By Emma Peterson.

Get ready for the largest roofing contractor conference in Texas!

The 2026 annual Texas Roofing Conference is coming up at the end of October (10/21/26-10/23/26 to be precise). This conference is organized by the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) and provides attendees with the opportunity to attend cutting-edge educational sessions, explore a two-day expo featuring the latest roofing products and network at a variety of fun events!

Experience incredible education

This year’s show boasts a variety of industry-leading speakers for its education program. Whether you’re a commercial contractor or residential roofer, attending these courses is a sure-fire way to find new ideas to build your business!

Here’s a few sessions The Coffee Shops® has bookmarked:

• The 5 Revenue Drivers Behind High-Performing Roofing Service Division: This session will be taught by Chad Westbrook of Service Alignment on Thursday, October 22. In the session, Chad will explain how contractors can “turn service work into dependable, profitable revenue.”
• OSHA Defense Mastery: also on October 22, this session will be taught by the incredible Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese. During the 50-minute session, Trent will cover a practical roadmap for handling OSHA inspections. This is the perfect sessions for those wanting “a better understanding of how to reduce exposure before an incident occurs and how to respond if OSHA knocks.”
• NRCA update on roofing industry technical issues: in this session, the National Roofing Contractors Association’s Mark Graham will give attendees an update on building code changes, FM guideline revisions and other technical details that “change how roofing contractors design, bid and install roof systems.”
• Leadership, Performance, Teamwork, Resilience and Accountability: This session is actually the keynote of the 2026 show! It is taught by Clint Bruce, who is a former NFL linebacker, a Navy SEAL veteran and business founder. His presentation will draw on his experiences and focus on the role of leadership, performance, teamwork, resilience and accountability in success.

See the full schedule of sessions!

Explore innovations on the expo floor

The expo floor (which will be open 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. on 10/22 and 10 a.m - 2 p.m. on 10/23) will host more than 150 manufacturers, suppliers, software and service providers such as ABC Supply, QXO, Polyglass, Tamko, Malarkey Roofing Products, Owens Corning, MetalVue by Sherwin-Williams, SRS Distribution, GAF, READYSLATE, JobNimbus, Eagleview and Johns Manville! Each exhibitor booth will showcase the newest, more innovative products and services in the roofing material and technology market.

There are also some fun prize opportunities! On October 22, door prize drawings will kick off at 2 p.m. (you must be present to win). As for October 23, there will be a $5,000 RCAT Raffle Winner drawing at 1:30 p.m.!

Attend events and make connections

And if the education opportunities and expo weren’t enough to keep you busy, RCAT has also planned a few special events during the 2025 Texas Roofing Conference:

• RCAT Annual Golf Tournament: hosted at the Cowboys Golf Club 1600 Fairway Dr, Grapevine, Texas 76051), this is your opportunity for some friendly competition! Players must register an advance.
• Welcome Reception: kick off the show by attending the welcome reception at the Gaylord Texan Mission Plaza. This event runs from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. and is open to all fully registered conference attendees and exhibitors.
• Awards Luncheon: take a break from attending education sessions and exploring the expo floor with RCAT’s Annual Business Meeting & Awards Luncheon!

These are not just a great opportunity have some fun, but also to network with their peers and make connections with industry leaders that will last beyond the show!

The 2026 show will be hosted at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center. Make sure you have your tickets!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

The roofing manufacturer brings strength, speed and heart to the home of a Marine Corps veteran. 

A storm-resilient roof wasn’t the only thing TAMKO Building Products brought to the set of Military Makeover with Montel. The nationally respected manufacturer made a meaningful appearance in the latest season of the home-renovation series, supporting a Marine veteran and his family with more than materials. 

Deeply rooted in American manufacturing, TAMKO’s contribution centered on its Titan XT® shingles, a product built to withstand 160 mph winds* and backed by up to a 50-year enhanced extended warranty.† Titan XT® shingles were designed to bring out the beauty of the home while providing protection in all kinds of weather. You get that strength with just four nails per shingle, thanks to TAMKO’s Rapid Fire Zone® nailing zone, an expanded nailing area that makes installation quicker, easier and more accurate for the contractor. 

That installer, Will Odom from ATW Roofing, wasn’t just any contractor, he’s part of the elite. As a TAMKO Diamond Pro Contractor, the highest level in the TAMKO Pro Certified program, Will represents the best of the best. That’s exactly why ATW Roofing was chosen for this project: to bring even more value to a deserving veteran through expert craftsmanship and proven trust. 

