By Jesse Sanchez. 

IB Roof Systems representatives explain how building use, climate and performance expectations should guide membrane selection. 

During a live Coffee Conversations® at the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA), IB Roof Systems™ representatives Jamie Treglio and Rob Dehaan discussed the growing role of single-ply roofing. Jamie, director of brand and marketing, and Rob, the company’s Florida representative, emphasized that successful specifications begin with understanding the building rather than defaulting to one membrane. 

Why are single-ply systems gaining ground in Florida? 

Florida’s population growth has increased demand for hospitals, restaurants, entertainment facilities, retail centers and other infrastructure. Rob said single-ply systems can support these projects by offering installation efficiency, reflectivity and tested performance. 

“You can cover a lot of ground and it’s a clean product to put down, too. That’s what people really like. [It’s] highly reflective, so it checks a lot of the boxes they’re looking for in many situations.”  

Those advantages can make single-ply roofing an effective option for projects where contractors and building owners must balance installation speed, energy considerations, code requirements and long-term performance. 

How should contractors choose between TPO and PVC? 

Although thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are both single-ply membranes, Jamie explained that they should not be treated as interchangeable solutions. The building’s use, operating conditions and expected service life should guide the selection. 

“Just knowing how to move between those thermoplastics and which one works where is super important. And then, while we love single ply, there’s a need for it all.”  

TPO can provide an economical option when budgets are constrained, while certain buildings may require a thicker or more robust PVC system. Contractors should evaluate the conditions of each project before recommending a membrane. 

Why must the entire assembly be considered? 

Membrane selection is only one part of designing an energy-efficient and durable roof. Rob said contractors must consider how every component contributes to the performance of the complete assembly. Rob noted, “I think the big thing with energy savings is you have to look through the whole roof system. I think sometimes we focus on one component and it’s like, if all the other components are fighting against that component, what’s the point?”  

Jamie reinforced that system-based approach by pointing to components that can be overlooked during design and value engineering. Jamie shared, “The key word in all of that, to me, was system. It’s going to include the membrane, the cover board and often-overlooked components like vapor barriers.” Membrane type, insulation, cover boards, vapor control and reflectivity must work together. Building use, expected service life, rooftop conditions and warranty goals also influence membrane thickness and system design. 

Selecting the right single-ply assembly requires collaboration among the building owner, contractor, manufacturer, consultant and design professional. That system-based approach becomes even more important when Florida’s wind requirements and severe weather are added to the specification. 

Listen to the entire podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about selecting single-ply roofing systems! 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how integrated TPO roofing systems are designed to improve installation efficiency, durability and long-term performance in commercial applications. 

For contractors managing large-scale commercial projects, roofing system selection shapes more than installation; it determines how a building performs over decades. These decisions require a balance between efficiency in the field and confidence in long-term durability. Thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) systems from IB Roof Systems™ are increasingly positioned to meet many of these expectations, offering a combination of flexibility, strength and energy performance within a unified system. 

That balance is most visible during installation, where time and consistency directly affect project outcomes. TPO membranes engineered with a wide weld window provide crews with greater flexibility in varying field conditions while maintaining reliable weld strength. On expansive roof areas such as warehouses, distribution centers and retail facilities, that consistency supports predictable workflows, helping contractors maintain pace without sacrificing quality. 

Once installed, the system’s performance becomes the defining factor. Reinforced fabric construction and advanced membrane formulations are designed to withstand demanding conditions, delivering durability alongside manageable handling characteristics. The material meets and exceeds ASTM D 6878 requirements for thermoplastic roofing membranes and is engineered for high puncture resistance, including approvals for very severe hail classifications. These attributes allow contractors to prioritize efficiency during installation while maintaining confidence in long-term system integrity. 

Energy performance further strengthens the value proposition. Reflective membrane properties reduce heat absorption, supporting compliance with standards such as California Title 24 and Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) solar reflectance index benchmarks. For building owners, that translates into reduced cooling demand and more stable building performance over time. 

