When planning a roofing project, picking the right contractor can make a huge difference. Many companies advertise their GAF certifications, yet homeowners often overlook the key differences. Understanding the distinction between a GAF Certified™ contractor and a GAF Master Elite® contractor will guide you toward the best level of quality, warranty options, and long-term value.
What Does It Mean to Be a GAF Certified™ Contractor?
GAF Certified contractors are licensed, insured, and meet all GAF requirements. These professionals have received GAF training, ensuring they know the best practices for roofing installations. Hiring a GAF Certified contractor provides homeowners with confidence in the quality and reliability of their work.
Certified contractors also offer the System Plus warranty, which covers roofing materials for up to 50 years. This means you can trust your materials to last. However, keep in mind that GAF Certified contractors offer limited warranty options, compared to the broader protections available through Master Elite contractors.
The Benefits of Hiring a GAF Master Elite® Contractor
GAF Master Elite contractors represent the best of the best in the roofing industry. Only about 2% of contractors in North America qualify for this title. To achieve Master Elite status, contractors must meet stricter requirements for training, licensing, and insurance.
Hiring a GAF Master Elite contractor brings homeowners unique benefits, such as:
– Exclusive Golden Pledge® Warranty: This top-tier warranty covers both roofing materials and workmanship for up to 30 years.
– Quality Assurance: GAF regularly inspects Master Elite contractors to ensure they consistently meet the highest standards.
GAF Certified contractors only have the 50 year “product defect” warranty and NO WORKMANSHIP coverage from GAF Directly. Typically they only offer a “promise” that is only valuable if they remain in business for the duration of the promised warranty.
When choosing a roofing contractor, these benefits can make a big difference. Master Elite contractors offer more than just a roof installation; they provide peace of mind and long-term value.
Why Does This Matter When Choosing a Contractor?
Selecting a contractor with either GAF certification level brings quality, but there’s a clear difference. Certified contractors provide strong material coverage and skill, but Master Elite contractors offer much more. With exclusive warranties and GAF’s ongoing inspections, homeowners gain additional assurance and security.
If you’re investing in a roof that should last for decades, choosing a GAF Master Elite contractor ensures that every detail meets the highest standards.
Practical Benefits of Master Elite® Certification
Opting for a GAF Master Elite® contractor unlocks several valuable benefits that standard GAF Certified contractors don’t offer:
– Greater Peace of Mind: The Golden Pledge warranty provides up to 30 years of workmanship coverage, a feature exclusive to Master Elite contractors.
– High GAF Standards: GAF regularly inspects Master Elite contractors to ensure they meet rigorous criteria.
– Lasting Value: Master Elite contractors guarantee a durable, long-lasting roof, making them a wise choice for homeowners who want maximum protection.