What Does it Mean to be a GAF Master Elite Roofer?

We’re sure you’ll agree. Getting a new roof is a big deal. And when making such a significant investment, it’s important to ensure you’re getting the most for your money.

In this article, we’re offering you a shortcut: how to determine if a roofer—and their products—are worth your hard-earned money.

All it takes is looking for a few short words and knowing what that title means.

What is a GAF Master Elite Certified Roofer?

A GAF Master Elite contractor is a roofer who’s earned the highest-level certification from GAF—America’s largest roofing manufacturer.

As you’ll soon learn, only the upper echelon of residential roofers achieve this level of certification. And as such, GAF Master Elite roofers are trusted and able to provide GAF’s highest-tier warranties on products, workmanship, and labor cost coverage (more on that below).

What Does it Take to Become Master Elite Certified?

To achieve GAF’s Master Elite level, a roofing business must pass through a rigorous vetting process that’s renewed annually. By testing roofers at the highest degree, GAF limits its financial risk when offering its most comprehensive warranty packages.

Requirements for becoming a GAF Master Elite contractor:

• A minimum of 7 years in business (eliminates “storm chasers”)
• Standing in good credit and with a clean banking record
• Maintaining $1M+ in general liability insurance & sufficient workers’ comp
• Up-to-date local and state licensing
• A 99% customer satisfaction rating and 4-star (or higher) Google Business ratings
• Strong business bureau and online public reviews
• Ongoing training through GAF’s Center for the Advancement of Roofing Excellence (CARE)
• Committed to installing GAF’s complete qualifying roofing systems to factory specs

What’s more, Master Elite contractors are subject to annual reviews, fulfilling minimum installation quotas, and attending mandatory continuing education—the reason so few roofers are able to maintain the title.

How Many Roofers Are GAF Master Elite Certified?

According to GAF, only 2–3% of roofers nationwide earn Master Elite status.

Can’t Any Roofer Offer GAF Product Warranties?

GAF asphalt shingles are America’s #1 selling asphalt shingle. 

Their popularity comes down to an exceptional product—one easy for the company to back up. As such, any roofer is able to offer basic warranty coverage. 

Basic warranty coverage (available from any roofer):

• 10 years non-prorated material and labor coverage for defective materials
• Prorated coverage for defective materials after 10 years
• No labor coverage after 10 years

It should also be noted that if your roof fails due to a workmanship issue (incorrect spacing by roofer, missing flashing element, etc.) GAF will deny the claim entirely. Additionally, if you have to replace shingles, you are never covered for the cost of stripping the old shingles and hauling to the dumpster.

If you want higher warranty coverage (on materials, labor, and tear-down), you need a certified GAF roofer.

Let’s compare the basic warranty to the coverage of a Master Elite roofer.

What Warranty Coverage Do Master Elite Contractors Provide?

Hiring a GAF Master Elite roofer guarantees you’re working with a reputable roofer with a track record of excellence and high customer satisfaction in your area. But there’s more to it than that.

GAF Master Elite roofers are also able to offer GAF’s most extensive warranty coverage: their Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty.

GAF’s Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty includes:

• Material Coverage: up to 50 years of non-prorated protection against manufacturing defects on roofing materials
• Workmanship Coverage: Up to 25 years of labor and installation protection backed directly by GAF (not just the contractor)
• Tear-Off Coverage: Labor costs associated with tear-off and disposal are covered if needed to fix covered material or workmanship defects
• Transferability: GAF’s Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty is transferable one time to a new homeowner (boosts resale value)
• Factory Inspection: Your installation may include an independent quality audit by a GAF inspector

Wondering what all this coverage costs you up front? Reach out to a Master Elite contractor for a free quote today.

How Can You Verify That a Roofer is GAF Master Elite Certified?

Remember: maintaining a GAF Master Elite certification requires an annual renewal. So just because a roofer was once certified, that doesn’t mean they currently are.

Rather speak to someone at GAF? Ask for your roofer’s unique GAF Contractor ID number. Then contact GAF customer service.

They’ll run the number for you on the spot.

What Should Homeowners Look for Beyond a Roofer’s Certification?

While a Master Elite Certification is an exceptionally strong indicator of a roofer’s work, credibility, and trustworthiness, a website badge is just a starting point. 

Be sure your roofer can also provide:

• Proof of workers’ comp and general liability insurance
• Itemized proposals including “hidden damage” and deposit policies
• Workmanship warranties (beyond GAF) to cover installation
• A local track record of excellence and cleanliness on the job

Getting a new roof is a major investment, and it’s worth doing your due diligence. If they check all the boxes above—and have a Master Elite certification—you’ve likely found yourself a great roofer!

Is it Worth Hiring a Master Elite Certified Roofer?

GAF Master Elite roofers have a proven track record of craftsmanship, customer satisfaction, and the highest material warranty coverage on the top-selling roofing materials in America. The badge guarantees it.

So do we think it’s worth it? Absolutely. Especially if you want a solid roof over your head that going to be trouble-free for the next 30–50 years.

If you’re ready to explore your roofing options, reach out to our Master Elite certified roofers today. We’re ready to inspect your current roof and offer you a free quote on repairs or a full replacement.

Because you deserve a solid roof over your head.

Give us a call for your free quote today!

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Since 2014, Scenic View Roofing crews have stood on thousands of roofs in Lancaster County and the surrounding area. If you need a roof replacement or repairs, our GAF Master Elite Certified roofers are ready to put your mind at ease—with detail-driven residential roofing services, the nation’s leading products, and the top manufacturer’s and workmanship warranties available.