what our certifications mean for your home
When you are planning a roof replacement, siding upgrade, or storm damage repair, you are not just hiring a contractor. You are choosing who will protect your home, your investment, and everything inside it.
That decision can feel overwhelming. Every company says they do great work. Every website lists credentials and logos. But what do those certifications really mean for you?
Let’s walk through each one in a clear and simple way so you know exactly how they protect your home and why they matter.
better business bureau – a+ rating
An A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau is the highest grade a company can earn. The BBB looks at how a business handles customer concerns, how transparent it is, and how committed it is to ethical practices.
For you, this means you are working with a company that has a strong history of standing behind its work. If questions come up during your roof repair or exterior remodeling project, you can feel confident they will be addressed professionally and fairly.
When you are investing thousands of dollars into your home, accountability matters.
HAAG master level certification
Storm damage is not always obvious. A few lifted shingles or small hail marks can lead to major problems months later. HAAG Engineering is a nationally recognized authority in roof inspections and storm damage assessment.
A HAAG Master Level certification represents advanced training in identifying hail, wind, and impact damage.
For you, this means your roof inspection is not a quick glance from the ground. It is a trained evaluation that can clearly explain whether you need minor roof repair or a full roof replacement. It is especially important during the insurance restoration process, where accurate documentation can make all the difference.
HAAG certified wind damage inspector
High winds affect roofing systems in specific ways. Shingles can crease, seals can break, and flashing can loosen without it being obvious at first.
A HAAG Certified Wind Damage Inspector is trained to spot those details.
For you, this means if strong storms move through Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, or Pennsylvania, your roof can be properly evaluated. Hidden wind damage will not be overlooked. That protects you from leaks and long-term structural issues down the road.
GAF master elite® contractor
This is one of the highest certifications in the asphalt shingle roofing industry. Only a small percentage of contractors nationwide qualify for GAF Master Elite status.
To earn it, a contractor must be properly licensed, adequately insured, maintain a strong reputation, and complete ongoing training.
For you, this means two major things. First, your roof is installed according to strict manufacturer standards. Second, you gain access to enhanced warranty options that most contractors cannot offer.
If you are searching for a GAF certified roofer or comparing roof replacement companies near you, this certification sets a higher standard of protection for your home.
priddy’s 5-year workmanship warranty
Manufacturer warranties cover material defects. A workmanship warranty covers how the roof or exterior system was installed.
A 5-year workmanship warranty means the installation itself is backed.
For you, this adds another layer of protection. If an issue comes up related to installation, it will be addressed. That gives you confidence that your asphalt shingle roof, metal roof, or siding replacement as installed with care and precision.
GAF metal certified
Metal roofing is growing in popularity because of its durability and long lifespan. But metal systems require different installation techniques than traditional shingles.
GAF Metal Certification confirms specialized training in installing metal roofing systems.
For you, this means if you choose a metal roof replacement, it will be installed correctly with proper fastening, panel alignment, and weatherproofing. That helps prevent leaks and ensures long-term performance.
certified vinyl installer
Siding plays a big role in protecting your home from moisture and improving energy efficiency. Vinyl siding must be installed correctly to allow for expansion, ventilation, and drainage.
A certified vinyl installer has been trained in proper siding installation standards.
For you, this means your siding replacement will not just look good. It will function properly. That protects your home from water damage and improves curb appeal at the same time.
owens corning preferred contractor
Owens Corning is a leading manufacturer of roofing materials. Preferred Contractor status means strict standards for reliability, professionalism, and craftsmanship have been met.
For you, this provides access to quality roofing systems backed by strong warranties. It also shows that installation standards are being followed closely, which helps your roof last longer.
HAAG commercial certified inspector
Commercial and multi-family roofing systems are very different from residential roofs. Flat and low-slope systems require specialized inspection training.
A HAAG Commercial Certified Inspector is trained to assess these roofing systems for storm damage and long-term performance issues.
