By Emma Peterson. 

Soak up some summer sunshine and boost your business at the FRSA’s 104th Convention and Expo!  

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association (FRSA) Convention and Expo offer a great yearly opportunity for contractors to network and learn through educational seminars each year. It’s an event contractors won’t want to miss, as it’s the largest regional roofing show in the U.S. and offers an abundance of must-see events and booths on the trade show floor! Last year, over 250 companies exhibited, showcasing the latest products and services in the roofing world to over 5,000 contractors.  

This year, the show will be held at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, Florida, from June 10-12, 2026. FRSA has worked with the resort to get a discounted group rate at $189+ (resort fees included) that will be available to reserve in April. They have also secured a discounted self-park price of $23 a day for FRSA attendees. There is also an additional room block available at Delta Hotels (one mile from Gaylord) at $118+ (including parking and resort fees).  

And, as is the precedent, “the expo is FREE for all roofing contractors. For all non-exhibiting manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, there is a $295 per person fee to attend the expo and a $995 per person fee for industry service providers.”  

If you are planning on attending, make sure to say hello to The Coffee Shops™ crew who will be hosting a live sound stage from the lobby! Additionally, go find some our industry friends around the expo, like GenFlex (booth 924), Gaco (booth 923), Elevate (booth 717), MetalVue (booth 1309), Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings (booth 1309), HB Fuller (booth 1110), Marco Industries (booth 335) and Progressive Metals (booth 304). You can find the whole expo floor map online.  

Learn more about the show and get registered at www.floridaroof.com/convention.

By Emma Peterson. 

Trent Cotney shares actionable steps to protect your business, reduce risk and strengthen your bottom line. 

Join Megan Ellsworth and Trent Cotney for a discussion about how roofing companies’ legal departments are more than just overhead in a new Read Listen Watch® (RLW) on March 31, 2026 at 7:30 a.m. PT (10:30 a.m. ET).  

Trent is a lawyer who focuses his practice “on all aspects of construction litigation and arbitration, including OSHA defense, lien law, bond law, bid protests, and construction document review and drafting.” He is a partner at the Adams and Reese law firm, as well as their construction team lead. Additionally, he is general counsel for a variety of leading roofing associations in North America, including West Coast Roofing Contractors Association; Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association; and National Women in Roofing. 

In this webinar, Trent leans on his almost three decades of roofing litigation and arbitration to explain how risk mitigation protects the gap between gross revenue and true take-home profit. Not only will attendees leave with a better understanding of how legal departments can protect and future-proof their businesses, but they will also be given actionable steps and practices for starting the process in their company, such as:  

• A guide to key documentation for every job site manager to have at hand 
• Best practices when it comes to roofing contract formation and clauses 
• Warrant specifications and exceptions to be aware of  
• Best tips to managing liability in relations to subcontractors 
• How to prepare your team for OSHA inspections 

Overall, the legal side of roofing might not always be the most engaging part of running a roofing business, but it can be a key driver of profitability. If you want to learn practical, profit-driving legal strategies that will not only protect your company but help it thrive, this is the webinar for you.  

Register today to listen to Trent and Heidi’s live discussion on March 25, 2026 at 11 a.m. PT (2 p.m. ET).

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Lawmakers advance tax relief proposals and debate artificial intelligence rules ahead of pivotal 2026 sessions. 

Property tax relief and artificial intelligence (AI) regulation are emerging as defining issues for Florida’s 2026 legislative sessions, according to GrayRobinson legislative counsel and the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA). Early committee action has elevated competing tax proposals, while AI policy debates are accelerating ahead of a focused committee week. Together, the measures signal a session shaped by affordability pressures, technology oversight and voter-driven constitutional questions. 

Four property tax proposals advanced through the House State Affairs Committee in December, each structured as constitutional amendments tied to non-school levies. HB 211 would allow homeowners to transfer accrued “Save Our Homes” benefits to a new homestead, preserving lower taxable values during relocation. One distinction to note is the law enforcement funding protections which are embedded across the bills, preventing reductions below recent budget levels. 

