By Emma Peterson. 

From enhanced contractor programs to the development of PABCO University, this family‑owned shingle maker showcases its commitment to customer partnership.  

While The Coffee Shops™ crew attended the 2026 International Roofing Expo (IRE), we had the chance to visit the PABCO Roofing Products booth to chat with Lori Jerome, the brand’s marketing manager, and Eric Johnston, division sales leader.  

When asked about the show, both Lori and Eric highlighted how it was a great way to meet their clients and partners. Lori shared, “We’ve been making a lot of meaningful connections with our industry partners, roofing contractors, distributors.” This type of connection with the industry has always been a priority for PABCO. Eric explained:  

One of the great things about PABCO is that we’re a small family-owned company. None of the other shingle manufacturers can really say that. And that gives us a unique connection with our contractor customers because we are able to go out, meet our customers where they are and really hear how we can be a better partner for them. 

An example of how PABCO has taken contractor feedback and translated it into better support for contractors is the updates to their contractor program. Eric shared a bit about some of the ways they're improving the program, saying, “We’re really taking the existing program and making it way more enhanced. For example, we heard that a lot of our contractors are starting to bid on multifamily projects and play in more than just the single-family residential market. So, in response, we’re going to be launching a commercial warranty to help support them in those efforts something.” The full re-release of this program can be expected later in 2026.  

PABCO is also working on launching an education program later this year – PABCO University! The goal of this program is to help small to midsize contractors build their business skills and level up their operations. At the end of the day, these are just two examples of all the ways PABCO is working to better serve their customers. Eric noted, “Our goal is really to help educate people and help them be better at what they do.  Because we know if we're able to successfully help them be more profitable, help them increase their closing rates and just get a little smarter with basic business things. There's going to be loyalty that comes from that, and it's going to be a win-win for both of us.” 

Learn more about what PABCO has planned for this year by watching the whole interview!

By Lori Jerome, PABCO Roofing Products. 

How roofing contractors can meet modern homeowner expectations in terms of communication.  

In general, the world used to move slower. Where you once had to wait for letters to arrive by mail carrier, today a text message takes less than a minute to load. Yet, even now, we find technology speed to be too slow, always looking forward to the next innovation or update that makes these processes easier. In turn, the speed at which our modern world moves is changing the expectations of what quality customer service looks like.  Homeowners today are expecting more transparency and information throughout the roofing process; this means clear estimates, quick replies and more! It can be a lot to keep track of, which is why PABCO Roofing Products put together a guide to communicating with your homeowners effectively – from first impressions to closing out a project.  

What homeowners expect today  

Homeowner expectations have shifted, and it's worth understanding what's actually driving that before jumping to solutions. Most of it comes down to familiarity. Homeowners are used to fast, clear communication from the other service businesses in their lives — and they've started expecting the same from contractors. That means quicker replies, digital estimates and regular updates without having to ask for them. 

Here's what tends to matter most during the decision-making stage: 

• A prompt first response — ideally same day or next day 
• Homeowners can read your online reviews before reaching out 
• Some sense of pricing before committing to an appointment 
• A clear explanation of the estimate (including all materials) 
• A process that feels organized and easy to follow 

One number worth knowing: 66% of homeowners said they were more likely to contact a roofer who showed pricing on their website. That includes a strong majority of baby boomers, millennials and Gen X alike. Transparency isn't just a preference for younger homeowners — it's become a broad expectation across age groups. 

The generational factor 

The common assumption is that older homeowners prefer phone calls, while younger homeowners prefer texts. The reality is more layered — and more useful.  

Recent homeowner research found:  

• 53% of baby boomers preferred phone calls from roofers — but 61% were still more likely to contact a contractor who posted pricing online. 
• 74% of millennials and 72% of Gen X homeowners were more likely to call a roofer with online pricing visibility.  
• Gen X showed the strongest preference for digital-first communication overall — email, text and online pricing over phone contact.  

The practical takeaway here isn't to avoid phone calls. It's to stop treating phone calls as the only option.  

Baby boomers represented 42% of all home buyers in 2025, so their preference for voice communication is real and worth honoring. But a growing share of your customers will actively prefer a more digital experience — and offering both doesn't require two separate processes. It just requires a little flexibility. 

Use the 7-touchpoint communication cadence 

How do you build that flexibility into your operations? Think proactively. Most roofing contractors communicate reactively — they respond when a homeowner reaches out but rarely initiates. The result is that homeowners end up doing more work than they expected just to stay informed, which quietly erodes confidence in the contractor even when the work itself is great. 

