Solving the puzzle of roof drainage

By Jenny Yu. 

Hunter Panels highlights the power of tapered insulation on low-slope roofs. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Karen Edwards of The Coffee Shops™ spoke with Tim Rood, manager of tapered design for Hunter Panels, about the critical role tapered insulation plays in ensuring proper drainage and long-term roof performance.  

Tim, who manages a nationwide team of designers, admitted that it can be difficult to explain what tapered systems are. So, Hunter Panels got creative. “It’s kind of like a puzzle on a roof and it moves water to the drains,” he said, demonstrating with an actual puzzle specifically designed to illustrate how tapered works to industry professionals and laypeople alike. “Each of these pieces is one taper panel, and they fit together to make the water drain. Every year we're coming up with new ways to explain it.”  

Despite the complex nature of tapered systems, Hunter Panels has seen steady demand, indicating the importance of this offering. “We did about 13,000 quotes last year,” Tim shared. “Every type of roof you can imagine, from drawings on a napkin to 700-page blueprints. We’ve seen it all.” 

For those interested in tapered design but unsure of where to start, Hunter Panels offers plenty of options for education and customer support, free of charge. “We have the ability to meet with people, do hands-on training or online webinars,” Tim said. “We also put out a series of YouTube videos on the basics of tapered: how to build a cricket, how to do sumps, etc.” Hunter Panels’ website also has data sheets, blog posts and a place to request a quote.   

For contractors navigating drainage challenges on flat roofs, Hunter Panels emphasizes that tapered insulation is a key tool for performance and efficiency. 

Watch the full interview to see Tim’s tapered puzzle in action and to learn more about how Hunter Panels is leading the charge for tapered design.