What Exactly Is GAF’s 50-Year System Plus Warranty?

When you’re investing in a new roof, one of the most important things to consider is the warranty. A roof is a major investment — it protects your entire home, family, and everything inside. That’s why Kaczmar Builders partners with GAF, North America’s largest roofing manufacturer, to provide homeowners with one of the strongest warranties in the industry.

One of the most popular options is the GAF System Plus Limited Warranty, often referred to as the “50-year warranty.” But what exactly does that mean for you as a homeowner? Let’s break it down.

What Is the GAF System Plus Warranty?

The GAF System Plus Warranty is an enhanced manufacturer warranty that goes far beyond the basic coverage most homeowners get with a standard shingle roof.

Here’s what it includes:

    •    50 years of Smart Choice® Protection: This is GAF’s non-prorated coverage on both materials and installation labor. That means if your shingles fail due to a manufacturing defect within 50 years, GAF covers the cost of materials and labor to replace them.

    •    Transferable coverage: If you sell your home, the warranty can transfer to the next homeowner, which increases your property’s value.

    •    Peace of mind: You’re not just covered by your contractor — you’re backed by GAF, the largest roofing manufacturer in North America.

What’s Actually On Your Roof with the GAF System?

Many homeowners think their roof is just shingles, but a true roofing system includes multiple GAF components working together. For the System Plus Warranty, your roof must be built with qualifying GAF products, such as:

    •    Timberline® Shingles (or other GAF premium shingles) – The main roofing material, built for beauty and long-lasting durability.

    •    Starter Strip Shingles – Installed along the edges of the roof to provide secure shingle adhesion and prevent shingle blow-off in high winds.

    •    Ridge Cap Shingles – Protects the roof’s most vulnerable areas (the ridges and hips) while adding a finished, architectural look.

    •    GAF Seal-A-Ridge® Snow Country® Ventilation – Proper attic ventilation is critical for roof longevity. This product allows heat and moisture to escape, preventing ice dams, protecting shingles, and extending the life of your roof.

All these components must be installed correctly and used together for the System Plus coverage to apply.

Why Not Every Roofer Can Offer This Warranty

Here’s where many homeowners get caught off guard: not every roofer can sell or register the GAF System Plus Warranty.

Only contractors who have gone through GAF’s certification program are authorized. These contractors must meet strict requirements in licensing, insurance, reputation, and ongoing training.

Who Can Offer the GAF System Plus Warranty?

GAF Certified™ Contractor – Certified roofers who meet GAF’s professional standards. They can offer the System Plus Limited Warranty when installing qualifying GAF systems.

If your roofer is not certified by GAF, they cannot register the System Plus Warranty for you. That means you could end up with a standard, much weaker warranty without even realizing it.

Why Choose Kaczmar Builders

At Kaczmar Builders, we’re proud to be a GAF Certified™ contractor. This means we meet GAF’s strict requirements and are authorized to provide you with the System Plus Warranty, which most roofers cannot offer.

We don’t just install shingles — we install a complete GAF roofing system, including starter strips, ridge caps, and Seal-A-Ridge® Snow Country® ventilation, all backed by GAF’s warranty. Our goal is to protect your home with craftsmanship that lasts and a warranty that gives you peace of mind for decades.

Final Takeaway

The GAF 50-Year System Plus Warranty isn’t just marketing — it’s real protection that covers your home far better than standard warranties. But remember:

    •    You only get this coverage when you use qualifying GAF products and an authorized GAF Certified Contractor.

    •    Not every roofer in your area can offer it — but Kaczmar Builders can.

If you’re considering a new roof, don’t settle for less than a complete roofing system with lifetime protection.

Ready to learn more or get a free inspection? Contact Kaczmar Builders today and ask about the GAF System Plus Warranty for your home.