A simple, proactive communication cadence looks like this: 

1. Same-day inquiry confirmation — Acknowledge the lead right away, even with a brief autoreply 
2. Appointment reminder — A text 24 hours before the estimated visit 
3. Estimate delivery — A digital proposal with scope, photos, options, warranty and a clear next step 
4. Estimate follow-up — A short check-in if there's been no response after 48 hours 
5. Install a reminder — A text or call the day before work begins 
6. In-progress update — For multi-day jobs, a brief status note at the end of each day 
7. Completion + review request — Share final photos, confirm everything looks good and follow up a few days later with a review request 

Requesting a review isn't much extra work — especially once it's systematized. And it matches what homeowners are already used to from other service businesses. 87% of consumers say they want appointment and scheduling notifications by text. Meeting that expectation is a low-effort way to build trust throughout the job. 

Avoiding common communication break downs 

If jobs are slipping through the cracks, it usually comes back to one of these four moments: 

1. The first response. Speed matters a lot in the early stage — not because homeowners are impatient, but because they're often reaching out to multiple contractors at once. The ones who respond quickly tend to move to the top of the list naturally. 
2. The estimated experience. A number without context is hard for a homeowner to evaluate. Digital proposals that include photos of what you found, a breakdown of materials and scope and clear options give the homeowner something to engage with — and they tend to generate faster approvals with fewer questions. 
3. The gap between the estimate and the job start. Once a job is approved, many contractors go quiet until it's time to show up. A quick message confirming the schedule, material delivery or what to expect on day one goes a long way toward keeping the homeowner confident. 
4. The post-job follow-up. After the job is complete and the customer pays the invoice, most contractors move on without a word. That window right after completion is actually one of the best moments to share final photos, confirm the homeowner is happy and ask for a review while the experience is fresh. 

Tools to aid communication 

The right tools don't replace the relationship — they protect it by making sure the small things don't get dropped when things get busy. A few worth considering: 

• Business texting platforms (e.g., Text Request) — For scheduling, reminders and updates without phone tag 
• Digital proposal software (e.g., JobNimbus, AccuLynx, Jobber) — For professional estimates with photos, scope breakdowns, financing options and e-signatures 
• CRM or job management system — To keep track of where every lead and job stands, so follow-ups happen consistently. 
• Financing integration — Showing payment options upfront helps homeowners make decisions faster. 
• Google Business Profile — Worth keeping updated; most homeowners research online before they ever reach out. 

You don't need all of these at once. A good starting point is identifying where things most often get dropped — whether that's slow lead response, forgotten follow-ups or delays in estimate delivery — and finding one tool that solves that specific problem first. 

A note on pricing transparency 

This one deserves its own section because the gap between what homeowners want and what contractors typically offer is significant. 

66% of homeowners say they're more likely to contact a roofer who shows pricing on their website. Only 28% of roofing contractors actually do it. 

You don't need to publish a fixed price. A general range — something like "most roofs in this area fall between $X and $X, depending on size, pitch and materials" — is enough to give homeowners a useful frame of reference before the first conversation. It tends to make those early conversations go more smoothly, because the homeowner arrives with realistic expectations rather than uncertainty about what they're about to hear. 

5 Improvements to implement  

If you're looking for a practical starting point, these five adjustments tend to have the biggest impact: 

1. Set a response time standard. Decide how quickly every lead gets acknowledged and build a simple system around it — whether that's an auto-reply, a dedicated inbox check twice a day or a designated person responsible for first contact. 
2. Move to digital proposals. Include photos, a scope breakdown, material options, warranty info and a way to approve digitally. It's a meaningful upgrade in how professional the estimate experience feels. 
3. Add texting to your workflow. Use it for reminders, updates and review requests. Keep phone calls for homeowners who prefer them — and let everyone else communicate however they're most comfortable. 
4. Build a simple follow-up habit. No response to an estimate after 48 hours? Send a short, friendly check-in. Job completed? Send photos and circle back a few days later with a review request. 
5. Add a pricing range to your website. Even a rough range signals confidence and gives homeowners something useful before they reach out. 

Want to learn more about modern contractor communication? Check out this free communication checklist! It covers every touchpoint in the homeowner journey — from first inquiry to post-job review request.