Will praised the Titan XT® shingles for their wide nail strip and rapid sealing capabilities, calling them ideal for unpredictable summer storms. 

“Less room for error, fast to seal, that’s why it’s so good,” Will said, pointing out that both the house and the shed would be completed in a single day. 

And it’s not just about the roof. TAMKO’s support ties directly to the Military Makeover mission: helping transform the homes and lives of military families who’ve sacrificed so much. For Marine veteran Sean and his wife Cecilia, that transformation comes with deep emotional weight. The home makeover serves as a tribute not only to his physical and emotional battles but also to the strength of their bond and community. 

TAMKO, whose own workforce includes many veterans, fits naturally into that mission. With boots on the ground and purpose in every nail, TAMKO proved that true support means showing up, strong, fast and with heart. 

Watch TAMKO’s story on Military Makeover with Montel and see how real impact starts with showing up and building with purpose!

* 160 MPH wind warranty requires TAMKO® starter and TAMKO® hip and ridge. See TAMKO's full High Wind Application Instructions for all requirements and restrictions. 

† Enhanced Full Start® extended warranty periods are only available under a TAMKO ProShield®, TAMKO MasterShield® and TAMKO DiamondShield™ enhanced limited system warranty.  See tamko.com/edge for details.     

‡ TAMKO Pro Certified Contractors are not employees, agents or representatives of TAMKO; however, they may receive certain benefits, such as marketing support, product rebates, access to third-party discounts and the ability to offer Enhanced Limited System Warranties. 

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Alberto Torres. 

El evento de este año se acerca rápidamente, con el primer día programado para el 27 de septiembre de 2026, y queremos ayudarte a crear la agenda ideal para aprovechar al máximo tu experiencia. 

El Western Roofing Expo (WRE), patrocinado por la Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), es uno de los eventos más importantes de la industria del techado y la impermeabilización. No solo está lleno de actividades reconocidas, como la competencia de instalación de tejas Roofing Games™ y la subasta en vivo, sino que también cuenta con 28 sesiones educativas, dos almuerzos con conferencias y mucho más. 

Es una gran cantidad de actividades para solo tres días (el evento de 2026 se llevará a cabo del 27 al 29 de septiembre), por eso queremos compartir algunas de las sesiones y actividades que no te puedes perder. 

Domingo, 27 de septiembre de 2026 

El primer día del evento estará enfocado principalmente en establecer conexiones con expertos y colegas de la industria. Hay varias actividades opcionales, como el Bob Porter Golf Tournament y el Sporting Clays Tournament, pero el evento principal del día será la bienvenida y subasta de WRE. Patrocinado por GAF,  este evento no solo marca el inicio de WRE 2026, sino que también recauda fondos para la Davis Memorial Foundation, la organización benéfica de WSRCA.

Lunes, 28 de septiembre de 2026 

El lunes comienza la acción con una agenda llena de más de una docena de sesiones educativas. Estas son algunas de las sesiones que recomendamos: 

• Tendencias importantes en la industria del techado: Heidi J. Ellsworth, de RoofersCoffeeShop®, presentará las tendencias que están marcando la industria. Esta sesión ofrecerá a los asistentes información valiosa sobre dónde ha estado la industria del techado y hacia dónde se dirige.  
• ¿Listo o no?: Nuestros amigos Trent Cotney y Benjamin Briggs, de Adams and Reese, hablarán sobre las redadas de ICE, las auditorías I-9 y cómo los contratistas de techado pueden gestionar su exposición ante el panorama migratorio actual.  
• De contratar rápido a contratar bien: En esta sesión en español, Amparo Sancen, de Latinos En Roofing, explorará cómo formar un equipo de techado que contribuya al éxito de tu negocio.  
• Uso de la IA en la estimación de proyectos de techado: John Kenney, de Cotney Consulting Group, compartirá información sobre el uso de la inteligencia artificial (IA) en las operaciones de techado, específicamente en los procesos de estimación.  

Además de estas oportunidades educativas, el lunes habrá dos opciones de almuerzos educativos, tres demostraciones y el esperado evento Roofer’s Feud. Aquí te contamos un poco más: 

• Almuerzos: El lunes habrá dos oportunidades para aprender durante el almuerzo. Una será para profesionales de habla hispana y contará con Victor Maya (Advantage Roofing, GAF), quien hablará sobre cómo maximizar las reclamaciones de seguros para techos comerciales. La otra contará con Craig Brightup (corresponsal político de WSRCA) y Chad Collins (presidente de la junta directiva de la National Roofing Contractors Association), quienes ofrecerán una actualización sobre temas políticos.
• Demostraciones: Habrá tres demostraciones el lunes. La primera comenzará a la 1:30 p.m. y estará a cargo de Polyglass U.S.A. La segunda, que comienza a las 2:30 p.m., será presentada por TAMKO Building Products, y la última demostración del día será a las 3:30 p.m. con Johns Manville.  
• Roofer’s Feud: Para cerrar las actividades del lunes llega Roofer’s Feud. Patrocinado por CertainTeed, será una excelente oportunidad para poner a prueba tus conocimientos y disfrutar de una competencia amistosa.  