The system’s effectiveness, however, is not defined by the membrane alone. TPO assemblies are designed as complete roofing solutions, integrating insulation, coverboards, vapor barriers and heat-weldable accessories into a coordinated system. That level of compatibility simplifies specification decisions and reinforces consistency across projects. 

This integrated approach continues beyond installation through warranty and support structures. With options for warranties up to 25 years and access to technical guidance and specification resources, contractors are supported by a framework that connects material performance with long-term accountability, ensuring the system performs as intended throughout its service life. 

Learn more about how TPO systems built for performance and efficiency support faster installation, long-term durability and energy performance in commercial roofing applications!

This distinguished leadership group represents some of the industry’s most respected and forward-thinking professionals, whose collective leadership continues to drive meaningful progress across the roofing industry.

The Roofing Alliance proudly announces their Board of Trustees for 2026-2027. Sherri Miles of J.D. Miles & Sons Inc., Chesapeake, Virginia, will serve as president and John Campbell of Eagle Roofing Products, Rialto, California will serve as vice president.

The volunteer-based leadership of the Roofing Alliance is composed of 210 dedicated, diverse and thoughtful roofing contractors, manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, service providers and industry professionals united in their commitment to shape, strengthen and advance the roofing industry. This distinguished leadership group represents some of the industry’s most respected and forward-thinking professionals, whose collective leadership continues to drive meaningful progress across the roofing industry.

The Roofing Alliance thanks the following officers and trustees for their commitment to the roofing industry; terms are effective June 1, 2026 – May 31, 2027.

• Sherri Miles, J.D. Miles & Sons Inc. – president
• John Campbell, Eagle Roofing Products – vice president
• Jason Dark, Duro-Last Inc. – secretary-treasurer
• Greg Hudson, Duro-Last Inc. – immediate past president
• Piers Dormeyer, EagleView – trustee
• Heidi Ellsworth, The Coffee Shops – trustee
• Paige Harvill, Nations Roof – trustee
• Alex Hernandez, Clark Roofing Co. – trustee
• Beth Kegley, QXO – trustee
• Scott Keith, Jobba Trade Technologies  – trustee
• John Kiesel, Division 7 Roofing – trustee
• Michael Kruger, L.E. Schwartz & Son Inc. – trustee
• Craig Rainey, Supreme Roofing – trustee
• Natalia Rizzatti, All Weather Insulated Panels – trustee
• Jason Stanley, IB Roof Systems – trustee
• John Yuko, GSM Roofing – trustee

About the Roofing Alliance

The Roofing Alliance unites a powerful network of more than 210 forward-thinking industry leaders committed to advancing and shaping the future of the roofing industry. Through strategic investments, collaboration and industry partnerships, the Roofing Alliance funds high-impact initiatives focused on education, cutting-edge research, workforce development and philanthropic outreach that strengthens communities across the country. From supporting the next generation of roofing professionals through scholarships, university partnerships and career development programs to driving innovation through industry research its Center for Roofing Innovation and Leadership, the Roofing Alliance serves as a catalyst for long-term growth, leadership and excellence across the roofing industry. For more information, please contact Alison L. LaValley, Executive Director, at alavalley@nrca.net.

By Jenny Yu.  

The SkillsUSA 2026 Championship will connect students, educators, contractors and manufacturers through hands-on skilled trades competitions. 

After a year of honing their skills and participating in local competitions, students from across the country are set to compete at the culminating event: the SkillsUSA 2026 Championship. Taking place at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta from June 1-5, 2026, the event brings together more that 6,700 state champions competing across 114 skilled and leadership contests as part of the broader National Leadership & Skills Conference (NLSC). 

On top of providing the platform for students to compete and showcase their talent, the SkillsUSA program builds the next generation of skilled professionals and elevates the value of careers in the trades. Roofing continues to expand its presence at the event as students can explore career opportunities and compete in roofing-related challenges including Commercial Roofing and Teamwork. According to the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), the competitions are designed to connect career and technical education students with real-world industry opportunities while helping address the skilled labor shortage facing roofing contractors nationwide. 