Original article source: PABCO Roofing Products

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about how PABCO’s Cascade product line unites design and performance in one stunning shingle.  

While at the 2026 Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) show, we caught up with Lori Jerome, the marketing manager at PABCO Roofing Products, for a quick interview. Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, PABCO is known for their high-quality shingle products. In fact, one of those shingles was on display at the show – their Cascade shingle. Lori shared a bit about the display, saying, “It shows the recent Edgewood Lake Tahoe project that used Cascade shingles. It’s really beautiful. You can find videos of it on our website, pabcoroofing.com.” 

The video is well-worth a watch, full of drone footage that showcases the unique and powerful beauty of the diamond-shaped Cascade shingle. And these signature cut shingles are not only good looking, but they are also high-performance with features such as:  

• Fire resistance: Cascade shingles have been tested to meet the UL790 Class A Fire Resistance Standard. This is the highest fire test classification for roofing and indicates Cascade shingles’ ability to withstand severe exposure from fires originating outside of the building envelope.  
• Warranty: PABCO also provides a Limited Lifetime warranty for the Cascade shingles. This warranty not only protects the homeowner’s investment; it creates a clear record of roof history, making future service, documentation and ownership transfers easier.   
• Low maintenance: And last but not least, Cascade shingles feature Algae Defender® technology. This is ideal for wet climates, like that in PABCO’s hometown of Tacoma, where dampness and humidity can facilitate algae growth. Algae Defender also helps against moss and lichen.  

Overall, these shingles are a great example of how the products coming out of PABCO raise the standard of roofing. Like Lori said, “Being at this show is great because everyone is truly there to help each other and continue to raise the standards of the industry and the professionalism of roofing on a whole, we’re glad to be a part of it.”  

Watch the full interview with Lori!

By Emma Peterson. 

Ryan VanDelft and Eric Johnston share how contractor-first education and partnership drive PABCO’s operations.  

Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, PABCO Roofing Products are known for premium asphalt roof shingles. But their work goes far beyond the products that they sell. The team at PABCO is not only dedicated to innovating best-in-class roof solutions but helping their customers succeed in their business goals. To learn more about this commitment, Megan Ellsworth caught up with Eric Johnston, PABCO’s division sales leader, and Ryan VanDelft, PABCO’s general manager, while at the 2026 International Roofing Expo for a conversation about their company philosophy.  

At PABCO, the goal can be summed up to “bring[ing] together the capabilities of a national manufacturer with the care, service and accountability of a trusted local business.” This commitment can be seen in their openness to feedback. Eric explained, “When I started, I got to hit the road for six straight weeks and really talk to our contractors. It was super eye-opening and enlightening, and we were able to take some immediate action because of that, like redoing our brochures and enhancing our website, as well as start some longer-term projects to help them.” 

The longer-term project that Eric is referencing is the relaunch of PABCO University. Ryan shared what they are trying to do with this program:  

I've been a contractor for many years working with my dad, and everyone must wear many different hats. You’re not just a roofer; you’re the sales manager, maybe the finance manager or any number of other roles. And so, one of the challenges is finding a way to integrate all these different things within your day-to-day activities and stay effective. What we’re working on doing with PABCO University is taking some of those hats off. Whether its sales and marketing or finance and strategy, we’re trying to build a program that helps our contractors be more successful in running their businesses.  

Eric added, “With PABCO University, we’re specifically focused on helping our clients with basic business aspects. It’s not just how to go sell PABCO shingles. We really want to help them in their business.” Because at the end of the day, PABCO’s philosophy is simple: When their roofers win, the PABCO team wins.  

Hear more from Eric and Ryan about PABCO and when to expect the launch of PABCO University!

By Lori Jerome, PABCO Roofing Products. 

Learn what a nailing pattern is and why it matters for asphalt shingle performance. 

On the surface, a nailing pattern for shingles is exactly what it sounds like – a pattern to follow for attaching a shingle to the roof using nails. Diving deeper into this subject, nailing patterns include key installation information such as quantity, placement, spacing, fastener type and penetration depth. Why is this all so specific? 

Nailing patterns are not just thrown together. For example, the team here at PABCO Roofing Products carefully engineers our nailing patterns based on performance testing, ensuring that when contractors follow the nailing pattern and any additional manufacturer’s instructions, the shingle will perform optimally. If the nailing pattern is not followed, maybe the installer nails too high or outside the recommended zone, the shingle will be vulnerable to issues like wind uplifts and moisture buildup.  