Martes, 29 de septiembre de 2026 

¡Pero todavía hay más! Comienza el martes con un desayuno y conversaciones en mesas con el equipo de National Women in Roofing a las 7 a.m. (ten en cuenta que esta actividad requiere un registro adicional de $55). Después del desayuno, será momento de regresar directamente a las sesiones educativas. Algunas de las que recomendamos para el martes incluyen: 

• Mesa redonda sobre techado: Organizada por el Comité de Jóvenes Profesionales del Techado de WSRCA y dirigida por Rachel Garcia, de Malarkey Roofing Products, esta sesión se enfocará en cómo formar equipos multigeneracionales. 
• Estado de la industria: Trent Cotney regresa para otra sesión, esta vez para analizar desde una perspectiva legal lo que está sucediendo en la industria.  
• Salud mental y adicción en el lugar de trabajo de la industria del techado: Paul Reed, de Roofers in Recovery, dirigirá esta sesión sobre cómo los contratistas pueden apoyar mejor la salud mental de sus cuadrillas.  
• El costo de la desconexión: En esta sesión en español, Monica Vornbrock, de The GLO Group, analizará cómo las fallas en la comunicación después de una venta pueden afectar la confianza de los clientes y los ingresos de los contratistas.  
• Diseño de techos duraderos para climas fríos: En esta sesión, Mindy Dahlquist, de TRA Snow and Sun, analizará el papel de los sistemas de retención de nieve en el diseño de techos para climas fríos.  
• De un servicio reactivo a uno proactivo: En la última sesión de nuestra lista, Tracey Donels, de Service First Solutions, hablará sobre cómo crear un crecimiento empresarial más predecible a través de los servicios que ofrece una compañía.  

Al igual que el lunes, el martes habrá dos opciones para aprender durante el almuerzo y varias actividades que no te puedes perder: 

• Almuerzos: Imelda Perez, de CertainTeed, estará a cargo del almuerzo en español del martes. La otra opción será en inglés y contará con la oradora motivacional Shereen Thor.  
• Escenario: Después del almuerzo, el equipo de RoofersCoffeeShop® tomará el escenario de demostraciones para una interesante conversación con el presidente de WSRCA, Stan Robinson, y el próximo presidente de WSRCA, Ron Lloyd.  
• Roofing Games™: ¡Y para cerrar el día llega la esperada competencia de instalación de tejas! Patrocinada por Malarkey Roofing Products, esta es una excelente oportunidad para reunir a la comunidad y quizás hasta ganar algunos premios.  

Estas listas son solo una pequeña muestra de todo lo que encontrarás en el Western Roofing Expo de este año. 

¡Consulta la agenda completa y regístrate para asistir a WRE 2026! 

By Emma Peterson.

This year’s show is coming up fast with the first day being September 27, 2026 and we wanted to help you build the ultimate attendee schedule.

The Western Roofing Expo (WRE), which is sponsored by Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), is one of the premier events in the roofing and waterproofing industry. Not only is it chock full of iconic moments, like the Roofing Games™ shingling competition and the live auction, but it also boasts 28 educational sessions, two keynote luncheons and more!

That’s a lot of programming for just three days (the 2026 show will be held from 9/27/26 to 9/29/26), which is why we wanted to break down some of our must-attend sessions and events!

Sunday, September 27, 2026

The first day of the show will mostly be networking with industry experts and peers. There are a few events you can opt to attend, such as the Bob Porter Golf Tournament and Sporting Clays Tournament, but the main event of the day is the WRE Welcome event and auction. Sponsored by GAF, this event not only marks the beginning of the 2026 show, but also raises funds for the Davis Memorial Foundation, WSRCA’s charitable organization.