Here at RoofersCoffeeShop®, we are excited to be a sponsor of the NRCA Roofing Pavilion, the event’s central hub for students and CTE teachers to connect with industry professionals on training and career opportunities.  

Additional sponsors supporting the NRCA booth include ABC Supply, Central States Manufacturing, Georgia-Pacific Building Products, Johns Manville, Elevate™, IB Roof Systems™, Leister, National Roofing Partners, National Women in Roofing (NWIR), QXO, Roofing Alliance, Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3), SRS Distribution and TAMKO®. This robust participation reflects industry-wide collaboration to help SkillsUSA continue to grow as a pipeline for skilled professionals entering the trades. 

The SkillsUSA Championships have become a critical recruiting and education platform for the roofing industry. NRCA notes if even 5% of SkillsUSA students entered roofing careers, the industry could gain more than 5,000 new workers annually. 

To learn more about the 2026 SkillsUSA Championships, the Roofing Pavilion and ways to get involved, visit the SkillsUSA and NRCA websites. We hope to see you there! 

By Jenny Yu.  

Contractors will gain practical insights from leading experts while connecting with top manufacturers and suppliers. 

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) is hosting its 104th Convention & Expo from June 10-12, 2026, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in in Kissimmee, Florida. With a strong lineup of sponsors and an educational program packed with timely topics, this year’s event is set to provide contractors with practical insights and valuable networking opportunities. 

A wide range of industry leaders are lending their support for the event, underscoring its importance across the roofing and metal construction sectors. Platinum sponsors include Eagle Roofing Products, ABC Supply and TAMKO®; while gold sponsors CertainTeed LLC, Polyglass and SOPREMA further highlight the depth of industry participation. Additional support from emerald sponsor Adams & Reese LLP; sapphire sponsors BITEC, Drexel Metals, MetalForming LLC and Sika Corporation; silver sponsor SRS Building Products; bronze sponsors Duro-Last®, IB Roof Systems™, PAC-CLAD Petersen and Roof Hugger; and affiliate sponsor, Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida (RCASF), reinforce the event’s focus on innovation, performance and contractor success. 

Educational sessions 

Education remains the cornerstone of the convention, with sessions designed to address today’s most pressing challenges in the industry while providing attendees with opportunities to earn CE credits. Legal and compliance topics are a hot topic with multiple sessions led by Trent Cotney, RoofersCoffeeShop® Influencer and partner at Adams & Reese LLP, including: 

• “Building an OSHA Inspection SOP” - Wednesday, June 10, 8:00 a.m. 
• “Roofing Legal, Labor and Policy Trends” - Wednesday, June 10, 12:30 p.m. and Friday, June 12, 7:00 a.m. 
• “Artificial Intelligence in Roofing” - Thursday, June 11, 7:00 a.m. 
• “ICE Raids and I-9 Audit Defense” - Thursday, June 11, 8:15 a.m. and Friday, June 12, 8:15 a.m. 

These sessions will provide contractors with actionable guidance on navigating regulations, mitigating risk and adapting to emerging technologies.  

Business operations are also a key focus. John Kenney, Influencer of The Coffee Shops™ and CEO of Cotney Consulting Group, will lead “Estimating for Small Business” on Wednesday, June 10, at 9:15 a.m. and Thursday, June 11, at 7:00 a.m., offering practical strategies to improve accuracy and profitability for contractors of all sizes. Meanwhile, Chad Westbrook, founder of Service Alignment, will present “Documenting a Roofing Project” on Thursday, June 11, at 9:30 a.m. and Friday, June 12, at 7:00 a.m., helping attendees strengthen processes that support accountability, communication and long-term project success. 

Additional sessions cover critical issues including Florida Building Code updates, metal roofing best practices and safety topics such as heat illness prevention. The “SkillsUSA: Build a Workforce Pipeline” session on Thursday, June 11, at 9:30 a.m., will also highlight strategies for developing the next generation of roofers, a growing priority for contractors facing ongoing workforce shortages. Together, these seminars provide well-rounded education opportunities tailored to both roofing and sheet metal professionals.  

