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The 5-Star Advantage: Unlocking CertainTeed’s Best Warranty with a SELECT ShingleMaster
Mario Eduardo Espindola • October 20, 2025
When it’s time to replace your roof, the quality of the shingles you choose is only half the equation. The other half—the quality of the installation—is what ensures those shingles will protect your home for decades to come. This is where manufacturer certifications become critical.
For homeowners choosing CertainTeed roofing products, the highest credential a contractor can earn is SELECT ShingleMaster™. This elite status is more than just a title; it’s your assurance of a top-tier installation and access to the most powerful warranty in the industry: the SureStart™ PLUS 5-STAR Warranty.
Why Your Contractor's Certification Matters More Than You Think
A manufacturer's warranty typically covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. However, most roofing issues, like leaks, stem from installation errors, which are covered by a contractor's workmanship warranty. These contractor warranties are often short-term, lasting only one to five years.
CertainTeed bridges this gap with its credentialing program, which vets and trains contractors to ensure they meet the highest standards. Only these certified contractors can offer extended warranties that cover both materials and workmanship, backed directly by CertainTeed.
What is a SELECT ShingleMaster?
The SELECT ShingleMaster™ credential is the highest level of certification offered by CertainTeed, reserved for the top 1% of roofing contractors.1 To earn this status, a contractor must meet a stringent set of requirements that go far beyond basic licensing and insurance.
The SELECT ShingleMaster Difference: A Commitment to Excellence
| Requirement | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
| Minimum of 5 Years in Business | The company has a proven track record and is less likely to disappear, ensuring they'll be around to honor their workmanship warranty. |
| Advanced Crew Training | At least 50% of the installation crew and all supervisors must be certified Master Shingle Applicators™, ensuring your roof is installed according to best practices. |
| Proven Product Knowledge | The company must employ a Shingle Quality Specialist™ who has passed an exam on shingle technology, quality standards, and design. |
| High Customer Satisfaction | Contractors must maintain a customer satisfaction rating of 4 out of 5 or higher, verified through CertainTeed's independent surveys. |
| Proper Insurance Coverage | Must carry worker's compensation and liability insurance specifically covering roofing, protecting you from liability for job site accidents. |
The Crown Jewel: The SureStart™ PLUS 5-STAR Warranty
The most significant benefit of hiring a SELECT ShingleMaster like Econo-Roofing, is exclusive access to the SureStart™ PLUS 5-STAR Warranty. This is the only warranty that includes a workmanship guarantee provided directly by CertainTeed for 25 years. If an installation error causes a leak within that period, CertainTeed—not just the local contractor—stands behind the repair.
What the 5-STAR Warranty Covers
- 50 Years of Non-Prorated Material Coverage: Unlike standard warranties that reduce in value over time, this covers 100% of the cost to replace defective shingles for 50 years. This applies to single-family detached homes.
- 25 Years of Workmanship Coverage: CertainTeed covers the cost of labor to repair any defects in the SELECT ShingleMaster's installation for 25 years.
- Full System Protection: The warranty covers the complete CertainTeed Integrity Roof System™, including underlayment, starter shingles, hip and ridge caps, and ventilation products.
- Tear-Off and Disposal Costs: All costs associated with removing and disposing of the old roofing materials are covered for manufacturing defects.
- Transferable Warranty: The warranty can be transferred to the next homeowner for the first 15 years, adding significant resale value to your property.
The Tiers of Trust: ShingleMaster™ vs. SELECT ShingleMaster™
CertainTeed offers two levels of professional certification: ShingleMaster™ and the more elite SELECT ShingleMaster™. While both credentials indicate a contractor's commitment to quality, the SELECT status is significantly more stringent and is achieved by only a small fraction of roofing companies.
To earn the SELECT ShingleMaster™ title, a contractor must meet tougher requirements, including being in business for at least five years, ensuring at least half of their installation crew are certified Master Shingle Applicators™, and having the company owner pass a Business Fiscal Responsibility exam. Most importantly for homeowners, only SELECT ShingleMasters like Econo Roofing are authorized to offer the comprehensive 5-STAR Warranty, which includes the 25-year workmanship guarantee directly from CertainTeed.
Beyond the Badge: A Look at Other Elite Roofing Certifications
To provide a broader perspective, other leading manufacturers have similar top-tier certification programs for contractors they trust to install their products correctly. Econo Roofing is the only roofing company in it's region with all three certifications.
- GAF Master Elite® Contractor This certification is awarded to only the top 2% of roofing contractors in North America. To qualify, contractors must be properly licensed and insured, have a proven reputation, and commit to ongoing professional training. Master Elite contractors are the only roofers who can offer GAF's best warranty, the Golden Pledge® Limited Warranty, which includes up to 25 or 30 years of workmanship coverage.
- Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor This is the highest level in the Owens Corning network, an invitation-only status granted to the top 1% of roofing professionals. Candidates are screened for financial stability, must carry at least $1 million in general liability insurance, and must pass a workmanship inspection. Platinum Preferred contractors exclusively offer the Platinum Protection Limited Warranty, which includes lifetime workmanship coverage.
