What Is CertainTeed ShingleMaster?
Roofing term defined for MA & RI homeowners
CertainTeed ShingleMaster is the elite tier of the CertainTeed Credentialed Contractor program. ShingleMaster-certified contractors have demonstrated advanced installation knowledge, carry appropriate insurance and licensing, and have committed to ongoing education on CertainTeed products.
Roofing Doctors holds CertainTeed ShingleMaster status at our Massachusetts and Rhode Island locations.
CertainTeed Credentialed Contractor Tiers
CertainTeed's contractor program has three levels:
| Certification Level | Description |
|---|---|
| Registered Contractor | Basic enrollment in CertainTeed's program |
| Credentialed Contractor | Insurance, licensing, and product training verified |
| ShingleMaster | Elite status with advanced training and quality commitments |
Only ShingleMaster contractors can offer CertainTeed's most comprehensive warranty products.
What Is Required for ShingleMaster Certification?
To earn and maintain ShingleMaster status, a contractor must:
- •**Pass a written technical examination** on CertainTeed product knowledge and installation
- •**Maintain appropriate liability insurance and workers' compensation**
- •**Hold all required state and local contractor licenses**
- •**Demonstrate a track record of quality installations**
- •**Complete ongoing education** on CertainTeed product updates and building science
The ShingleMaster Warranty Advantage: SureStart Plus
The primary benefit for homeowners is access to CertainTeed's **SureStart Plus Limited Warranty**.
Standard Warranty (available to all credentialed contractors)
- •50-year coverage on materials
- •25-year non-prorated coverage
- •10-year SureStart workmanship coverage
SureStart Plus (ShingleMaster exclusive)
- •50-year coverage on materials
- •**Lifetime non-prorated coverage** for as long as you own your home
- •**50-year SureStart workmanship coverage** - backed by both the contractor and CertainTeed
- •Transferable to subsequent homeowner within the first 50 years
- •Wind warranty up to 130 mph (or 150 mph with specific shingles)
The workmanship coverage backed by CertainTeed - not just the contractor - is a significant advantage. If your roofing contractor closes their doors, CertainTeed's warranty protection remains in place.
CertainTeed ShingleMaster vs. GAF Master Elite
Both programs represent the top certification tier from their respective manufacturers. The right choice depends on which product line best fits your home and budget:
| Feature | CertainTeed ShingleMaster | GAF Master Elite |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturer | CertainTeed | GAF |
| Market share | Major US manufacturer | Largest US manufacturer |
| Top workmanship warranty | 50 years (SureStart Plus) | 25 years (Golden Pledge) |
| Products | Landmark, Landmark Pro, Highland Slate | Timberline HDZ, Timberline UHDZ |
| Contractor pool | Top-tier certified | Top 3% nationwide |
Roofing Doctors holds both CertainTeed ShingleMaster and GAF Master Elite certifications, giving our customers access to the best warranty products from both leading manufacturers.
Verifying ShingleMaster Status
You can verify any contractor's CertainTeed ShingleMaster status at CertainTeed.com. Always verify before signing a contract - some contractors claim certifications they don't hold or that have lapsed.
Related Terms
- •[GAF Master Elite](/glossary/gaf-master-elite/) - GAF's equivalent elite contractor certification
- •[Asphalt Shingles](/glossary/asphalt-shingles/) - CertainTeed's core residential product