Related measures expand exemptions based on insurance coverage, age and homestead status. HB 209 links relief to comprehensive, multiperil insurance while HB 205 targets seniors by eliminating non-school property taxes without an income cap. HB 201 proposes the broadest approach, removing non-school property taxes for homesteads and prompting debate over impacts to local services. 

Questions during debate highlighted concerns about equity, service funding and voter clarity. Supporters argued that homeowners should retain the “Save Our Homes” benefit wherever relocation occurs, framing portability as fairness. Opponents warned of shifting burdens to renters, retirees and working families while excluding fire, EMS and stormwater programs from protections. 

Beyond taxes, AI regulation is gaining momentum as policymakers assess risks and opportunity. Governor Ron DeSantis is urging state level oversight that limits exploitative uses, protects data privacy and restricts certain applications by government and attorneys. Proposed legislation would require human review of AI influenced insurance claim denials, a development closely watched by contractors nationwide. 

Learn more about legislative developments shaping property taxes, AI oversight and insurance decision making statewide!

By Emma Peterson. 

This IIBEC education session is a great opportunity for contractors and other professionals interested in the legal landscape of construction. 

In just a couple weeks, March 12-15, 2026, over 1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other professionals working in the building envelope industry will convene in Sacramento, California for the 2026 International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Convention and Tradeshow.  

This event is not only a great opportunity to network with your peers in the industry and explore an extensive expo hall full of the latest advancements in building science technology, but it is also an opportunity for you to learn from industry leaders in education sessions designed to help you grow professionally! One such session is the “State of the Industry: A Look at Contract Provisions and Other Emerging Trends” led by Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese. 

Trent is one of the leading construction lawyers in the field. With over 25 years of legal experience, Trent is licensed in nine different states and serves as general counsel for more than 10 trade associations and organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association (FRSA), Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) and Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). 

In his IIBEC education session, which will be hosted Friday, March 13, 2026 from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Trent will share an up-to-date overview of the industry’s legal landscape and guide attendees through an exploration of “how recent legal developments, regulatory changesand market conditions are reshaping risk allocation, project delivery and compliance strategies.” Participants will walk away with actionable strategies that equip them to:  

• Navigate contract provisions confidently: Whether it’s scope of work, indemnification, payment terms or dispute resolution provisions, Trent’s session will help attendees recognize and navigate these key elements of a contract.  
• Analyze and respond to emerging trends: You will walk away with a better understanding of current and anticipated policy trends, such as those related to labor and immigration.  
• Evaluate risk management options: Attendees of the session will learn about evolving contract language as related to risk management for owners, general contractors and subcontractors. 
• Adapt their businesses to new market realities: Ultimately, this session will give you the skills needed to adapt your business to reflect new market realities. 

Not only is this a great opportunity for you to get a better understanding of your industry and boost your career, but Trent’s session has been approved for 1.25 IIBEC CEH and 1.25 AIA LU/Elective!  

If you haven’t already, make sure you are registered to attend the 2026 IIBEC Convention and Expo! And if you’re interested in learning more about Trent’s session or any of the other education opportunities at the show, check out the full schedule online.

By Kevin Lindley, Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA). 

FRSA highlights how heat-related illness can contribute to dangerous jobsite conditions. 

Exposure to high heat for extended periods of time can create serious safety challenges for roofing crews and other construction professionals working outdoors. The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) emphasizes that heat-related illness is not just a seasonal concern, but a year-round jobsite risk. When temperatures and humidity remain elevated, workers are more likely to experience fatigue, falls and other serious consequences. 

The physiology of heat exhaustion 

Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excessive water and salt through sweating, leading to dehydration and an inability to regulate internal temperature. Common symptoms include: 

• Dizziness or lightheadedness 
• Fatigue and weakness 
• Headache 
• Nausea 
• Muscle cramps 
• Confusion or impaired judgment. 

These symptoms aren’t just uncomfortable — they directly impair a worker’s ability to stay alert, maintain balance and make quick decisions. When you’re working at elevations greater than six feet or on a ladder, even a momentary lapse can be catastrophic. 

