Choosing the right roofing contractor starts with verifying credentials, reviews, and warranty coverage. Coastal Windows & Exteriors is a GAF Master Elite contractor and woman-owned exterior remodeling company serving 730+ towns across Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Maine with 7,000+ installations completed since 2011, delivering properly licensed, insured, and manufacturer-certified roofing installation.
A qualified contractor should carry proper licensing, insurance, and a manufacturer certification like GAF Master Elite — a distinction earned by the top 2% of roofers in North America.
What Homeowners Need to Know
- Check certification: GAF Master Elite contractors are among the most vetted roofers available. This credential means access to stronger warranty coverage that standard contractors can’t offer.
- Verify insurance: Any contractor you hire should carry liability and workers’ comp insurance. Skipping this step can leave you personally responsible for on-site accidents.
- Ask about the system: A proper roofing system includes more than just shingle selections. Deck protection, leak barriers, ventilation, and ridge caps all work together to protect your home.
- Review inspection habits: GAF recommends inspecting your roof at least twice a year, in spring and fall. A good contractor will offer assessments and help you spot problems before they escalate.
- Understand replacement signals: If your roof is more than 20 years old or has recurring issues, replacement is likely smarter than ongoing repairs. An honest contractor should tell you this upfront.
- Compare total cost: Asphalt shingles average $4.46 per square foot, while a full asphalt replacement averages $35,701 nationally. Getting multiple quotes protects you from overpaying.
Finding the Right Fit for Your Home
- Top Pick: A GAF Master Elite certified roofing contractor for full replacements, where warranty protection and long-term performance matter most.
- Worth Considering: Licensed local contractors for smaller repairs, provided they carry full insurance and offer written estimates.
- Skip entirely: Unlicensed storm chasers who appear after weather events — they rarely offer lasting warranties or accountability.
Ready to find a contractor you can actually trust? Coastal Windows & Exteriors is a woman-owned, GAF Master Elite certified roofing contractor with 7,000+ installations.
Request a free roofing estimate from Coastal Windows & Exteriors.
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Still have questions about how to choose a roofing contractor? See the areas we serve and talk to your local roofing contractor.
Last Updated: July 2026
Sources:
- Homeowners should have their roof inspected at least twice a year, in spring and fall, and should consult a roofing professional about replacement if the roof is more than 20 years old or has recurring issues. GAF Residential Roofing FAQs GAF’s official FAQ page covering roof inspection frequency, maintenance best practices, and when replacement is the right call. (2025)
- Asphalt shingles average $4.46 per square foot, and the average cost to replace an asphalt roof in New England is $35,701. This Old House Roofing Facts and Statistics This Old House’s data-driven overview of roofing material costs and installation statistics for homeowners evaluating replacement options. (2025)