Register to reserve your spot and take full advantage of everything the 104th FRSA Convention & Expo has to offer!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

A closer look at how durability, chemical resistance and long-term performance are shaping contractor decisions. 

Contractors are reevaluating what defines long-term performance as commercial roofing systems face increasing expectations for building usage, environmental exposure and long-term costs, Materials are no longer judged primarily on upfront cost or ease of installation, but on how reliably they perform under evolving conditions. Within that shift, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) roofing membranes are gaining momentum for their ability to combine installation familiarity with long-term resilience. 

That momentum is rooted in recent changes in how risk is understood. Roofing systems are exposed not only to weather, but to the environments that develop and evolve around them over time. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Jamie Treglio of IB Roof Systems™, noted how nearby developments, from restaurants to industrial operations, can introduce chemical exposure to your building that might accelerate membrane deterioration. PVC’s resistance to those chemicals positions it as a system designed not just for current conditions, but for the unknown variables that emerge over decades. 

From there, performance considerations extend beyond chemical exposure into overall building protection. PVC membranes offer inherent fire resistance, including self-extinguishing properties that can help limit damage when a flame source is removed. As Jamie explained, “it is going to put itself out once the flame source is removed,” a characteristic that reinforces its value in high-risk environments. In environments such as data centers or buildings incorporating rooftop solar, where risk tolerance is low and continuity is critical, that added layer of protection becomes a defining advantage rather than a secondary benefit. 

Even with those performance gains, installation remains straightforward. PVC systems follow the same general application methods as other single-ply membranes, allowing contractors to integrate them into existing workflows without disruption. Jamie shared, “it's still going down the same way that TPO goes down, right? So they do a lot of TPO jobs and then they come over and PVC feels the same for the install, but they're getting these added benefits,” noting that crews can realize added performance benefits without introducing new complexity on the jobsite. 

Ultimately, the rise of PVC reflects a growing emphasis on lifecycle value. Building owners are increasingly planning for longer hold periods, placing greater importance on systems that can perform for 35 years or more with proper maintenance. As Jamie noted, “We need to start thinking long-term here,” a shift that represents how durability, resistance and consistency are no longer differentiators, but requirements. 

For contractors, this shift signals more than a change in material preference. It points to a more strategic approach to roofing, one that prioritizes long-term performance, reduces uncertainty and supports sustained relationships through service and maintenance over time. 

Learn more about how PVC roofing systems deliver long-term performance through chemical resistance, durability and lifecycle-focused value for commercial buildings!

By Emma Peterson. 

How roof coatings like IB Roof System’s acrylic and silicone products help contractors navigate labor, sustainability and economic trends. 

In today’s roofing market, there are three primary trends driving the demand for roofing solutions – labor, sustainability and economic instability. And in the face of these trends, coatings have emerged as one of the most popular roofing solutions. To learn more about coatings and their benefits, we sat down with Jason Stanley, IB Roof System’s CEO, for a short interview.  

Jason believes the current surge of popularity in coating products stems from its ability to extend the life of a system at an affordable cost and in an efficient manner – effectively addressing those three trends of labor, sustainability and economics. He explained:  

Imagine putting a roof on that would last 25 years and at the end of life you have to remove the whole thing and dispose of it or recycle it. That’s a lot of materials, labor and money right then. But by adding a coating onto it, you could extend its life another five plus years, Keeping the roof system intact by simply doing some preventative maintenance until budgets and labor can be secured. 

In response to this growing demand, Jason and IB Roof Systems have developed high-quality, durable products that are easy for contractors to install in the field. On one side, they have their acrylic coatings, like IB Acrylic Pro, IB Acrylic SW and IB Acrylic FG, and on the other side they have their silicones, such as the IB Silicone Coating and IB Silicone FG. What’s the difference between acrylic and silicone coatings? Jason explained, “Acrylic tends to stay cleaner longer and it’s not as slippery, making it better for steep applications. As for low slope roofing, silicone is more impervious to standing water and lasts longer.”  

Learn more about IB Roof System’s premium coating options and how they help contractors navigate labor, sustainability and economic trends online.