Monday, September 28, 2026

Monday is when things get really busy with a stacked schedule of more than a dozen education sessions. Here’s our shortlist of must-attend sessions from this day:

• Roofing Trends That Matter: RoofersCoffeeShop®’s own Heidi J. Ellsworth will be presenting about roofing trends! This presentation will give attendees valuable insight into where the roofing industry has been and where it’s moving towards.
• Ready or Not: our friends Trent Cotney and Benjamin Briggs of Adams and Reese will be diving into ICE raids, 1-9 audits and managing roofing contractor exposure in our current immigration landscape.
• From Hiring Fast to Hiring Right: in a Spanish-language session, Amparo Sancen of Latinos En Roofing explores how to build a roofing team that will help your business win.
• Using AI in Roofing Estimating: John Kenney of Cotney Consulting Group shares insight into the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in roofing operations, specifically related to estimating.

In addition to those education opportunities, Monday boasts two luncheon options, three demonstrations and the much-anticipated Roofer’s Feud event. Here’s a bit about those options:

• Luncheons: there are two lunch learning opportunities on Monday. One is for Spanish-speaking professionals and features Victor Maya (Advantage Roofing, GAF) discussing how to maximize commercial roofing claims. The other features Craig Brightup (WSRCA political correspondent) and Chad Collins (chairman of the National Roofing Contractors Association board) as they give a political update.
• Demonstrations: as we mentioned, there are three demos on Monday. The first kicks off at 1:30 p.m. is hosted by Polyglass U.S.A. The second (which starts at 2:30 p.m.) is from TAMKO Building Products and the last demo of the day is at 3:30 p.m. and features Johns Manville.
• The Roofer’s Feud: closing out the Monday schedule is the Roofer’s Feud. Sponsored by CertainTeed, this is a great chance to test your trivia knowledge and enjoy some friendly competition.

Tuesday, September 29, 2026

But wait, there’s more! Hit the ground running on Tuesday with breakfast and table talks with the National Women in Roofing team at 7 a.m. (please note, additional registration of $55 required for this event). After breakfast, it’s time to jump straight back into education sessions! Some of our must-attends for Tuesday include:

• The Roofing Roundtable: hosted by the WSRCA Young Roofing Professionals Committee and led by Rachel Garcia of Malarkey Roofing Products, this session is all about building multi-generational teams.
• State of the Industry: Trent Cotney is back for another session, this time exploring the legal perspective of what’s going on the industry.
• Mental Health and Addiction in the Roofing Workplace: Paul Reed of Roofers in Recovery takes the helm during this session about how contractors can better support the mental health of their crews.
• The Cost of Disconnection: for this Spanish-language session, Monica Vornbrock of the GLO Group dives into how post-sale breakdowns are costing contractors customer trust and revenue.
• Designing Durable Cold-Climate Roofs: in this session, Mindy Dahlquist of TRA Snow and Sun explores the role of snow retention in designing roofs in cold climates.
• Escaping Reactive Service: the last session on our shortlist is Tracey Donels (Service First Solutions) talk about creating predictable business growth through service offerings.

And just like on Monday, there are two options for lunchtime learning and some can’t miss events:

• Luncheons: Imelda Perez of CertainTeed will be hosting Tuesday’s Spanish-language luncheon. The other lunch option will be in English and features motivational speaker Shereen Thor.
• Sound stage: The RoofersCoffeeShop® crew will be taking over the demonstration stage after lunch for an insightful conversation with WSRCA President Stan Robinson and incoming WSRCA President Ron Lloyd.
• The Roofing Games™: and closing out the day is the much-anticipated shingling competition! Sponsored by Malarkey Roofing Products, this is a great opportunity to bring the community together and maybe even win some fun prizes!

These lists are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to everything going on at this year’s Western Roofing Expo!

See the whole schedule and register to attend the 2026 show!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Contractors are increasingly using impact-resistant roofing systems to help homeowners manage rising storm damage costs and insurance challenges. 

In a recent Read Listen Watch® (RLW) webinar sponsored by TAMKO, the conversation focused on helping contractors navigate growing demand for resilient roofing systems in hail-prone regions. The discussion explored how contractors can better educate homeowners about long-term roofing performance, insurance trends and impact-resistant products designed to withstand severe weather. 

During the webinar, TAMKO® representatives Brian Dunn and Jon Abernathy* discussed the increasing frequency of hailstorms across the United States and the financial pressure homeowners are facing as deductibles and insurance premiums continue to rise. According to Jon, many homeowners in hail-prone regions are now paying significantly more out of pocket after repeated storm events. “We're starting to see that change, and the homeowners are actually becoming customers,” Jon said. “They're having to pay the bill now.” 