Parts of the pattern 

There are many parts of a nailing pattern, all working together to ensure shingles perform to their rated wind resistance, shed water properly and remain eligible for warranty coverage. One section is the nail line. This marks the area where the shingle is engineered to be fastened, typically near the laminated portion of the shingle, where holding power is maximized. 

• High nailing places fasteners above the reinforced area, reducing wind resistance and increasing the potential for water ponding. 
• Low nailing can expose nail heads, interfere with sealing and lead to visible nails from the ground. 
• Missed zones can compromise uplift resistance and can void warranty coverage. 

Another part of the nailing pattern to understand is nail placement. This is more important than ever with the increase of storm intensity around the world as wind uplift ratings are only valid when shingles are installed exactly as tested – exactly as outlined in the nailing pattern.  

For example, PABCO shingles offer wind ratings between 110 miles per hour and 130 miles per hour depending on the product and whether proper installation methods were adhered to. 

Even when nails are placed correctly, how they’re driven also matters.  

• Angled nails can damage both the shingle being fastened and the shingle above it 
• Overdriven nails cut into the shingle, reducing holding power 
• Underdriven nails interfere with sealing and can lead to uplift 

PABCO installation requirements also specify the fastener itself, including: 

• Galvanized roofing nails 
• Minimum head diameter and proper gauge 
• Minimum length 
• Penetration of at least ¾ inch into the roof deck 

These requirements ensure the fastener lasts for the life of the shingle. Non-galvanized or undersized nails can corrode, stain the roof, lose holding power or fail prematurely even when placement is otherwise correct. 

Protected performance 

Beyond ensuring that high-performance standards are met, nailing patterns are key to maintaining roof warranties. Warranties are based on the tests that a manufacturer conducts in the lab within defined installation parameters (such as nailing patterns, zones and specifications). 

At PABCO, we believe clear instructions, thorough testing and transparent documentation help contractors deliver roofs that perform as expected, job after job. And we confidently stand behind our products and the contractors who install them correctly.  

Original article and photo source: PABCO Products

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn, compete and connect at Washington State’s premier roofing event.  

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is hosting their annual regional tradeshow on March 13, 2026, at the Muckleshoot Casino & Resort! This one-day event (running 9 a.m.-2 p.m.) is the best roofing-specific tradeshow in Washington state, boasting national sponsors like PABCO Roofing Products!  

If you and your crew want to stay ahead of the competition this roofing season, you won’t want to miss this day of education, networking and fun!  

Learn alongside your peers 

Industry experts and leaders will be at the show sharing insights into crucial topics like safety, marketing, business growth and legal compliance. Here are some of the sessions that will be available:  

• Building your brand (9 a.m.-9:45 a.m.): This course will take attendees through strategies for strengthening their reputation and brand in the competitive roofing market. Ultimately, the skills learned here will help contractors build trust with customers, communicate their value and build long-term growth. 
• Insurance supplementing (10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.): Taught by Stephen Rollins of Prodigy Estimating & Consulting, this session takes attendees through the best practices and common pitfalls of identifying, documenting and submitting supplements for claim payments. 
• Implementing a sales system (10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.): Learn from Grosso University’s Wendy Harmeyer in this course all about building a strong sales system in your roofing business! Attendees will walk away with actionable steps for implementing the One Call Close Grosso Selling System in their businesses and unlocking increased close rates, improved customer trust and maximized profitability. 
• KOS vs. retro refunds (11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.): In this session, Stop Claims Corp. breaks down the two main workers’ compensation options in Washington state (kept on salary and retro refunds). Attendees will gain a better understanding of how these options operate and what to consider when choosing your business’ approach.  

And for Spanish-speaking contractors, RCAW has organized a schedule of Spanish-language sessions! These include:  

• Competent person fall protection (9 a.m. - 1 p.m.): In this Spanish-language course, Shield of Armor Safety will walk through “the proper use of personal fall arrest/restraint systems in order to safely perform work in elevated areas.” This includes standards and recommendations such as OSHA, WAC 296-880 Unified Fall Protection Standard, American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). 
• Smart tax strategies (9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.): This session is designed for contractors and business owners who want to learn how to improve their financial structure. Attendees will learn practical tax strategies that will help them maximize profits and avoid costly mistakes.  
• Insurance process (11 a.m. - 1 p.m.): In this session, Amparo Sancen of Latinos En Roofing will share insights into the key steps of insurance claims and how to navigate the process more effectively. This is a great opportunity to gain a better understanding of insurance on a whole. 