By Dani Sheehan. 

Modern roofing is shifting away from product-first thinking toward assemblies designed to support each building’s specific needs. 

In today’s commercial market, buildings are more specialized, risk tolerance varies widely and performance expectations extend well beyond the warranty term. As a result, the industry is shifting away from product-first thinking toward a more nuanced approach: designing roof systems that respond to how a building is used, what it protects and how long it’s expected to perform. 

This shift tells an important story about the kinds of roofing partners contractors need, and the kinds of solutions manufacturers must be able to offer in return. 

Buildings and risk 

“One of the biggest misconceptions in roofing is that buildings are more alike than they really are,” Jason Stanley from IB Roof Systems® shared. 

A warehouse, a retail store, a hospital and a data center may all need waterproofing, but the consequences of failure couldn’t be more different. Mission-critical buildings like hospitals, airports and data centers require assemblies designed for constant operation, chemical exposure, fire performance and heavy foot traffic. Everyday commercial buildings often prioritize speed, budget control and compliance.  

Some owners need short-term solutions that bridge capital planning gaps while others are investing in 30-year assets tied to solar arrays or long-term leases. The common thread is that no single roofing approach fits all of them. 

"There’s been so much emphasis on the membrane over my lifetime,” Jason explained. “It’s still critical, but today it’s not the number one cost driver in most roof assemblies.” Insulation, cover boards, vapor barriers, adhesives, attachment methods and more all carry weight in both cost and performance of the system. Wind uplift, fire resistance, impact ratings and thermal performance determine whether an assembly succeeds in the long-term.  

Solutions for every building 

Jamie Treglio from IB Roof Systems also emphasized the importance of flexibility, pushing contractors and manufacturers to think less about individual products and more about how layers work together to meet a building’s specific demands. “If a contractor is looking for a partner to help design an appropriate assembly, we want to be there, helping them pick out all the layers,” she shared. 

This shift toward systems thinking reinforces the importance of working with partners who understand the wide range of demands placed on modern buildings. IB Roof Systems has expanded its portfolio to support multiple approaches to the same challenge. Whether a project calls for long-term durability, a cost-conscious solution for new construction or a system designed to extend the life of an existing roof, having multiple tools available allows you to select assemblies that match the building rather than forcing the building to fit a single product. 

As the industry continues to evolve, the contractors who stand out will be those who can guide building owners through these decisions. By understanding how each layer contributes to the overall performance of the roof, you can influence system designs that meet today’s codes, budgets and risk tolerances while ensuring the resiliency of the building for decades. 

And in a market where no two buildings are exactly alike, having the right partner, and the right range of solutions, can make all the difference. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Contractors and manufacturers are uniting to provide roofing, labor and resources for families in need. 

In an industry driven by momentum, precision and meaningful work, roofing professionals are finding a deeper purpose by supporting families in need. Across the country, contractors, manufacturers and distributors are coming together to support Ronald McDonald House Charities through a coordinated effort that combines financial contributions with essential roofing services. That collaboration reflects a strong and growing culture of giving within the industry, one rooted in hands-on, skills-based support. Rather than relying solely on donations, roofing professionals are contributing materials, labor and ongoing maintenance to help ensure these facilities remain safe, reliable and welcoming for families. During an episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Jason Stanley of IB Roof Systems™ shared how that experience brings a valuable perspective. As Jason noted, “It really centers you on what's important, which is family and giving back.” 

 “It’s just roofing,” Jason said. “If you ever want to feel like it’s just roofing, go visit your local Ronald McDonald House charity.” 

The scale of involvement continues to grow. Roofing contractors across the United States are conducting twice-annual inspections, maintaining drainage systems and completing repairs to ensure each facility remains safe and functional. Manufacturers are contributing insulation, fasteners and membrane systems, while distributors often handle transportation logistics, sometimes at no cost. The result is a coordinated, industry-wide effort that reduces operational expenses for the charity while maintaining high-quality building performance. 