The conversation centered heavily on TAMKO’s new HailGuard™ shingle, which was released earlier this year. Brian explained that the product was developed in response to ongoing insurance market shifts and increasing storm severity. He noted that the product incorporates an upgraded fiberglass mat and proprietary coating designed to improve flexibility and impact resistance beyond traditional Class 4 testing standards.† 

Contractors are also being encouraged to shift conversations away from reactive storm restoration work and toward long-term roof system performance. Brian said contractors can help homeowners better understand the long-term financial implications of repeated roof replacements by discussing deductibles, premium increases and manufactured-backed limited system warranties during the sales process. ‡ 

Jon emphasized that contractors who educate homeowners on premium roofing systems and manufacturer warranties can create stronger differentiation in competitive markets. ‡ “I’m all about offering premium,” Jon said. “Premium sells to homeowners and at least offering them what's best for them and really educating them on what it means and what could happen if they don't.” 

The webinar also highlighted TAMKO’s ongoing contractor training initiatives, including in-person storm response events, virtual education programs and expanded warranty offerings tied to certified contractor programs. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about storm-resistant roofing systems and contractor education strategies. 

* The views and opinions expressed are based on the author’s long tenure and personal experiences as a roofing contractor prior to coming to TAMKO. As such, his views are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice regarding insurance, financing, legal matters, or business transactions. Readers are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals before making any decisions related to their business operations. 

†“Beyond Class 4” is a marketing term and does not refer to any official UL impact rating. HailGuard™ shingles are classified by UL for compliance with UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance. UL 2218 utilizes a dropped steel ball which may not correlate with real world rooftop experience with the impact of storm driven hail or other objects. Currently, UL testing does not include classifications higher than Class 4; however, TAMKO has successfully tested HailGuard™ shingles at impact energies exceeding UL 2218 Class 4. See TAMKO’s HailGuard™ Extended Limited System Warranty for complete terms and details. 

‡ TAMKO Professional Certified Contractors can offer certain Enhanced Limited System Warranties. See tamko.com/edge for details.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Regional Sales Manager Blake Reed shares how FlashCo products help contractors save time while supporting code-compliant roofing installations. 

At the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) show, FlashCo Regional Sales Manager Blake Reed joined Megan Ellsworth on The Coffee Shops™ Sound Stage, sponsored by TAMKO®, to discuss the manufacturer’s commercial roofing accessories, expanding presence in the Southeast and newest edge metal offering. Blake recently joined FlashCo after working elsewhere in the roofing industry. His new position marks his first oppertunity to work on the manufacturing side of the business, where he now oversees a territory stretching from Mississippi to North Carolina and from Tennessee to Florida. 

FlashCo manufactures commercial roof accessories and flashings designed to arrive ready for installation. According to Blake, contractors visiting the company’s booth quickly recognized how these products could simplify work in the field. He shared, “Light bulbs are clicking. These are ready-to-install products that we can throw on our roof. Super easy and saves a lot of time.” 

That time-saving focus was central to FlashCo’s presence at the show. The event also allowed the company to connect directly with contractors, strengthen relationships with distribution partners, and meet with private-label strategic partners. Blake said, “One of the big things that we wanted to present is our new ES1-compliant edge metal system.” Although FlashCo has offered edge metal in the past, he explained that the system is new to the market and was being introduced to attendees on the show floor. 

The response was encouraging, particularly in a region where code compliance and reliable performance are major priorities. Blake said customers need confidence that the products they install will work as intended without requiring repeated service visits. FlashCo is also strengthening its Florida presence through local representative Aaron Foster, a former contractor who brings established industry relationships and firsthand knowledge of contractor needs. 

Watch the full interview to learn more about FlashCo’s time-saving commercial roofing accessories, new ES-1-compliant edge metal system and growing presence in the Southeast!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

TAMKO® leaders explain how contractors can help homeowners evaluate resilient roofing systems, warranties and long-term costs. 

As harsh weather conditions and natural disasters continue to regularly impact communities across the country, roofing contractors are being asked to help homeowners navigate more than immediate repairs. During this Read, Listen, Watch (RLW®) webinar, Brian Dunn, director of sales enablement at TAMKO®, and Jon Abernathy, director of contractor engagement, joined host Megan Ellsworth to discuss how resilient products, manufacturer-backed warranties and homeowner education can support stronger long-term decisions. 

The conversation examined changing insurance conditions and growing demand for impact-resistant roofing. Jon said, “Today we're starting to see that change and the homeowners actually becoming the customer.” That shift creates an opportunity for contractors to move beyond responding to insurance claims and instead guide homeowners through their options. Brian encouraged contractors to discuss a homeowner’s deductible, premium and history of storm exposure before comparing the initial and long-term costs of different roofing systems. 

