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Shingle Warranty

Golden Pledge vs. Silver Pledge: Which GAF Shingle Warranty Is Right for You?

October , 2023 | 6 min. read

By Nicole Corson

Back of a beautiful home well lit with a new GAF roof

When it comes to investing in a new roof, many homeowners want the peace of mind that comes with a manufacturer-backed warranty. GAF is a top-tier shingle manufacturer that offers two extended warranties: 

The Golden Pledge Warranty

&

The Silver Pledge Warranty 

At RoofCrafters, we understand the importance of choosing the right warranty for your home and budget. We also know how difficult it can be to make a choice. Just ask your spouse where they want to go for dinner. "I don't care, you pick" And that's why we've put together this comparison article. To help you understand the differences between these warranties so you can make an educated decision. 

We promise by the end of this article, you'll have a better understanding of which warranty will be a better fit for you and your home.  Can't make any promises about where you'll be going for dinner!

Let's get started by diving into the details of these two warranties.

Understanding the GAF Golden Pledge Warranty

 

2 roofers installing Timberline Ultra High Definition shingles over the blue deck Armour synthetic underlayment

If you're in the market for a new roof, you may have already heard about the GAF Golden Pledge Warranty. This is the top shingle warranty on the market. Offered by GAF, one of the top shingle manufacturers in the industry. In this section, we'll explain:

  • What a Golden Pledge warranty is
  • What it covers
  • Who it's a good fit for 

The Golden Pledge warranty is a premium warranty offered by GAF. It provides the most comprehensive coverage available from GAF. It's designed to give you peace of mind knowing your roof is covered for a lifetime. The Golden Pledge warranty includes both material and workmanship coverage. This is a significant advantage over other warranties that only cover material defects.

The Golden Pledge warranty provides a lifetime warranty for the materials. The first 50 years are non-prorated. This means that if the shingles fail due to a manufacturing defect within the first 50 years. GAF will cover the cost of materials and labor to repair or replace the affected area. 

Additionally, the Golden Pledge warranty includes a 25-year workmanship warranty. This covers the installation of the shingles. This means that GAF will repair the roof should it leak in the first 25 years. 

roofer installing GAF felt buster synthetic underlayment

There are several benefits to choosing the Golden Pledge warranty for your roofing needs. First and foremost, the lifetime material coverage provides peace of mind, knowing that your roof is under warranty for the long term. The 25-year workmanship warranty assures that your roof installation is correct. And it will perform as intended.

The Golden Pledge warranty is a good fit for homeowners looking to keep their homes. Those looking for peace of mind won't be worrying about any roof expenses for 25 years. It's transferable, which can be a significant selling point if you plan on selling your home in the future.

But, there are some limitations and drawbacks to consider with the Golden Pledge warranty. For example, the warranty requires that the work be done by a GAF Master Elite contractor. This can limit your options for installation. Additionally, there are specific requirements that must be met during the installation. This is to ensure the work is up to standards. 

It's important to work with a GAF Master Elite contractor to ensure all requirements are met.

The Asphalt Shingle Color Guide

Understanding the GAF Silver Pledge Warranty

 

The Silver Pledge warranty is another option for extended coverage for your roofing materials. Like the Golden Pledge warranty, the Silver Pledge provides lifetime material coverage. 

But, there are some differences between the two warranties that you should be aware of before making a decision.

The Silver Pledge warranty offers a 10-year workmanship warranty. Compared to the 25-year warranty offered by the Golden Pledge. This means that within 10 years of installation, GAF will cover the cost of repairs if there are any leaks. 

While the Silver Pledge warranty offers many of the same benefits as the Golden Pledge, there are some limitations to be aware of.

GAF roof diagram of roofing components

Like the Golden Pledge, the Silver Pledge requires that a GAF Master Elite contractor install the roofing materials. Again, to ensure that the warranty remains valid. 

Additionally, the warranty may not cover damage caused by hail damage or improper maintenance.

The GAF Silver Pledge warranty is a great option for homeowners looking for extended coverage for their roofs. Particularly those who may not plan on living in their home for a long time. 

Yet, it is important to understand the limitations and requirements of the warranty before making a decision.

Comparing the GAF Golden Pledge and Silver Pledge Warranties

 

GAF storm guard roof leak barrier

When it comes to GAF's extended manufacturer-backed warranties, there are two options: 

  1. The Golden Pledge Warranty
  2. The Silver Pledge Warranty

While both warranties offer lifetime material coverage. There are key differences in their workmanship warranties and other specific requirements.

The Golden Pledge warranty offers 25 years of workmanship coverage.

The Silver Pledge warranty offers 10 years of workmanship coverage. 

This means that if any issues arise due to installation errors or workmanship defects. GAF will cover the cost of labor and materials for up to 25 years with the Golden Pledge warranty.

But, the Silver Pledge warranty may be a more cost-effective option for homeowners who don't plan on living in their homes for 25 years. If so, having 10 years of coverage may be the right option for you. 

roofing crew on a roof with fall protection safety gear on

In terms of specific requirements. The Golden Pledge requires that the roof includes a GAF's lifetime shingle and five qualifying accessories. Qualifying products included; GAF synthetic roof deck protection, ridge cap shingles, starter strip shingles, ridge vents, and leak barriers. 

The Silver Pledge warranty only requires the use of GAF Lifetime Shingles and four GAF-qualifying products.

So, which warranty is the better fit? 

If you're someone who values a longer workmanship warranty. Or, if you plan on living in your home for a long time, the Golden Pledge warranty may be worth the investment. 

But, if you're looking for a more cost-effective option and don't need as long of a workmanship warranty, the Silver Pledge warranty is the way to go. 

Ultimately, the best option will depend on your specific needs and the level of comfort and peace of mind desired as a homeowner.

Image call to action, read the homeowners guide to roof replacement

Choosing the Right GAF Warranty for Your Roof

 

Both these warranties are excellent choices. If you're seeking peace of mind and long-term protection for your upcoming roof replacement. As a GAF Master Elite contractor, RoofCrafters has experience working with both warranties. We can help you make the best decision for your needs.

No matter which warranty you choose. You can rest assured that you're getting high-quality, reliable coverage from a top-tier shingle manufacturer. Protecting your home and your family is our top priority, and we're here to help every step of the way.

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Nicole Corson

At RoofCrafters, our mission is to provide job opportunities for others to thrive and grow while making a meaningful impact within our communities.