Understanding warranty terms is crucial. The 5-STAR Warranty's 50-year material coverage is "non-prorated," which offers a significant advantage over typical "prorated" warranties.
- Prorated Warranty A prorated warranty loses value over time. For example, with a 10-year prorated warranty, a claim made in year eight might only result in a 20% reimbursement of the original value.
- Non-Prorated Warranty A non-prorated warranty maintains its full value for the entire specified period. With the 5-STAR warranty, if a manufacturing defect occurs anytime within the first 50 years, CertainTeed's contribution to the repair or replacement does not diminish. This ensures consistent, predictable protection for your investment.
It's vital to distinguish between the two primary types of roofing warranties, as they cover different aspects of your new roof.
- Manufacturer Warranty This warranty covers defects in the roofing materials themselves. It protects you if the shingles or other components fail due to a flaw in the manufacturing process. However, it does not cover problems that arise from incorrect installation.
- Workmanship Warranty This warranty is provided by the roofing contractor and covers errors made during the installation process. Most contractor-provided workmanship warranties are short, typically lasting only one to five years.
- The 5-STAR Advantage The SureStart™ PLUS 5-STAR Warranty is a powerful hybrid. It is an extended warranty from the manufacturer, CertainTeed, that also includes 25 years of coverage for the SELECT ShingleMaster's workmanship. This means if a leak occurs due to an installation error, CertainTeed—not just the local contractor—stands behind the repair for a quarter of a century.
Is the 5-STAR Warranty Worth It?
For homeowners investing in a "forever home" or who want the ultimate peace of mind, the 5-STAR Warranty offers unparalleled protection. While the upfront cost for a SELECT ShingleMaster installation may be higher, the long-term security against both material defects and workmanship errors provides significant value and financial protection against the most common causes of roof failure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if a contractor is a true SELECT ShingleMaster?
You can verify a contractor's credential in two simple ways. First, visit CertainTeed's official website and use the "Find a Pro" tool, which lists all certified contractors. Second, you can call CertainTeed directly at 800-782-8777 to ask about a contractor's status. This ensures the contractor you hire is authorized to offer the 5-Star Protection Warranty.
What's the difference between a manufacturer's warranty and a workmanship warranty?
A manufacturer warranty covers defects in the roofing materials that occurred during the manufacturing process. A workmanship warranty, typically offered by the contractor, covers issues that arise from improper installation. The CertainTeed 5-Star Protection is unique because it includes a 25-year workmanship warranty that is backed directly by CertainTeed, the manufacturer, not just the local contractor.
What happens if my contractor goes out of business?
One of the most significant benefits of the 5-Star Protection Warranty is that you are protected even if your original contractor is no longer in business. The 25-year workmanship warranty is backed directly by CertainTeed, not the individual contractor. If an installation issue arises, you can file a claim directly with CertainTeed, and they will stand behind the work.
How do I make a claim under the 5-Star Warranty?
To make a claim, you can go to the warranty information section on CertainTeed's website and use their online portal to file and track your claim. You can also initiate a claim by calling their sales support group at (800) 345-1145. It is helpful to have your warranty documentation and details about the issue ready when you file.
What signs indicate it might be time for a new roof?
Common signs that your asphalt shingle roof may be nearing the end of its life include shingles that are curling, buckling, or cracking. You might also notice bald spots where protective granules have worn off, find granules collecting in your gutters, or see that shingles are missing entirely. Inside your home, water stains on the ceiling can also signal a leak. A sagging roof deck is a serious indicator that you should call a professional immediately.
Can a new roof be installed over my old shingles?
While it is sometimes possible to install a new layer of shingles over an existing one, this is generally not recommended and may not be an option for obtaining the 5-Star Protection Warranty. Most states limit roofs to two layers for fire safety. The 5-Star warranty requires the installation of a complete CertainTeed Integrity Roof System, which includes replacing all flashing and ensuring the roof deck is in good condition—steps that are skipped in an overlay. A full tear-off of the old materials is the best practice for a high-quality, long-lasting roof.
Will my homeowner's insurance pay for a new roof?
Homeowner's insurance policies vary, but they typically do not cover a roof replacement due to old age or normal wear and tear. Coverage is usually reserved for damage caused by specific events, such as a severe storm with hail or high winds. If your roof has sustained extensive damage from a covered event, your insurance may pay for a replacement. It is always best to review your specific policy and consult with your insurance provider.
The Ultimate Peace of Mind for Your Investment
Choosing a roofing contractor is about more than just getting new shingles; it's about securing a long-term, worry-free investment. While any contractor can offer a basic warranty,
only Econo Roofing, an elite SELECT ShingleMaster can provide the comprehensive, manufacturer-backed 5-Star Protection that eliminates risk and guarantees performance for decades to come.
To learn more about the different types of warranties available, see our complete
Homeowner's Guide to Roofing Warranties & Certifications.
Ready to secure the industry's best warranty for your home? Schedule a free, no-obligation inspection today, and our certified experts will explain how you can get complete peace of mind with CertainTeed's 5-Star Protection.
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