That homeowner-focused approach also gives contractors a natural opening to introduce products designed for hail-prone markets. Released in early 2026, TAMKO’s HailGuard shingle features improvements to the fiberglass mat and a proprietary coating designed to increase flexibility and impact resistance. Brian said, “This is a totally new product.” 

To understand how those design changes could hold up beyond a single storm, TAMKO tests HailGuard beyond the Class 4 impact standard. Its additional evaluations include accelerated aging, ice projectiles and repeated impacts, along with testing for granule adhesion and ultraviolet erosion. Together, those measures help the company assess how the shingle may perform as it faces continued exposure over time. 

Still, selecting a resilient product is only one part of building a stronger roof and only one part of the conversation contractors can have with homeowners. Contractors can also explain the value of complete roofing systems, enhanced warranties and manufacturer-backed workmanship coverage. Jon said, “The first thing you do is [offer] what nobody else is doing. That is how you create distance between you and your competitor.” 

For contractors, staying competitive will require continued training, a stronger sales process and the ability to explain how premium roofing options may reduce disruption and repeated replacement costs over time. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the Conversation to learn more about TAMKO’s products, contractor resources and upcoming training opportunities!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Industry leaders explain why financial discipline, diversification and customer education matter as roofing businesses navigate economic and insurance pressures. 

During a live Coffee Conversations® discussion at the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association (FRSA), roofing professionals examined the pressures impacting contractor success across the United States. The panel agreed that shrinking backlogs, insurance changes and aggressive pricing are forcing companies to strengthen their operations rather than chase every available project. 

What market shifts are creating the most concern for contractors? 

As contractors adjust to a changing business environment, John Kenney, chief executive officer of Cotney Consulting Group, said several challenges are creating uncertainty at the same time. He shared: 

“I think insurance claims and understanding the industry’s new insurance rules are causing a lot of angst for contractors. AI, robotics and other technologies are also major issues people are trying to understand. Contractors are also watching prices, fuel costs and shrinking backlogs.”  

John encouraged contractors to use slower periods to improve their companies and pursue work that fits their established capabilities. Bridget Jenkins Wilson, owner of Cardinal Roofing, added that roofing is cyclical and contractors should prepare during strong years for the slower periods that follow. 

How can contractors move from storm-dependent work to retail sales? 

Changes in the insurance market are also pushing some roofing businesses to pursue more retail work. Adam Bensman of TAMKO® and the Roofing STRONG Alliance said this transition requires more than simply finding a different type of customer. He explained: 

“The hottest trend in roofing is the shift from storm-dependent to retail-driven business. I am seeing roofing companies that were built to catch or chase storms, but lack formal sales processes and structure, now trying to learn how to sell retail.”  

Adam warned that companies without structured sales processes may respond to pressure by discounting projects below sustainable levels. Bridget emphasized educating homeowners about policies, deductibles, materials and payment responsibilities rather than relying on high-pressure sales tactics. 

What should contractors prioritize during an economic slowdown? 

Although contractors cannot control the economy, John said they can improve their decision-making by developing a detailed understanding of their financial position. He noted, “Right now, you need to know your numbers, understand exactly what your overhead is and focus on the work your business is best suited to perform.”  

That financial clarity can help contractors avoid pursuing unprofitable work simply to keep crews busy. Marc Hansen of JobNimbus agreed that contractors need reliable systems for estimating, customer communication, payment collection and follow-up. Bridget also encouraged companies to examine everyday expenses, material waste and internal financial controls. 

The panel’s message was clear: Contractors cannot control market cycles, but they can control their pricing, processes and customer experience. Companies that understand their costs and serve homeowners transparently will be better positioned for the next phase of the market. 

Listen to the entire podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about adapting a roofing business to economic and insurance changes. 

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Alberto Torres. 

Desde el campo de golf hasta el piso de exhibición, la WRE 2026 ofrece a los profesionales del roofing innumerables oportunidades para aprender, conectar y hacer crecer sus negocios. 

¡Estamos a menos de dos meses de la Western Roofing Expo (WRE)! Este evento, que se llevará a cabo del domingo 27 de septiembre de 2026 al martes 29 de septiembre de 2026 en el Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino en Nevada, es el encuentro más importante de la Western States Roofing Contractors Association’s (WSRCA). Con una exposición comercial de dos días, más de 30 seminarios educativos, demostraciones de productos y una gran variedad de eventos especiales, este es el lugar ideal para estar este otoño. 