Explore the expo floor 

And between your education sessions, make sure to check out the expo! This year’s show will feature more than 40 booths full of the greatest and latest in roofing products and tools. Further, RCAW is running a fun competition where exhibitors will be competing for the titles of “Most Interactive” and “Most Attended” booths! So you can look forward to fun games and activities at each booth, such as spin-the-wheel, trivia, or cornhole!  

The Coffee Shops™ crew will be there too (booth #102), so make sure to stop by and say hi! 

Join in some friendly competition 

This year’s show also sees the return of the popular Fastest Shingle Competition! Sponsored by GAF, this competition is a great showcase of the skill and workmanship of PNW contractors. Not only does a win come with bragging rights, but there are also monetary prizes ($500 – 1st place, $250 – 2nd place, $100 – 3rd place), a trophy engraving and recognition in RCAW’s social, print and digital marketing! 

Whether you’re competing or cheering someone on, you don’t want to miss out of the fun (Note: You must register ahead of time to compete).  

Don’t miss out on RCAW 2026! Register today for your chance to learn, compete and connect at Washington state’s premier roofing event!

By Lori Jerome, PABCO Roofing Products. 

Help homeowners retain their roof’s new appearance by investing in PABCO’s Algae Defender shingles. 

No one wants to see black streaks of algae on their rooftop. Unfortunately, that’s a common complaint among homeowners. The good news is that this is not usually a sign of structural failure; algae buildup can simply cause a darker appearance in wet or shady areas of a rooftop. 

Even still, they are quite unsightly, which can lead to dissatisfied homeowners, lowered curb appeal and unnecessary insurance claims (as it can make a roof look older than it is). So, how do you help your clients avoid this issue? 

One solution is offering PABCO Roofing Products ' Algae Defender shingles, which provide a reliable way to avoid algae development on the roof, even in the most moisture-prone regions. 

Understanding algae on the roof 

The dark streaks that appear on a roof are usually caused by a blue-green algae called cyanobacteria. This organism thrives in areas where moisture lingers on a roof surface, especially on north-facing slopes or in shaded areas near trees or buildings, particularly in climates with prolonged periods of wet conditions.  

The algae itself isn’t structurally harmful to the shingles. The issue is what happens after it dies. As cyanobacteria break down, they leave behind a dark, pigmented residue that clings to the shingles. Over time, this develops into the familiar black streaking pattern that gives roofs a worn or neglected appearance. Algae-resistant shingles are designed to prevent the growth of blue-green algae and the unsightly black streaks they leave behind.  

Where is algae most common 

While algae can grow almost anywhere, some environments make blue-green algae far more aggressive. Contractors should strongly recommend algae-resistant shingles for roofs that experience:  

• Long periods of moisture (coastal regions, fog belts, rainy climates)  
• Slow dry-out times (cool temperatures, persistent cloud cover)  
• North-facing slopes that rarely receive sunlight  
• Tree cover or nearby structures that cast long shadows  
• Neighborhoods with heavy debris, pollen or dust that feed on organic growth  
• Rural areas where farm activity stirs up dirt that settles on the roof  

In places like the Pacific Northwest, for example, a roof might stay wet for months at a time. Without algae-resistant shingles, black streaks are almost guaranteed.   

PABCO® Roofing Products’ science-backed solution 

Because PABCO Roofing Products is based in Tacoma, Washington, one of the most algae-prone regions in North America, we’ve invested heavily in understanding how algae develops and exactly how much copper is needed to resist it.   

At a long-running test facility in Granite Falls, Washington, PABCO has tested shingles built with varying copper granule concentrations. After years of exposure, our testing facility has enabled us to develop our Algae Defender technology with an optimized copper granule blend engineered to resist blue-green algae for years under harsh, wet conditions.  

Where most standard asphalt shingles utilize ceramic-coated granules, which provide both color and protection, algae-resistant shingles incorporate copper-infused granules, as copper is a natural algaecide. When the roof becomes wet, small amounts of copper ions are released from the granules and wash across the roof surface. These ions make it extremely difficult for cyanobacteria to establish, helping keep the shingles clean and streak-free.   

