RoofersCoffeeShop UK

Turning maintenance data into better decisions

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 07:00:00 PDT

By Jesse Sanchez.

Connected maintenance and inspection tools can help contractors improve consistency, streamline service workflows and turn field data into stronger business insights.

For commercial roofing contractors, managing service and maintenance can involve hundreds of visits, inspections, repairs and customer touch points. Keeping that activity organized is essential not only for completing work efficiently but also for maintaining consistent communication and understanding how service operations are performing. Dataforma grew out of that challenge. The software was originally developed after a roofing company struggled to manage service tickets through a combination of Excel files, whiteboards and paper forms. Reflecting on the problem that started the development process, Dataforma Chief Operating Officer Brian Cook explained during this CoatingsCast™, “The original reason was we needed a better way to run our service department.”

While contractors now have more technology available, Brian said familiar service challenges remain, including getting invoices out quickly and ensuring inspections are completed consistently. Emphasizing the importance of a standardized process, Brian noted, “We need our inspections to be consistent. I can't have Megan go out and do an inspection and it looks this way and then Brian goes out and does an inspection and it looks another way.”

That need for consistency also helped shape Dataforma’s new maintenance module, which grew from contractor feedback at the company’s Design Summit. The module is designed to help contractors manage recurring maintenance agreements across multiple buildings by showing outstanding visits, tracking profitability and connecting maintenance activity with resulting repair work. Inspections support that process by documenting completed visits with photos and recorded deficiencies.

Dataforma has also changed how field users interact with its inspection technology. Rather than requiring technicians to follow a rigid sequence, the updated experience allows them to document roof conditions as they encounter them while the software handles more of the organization behind the scenes. Brian said, “You just go out, figure out what's wrong up there.”

The information collected through maintenance and inspections can also support broader business decisions. Contractors can review recurring deficiencies, examine service history and compare issues across roof systems, properties or regions, turning individual field visits into a larger source of operational insight.

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how connected maintenance and inspection processes can help contractors improve service consistency, organize recurring work and make better use of field data!

How much wood could a Woodchuck divert?

Sat, 05 Sep 2026 05:00:00 PDT

By Emma Peterson.

Learn how Woodchuck AI is helping contractors turn construction waste, like lumber products, into savings and renewable energy.

In a new episode of Contractor Outlook™ sponsored by SRS Distribution Inc., Heidi J. Ellsworth talks with Todd Thomas about how his company, Woodchuck AI, is helping contractors manage job site waste more efficiently. This is now the third year that Woodchuck has been operating. Their story starts back in Michigan with North Star Clean Energy, the state public utility renewable energy branch. Todd recalled, “North Star Clean Energy does solar farms, wind farms and bioenergy (burning biomass to generate electricity) facilities in the state of Michigan. And their goal is to get the state off petroleum products, which requires finding a large source of energy.”

Looking at this issue, Todd and his team turned their gaze to what’s going to waste in our landfills and if there was a solution there. What they found was that in a single year, “the United States sent forty-two million tons of wood waste from construction sites to the landfill.” Not only is this a waste of a biomaterial that could be used to fuel our energy needs, it’s also expensive. Todd explained, “When we send things to landfills, we’re usually paying two dollars to bury one dollar's worth of material. That adds up. Across the entire United States we spent two billion dollars to bury one billion dollars worth of materials in landfills just last year.”

And from there Woodchuck AI was born. Todd described how they fit into this story, sharing, “Woodchuck works with construction and manufacturing companies to divert their waste from landfills and instead convert it into biomass that can be used to generate renewable energy.”

What does this look like on the job site? It looks like unique containers for each material, one for wood, one for plastic, one for cardboard and one for metal. From there, as a construction crew works in the field, they simply take a few extra moments to sort their debris as they go. Helping them is an AI-powered camera in each container, which alerts them when material is mixed up and put in the wrong place.

Once the containers are filled, the Woodchuck team is able to take them to places, like North Star Clean Energy, that can use the materials to create more energy. The best part? Taking the time to sort doesn’t just help contractors feel better about their environmental impact, it also helps their bottom line. Todd explained:

When you have all your debris and materials mixed together, it costs you money to have someone haul it away. But by sorting it and having us take it, you avoid those costs entirely... In general, our clients save 30%-40% by working with us!