Para ayudarte a planear tu agenda durante la WRE, aquí te compartimos algunos de los eventos más destacados. 

Torneo de Golf Bob Porter 

La WRE dará inicio oficialmente el domingo 27 de septiembre a las 5:30 p.m. con la fiesta de bienvenida. Sin embargo, antes del arranque el evento oficialmente, tendrás la oportunidad de salir al campo de golf a las 7:30 a.m. junto a tus colegas en él Davis Memorial Foundation Bob Porter Golf Tournament!  

Patrocinado por QXO, este torneo te permite disfrutar del recorrido de 18 hoyos del Revere Golf Club, de 7,143 yardas y par 72, mientras apoyas una buena causa. Todos los fondos recaudados benefician al Fondo de Becas de la Davis Memorial Foundation, que ofrece apoyo económico a estudiantes de preparatoria, licenciatura y posgrado vinculados con la industria del roofing. 

¿Te interesa poner a prueba tus habilidades en el campo de golf, convivir con colegas y apoyar una gran causa? Regístrate hoy mismo.

Torneo de Tiro al Plato 

Si el golf no es lo tuyo, pero buscas una forma divertida de convivir y apoyar a la  Davis Memorial Foundation antes del inicio oficial de la WRE, también podrás participar en el Sporting Clays Tournament que se realizará la mañana del domingo 27 de septiembre a partir de las 9:00 a.m.

El evento se llevará a cabo en el Pro Gun Club de Boulder City y también es patrocinado por QXO. Está diseñado tanto para principiantes como para expertos, ya que las estaciones cambian constantemente para ofrecer nuevos desafíos durante toda la competencia.

Al igual que el torneo de golf, todos los ingresos se destinarán al Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund, que ha ayudado a cientos de estudiantes relacionados con la industria del roofing a alcanzar sus metas educativas.

Inscríbete hoy mismo.

Almuerzo legislativo 

Durante el primer día completo de la WRE, la National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) ofrecerá un evento que no te puedes perder: un almuerzo legislativo. Esta será una excelente oportunidad para que los profesionales se mantengan al día sobre los desarrollos políticos y regulatorios que impactan a la industria del roofing.

El almuerzo se llevará a cabo de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. y contará con la participación de Craig Brightup (The Brightup Group) y Chad Collins (NRCA). Además de presentar un resumen anual de los acontecimientos más importantes del sector, durante el evento se anunciarán los nominados para la Junta Directiva de la WSRCA y se reconocerá a los beneficiarios de las Becas Davis Memorial 2026.

Si planeas asistir a la WRE, asegúrate de agregar este almuerzo al registrarte.

The Roofing Games™ 

Patrocinados por Malarkey Roofing Products®, The Roofing Games son la primera serie oficial de competencias avaladas por una asociación de roofing y producidas en conjunto con la Western Roofing Expo. Estos juegos se han convertido en una de las tradiciones más emblemáticas de la WRE y destacan el conocimiento técnico, las habilidades y la calidad artesanal de los participantes. ¿Quieres competir? Visita el stand de Malarkey Roofing Products (#429) antes de que comiencen las competencias. 

Ya sea que participes o simplemente observes, no te pierdas la competencia el lunes 28 de septiembre de 4:00 p.m. a 5:00 p.m. en el escenario de demostraciones. 

Conferencista principal 

El martes 29 de septiembre se llevará a cabo otro almuerzo especial, programado de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. Patrocinado por Malarkey Roofing Products, este evento contará con la presentación de Shereen Thor, conferencista principal de la WRE 2026. Shereen es comediante y coach profesional que trabaja con personas en todos los niveles de una organización, desde colaboradores de inicio de carrera hasta ejecutivos de alta dirección. Su misión es ayudarlos a desarrollar su máximo potencial y alcanzar sus objetivos.

Conoce más sobre su presentación.

Capacitación de IIBEC 

Después de concluir la expo, el miércoles 30 de septiembre de 2026, el International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) ofrecerá una jornada especial de capacitación. El programa se desarrollará de 9:00 a.m. a 2:30 p.m. e incluirá dos presentaciones diseñadas para fortalecer los conocimientos de los profesionales de la industria de envolventes de edificios. 

La primera sesión será sobre los fundamentos de los sistemas de techado y otorgará 3.0 CEH de IIBEC. La segunda analizará las actualizaciones 2027 al International Building Code y al International Energy Conservation Code, otorgando 1.5 CEH de IIBEC. Ambas sesiones han sido enviadas para aprobación ante AIA CES. 

