When it’s time for a new roof installation, repairs, or inspection, selecting a qualified, certified roofing contractor is key to getting excellent results.

Certifications validate the specialized skills and training needed to properly handle all phases of residential or commercial roofing work. In this guide, we’ll look at the most important certifications to look for, benefits they offer, how to verify credentials, and tips for choosing the best certified roofing company.

Why Certifications Matter When Hiring a Roofing Contractor

There are several reasons proper certifications should be required from any roofing contractor you consider for your home or building project:

Proof of Specialized Technical Expertise

Certifications demonstrate that a roofer has pursued advanced training on installation best practices, critical codes and standards, material science, and safety protocols for the type of roofing work you need done.

Assurance of Quality Workmanship

Contractors commit time to certification courses and exams because they are invested in providing quality roofing services. Credentials indicate dedication to their craft.

Better Liability Protection

Certified contractors follow strict industry standards and requirements. This means you benefit from up-to-date roofing techniques, code compliance, and risk reduction.

Warranty Coverage Protection

Manufacturer warranties often depend on certified installers working on their roofing products. Using a certified contractor prevents invalidating your material warranty.

Don’t risk your important roofing investment by using a contractor lacking the proper credentials for the job. Certification provides home and building owners with valuable reassurance.

Roofing Contractor Certifications to Demand

When researching and interviewing residential or commercial roofing contractors, be sure to ask about these important certifications:

Roofing License

A current state roofing contractor license is mandatory and ensures basic business operation compliance. All roofers must carry this credential.

GAF Master Elite

This certification is only held by the top 3% of roofing firms who meet strict standards for installation expertise with GAF materials. It covers every type of GAF asphalt shingle roofing.

CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster

Earned by fewer than 300 contractors nationwide, this special credential proves master craftsmanship specifically for installing CertainTeed brand shingles and roof systems.

Firestone Red Shield Licensed Contractor

Certifies expertise in proper design and installation of Firestone brand EPDM, TPO, and PVC commercial roofing systems for flat low slope buildings.

Corning Roofing’s Credentialed Contractor Network

Validates specialized skills and experience with fiberglass asphalt shingle, clay and concrete tile, and specialty metal roofing installation.

When you confirm these elite credentials, you gain assurance of hiring the absolute best roofing professionals. Don’t settle for uncertified contractors.

How to Verify a Roofing Contractor’s Certifications

With so many important credentials available, here are tips for verifying a contractor’s certificates:

Check License Lookup Databases

States provide license lookup tools online to validate a roofing license is current and active, with no complaints or disciplinary issues.

Look for Credential Badges on Websites

Certified contractors proudly display certification badges and numbers on their websites and marketing materials. Cross-check on manufacturer credential lookup sites.

Call Manufacturers to Confirm

Don’t assume certificates shown are current – call manufacturers like GAF and CertainTeed with contractor names and ID numbers to verify active status.

Request Documentation

Ask contractors to provide copies of original certificate documents, wallet cards, or digital credentials for your records and review.

Check Expiration Dates

Credentials like GAF Master Elite are renewed annually and dated. Double check that the year is current.

Properly verifying certifications upfront protects you from invalid claims or expired credentials. Take these steps before signing any roofing contract.

Key Benefits You Gain by Hiring a GAF Master Elite Roofer

As one of the most recognized and valued roofing credentials, GAF Master Elite status offers homeowners and building owners assurance of the highest quality workmanship. Here’s what you gain:

Specialized Training – GAF Master Elite roofers receive intensive technical training on proper shingle installation as well as business operations.

Quality Assurance Inspection – GAF audits a Master Elite roofer’s work on an actual roof project to ensure excellence.

Guaranteed Warranty – GAF’s Golden Pledge warranty only applies when a Master Elite roofer installs the shingle roof. Provides peace of mind.

Reputation Screening – Out of over 1 million roofers nationwide, less than 3000 currently meet Master Elite standards through rigorous application review.

Ongoing Expert Support – Master Elite contractors receive direct access to GAF’s team of technical experts for any product assistance needed.

For gold standard roofing installation from start to finish, the stats clearly show that a GAF Master Elite contractor like Cedar Park Roofer is the top choice.

What Special Expertise Does a CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster Provide?