Cognitive decline and physical instability 

Studies show that heat stress can reduce cognitive performance by up to 20 percent, affecting reaction time, attention span and decision-making. Combine that with physical instability like shaky legs or poor coordination and you have a perfect storm for fall-related incidents. Workers suffering from heat exhaustion may: 

• Misjudge distances or footing 
• Forget to secure harnesses or lanyards 
• Fail to notice hazards like loose boards, debris or slippery surfaces 
• React slowly to sudden shifts or equipment malfunctions. 

Fall protection: More than just personal protective equipment 

Fall protection isn’t just about harnesses — it’s about creating a culture of safety that adapts to environmental conditions. In high-heat scenarios, employers should take proactive steps to mitigate risk that include: 

1 - Heat-aware scheduling 

• Attempt to schedule more active work duties during cooler parts of the day (early morning or late afternoon). 
• Rotate workers, if able, to prevent prolonged exposure. 

2 - Hydration and rest breaks 

• Provide shaded rest areas and encourage frequent hydration. 
• Implement mandatory breaks to reduce fatigue. 

3 - Training and awareness 

• Educate workers on recognizing early signs of heat exhaustion. 
• Reinforce fall protection protocols, especially during heat advisories. 

4 - Smart PPE choices 

• Use breathable, lightweight materials for harnesses and other safety gear. 
• Ensure PPE doesn’t contribute to overheating. 

Real-world consequences 

OSHA reports that falls remain the leading cause of deaths in construction. While heat exhaustion isn’t always listed as a direct cause, it’s often a contributing factor. We have seen occurrences where roofers have fallen from significant heights due to heat stress and tragically were not wearing their harnesses. 

A call to action 

The intersection of heat stress and fall risk is an issue that we must face throughout the year in Florida and other regions with year-round high temperatures. Employers, safety managers and workers must recognize that heat exhaustion isn’t just a health issue — it’s a fall hazard. 

Original article and photo source: FRSA

By Matt Savin, Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association, Inc. (FRSA). 

Learn about the options for fall protection to ensure the safety of workers on high-pitch roof systems. 

Steep-slope roofing, with its water and snow shedding benefits and strong curb appeal, also presents unique safety challenges that require close attention to meet fall protection requirements. Defined by OSHA as any roof with a pitch exceeding 4:12, steep-slope systems are common on residential homes and many commercial buildings. Regardless of roof covering or structure type, OSHA applies the same fall protection standards across all steep-slope systems. Here at The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association Inc. (FRSA), we want contractors to understand these regulations to remain compliant and protect workers on every jobsite. 

Available fall protection options for steep-slopes 

While there are fewer choices for steep-sloped roofing than for low-sloped surfaces, fall protection is still required whenever work is being performed. The most common options include: 

Guardrail systems 

Guardrail systems must include: 

• A top rail positioned 45 inches, give or take three inches, above the walking surface. 
• A midrail and toe board. 
• Structural integrity capable of withstanding a 200-pound force in any direction. 
• Smooth construction to prevent injury from sharp edges or protrusions. 

Safety net systems 

Though it is not common on roofing projects, safety nets can be highly effective. They must: 

• Be installed as close as possible to the work area, never more than 30 feet below. 
• Provide sufficient clearance to prevent contact with structures or objects beneath. 
• Be drop-tested with a 400-pound weight upon installation, relocation or every six months. 
• Have all caught debris removed promptly – no later than the start of the next shift. 

Personal Fall Arrest Systems (PFAS) 

FAS is often the most common — but also the most frequently misused — form of fall protection. A complete system includes: 

• Full-body harness: It must fit properly and be fully secured to prevent an employee from slipping out in the event of a fall. 
• Lanyard: Connects the harness to the horizontal lifeline, adjusted to minimize fall distance. OSHA limits free falls to six feet. 
• Horizontal lifeline: Must have a breaking strength of at least 5,000 pounds and attach to the anchor with a double-locking snap hook. 
• Anchorage point: Rated for a minimum of 5,000 pounds per person. Multi-user anchors exist but are less common and standard single-user anchors should only support one worker at a time. Proper installation with the manufacturer’s specified fasteners or equivalent is required. 