With this type of monetary savings, combined with the knowledge that you are helping build a more renewable, sustainable future, working with Woodchuck becomes a no brainer.

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording to learn more!

Eagle Roofing Products expands roofing system solutions through strategic alliance with Marco Industries

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 21:00:00 PDT

This partnership enhances Eagle's components offering and strengthens its position as a complete roofing system solutions provider.

Under its expanding Secure Roof Components brand, Eagle Roofing Products is strengthening its commitment to delivering complete roofing system solutions through a strategic partnership with Marco Industries, Inc., a leading manufacturer of roof ventilation products. By adding premium ventilation components to its growing product portfolio, Eagle continues to provide builders, contractors and homeowners with integrated solutions that enhance the long-term performance, efficiency and durability of concrete tile roofing systems.

As part of the partnership, Eagle will offer four Marco Industries ventilation products engineered against wind uplift, wind-driven rain and wildlife intrusion while promoting proper airflow throughout the roofing system:

Dryer Vent – Designed for efficient laundry exhaust ventilation.
Tile Gooseneck Vent – Developed for kitchen and bathroom exhaust ventilation.
Universal Tile Ridge Vent – Engineered to provide continuous attic ventilation along the roof ridge.
Tile Off-Ridge Vent – Designed to provide continuous airflow throughout the attic space.

According to Eagle leadership, this is far more than a product launch. "This is a strategic shift from selling individual roofing products to delivering a completely engineered roofing system that protects the structure," said Tyler Allwood, Vice President of Sales and Business Development at Eagle.

Lissette Pamplona, Senior Director of Customer Experience, added, "Property owners today care about much more than appearance. They care about energy efficiency, storm protection, leak prevention, long-term investment value and confidence that the system protecting their home performs."

Historically, much of the tile roofing industry has competed primarily on aesthetics, profile and color. Eagle's expanded approach shifts the conversation to the overall performance of the roofing system and the challenges it is designed to help prevent, including:

Roof leaks resulting from inadequate system design
Costly repairs caused by product or installation failure
Storm damage from extreme weather exposure
Animal and pest intrusion through vulnerable roof areas
Moisture and mold issues inside the home
Premature HVAC wear caused by excessive attic heat
Energy waste and higher utility costs

At the center of the initiative is an education strategy designed to help quality contractors better explain the value of complete roof system performance.

"Our goal is not simply to sell roofing products," Allwood said. "Our goal is to help elevate the entire property owner roofing experience through better engineering, better education and better long-term protection."

The inclusion of Marco Industries' ventilation products further strengthens Eagle's growing components offering, allowing the company to position itself as a provider of complete roofing system solutions that customers can rely on.

For more information on Eagle's Secure Roof Components products, visit eagleroofing.com.

The metal event of the year is here!

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 19:00:00 PDT

By Emma Peterson.

With more than 250 exhibitors, expanded educational programming and interactive experiences across the show floor, METALCON continues to be the industry's premier gathering for metal construction.

METALCON, the only event in the industry dedicated solely to the application of metal in design and construction, is just around the corner! Produced by PSMJ Resources, Inc., in partnership with the Metal Construction Association, this year’s show will be hosted October 7-9, 2026, at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida!

This show brings metal professionals from across the country, whether you are a contractor, fabricator, manufacturer, supplier, designer or distributor, together to evaluate innovative products on the expo floor, build powerful partnerships at events, learn about the future of the industry in education sessions and push the industry forward, together. Keep reading to learn a bit about what to expect from this year’s show!

METALCON 2026 education program

Education has always been a cornerstone of the METALCON experience. For this year’s show, the METALCON team has expanded their educational offerings! In addition to their traditional metal construction, architecture, engineering and manufacturing workshops and complimentary sessions, they have added four Spanish-language education sessions!

With industry-leading experts like Rob Haddock (S-5!), Vincent Sagan (Metal Building Manufacturers Association), Kermit Baker (American Institute of Architects), Amparo Sancen (Latinos En Roofing), Renee Ramey (Metal Roofing Alliance), Stephen Bender (University of Florida College of Design Construction and Planning), Kyle Rea (Adams and Reese) and Ryan Dalgleish (RAiNA), these sessions offer attendees a veritable wealth of information.

