Master Elite GAF Training Excellence

_{The guide for homeowners and professionals safeguarding integrity.}

Introduction

After years of scouring the internet, gathering information from industry experts, reading books, speaking with trusted sources and my own 25+ years of experience as a roofing contractor, I have compiled the most comprehensive and detail oriented guide to help empower people to make the best decisions possible when it comes to selecting a roofing contractor.

The longevity and performance of a roof depend not only on the materials specified but also on the craftsmanship of the contractor entrusted with its installation. I'm coming to you from the position of an educator and takin...

A guide to homeowner–contractor communication.

Introduction

Roofing projects are more than technical undertakings—they are collaborations between homeowner and contractor. Clear, informed dialogue is essential for aligning expectations, ensuring transparency, and avoiding costly misunderstandings. The right questions—on both sides—can transform a transaction into a professional partnership.

I. Questions Homeowners Should Ask a Roofing Contractor

Priority: Due diligence before any action is taken

1. 
   

   Credentials & Experience

   
   
   
   
   • 
     

     Are you licensed, and insured?

     
     
   
   
   • 
     

     Do you carry workers’ compensation and liability insurance?

     
     
   
   
   • 
     

     How long have you been in business, and do you specialize in ...

A guide to principles that ensure durability, performance, and design excellence.

Introduction

Roofing is more than the installation of shingles or membranes—it is highly specialized and complex act of protecting a structure’s envelope. A roof must perform under environmental stress, preserve interior comfort, and harmonize with the home’s design. Adhering to best practices ensures longevity, reduces costly repairs, and elevates the craft of roofing from functional necessity to a protective masterpiece.

Quick Tip: Roofing done right is roofing you never have to think about.

1. Proper Planning and Design Alignment

Priority: Every roof begins on the drawing board.
Best practice de...

Trust

A guide to building trust through accurate forecasting and open communication.

Introduction

A roofing estimate/proposal is more than numbers—it is the blueprint of expectations. Proper estimating procedures provide owners with clarity, protect contractors from disputes, and ensure the project aligns with both design intent and budget realities. Transparency transforms the estimating process from a transactional quote into a foundation of trust.

Quick Tip: A clear estimate today prevents costly misunderstandings tomorrow.

1. Comprehensive On-Site Inspection

Priority: Estimation begins with observation.
A contractor cannot accurately price unseen conditions. Best practice requires a th...

A step-by-step guide and practical realities of a new roof.

Introduction

A roof replacement or major repair is one of the most significant investments an owner will make in the life of their property. The process, however, can feel daunting: selecting the right contractor, understanding the scope of work, and living through the installation phase. When viewed through an architectural lens, this journey becomes less overwhelming and more structured. Clear expectations are the foundation of a smooth and successful project.

Quick Tip: A roofing project is not just construction—it’s collaboration involving many different parties.

Phase 1: Research & Contractor Selection

Priority: Choose w...

Handshake

A guide to the protections, limitations, and long-term value of roofing warranties.

Introduction

A new roof is one of the most significant investments in a property's lifecycle. Beyond the materials and flashing lies another layer of protection: the warranty. Roofing warranties, however, can be complex, filled with technical language and conditions that are often overlooked. Properly understanding these agreements ensures that the roof is not only built to last but also backed by enforceable promises.

Quick Tip: A warranty is only as strong as the contractor and manufacturer behind it!

1. The Two Pillars of Roofing Warranties

Priority: Distinguish between material and workmanship.

• 
  

  Manuf...

Exploration of liability, cost, and professional ethics.

Introduction

Roofing is one of the most hazardous professions in construction. Falls, heavy materials, and unpredictable weather place workers and homeowners alike at risk. For this reason, liability insurance and workers’ compensation are cornerstones of a responsible roofing practice. Or are they? Debates persist: are these insurances essential protections, or costly redundancies that inflate project prices? This article examines both sides of the discussion, highlighting the architectural, legal, and ethical dimensions.

My Experience with Insurances

In my career I have carried the proper insurances, why? because it' the right thin...

Red Seal

A perspective on the certifications, licenses, and affiliations that define professionalism in roofing.

Introduction

In roofing and construction alike, craftsmanship is often only as reliable as the qualifications behind it. For homeowners seeking roof work, the contractor’s credentials, or lack thereof, can be a telling sign—they are typically assurances of safety, quality, and accountability. A contractor’s established credentials often form the framework of trust between parties.

I won't go into great detail on each and every credential available, however I will share some knowledge based upon my experience attaining and pursuing multiple highly regarded credenti...

Roofworks is part of the 2% of contractors in North America that are certified as Master Elite contractors. In order to obtain this level of certification, contractors are invited into the program after meeting a number of criteria set out by the manufacturer.

Here's what you get when you work with a Master Elite certified contractor:

1) You're working with a team that knows what they're doing! All of our crew is safety certified and trained by the manufacturer to install complete GAF systems.

2) Assurance. You'll know that 98% of our customers would recommend us to their friends and family (We have a 4.9 star rating on Google!)

3) Peace of mind. As part of the Master Elite program, you will g...

Ladder Safety

An exploration of risk, responsibility, and resilience in roofing.

Introduction

Roof access is one of the most dangerous tasks in construction—and among the most underestimated by homeowners. From professional crews to weekend handymen, ladder and roof safety determines whether a job is routine maintenance or a life-threatening incident. Alongside permanent solutions, emergency measures such as tarping or sealing can minimize damage while awaiting professional repair. Understanding both the statistics and the safe practices is crucial.

I. The Data: Falls from Ladders and Roofs in Canada

Priority: Data demands attention.

• In the Canadian roofing sector, the fatality rate is app...