Final note 

While each option has advantages and limitations, the selection should be based on the specific jobsite conditions, roof design and task requirements. Proper training, inspection and installation are essential for ensuring compliance and worker safety. For more specific information, visit www.osha.gov/fall-protection. 

Original article source: FRSA

By Emma Peterson. 

We sat down with roofing industry leaders to hear their thoughts about 2025 and predictions for 2026.  

For the last Coffee Conversations® of 2025, we hosted a panel of professionals from all sides of the roofing industry to reflect on 2025 and look ahead to 2026. This powerful conversation, sponsored by SRS Distribution, is a great resource for any professional moving forward in the roofing world this year. Keep reading to hear some insights from each professional.  

Trent Cotney 

Trent is the construction team lead at Adams and Reese, as well as the general counsel for industry associations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association, Western States Roofing Contractors Association and Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association.  

When asked about the roofing industry in 2025, Trent highlighted the importance of preparation in relation to challenges like immigration and tariffs. He explained, “What you're starting to see coming out of 2025 and moving into 2026 is contractors embracing the idea that preparation is key.” Whether that looks like organizing tax forms or adding supply clauses to contracts, contractors are improving when it comes to preparation in the last year according to Trent. 

This is a testament to the resilience of roofers, which Trent sees as a key force in the new year. He explained, “There's nothing more resilient than roofing... There will always be issues, struggles and hardships, but we’ve proven this year that we can course correct as they crop up. I see nothing but positivity for 2026.” 

Elizabeth Hurst 

In her role at Sherwin-Williams, Elizabeth examines external market indicators in order to help the Sherwin-Williams sales team stay competitive. She talked about the larger economic picture of the roofing industry sharing what she saw in 2025: “There a lot of uncertainty around things like tariffs that changed the game... But in response I saw a lot of leaders in the industry fall back on the adage of control what you can control.”  

In other words, Elizabeth shared about the same resilience that Trent was talking about. She explained, “A lot of leaders were investing in a growth mindset because they trusted that it was all going to work out. Their perspective was, ‘It's going to shake out, as long as I do what I need to be doing and focus on what I need to focus on.’” And that perspective is what will carry our industry through whatever 2026 throws at us and beyond. 

Steve Little 

As for Steve, he is not only the owner/head coach of K-Post Roofing and Waterproofing, but also a founding partner of National Roofing Partners, which includes over 200 contractors across the United States.  

In both these ventures, Steve has seen firsthand how contractors have risen to the challenges that Trent, Elizabeth and Patrick mentioned. He shared an example: “It's very challenging right now, but we’re seeing a lot of contractors adapt. For example, capital projects were down. In response, a lot of contractors invested in the service side of the business with coatings and other options that extend the life of the roof.”  

Additionally, as we continue to face labor challenges, whether that comes from the pre-existing shortages or more recent immigration policy changes, Steve has seen the industry come together to adapt. He explained, “The Roofing Alliance and NRCA have really come together through SkillsUSA to introduce young people to roofing. There’s also the program at Clemson’s Center for Roofing and the Merit Shop apprenticeship will launch soon...On the immigration side, Congress is working on a Dignity Bill that would allow for a seven-year work permit, which would be huge for our economy and immigrant workers... So there’s a lot to be hopeful about in the new year.”  

Patrick Garcia 

And last but not least, Patrick is responsible for “digital engineering, AI and innovation” for both SRS and Heritage. He had similar insights to Elizabeth, sharing, “This year had a variety of challenges, from labor shortages to cost pressures, but these challenges also offered opportunities.” The main opportunity? A chance to step back and truly think about and improve the collaboration between manufacturers, distributors and contractors. 

Looking ahead at 2026, Patrick hopes this collaboration continues to develop and grow. He shared, “Today, we have a more connected, data-driven ecosystem across distribution contractors and manufacturers. And as we face challenges, this connection is driving deeper conversations about creating a win-win-win mindset wherein, if the manufacturers win, the distributor wins and the contractors win... If we can achieve that, we move the whole industry forward to a more connected, inclusive and resilient future.” 