Please note: All education sessions, except workshops, are included with your registration. No sign-up is needed. Just arrive at your selected session at the scheduled time and location. Seating is first come, first served.

Browse the education offerings.

The recipe for repeat business

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 17:00:00 PDT

By The Coffee Shops®.

How small customer service habits build long-term client loyalty.

Recently, National Women in Roofing (NWIR) executive director Katie Bodiford shared some personal insights she’s gained over her career. Specifically, she explored how a brief, thoughtful conversation can create a loyal customer while one poor interaction could cost you their business. In her words, “You can have the best product, the best price and the best people in the business — and still lose a customer over one lousy interaction...It’s rarely the grand gestures that make the difference. More often, it’s the tiny things.”

What do these "tiny" things refer to? It could be as simple as remembering a customer’s name or not returning phone calls in a timely manner. These small actions are what show your customer “how easy — or difficult — [it is] it to work with you.” Here are five examples that Katie shared of how to incorporate these small moments of care into your operations:

Use someone’s name. This makes an exchange feel personal and shows that you are listening.
Ask questions. A simple “What can I do to make this easier for you?” shifts the focus toward removing unnecessary steps, repeating less information and anticipating the next question.
Balance honesty with follow through. When an answer is not immediately available, replacing “I don’t know” with “I’ll find out” keeps the conversation moving. The commitment becomes meaningful when it is paired with follow-through.
Be clear about timelines. Instead of simply promising to respond, explain when the customer can expect an update. If the answer is still unavailable at that time, reach out anyway. Letting people know they have not been forgotten can be as important as solving the issue itself.
Continue the conversation. Rather than directing someone to another department and ending the conversation, introduce the appropriate colleague, provide context and help the customer avoid repeating the full story.

These are just five examples of how you can level up your customer service with small, intentional actions. Because at the end of the day, “Great customer service isn't about being perfect. Things go wrong. Orders get delayed. Mistakes happen. Emails get missed. We're human. What matters is how we respond.”

Building for wildfire resilience in Colorado

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 15:00:00 PDT

By Lori Jerome, PABCO Roofing Products.

Contractors can simplify code compliance through early coordination, careful planning and trusted Class A-rated roofing products.

As wildfires grow more extreme and more frequent, especially in the Western United States, there has been a push to reevaluate and update wildfire-related building codes around the country. This last July, Colorado did the same and released the Colorado Wildfire Resiliency Code (CWRC). This document is an updated wildfire resistance code specifically for roofing contractors working where developed areas meet wildland vegetation (Colorado's Wildland-Urban Interface areas).

The code's origins trace back to California's wildfire mitigation efforts and were brought to Colorado following the devastating Marshall Fire of 2021, which destroyed thousands of structures in Boulder County and resulted in more than $1 billion in damages. The scope of this new code is described as:

Apply[ing] to the construction, alteration, movement, repair, maintenance and use of any building, structure or premises that contain occupiable and/or habitable space or change in use resulting in an occupiable and/or habitable space, unless excepted, within the wildland-urban interface areas of Colorado, as designated in this code. Buildings or conditions in existence at the time of the adoption of this code are allowed to have their use or occupancy continued, if such condition, use or occupancy was legal at the time of the adoption of this code, provided that such continued use does not constitute a distinct danger to life or property.

In relation to this new code, there are a few things contractors must consider when bidding or beginning work:

Is your project in a WUI area? If yes, what is the hazard classification (low, moderate or high)?
Does the entire roof assembly meet Class A fire ratings? The key word here is assembly, as roofing work may trigger additional requirements for siding, soffits, fascia, doors and other exterior components.
Review critical details such as valley flashing, ventilation, gutters and roof penetrations. This is critical as CWRC is not solely about roofing products; it is about the entire structure.

This can feel like a lot to manage, but there are some ways that contractors can make CWRC compliance easier! First, coordinate with your local building departments and fire districts. Not only will they have helpful insights, but they will also have knowledge about any other requirements or enforcement procedures that may impact your project.

Second, work with a trusted manufacturer whose products already meet and exceed fire ratings – a manufacturer like PABCO Roofing Products! All of PABCO’s shingles carry a Class A fire rating, providing contractors with a trusted roofing solution that aligns with one of the key requirements within the CWRC. Technical Data Sheets (TDS) and supporting documentation are available to help verify Class A performance when required during the permitting or inspection process.