Beyond appearance: Other reasons to choose algae-resistant shingles 

Although algae is primarily an aesthetic problem, homeowners increasingly face secondary issues such as:  

• Other growth becomes more likely: Moss, lichen and green algae often feed on the organic residue left behind by blue-green algae. When cyanobacteria fail to establish themselves, these organisms have a harder time gaining a foothold.  
• Organic growth can affect roof performance over time: While the shingle itself isn’t a nutrient source, moss and lichen can trap moisture, redirect water flow and dislodge granules from the shingles as they root and spread.  
• Insurance claims are becoming more common: More homeowners are being told by adjusters that their roofs appear worn out because the black streaking mimics granule loss or shingle deterioration. In many cases, the roof is still well within its service life, it’s just stained.  

Choosing algae-resistant shingles can help homeowners avoid these unnecessary headaches and preserve the roof’s visual condition. PABCO backs this with warranty protections for Algae Defender products, offering cleaning, repair or replacement if cyanobacteria appear.  

By educating your clients about blue-green algae and the benefits of Algae Defender shingles, you can help them make a choice that saves money, avoids frustration and keeps their home looking great for years to come. 

Original article and image source: PABCO

Through the combined efforts of PABCO, Kitsap Roofing, ABC Supply and Pioneer Builders Supply Co., the Family Renewal Shelter was able to get a complete roof replacement at no cost to them.

Kitsap Roofing contractors recently partnered with PABCO Roofing Products to complete a full roof replacement for Family Renewal Shelter, a local domestic violence shelter. PABCO donated roofing materials for the project, while Kitsap Roofing donated all the labor, ensuring the shelter could remain functional without incurring major costs for what would otherwise be an expensive full-roof replacement.

Kitsap Roofing is a local roofing contractor, serving Kitsap County and parts of Pierce and Jefferson counties. The business was founded in 1977 and recently changed hands after the retirement of the founder, who passed the business to Zac and Megan Fain. Kitsap Roofing installs both residential and commercial roofs, as well as offering spot repairs, gutter installations and roof cleaning services. With decades of experience with residential roofing and PABCO shingle installation, they were happy to contribute their labor to the Family Renewal cause.

Family Renewal Shelter has served the Pierce County community since 1986 through confidential shelters and comprehensive support programs designed to protect and restore families affected by domestic violence. The organization prioritizes immediate safety by removing victims and their children from harm. The newly installed roof strengthens the shelter's infrastructure and helps maintain a secure, reliable environment for residents and staff. 

PABCO employees first visited the Family Renewal Shelter in 2024 as part of the Adopt a Family program, which helps distribute holiday gifts to families in need. While dropping off gifts, employees Brian Smith and Mel Barger immediately noticed the facility's failing roof and resolved to help them.

"Working in roofing, it is second nature for us to look up," Brian recalls. "It was clear the roof was struggling with heavy algae growth and shingles coming loose. When we went inside, the incredible staff welcomed us and apologized for the buckets placed around the building to catch active leaks. In that moment, both Mel and I knew we wanted to help. When we shared what we saw with PABCO leadership later that day, it took little to no convincing for everyone to agree that this was something we needed to do."

Luckily, PABCO leadership was happy to supply new shingles to the ailing shelter after hearing the situation from Brian and Mel; ABC Supply agreed to donate gutters and downspouts, and Pioneer Builders Supply Co. donated the other necessary materials. However, they would still need someone willing to install the roof; when it comes to roofing, oftentimes the majority of the final bill goes towards labor costs, so supplying materials for the job was only half the battle. When Kitsap Roofing, a local roofing contractor and long-time partner of PABCO, heard about the plan, they quickly agreed to handle the install.

"Kitsap Roofing is honored to support an organization that has been safeguarding families in our region for nearly four decades," said Zac Fain, owner of Kitsap Roofing. "As a local family-owned business, it's important to us to be able to support other local families, and providing our labor for this project was a great way to give back."

Through the combined efforts of PABCO, Kitsap Roofing, ABC Supply and Pioneer Builders Supply Co., the Family Renewal Shelter was able to get a complete roof replacement at no cost to them. The long-overdue roof replacement allows the shelter to provide more comfortable amenities to families in need; rather than waste time and energy on catching roof leaks, the staff at Family Renewal Shelter can now focus their full attention on providing safe, stable support where it's needed most.

