like GAF and CertainTeed—helps you choose a roofing contractor who will install your roof to the highest standards and stand behind the work.
Why Credentials Matter
Credentials signal training, tested knowledge, and adherence to best practices. They also help you filter for a licensed roofer, bonded roofer, and insured roofing company—three baseline protections that reduce your risk. When a certified contractor is vetted by a leading shingle manufacturer, you gain confidence that:
- They meet strict installation standards and maintain ongoing training. They carry proper state licensure and insurance. They can offer stronger warranty coverage because the manufacturer stands behind their workmanship on approved systems.
Without credible contractor credentials, even premium materials can fail prematurely due to improper ventilation, flashing, or nailing patterns. For large investments, credentials are a practical safeguard—complemented by thorough contractor reviews and comparable roofing estimates.
GAF Certifications Explained
GAF is one of North America’s largest roofing manufacturers and runs a tiered certification program:
- GAF Certified: Contractors meet minimum insurance and licensing, receive training, and can offer enhanced shingle warranties on eligible systems. This is an entry point for a certified contractor with GAF’s oversight. GAF Master Elite: A more selective designation (a small percentage of contractors qualify). Requirements typically include a strong reputation, ongoing training, high customer satisfaction, and robust insurance. Master Elite status often grants access to GAF’s strongest warranty options, which can include workmanship coverage backed by GAF. GAF Master Select (Commercial): Tailored for low-slope and commercial roofs, with stringent quality controls and project specifications.
When choosing a roofer, ask which GAF credentials they hold, verify them on GAF’s website, and review their warranty offerings and claim process. A reputable roofing contractor will be transparent about certification scope and limits.
CertainTeed Credentials
CertainTeed’s credentialing aims to standardize excellence across product lines:
- ShingleMaster (SM): Recognizes knowledge of shingle installation and best practices. Contractors pass exams or complete training to qualify. SELECT ShingleMaster (SSM): A higher tier requiring proof of insurance, a track record of quality, advanced training, and adherence to the Shingle Quality Specialist and Master Shingle Applicator standards. Commercial programs: For low-slope systems, contractors can earn credentials specific to modified bitumen, single-ply, and waterproofing products.
SELECT ShingleMaster contractors can typically offer upgraded SureStart PLUS warranties with enhanced workmanship coverage. As with GAF, verify credentials directly through CertainTeed and confirm which warranty levels apply https://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/11yhwv0jnw to your job.
Other Recognized Programs and Indicators
While GAF and CertainTeed are widespread, credible signals extend beyond these brands:
- Owens Corning Platinum Preferred and Preferred Contractor Malarkey Emerald Pro and Emerald Premium IKO ROOFPRO Select/ShieldPRO Plus+ NRCA (National Roofing Contractors Association) membership and training Manufacturer-specific low-slope systems training (TPO, PVC, EPDM, coatings)
A licensed roofer with manufacturer credentials shows commitment to training and quality. Combine that with evidence of being a bonded roofer and an insured roofing company, and you have a strong baseline for trust.
License, Bond, Insurance: Non-Negotiables
- Licensed roofer: Confirms compliance with state and local requirements. Licensing can be verified with your state’s contractor board. Bonded roofer: A bond protects the property owner if the contractor fails to complete the job or meet obligations. Ask for the bond number and issuer. Insured roofing company: Requires general liability and workers’ compensation coverage. Request certificates and have the insurer issue them to you directly with your address listed.
If a contractor is reluctant to share proof of license, bond, or insurance, that’s a red flag regardless of other contractor credentials.
Warranties and Workmanship
Certified programs typically unlock enhanced warranties. Understand the tiers:
- Manufacturer material warranty: Covers defects in shingles or membranes, usually prorated over time. System warranty: Covers a combination of materials installed to specification (underlayments, ventilation, accessories). Workmanship warranty: Covers installation errors. For higher-tier certified contractors, the manufacturer may back workmanship for a period if the approved system is installed.
Ask for the warranty document before signing roofing bids, not after. Confirm transferability, claim procedures, and exclusions (like inadequate attic ventilation or non-manufacturer accessories).
Vetting Through Reviews and References
Even the best credentials don’t replace due diligence:
- Contractor reviews: Read recent reviews across multiple platforms, noting patterns about communication, clean-up, and honoring warranties. References and portfolios: Ask for addresses of completed projects similar to yours. Drive by to inspect straight lines, flashing details, and ridge ventilation. Local presence: A physical office and long-term local work history can be invaluable, especially if warranty service is needed.
Estimates, Bids, and Scope Clarity
When comparing roofing estimates, ensure you’re comparing equivalent scopes:
- Materials: Manufacturer, product line, underlayment type, ventilation, flashing metals, ice-and-water shield quantities. Installation standards: Nail counts, starter strips, drip edge, chimney and valley details. Tear-off and deck repair: Board or OSB replacement cost per sheet or linear foot. Disposal, permits, and clean-up: Dumpster fees, magnet sweeps, final inspection. Timeline and payment schedule: Clear milestones with retainage until final inspection.
Quality-focused roofing bids from a certified contractor will detail these items so you can compare apples to apples when choosing a roofer.
Red Flags to Avoid
- Cash-only offers or large upfront payments. Vague scopes without material brands or model lines. Refusal to show license, insurance, or bond. No manufacturer training or inability to explain ventilation and flashing standards. Pressure tactics after storms; always verify contractor credentials before signing.
How to Make the Final Choice
- Shortlist contractors with verifiable GAF, CertainTeed, or equivalent credentials. Confirm they are a licensed roofer, bonded roofer, and insured roofing company. Compare detailed roofing bids with clear scopes and warranties. Validate contractor reviews and call references. Choose the team that balances expertise, warranty strength, communication, and fair pricing—not just the lowest number.
Strong credentials, transparent estimates, and a proven track record are the surest path to a roof that performs for decades.
FAQs
Q: Do GAF Master Elite or CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster contractors cost more? A: Sometimes. Higher-tier certified contractors invest in training and quality control, which may reflect in pricing. However, they often deliver better workmanship and stronger warranties, which can reduce lifetime costs.
Q: How can I verify a contractor’s credentials? A: Check the manufacturer’s website (GAF, CertainTeed, etc.) for the contractor’s profile, and verify license, bond, and insurance with your state and the insurer. Ask for current certificates and warranty eligibility letters if available.
Q: What should be included in professional roofing estimates? A: Specific materials (brand and line), installation details, ventilation plan, flashing approach, deck repair pricing, disposal and permits, timeline, payment schedule, and warranty terms. Comprehensive roofing bids make choosing a roofer far easier.
Q: Is a bonded roofer necessary for small repairs? A: For minor repairs, bonding may be less critical, but a licensed roofer with insurance is still essential. For replacements or large projects, insist on a bonded roofer and an insured roofing company to protect your investment.
Q: Are manufacturer warranties valid if any contractor installs the products? A: Not always. Many enhanced warranties require installation by a certified contractor and adherence to system specifications. Using a non-certified installer can limit you to basic material coverage.