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording to hear more expert insights as we move into the new year.

By Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association. 

As temperatures climb, so do the dangers young workers face on the job. 

They're eager. They're fast learners. They're the future of the workforce. But on worksites across the country, young employees are stepping into roles that may expose them to a deadly hazard they’re not prepared for: extreme heat. For Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA), protecting these emerging workers from heat exhaustion is a priority, and with rising temperatures and longer heatwaves, the stakes have never been higher. Here we look at why younger employees face a higher risk of heat illness and what employers can do to ensure their safety while on the job. 

Watch out for each other 

What might feel like a regular shift can turn deadly quickly. Watch for the signs of heat illness and train your employees to recognize the signs. Act quickly when signs appear to save lives. 

First aid for heat illness includes 

• Give cool water to drink. 
• Remove unnecessary clothing; do not leave alone. 
• Move to a shaded or cooler area and cool with water, ice or a fan. 
• Seek medical care if needed. When in doubt, call 911. 

When to call for help 

Signs of a medical emergency: 

Employers need to: 

• Comply with federal and state child labor laws. For example, federal laws prohibit youth under 18 from working certain hours and from performing dangerous or hazardous work. 
• Train employees to use safe work practices and recognize hazards. Training should occur whenever a new task is assigned and be in a language and vocabulary that employees can understand. Heat safety training should help employees understand their heat exposure risks and teach them about prevention actions and first aid. 
• Model safe working behaviors and decision-making. This could include providing scheduled work breaks, especially as new employees get used to working in the heat. 
• Train employees on what to do if they get hurt on the job. 
• Provide safety equipment as necessary that fits correctly. 
• Implement a mentoring or buddy system. Have an older or more experienced worker help new and younger employees learn the ropes of a new job. 
• Encourage employees to ask questions about tasks and tell them whom to ask. Respond positively and considerately to all questions so that employees do not feel reluctant to speak up. 
• Ensure that equipment is functional, legal and safe for employee use. Label equipment that workers under 18 are not allowed to operate. 

Original article source: Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association

By Emma Peterson. 

From permits in Louisiana to lien law in Florida, Trent Cotney gives insights on legal changes across the country. 

Trent Cotney, a partner with Adams and Reese, is a well-known name in the roofing world. He specializes in roofing litigation and arbitration and has spent the last three decades working with roofers on construction defect claims, lien/bond law claims, OSHA citations, contractor licensing, bid protests and more. Trent also works as a general legal counsel for multiple roofing organizations, including the West Coast Roofing Contractors Association (WCRCA), the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association (FRSA) and National Women in Roofing (NWIR).  

Needless to say, he is an invaluable resource when it comes to understanding the legal landscape in relation to the roofing industry. And he has made it easy for contractors like you to access his insights with his monthly Cotney Briefs! These newsletters are a great way to keep up with shifting legislation and regulations in the industry. Here are some of the topics Trent highlighted in his September 2025 brief!  

1 – Permits and licenses in Louisiana 

Acts 239 and 422 in Louisiana outline that “any contractor undertaking residential roofing projects valued at $7,500 or more will be required to hold either a residential roofing license or a residential construction license.” This comes into action on January 1, 2026.  

What this means for contractors: Make sure that you meet examination requirements and/or have the appropriate classifications to get permits in Louisiana for every residential or commercial roofing and reroofing job. 

2 – Lien procedure in Florida 

A Florida appeals court has ruled on the case Custom Homes By Triumph, LLC v. Sverdlow. This case was brought about when Custom Homes filed a complaint against the Sverdlows over a possible breach of contract and the closing of a claim of lien. The court’s ruling outlined that “the 20-day deadline for responding to a show-cause summons under Section 713.21(4), Florida Statutes only begins when the summons is actually issued and served, not merely when a complaint or counterclaim is filed without such a summons.” 

What this means for contractors: The big takeaway is that if lienor or contractors have filed a lien foreclosure action prior to a show-cause summons being served, the lien is preserved. For contractors, this underscores the importance of monitoring and responding to formal summonses to “safeguard your lien rights.”  