For property managers and building owners, this means inspections are detailed and accurate. Decisions about commercial roof repair or replacement are based on expert evaluation, not guesswork.
fortified certified
FORTIFIED is a nationally recognized standard designed to strengthen homes against severe weather. A FORTIFIED certified contractor understands how to install roofing systems that meet higher wind and storm resistance standards.
For you, this means your roof can be built to better withstand high winds and heavy storms. In some cases, it may even help reduce insurance premiums. In storm-prone areas, that added protection can make a significant difference over time.
why this all matters when choosing a roofing contractor
When you search for roof repair near me or compare roof replacement estimates, it is easy to focus on price alone. But certifications tell you something deeper.
They show that the contractor working on your home has been trained, tested, and approved by respected organizations. They show a commitment to ongoing education, proper installation, and accountability.
Most importantly, they reduce your risk.
Your roof protects everything underneath it. Whether you are dealing with storm damage restoration, planning a full roof replacement, upgrading to a metal roof, or replacing siding, you deserve to know the work will be done correctly.
Understanding these certifications helps you move forward with clarity and confidence. And when you feel confident in your decision, you can focus on what matters most—knowing your home is protected for years to come.
FAQ
Do roofing certifications really matter when choosing a contractor?
Yes. Certifications are not just logos on a website. They show that a contractor has completed manufacturer training, met insurance and licensing requirements, and follows specific installation standards.
For you, that means lower risk. Certified contractors are held to higher performance standards and can often offer stronger warranties than non-certified companies.
What is the difference between a manufacturer certification and a third-party certification?
Manufacturer certifications (like GAF Master Elite® or Owens Corning Preferred Contractor) come directly from roofing material manufacturers. These focus on proper product installation and allow access to enhanced warranties.
Third-party certifications (like HAAG or FORTIFIED) come from independent organizations. These focus on inspection expertise, storm damage assessment, and advanced building standards.
For you, having both types of credentials means your roof is installed correctly and inspected accurately.
How does GAF Master Elite® status benefit me as a homeowner?
GAF Master Elite® contractors can offer enhanced warranty options that most roofers cannot. These warranties often include longer coverage periods and stronger protection against installation-related issues.
For you, that means added peace of mind and potentially decades of coverage on your roof replacement.
What does HAAG certification mean during an insurance claim?
HAAG-certified inspectors are trained to identify hail and wind damage according to nationally recognized standards.
During an insurance restoration process, this matters because documentation must be accurate and detailed. A HAAG-certified inspection helps ensure legitimate storm damage is properly identified and explained.
For you, that can make the claims process clearer and more defensible.
Is FORTIFIED roofing worth it in Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, or Pennsylvania?
If you live in a storm-prone area, FORTIFIED standards can significantly improve wind resistance and roof durability.
In some cases, insurance companies offer discounts for FORTIFIED-certified homes. Even when discounts are not available, the structural improvements can reduce long-term storm damage risk.
For you, it adds resilience and potentially lowers lifetime repair costs.
What is a workmanship warranty and how is it different from a manufacturer warranty?
A manufacturer warranty covers defects in the roofing materials.
A workmanship warranty covers how the roof was installed.
For you, both matter. Even the best materials can fail if installed incorrectly. A strong workmanship warranty ensures the installation itself is backed by the contractor.
Does metal roofing require special certification?
Yes. Metal roofing systems use different fastening systems, panel alignment techniques, and waterproofing methods than asphalt shingles.
A GAF Metal Certified contractor has specific training in these systems.
For you, that reduces the risk of leaks, oil canning, or premature failure in your metal roof installation.
Should I choose a roofing contractor based on certifications alone?
Certifications are important, but they are part of a bigger picture. You should also consider:
Insurance and licensing
Local experience
Reviews and reputation
Clear written estimates
Communication throughout the project
For you, the right contractor combines proper credentials with proven reliability and strong customer service.