When you’re looking for a roofing contractor to install (in new home construction), repair, or replace your roof, it’s a good idea to find a licensed and credentialed or certified one instead of relying on an inexperienced, unlicensed and uncertified individual.
What Is a Roofing License?
Most states in America require a license for roofing contractors to work in their area. The primary reason for a contractor to obtain a license is to make their work legal in the locality where they hold a license. If a roofer isn’t licensed to work in a particular area, they are liable for serious fines and even jail time.
A roofer needs a specific amount of experience in the industry, which they can get by working on projects as part of a crew. In many states, their experience is not enough, as they require training. The scope of training and experience required varies from state to state.
They also need insurances for their company. Liability insurance is the most commonly required type of insurance. In some areas, workers’ compensation insurance is also needed. The best roofers to hire are those that have both.
Licensed roofers usually have to pass exams. They may also have to continue their education in roofing for as long as they’re active in the industry.
What Is a Roofing Certification?
A roofing certification is different from a license as it is a credential awarded by the manufacturer of the products that the roofing company carries. Different manufacturers have their own sets of requirements for a roofer to earn their credentials. For example, CertainTeed offers SELECT ShingleMaster™ (SSM) and ShingleMaster™ (SM) to contractors working on residential roofing.
ShingleMaster-credentialed contractors should focus on superior workmanship and high customer satisfaction, but they should also have Master Shingle Applicators in their crew. Alternatively, the contractor can participate in a credential course for SMs.
SELECT ShingleMaster is the top-level contractor certification for CertainTeed roofers. It requires the highest level of workmanship excellence, as well as superior knowledge in the industry. The contractor should pass rigorous testing, and holds liability and workers’ compensation insurance.
Why Do You Need a Credentialed Roofer?
When you hire a roofer, make sure they are licensed by the state and certified by the manufacturer of the products you select. Here are the reasons for choosing a credentialed roofer:
- A certified roofer can offer extended manufacturer warranties that uncertified roofers can’t. For example, a SELECT ShingleMaster or a ShingleMaster can offer the SureStart PLUS™ extended warranty, which is the highest level of warranty coverage for a CertainTeed Integrity Roof System.
- You can rest assured that your roof was installed using the best methods required by the material manufacturer. Certified roofers never take shortcuts. You can be sure that your roof will perform according to the manufacturer’s highest standards.
- A certified contractor has incomparable knowledge about your roofing system so that you can ask any question about it and they will provide you with the best answers. You won’t be left in the dark about the actual capabilities of your roofing system as well as your warranty coverage.
Get in touch with A1 Siding & Roofing. We are a licensed, SELECT ShingleMaster roofer. We also offer commercial roofing. Call us today at (603) 627-7339 or tell us about your project here. We’re ready to help you in Manchester, NH.