3 – Owner-Furnished Materials Disclaimer   

In some cases, you might have clients who want to supply materials for a project themselves. This can be due to reasons such as wanting to cut costs or having a preferred product. This is fine, but what is not fine is when those owner-furnished products come late or damaged, throwing off the timeline of a project and the contractor is blamed.  

What this means for contractors: Make sure to include an Owner-Furnished Materials Disclaimer to clear up any liability questions. Trent recommends something like:  

“Materials Supplied by Owner  

If Owner elects to provide any materials for use in the Work, Contractor shall not be responsible for defects in such materials, nor for delays arising from late delivery or shortages. Contractor’s warranty shall exclude failures or deficiencies caused in whole or in part by Owner-furnished materials.” 

4 – “Pay-if-Paid” and “Pay-when-Paid” Clauses  

Many contractors and subcontractors are struggling with “pay-if-paid” and “pay-when-paid” clauses in their contracts. Pay-if-paid is a condition precedent that says payment to a subcontractor is conditional based on the contractor first receiving payment. As for pay-when-paid, this is a timing clause that delays payment until a “reasonable time.” Both of these clauses shift the payment responsibilities downstream and can lead to a variety of issues if the owner defaults. 

What this means for contractors: It is key to remember that even in “jurisdictions that allow pay-if-paid, subcontractors may preserve lien or bond rights and are often the only leverage available if payment is withheld.” Further, it is important to remember that enforcement of these clauses operate differently depending on your state. At the end of the day, this issue illustrates the importance of reviewing payment language and negotiating terms carefully. 

Check out Trent's past briefs online to hear more of his valuable insights.

By Jenny Yu.  

With rising demand and proven performance, Armored Coast gives roofers a stronger, more affordable alternative to aluminum on the coast. 

At this year’s Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) Convention & Expo, attendees got an inside look at one of the industry’s most talked about coastal roofing solutions: East Lake Metals’ Armored Coast, a steel roofing product with a game-changing substrate warranty and coastal durability. Ken Krawcheck, sales and business development director for East Lake Metals, and Natasha Bratt, owner of Sunshine Metal Supply, joined Karen Edwards at The Coffee Shops™ Soundstage, sponsored by QXO, about the growing popularity and benefits of this unique material.  

Sunshine Metal Supply is a supplier for roofing contractors in southwest Florida. Their best-selling products are their East Lake Metals products, with Armored Coast shining the brightest. 

"It's the only product that you can get with a warranty on the coast. Aluminum does not,” Natasha explained. “A lot of people have the misconception that, ‘Oh, I'm on the coast, so I need to have an aluminum roof,’ which is not the case. Aluminum is not a strong material to have on the water and the high wind zones because aluminum is a softer product.” 

Armored Coast features a ZAM® coating — a blend of zinc, aluminum and magnesium — manufactured by Wheeling-Nippon. This advanced substrate technology provides a 20-year substrate warranty for installations up to 300 feet from breaking surf — a first for the roofing market. 

"The Armored Coast warranty is a 20-year substrate warranty,” Ken added. “None of the other products, steel or aluminum, have substrate warranties.” 

Beyond performance, Armored Coast is earning praise for cost savings and ease of installation. Contractors appreciate not only its price point compared to aluminum but also the simplified installation process. 

"The installation process is a lot better,” Natasha shared. “It saves them money. Aluminum is more expensive, and contractors don't have to use all those expensive stainless-steel fasteners.” 

Sunshine Metal Supply currently stocks Armored Coast in eight popular colors, including trending choices like black, dark bronze and bone white. Due to growing demand, they plan to expand their inventory further, offering faster turnarounds and more variety to their customers. 

Both companies encourage contractors and homeowners alike to rethink the default choice of aluminum when building near the coast. With proven strength, lab-tested durability and a real warranty, East Lake Metals’ Armored Coast is quickly establishing itself as a premier option for coastal roofing. 

“There's a lot of people in the industry that don't understand what's the best roof for them,” Ken stated. “That’s why we come to shows like this — roofers want it, but they have to be educated about it.” 

Watch the webinar to learn more about Armored Coast’s benefits for you and your customers.