Overall, as Colorado continues to prioritize wildfire preparedness, contractors can expect increased scrutiny of roofing systems and exterior construction details designed to reduce the risk of ember intrusion and fire spread. PABCO is committed to helping contractors understand product performance and providing them with products that they can confidently specify knowing they meet the industry's highest fire-resistance classification for roofing materials.

Slate’s the way to go

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 13:00:00 PDT

By The Coffee Shops®.

Why many homeowners and contractors consider natural slate roofs to be the gold standard when it comes to building the optimal home.

When it comes to beautiful aesthetics and reliable durability, few traditional roofing materials come close to what natural slate can offer. Long-lasting and timeless, many slate roofs can prevail for more than a century, protecting the home and property beneath for generations, making it an ideal choice for those looking for a premium roofing solution that hits every mark, whether that be weather, moisture or temperature resistance.

Natural slate tiles come from slate stone, a material that has been formed by nature over millions of years. This material, because of its composition and nature, offers a look and feel that synthetic, modern materials don’t come close to replicating. Due to its organic composition, slate roofing tiles are durable, resistant to water absorption and harsh weather.

With a low water absorption rate and durability in particular, many homeowners living in areas with snow, ice, heavy rain or hail can easily opt for slate roofing without worrying about damage. Even homeowners in Florida can find themselves the proud owners of a slate roof!

Because of this and the historical role slate roofs have played across the globe, many historic buildings and luxury homes opt for slate tiles in their upkeep. It’s well trusted, and again, timeless in a way that few other materials still used today can boast. While the upfront cost of slate roofs might be higher than other materials, slate has been proven to be cost-effective over time thanks to its exceptional lifespan. While other materials need replacing more frequently, and fail more often, slate stands firm.

Today, brands like READYSLATE® offer homeowners the opportunity to find the right slate shingle fit for their home and climate needs. With quality craftsmanship and excellent customer service on their side, homeowners can look to READYSLATE to make a roof worth loving!

Read the full article from READYSLATE’s manufacturer, Cupa Pizarras, to learn more about the benefits of slate roofing.

September is safety month!

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 11:00:00 PDT

By Emma Peterson.

Tremco's Safety Month serves as a reminder that the most effective safety programs go beyond checklists.

Safety is not just about regulatory compliance and checking off boxes on a to-do list – it's about making sure every person on your job site and in your company gets home safe every night. To highlight the importance of safety, and all its forms, Tremco has designated September as their safety month and planned a variety of training sessions and activities to help professionals learn about creating safer workplaces.

What are the safety concerns in roofing?

The first and most obvious safety risk in roofing is physical. Roofing is a very physical trade with professionals often being exposed to high powered machinery, dangerous chemicals and unstable working conditions. And when the correct safety plans are not in place, the exposure to these risks can cause irreparable harm. Elise Vue, Tremco’s content marketing manager, used working at heights as an example of how high the stakes are in roofing safety:

In roofing, employees are expected to work at heights, climb ladders and expose themselves to hazards on a regular basis. Negativity around safety policing and subsequent fines can make employees jaded or skeptical about the protocols put in place by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). However, the data shows that workers who are elevated only six feet or more are at risk for serious injury or death should they fall.

And the physical risks are just half of the story when it comes to safety concerns in roofing. Something that impacts every member of your team, whether they are in the field or in the office, is mental health. And mental health is a huge concern, as Elise points out, “The construction industry has one of highest rates of suicide compared to other careers.”

The safe solution

So how do you promote safety for your team? It takes more than just providing PPE or once-a-year presentations. The best way to keep everyone safe, both physically and mentally, is by building a comprehensive culture of safety at your business. And the first step to doing that is by making a commitment as leaders. Elise explained:

Leaders should actively articulate their commitment to safety so that it is top of mind, whether in virtual meetings, on job sites or through company-wide communications. This visible support starts to build an environment where safety is not perceived as a controlling activity but as a shared responsibility. For a safety culture to thrive, it must also listen to those on the front lines, empower everyone to speak up and give them a sense of ownership over their safety and that of their colleagues.