About Kitsap Roofing

Kitsap Roofing is a locally owned roofing company, serving Western Washington since 1977. The company specializes in residential and commercial roofing services and is committed to quality workmanship, integrity and community involvement. Servicing roofs across Kitsap, Pierce and Jefferson counties, Kitsap Roofing has become a trusted and well-known contractor in the South Sound region. In addition to asphalt roofs, they also offer composite and metal roofing options to homeowners. Learn more at kitsaproofing.com.

About PABCO Roofing Products

PABCO Roofing Products has been a trusted partner in protecting homes for more than 40 years. A division of PABCO Building Products, PABCO Roofing Products serves customers throughout the western United States and Canada. It is a wholly owned subsidiary of Pacific Coast Building Products, Inc., a leading manufacturer and supplier of building materials for more than 70 years. Learn more at pabcoroofing.com and follow PABCO Roofing Products on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, X (Twitter) and YouTube.

About Family Renewal Shelter

Family Renewal Shelter is a Pierce County–based domestic violence organization founded in 1986. Through confidential shelters and comprehensive programs, the organization provides emergency safety, support services and long-term resources for victims and their children. Learn more at domesticviolencehelp.org.

By Lori Jerome, PABCO Roofing. 

The importance of a starter shingle and how to explain it to your clients.  

When many home and business owners look at their roofs, they often see a bunch of shingles that look the same to them. But as a roofer, you know that they're actually looking at a variety of shingle types; they might have shingles designed with a ridge vent in them, or maybe a section is comprised of solar shingles. But at the very least they'll have what are called starter shingles up there. In this article, PABCO Roofing dives into everything from the details of what a starter shingle does to how to talk to your clients about the importance of picking a quality product for them. 

The role of a starter shingle 

Similar to what the name implies, starter shingles are the first ones laid on the roof. They form the base course of the roof at the eave and, in some applications, along the rake as well. Their primary job is to create a clean, sealed edge that prevents wind uplift and water intrusion beneath the first course of shingles. The starter strips are typically constructed of a fiberglass mat coated on both sides with asphalt and covered in granules. They're nailed in place following the manufacturer's specific pattern and are often required by the building code at the roof's leading edge. In certain wind zones or climates, they may also be required at rake edges for added protection and durability. 

A quality starter shingle improves the roof’s ability to shed water efficiently. By covering joints and cutouts at the eave, the starter course ensures that water flows smoothly off the roof, instead of seeping beneath the exposed edges of field shingles. This not only protects against leaks and premature deterioration, but also supports the proper drainage path the roofing system was designed to achieve.  

Why quality matters 

Using the right starter shingle and installing it properly impacts both the look and performance of the roof. While your clients might be tempted to ask for a cheaper standard shingle to use as a starter, that approach is not recommended. Improperly placed sealant lines and uneven thickness can lead to poor adhesion, potentially voiding a manufacturer’s warranty. Starter shingles are engineered to be flatter and narrower than standard shingles, ensuring the first shingle course lies smooth and level. 

Beyond simply using a starter shingle, you also want to choose a high-quality product. Without a good quality starter shingle, your roof is more vulnerable to wind uplift and moisture intrusion. Alternatively, with a high-quality starter shingle, you get stronger adhesion at the eave and a cleaner, more uniform roofline. At the end of the day, paying a little more for a better starter shingle saves contractors time, reduces waste and ensures long-term roof system integrity. 

Working with the PABCO® Universal Starter 

PABCO Roofing Products designed their Universal Starter Shingle to simplify installation and deliver reliable performance across its full range of asphalt shingle systems. Now updated with a perforated design, the Universal Starter lets contractors easily split each shingle lengthwise into two clean pieces. This not only saves time on the roof but also helps reduce waste and improve overall efficiency.  

Unlike some self-adhering starter rolls that use rubberized materials, the PABCO Universal Starter is a true asphalt shingle. It won’t soften, stretch or become overly tacky in hot weather, ensuring smooth handling, clean installation and dependable performance across any climate or region. The Universal Starter is compatible with all PABCO asphalt shingles, including the Premier and Prestige series, which require a single layer of Universal Starter on the eave.  

It also works when used with the Paramount, Paramount Advantage and Cascade series. These systems utilize a dual-layer system and feature a Universal Starter at the edge, followed by a color-matched Paramount Starter for optimal adhesion and appearance beneath thicker designer shingles. This layered approach offers both functional and aesthetic benefits, providing stronger adhesion at the eave and a seamless, visually consistent roofline from edge to ridge.  