This collaboration has also sparked grassroots initiatives designed to expand participation. Events like charity golf tournaments are drawing professionals from across the country, combining networking opportunities with fundraising efforts that directly support new construction and facility upgrades. As Jason Stanley noted, “It’s a star-studded cast of really great people that come together to do something really noble.” 

At its core, the movement reflects a shared recognition of responsibility. “There’s no greater cause than these kids,” Jason said, emphasizing the motivation behind continued involvement. 

As more companies step forward, the roofing industry is demonstrating that its impact extends well beyond the jobsite, providing not only shelter, but stability for families during some of their most difficult moments. 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about how roofing professionals are giving back through hands-on support, industry collaboration and long-term commitment to Ronald McDonald House Charities!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

International collaboration brings new ideas home.

The Coffee Shops™ were proud to participate in the 2026 National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) Study Tour to Cologne, Germany and Brussels, Belgium. The tour began in Cologne where the global roofing community gathered for Dach + Holz International, one of the world’s premier roofing trade shows. Industry leaders, manufacturers and contractors from around the world came together to share ideas, showcase new technology and discuss best practices shaping the future of roofing. 

Participants on the NRCA 2026 Study Tour represented a diverse cross section of the roofing industry including contractors, consultants and manufacturers. Attendees included John Chan and Gary Howes of The Durable Slate Company; Matt Dupuis of SRI Consultants; Ruben Gonzalez of AIS Construction Inc.; Ron Harriman, retired from Benchmark, Inc.; Alex Hernandez of Clark Roofing Company; Dean Jagusch of Wagner Roofing Company; Sherri Miles of J.D. Miles & Sons, Inc.; Lorna Rojas of National Women in Roofing and Tremco CPG; Jason Stanley and Jamie Treglio of IB Roof Systems; Joe Zale of Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc.; Abad Zarate of AzaPro Roofing and Heidi J. Ellsworth of The Coffee Shops. Together the group represented a broad range of expertise and perspectives from across the roofing industry. 

The purpose of the NRCA 2026 Study Tour was to provide participants with valuable insights into international roofing practices while exploring best practices, gaining a deeper understanding of global trends and establishing meaningful connections with professionals from around the world. By bringing contractors, consultants and industry leaders together in an international setting, the tour created opportunities to exchange knowledge and experience firsthand how roofing technologies and practices differ across markets. 

During the event, NRCA CEO McKay Daniels spoke about the importance of international engagement for roofing professionals. One of NRCA’s priorities, he explained, is helping contractors make tomorrow better than today by creating opportunities to see how roofing is practiced in different regions of the world. 

“Part of our role is bringing contractors and industry professionals to international events like this so they can see how others are approaching roofing,” McKay said. “Different climates, different building methods and different technologies all influence how roofing is done. There’s no monopoly on good ideas.” 

For many attendees on the NRCA 2026 Study Tour, the experience of walking the Dach + Holz show floor was eye opening. From waterproofing technologies to solar integration and green roofing systems, international manufacturers showcased innovations that offered a glimpse of where the industry may be heading. Seeing these developments firsthand allows U.S. contractors to better understand how global markets are evolving and how those ideas may influence roofing practices at home. 

The agenda for the NRCA 2026 Study Tour included the Dach + Holz Trade Show along with site visits, facility tours and group dinners designed to encourage discussion and collaboration among participants. The tour also included a visit to the Derbigum manufacturing facility in Belgium. Derbigum, a Kingspan company, provided attendees with a behind-the-scenes look at manufacturing processes and product development. A highlight of the visit was learning about the company’s commitment to sustainability through its “No Roof to Waste” initiative, a dedicated program that collects and recycles old roof membranes and installation waste, reducing the need for new raw materials. 

Together, these experiences provided a unique opportunity to broaden perspectives and bring back valuable knowledge that can help strengthen roofing businesses and organizations across the United States. Events like Dach + Holz have long served as a hub for global roofing innovation, bringing together manufacturers, contractors and craftspeople from around the world. For U.S. contractors attending with NRCA, the goal was not only to observe but to return home with new ideas and perspectives that can help advance the industry.