Like GAF’s Master Elite, CertainTeed’s SELECT ShingleMaster credential represents the pinnacle of shingle roofing mastery. Here is what sets these exclusive contractors apart:

Comprehensive Testing – Contractors must pass exams proving in-depth product knowledge as well as installation skills testing. Less than 1% meet the requirements.

Industry Leading Training – Ongoing training is required on technical advancements, certification standards, and product innovations from CertainTeed.

Quality Assurance – CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster work is subject to random verification inspections before receiving the credential.

Premium Product Access – Contractors gain early access to CertainTeed’s latest shingle products and technology for enhanced performance advantages.

Marketing Support – CertainTeed provides branding materials to showcase a contractor’s SELECT status to customers seeking proven expertise.

With knowledge and performance verified, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster contractors like Cedar Park Roofer are ideal for tackling residential re-roofing projects.

How Firestone Red Shield Certification Fosters Commercial Roofing Expertise

On large commercial roofing projects using single ply or flat roofing materials, Firestone Red Shield contractor certification is the gold standard. Here is what it signifies:

Strict Criteria – Extensive experience with Firestone products is required along with liability insurance minimums and OSHA safety records reviewed.

Technical Training – Firestone Red Shield contractors are current on techniques for EPDM, TPO, and PVC roof system design, vulnerability assessment, repair protocols, and installation.

Quality Inspections – Firestone Red Shield applicants must pass assessment of an actual installed roofing project. Ongoing random inspections also occur.

Extended Warranties – Firestone extends warranty coverage an additional 2 years beyond standard coverage when a Red Shield contractor performs installation.

New Technology Early Adopters – Contractors get early access to the latest Firestone products and installation innovations as they are released.

For large commercial flat roofing jobs, the Firestone Red Shield stamp of approval assures business owners of ideal results and protection.

How Corning Certified Contractors Excel in Specialty Roofing

From stunning clay and concrete tile to unique metal roofing profiles, Corning Credentialed Contractors receive advanced training on specialty installations beyond basic asphalt shingles. Benefits include:

Multi-Product Expertise – Training covers clay, metal, flat, and steep slope roofing installation topics across Corning’s broad roofing portfolio.

Installation Excellence – Rigorous exams, credentials renewal every 2 years, and random project inspections ensure optimal workmanship.

Warranties Guaranteed – Corning will fully back their warranty coverage when installed by a Credentialed Contractor.

Standout Marketing – Contractors can promote their Corning Credentialed status to home and building owners seeking proven specialty roofing expertise.

Ongoing Education – Contractors get access to Corning’s roofing and construction science experts for technical support.

Whether your project demands tile, architectural metal, or fiberglass shingle roofing, insist on a Corning Credentialed Contractor like Cedar Park Roofer for flawless execution.

Tips for Choosing the Best Certified Roofing Contractor

To ensure you partner with the most qualified certified roofing contractor in your area:

Demand Multiple Certifications – Top firms will hold credentials from manufacturers and also elite contractor programs. These signal broad expertise.

Check Reviews and References – Certified contractors still need great references and reviews vouching for their local reputation. Make sure past customers are satisfied.

Ask About Ongoing Training – Leading roofers continue learning every year. Their knowledge should align with the latest codes, products, and techniques.

Request a Detailed Project Plan – From materials to installation methods and safety protocols, the contractor should explain their full certified process for your specific roof.

Verify Documentation – Require contractors to provide copies of all current certificates and licenses so you can cross-check credentials.

By vetting thoroughly and requiring certifications like GAF Master Elite status, you take the guesswork out of finding an outstanding roofing expert you can trust.

Partner with Cedar Park’s Top Certified Roofing Contractor

When it’s time to get your Cedar Park home or commercial building’s roof installation or repairs done right, turn to the knowledgable professionals at Cedar Park Roofer. Their team holds esteemed certifications like GAF Master Elite, CertainTeed SELECT ShingleMaster, and more to validate their roofing expertise. With an A+ Better Business Bureau rating and proven local track record, they have the experience to tackle any re-roofing or repair challenge while providing knowledgeable guidance and excellent results.

Contact Cedar Park Roofer today to discuss your project and learn more about their certified roofing advantage. Their focus is always on an outstanding customer experience built on trust, transparency, and workmanship.