El costo es de $295 USD para miembros de IIBEC y $450 USD para no miembros. Regístrate aquí.

Eventos adicionales 

¡Y eso no es todo! La WRE 2026 está llena de oportunidades para aprender, hacer networking y desarrollar relaciones de negocio. Aquí te compartimos algunos eventos adicionales. 

Domingo 27 de septiembre de 2026 

• La Davis Memorial Foundation celebrará su fiesta anual de bienvenida y subasta de 5:30 p.m. a 7:30 p.m. Este año el evento es patrocinado por GAF. Al igual que los torneos, los fondos recaudados se destinarán al programa de becas.

Lunes 28 de septiembre de 2026 

• Se llevará a cabo un Spanish Lunch and Learn de 11:45 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. Esta primera sesión estará enfocada en maximizar reclamaciones comerciales. Es patrocinada por SRS Distribution y GAF, contará con Victor Maya, de Advantage Roofing, como presentador invitado.
• Polyglass realizará una demostración en el piso de exhibición de 1:30 p.m. a 2:00 p.m.
• A las 2:30 p.m., TAMKO Building Products tomará el escenario de demostraciones.
• Posteriormente, de 3:30 p.m. a 4:00 p.m., el equipo de Johns Manville realizará otra demostración en el área de exhibición.

Martes 29 de septiembre de 2026 

• El segundo Spanish Lunch and Learn se llevará a cabo de 11:45 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. Esta sesión será patrocinada por National Women in Roofing (NWIR). El evento inicia a las 7:00 a.m. y ofrecerá una hora y media de conversaciones dinámicas en formato rotativo. La inscripción cuesta $55 USD e incluye desayuno.
• El segundo Spanish Lunch and Learn se llevará a cabo de 11:45 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. Esta sesión será patrocinada por CertainTeed y contará con Imelda Pérez, quien abordará el concepto de "bueno, mejor y excelente". 
• También habrá más demostraciones en el piso de exhibición. La primera comenzará a las 2:30 p.m. y será patrocinada por nosotros en RoofersCoffeeShop. En ella participarán el presidente entrante y el presidente saliente de la WSRCA Ron Lloyd y Stan Robinson, respectivamente.

Obtén más información sobre estos eventos y el resto del programa en el calendario oficial de la WRE. Y si aún no lo has hecho, asegura tu lugar en la WRE 2026. 

By Jesse Sanchez.  

Contractors must embrace data, disciplined budgeting and risk management to stay profitable in softer markets.  

As economic uncertainty, shifting storm patterns and evolving insurance rules reshape future demand, TAMKO leaders are urging contractors to approach data, risk mitigation and retail strategy as core business functions rather than optional add-ons. During this Read Listen Watch® (RLW), Director of Contractor Engagement Jon Abernathy and consultant Jon Broce discuss how they have sat down with contractors across the country to discuss what it takes to endure a softer market.*  

Abernathy has spent recent months observing how demand has cooled in many regions, especially within new construction, while storm cycles have become less predictable. He described today’s environment as “very competitive,” where relying solely on projects following weather events is no longer enough to sustain growth. That reality is also reflected in business survival rates. After reviewing recent LLC filings, Abernathy found that only a small percentage of new roofing companies remain active after five years, with most folding long before that mark. He ties this directly to production risk, noting that installation errors remain the leading cause of warranty claims and long-term liabilities.  

The consequences can be steep. Abernathy recalled a contractor who accumulated more than $400,000 in warranty costs within just a few years due to overlooked installation mistakes. His advice to avoid those setbacks is straightforward: slow the pace of growth, tighten quality checks and prioritize best practices on every job.  

While Abernathy focuses on production risks, Broce turns attention to financial discipline. He encourages contractors to move away from anecdotal decision-making by tracking closing rates, average tickets and multi-year revenue patterns. Budgeting, he explained, should include realistic baselines and stretch targets while analyzing “trends, anomalies and patterns” to understand whether performance stems from storms or replicable systems.  

Both leaders agree that relying entirely on insurance work can leave companies exposed. Retail sales provide steadier revenue, while disciplined job costing and monthly reviews help owners identify what is working and what is not.  

Listen to podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how TAMKO’s contractor program and expert guidance can help you strengthen financial discipline!  

*The views and opinions expressed in this video are those of the participating roofing contractors and are based on their personal experiences in the roofing industry. These discussions are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice regarding insurance, financing, legal matters, or business transactions. Viewers are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals before making any decisions related to their business operations.