The second step to building a safety culture in your business is to empower your workers. Elise recommends incorporating a “stop-work authority.” What is this? It’s a principle that gives any and every employee the ability to halt any activity that they believe is unsafe without fear of punishment. “The workers on the roof are often the first to spot a potential hazard, but employees may hesitate to challenge a supervisor and may question their own judgement...” Elise explained. “[This type of policy] recognizes that sometimes doing the hard thing is the right thing for everyone’s protection, and everyone is equally responsible for safety and equally successful when safe practices are followed.”

And last but certainly not least, make sure you are celebrating your safety wins! Talking only about what goes wrong or what not to do can be overwhelming for many people. And while it is important to not forget those scenarios, it is also important to highlight the positives. Consider measuring periods with zero incidents and finding ways of recognizing safety leadership from within your team to help people stay motivated and encouraged to work towards a safer workplace.

Learn more about safety and Tremco’s safety month programming.

Creating more informed clients

Fri, 04 Sep 2026 09:00:00 PDT

By Emma Peterson.

RCABC’s consumer guides and FAQs help bridge the knowledge gap between property owners and roofing professionals, creating more informed conversations and better project outcomes.

At the Roofing Contractors Association of British Columbia (RCABC), their team is not only dedicated to “becom[ing] the definitive source for professionals within the roofing industry” but also to helping “consumers looking to educate themselves on what goes into proper roofing design, installation and repair.”

With that goal in mind, they created a comprehensive guide that walks consumers through the process of selecting the right roofing service provider for their project. This is an extensive document (over 100 pages!) that shares “everything you ever wanted to know about roofing – and probably a few things you don’t.”

To make sure consumers can get quick, accessible answers to common questions, RCABC created a quick FAQ (frequently asked questions) page. Here’s an excerpt from that page:

I obtained estimates from two different roofing companies and they didn’t agree, either on price or work needed. What should I do?

If there is a debate about work needed, this would be a good time to engage an Observer to get an inspection done so that you can make an informed decision. The cost of an inspection may save you thousands of dollars down the road.

As for cost differences, make sure that you provided each company doing an estimate with the same specifications. A low price can signal shortcomings in the reliability of the roofing company and experience of the estimator and actual crew. Again, it may also be prudent to call an observation company to help.

My roof is leaking. Does this mean I need a new one?

Not necessarily. You may only need repair work. The best way to determine the problem is to call in a professional roofing company for an assessment.

When is the best time, or season, to replace a roof?

If you have your roof done in the spring or fall, you will generally find better availability and faster service.

What do I do if I have a problem with my new roof and cannot get satisfaction from the roofing contractor?

If the roof was installed by one of our members, please send us the details of your complaint in writing. If the roof was provided by a company that is not one of our members, you might be able to file a complaint with the Better Business Bureau.

Between this helpful FAQ and the extensive consumer guide, RCABC has not only created great resources for home and business owners embarking on a roofing project, but also a useful assets for contractors to share with clients who are confused or unsure of the roofing process.

Check out the guide and the FAQ!

RoofersCoffeeShop UK

Turning maintenance data into better decisions

Connected maintenance and inspection tools can help contractors improve consistency, streamline service workflows and turn field data into stronger business insights.

How much wood could a Woodchuck divert?

Learn how Woodchuck AI is helping contractors turn construction waste, like lumber products, into savings and renewable energy.

Lo más destacado de agosto en RoofersCoffeeShop En Español

Agosto conectando a la comunidad del roofing.

Eagle Roofing Products expands roofing system solutions through strategic alliance with Marco Industries

This partnership enhances Eagle's components offering and strengthens its position as a complete roofing system solutions provider.

The metal event of the year is here!

With more than 250 exhibitors, expanded educational programming and interactive experiences across the show floor, METALCON continues to be the industry's premier gathering for metal construction.

METALCON 2026 education program

The recipe for repeat business

How small customer service habits build long-term client loyalty.

Building for wildfire resilience in Colorado

Contractors can simplify code compliance through early coordination, careful planning and trusted Class A-rated roofing products.

Slate’s the way to go

Why many homeowners and contractors consider natural slate roofs to be the gold standard when it comes to building the optimal home.

September is safety month!

Tremco's Safety Month serves as a reminder that the most effective safety programs go beyond checklists.

What are the safety concerns in roofing?

The safe solution

Creating more informed clients

RCABC’s consumer guides and FAQs help bridge the knowledge gap between property owners and roofing professionals, creating more informed conversations and better project outcomes.