Every great roof needs a solid foundation. By starting with a quality starter shingle, contractors can give homeowners the confidence that their roof is built to perform from the first course to the last ridge. With PABCO’s newly improved Universal Starter, you get the perfect combination of performance, simplicity and reliability, helping every roof you install start strong and stay that way for years to come. 

Original article and photo source: PABCO Roofing

By Lori Jerome, PABCO Roofing Products.

When preserving the heritage of historic homes in Oregon, few roofing companies bring the same level of craftsmanship, experience and pride as Bliss Roofing.

For over five decades, Bliss Roofing has been a trusted name across the Pacific Northwest — delivering quality artistry and exceptional service to homeowners from Portland to Bend. Recently, the Bliss team took on a special reroofing project at one of Lake Oswego’s most distinctive and historically significant properties — the historic Oscar Roher House on Northshore Circle.

A roofing company rooted in quality and service

Stephanie Baird, general manager at Bliss Roofing, has helped uphold the company’s reputation for excellence for 31 years. “Bliss Roofing has been serving Oregon homeowners for over half a century,” she says. “Our goal has always been to combine top-notch quality with outstanding customer service, whether working on a small residential home or a signature property like this one.”

With its roots in residential roofing, Bliss Roofing recently expanded operations eastward with a new location in Bend, Oregon, extending its reach across the state while maintaining its strong community focus.

Transforming a lakefront classic

Located at 128 Northshore Circle in Lake Oswego, the Oscar Roher House is a local architectural gem with a timeless character and stunning lake views. This well-known residence is a cornerstone of Lake Oswego’s early lakeside architecture. Originally built during the mid-20th century, the home reflects the craftsmanship and design detail that became characteristic of the Northshore neighborhood’s historic waterfront properties.

Locals admire this home on a premier lot overlooking the lake for its distinctive brick exterior, mature landscaping and symmetry with the natural shoreline. When the current homeowners decided to update and preserve the home’s exterior, they wanted to balance modern design with respect for its heritage. This goal began with replacing the aging cedar shake roof.

The reroof project covered approximately 32 squares with a steep 12/12 pitch, requiring precision and careful coordination. Bliss Roofing’s crew removed the old cedar shakes, installed new plywood decking over the existing ship lap, repaired fascia as needed and finished with the dramatic PABCO® Cascade™ diamond-shaped asphalt shingles in Antique Black.

Why PABCO Cascade™ was the perfect fit

The homeowners wanted a roof that delivered visual distinction and lasting performance for this historic property. “The owners specifically loved the diamond-shaped pattern of PABCO Cascade™,” says Stephanie. “From the street — and especially from the lake — the roof creates a striking, elegant appearance that enhances the home’s architecture.

Beyond aesthetics, Cascade shingles are designed for durability, weather resistance and longevity, making them ideal for the Pacific Northwest’s demanding climate. The combination of beauty and performance made Cascade the standout choice for this project.

Overcoming challenges with expertise

Logistics were critical with the property’s steep pitch and limited lakeside access. The Bliss crew used an Equipter to handle the tear-off and loading efficiently. “Access on the back side was tight,” Baird explains, “But with the right tools and teamwork, we kept the project running smoothly and safely.”

The finished look: Historic elegance reimagined

The result is truly breathtaking — especially when viewed from the water. The Antique Black PABCO Cascade™ shingles provide a bold contrast to the white brick exterior, adding sophistication while preserving the home’s timeless charm.

“The transformation is outstanding,” says Stephanie. “It’s one of those projects where you can see how the right roof doesn’t just protect a home — it defines its character.”

Project details

• Location: 128 Northshore Circle, Lake Oswego, Oregon
• Roof size: 32 squares
• Pitch: 12/12
• Original roof: Cedar shakes over ship lap decking
• New roof: PABCO® Cascade™ diamond-shaped shingles in Antique Black
• Type: Residential reroof

About Bliss Roofing
Bliss Roofing is a residential roofing company based in Clackamas, Oregon, proudly serving customers for over 56 years. With operations throughout the Portland Metro and Central Oregon regions, Bliss specializes in reroofing, repair and maintenance — always emphasizing craftsmanship, safety and customer satisfaction.

About PABCO Roofing Products

Headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, PABCO Roofing Products has manufactured premium asphalt shingles since 1984, delivering performance, quality and style for homeowners and contractors across the Western United States. PABCO’s Cascade™ line offers a one-of-a-kind diamond-shaped design, combining architectural beauty with proven weather resistance and lasting protection.