If you’ve been researching asphalt roofing contractors in Pennsylvania, you’ve likely come across the term “GAF Master Elite.” It shows up on websites, trucks, and business cards throughout the industry, but not every contractor who mentions GAF actually holds this specific certification, and the distinction matters more than most homeowners realize.
Let’s dig into what GAF Master Elite actually means so you can make a more informed decision when choosing a roofing contractor.
GAF Certification Tiers, and Why Master Elite Stands Out
GAF is North America’s largest roofing manufacturer and has an established certification program for its installers. Their entry level certification is GAF Certified, which means contractors certified in this level have completed a basic training course and can install GAF materials.
This basic certification is not incredibly difficult to obtain, so it serves as a minimal baseline but not as a guarantee of quality or reliability. Master Elite is the top tier in this program, and the standards you’d be looking for are not the baseline ones many contractors apply for. Fewer than 2-3% of roofing contractors across the country are designated as Master Elite certified.
While this might sound like a statistic solely for marketing purposes, it reflects how demanding the requirements are and why many contractors fail to meet or maintain them.
How Does One Achieve Master Elite Status?
Becoming Master Elite certified isn’t a simple process of filling out a form and training for a weekend. GAF wants assurance that each certified contractor is consistently using the best industry practices along with having verified skills and accreditations.
These requirements include:
- Proper state and local licensing
- Liability insurance and workers’ compensation coverage
- Proven track record of community responsibility
- Good financial standing
- Extensive experience installing roofing systems
- Completion of ongoing training courses
It’s important to know that Master Elite is not a one-time achievement. Certification is re-evaluated each year, which means a contractor has to keep meeting these standards year after year to hold this title. Contractors who cut corners, make installation mistakes, or accumulate complaints will fall out of compliance and lose their status.
Certification That’s Specific to Asphalt Shingle Roofs
It’s worth being clear about what Master Elite actually covers. This certification is only for asphalt shingle roofing systems, which is GAF’s core product line and also the most commonly installed roofing type in North America. Roughly 75 to 80 percent of all homes use asphalt because it’s cost-effective, durable, and easy to fix and maintain.
While most roofing companies offer asphalt roofs, they don’t all deliver the same level of quality. Here at MR Roofing, all of our roofing specialists are Master Elite certified so you can expect the highest level of professionalism, craftsmanship, and performance. Essentially, you’re working with the best in the business.
How Does Master Elite Certification Affect Warranties?
Ready for more good news? One of the primary benefits of working with a roofing contractor with GAF Master Elite certification is that they have the potential to offer some of the best warranties in the industry.
For instance, the Golden Pledge Limited Warranty is one of GAF’s strongest residential warranty options. It provides a 50-year non-prorated period for qualifying manufacturing defects, along with 25 or 30 years of workmanship coverage depending on the shingles installed.
The Silver Pledge Limited Warranty is also robust, offering a 50-year non-prorated period for qualifying materials, 10 years of workmanship coverage, and tear-off and disposal coverage when necessary.
Why This Certification Is Worth Asking About
The Master Elite certification is more than just a name on your paperwork. It means your contractor is fully vetted, tested, and held to an ongoing standard. It also means that as a homeowner, you’re working with an organization that takes pride in its work and employs professionals who are highly trained, skilled, and committed to quality craftsmanship.
Although many companies claim to install GAF systems and may tout some relationship with the manufacturer, we at MR Roofing work to distinguish ourselves as a true industry leader through the pursuit of GAF Master Elite certification. By having team members with this designation, we are able to provide our clients the quality assurance and warranty advantages of working with a top-tier professional.
Get a Free Estimate Today
A new roof is one of the biggest investments you’ll make for your property. Therefore, the contractor you choose to install it deserves careful attention. MR Roofing delivers lasting roofing solutions for homes and businesses in Pennsylvania and Maryland. Not only do we have some of the best warranties in the industry thanks to our GAF Master Elite standing, but also we offer our own 20-year workmanship warranty. Contact us today at (717) 665-1752 to schedule your free estimate.