By Emma Peterson. 

Learn why CDS branches are contractors’ go-to resource for low-slope roofing success.  

Starting a new commercial roofing project? Get all the tips and tools that you could need by visiting the location of one of SRS Distribution’s Commercial Distribution Specialist (CDS) teams! These teams have been awarded special designation for having a wealth of in-depth knowledge about all things to do with low-slope products and systems. When you visit a CDS designated location, you have the opportunity to access resources that will help your next project run smoothly and efficiently. These resources include:  

• Expertise: From choosing the right material for your project to setting up a timeline for success, the teams at CDS branches understand all parts of the low-slope roofing process. Don’t miss out on the invaluable resource they represent.   
• Products: CDS locations are stocked with a wide range of commercial products from manufacturers like Carlisle, Johns Manville, GAF, Elevate and Versico. Whether you are looking for polyiso insulation, bonding adhesives, fasteners or something else related to low-slope roofing, you can find it in a CDS showroom. 
• Logistics: And help from a CDS team is not limited to just their branch location! CDS employs a fleet of crane trucks and knuckle booms that make getting your materials simpler than ever. With options for both ground drops and roof top deliveries, this is a powerful resource for keeping your commercial projects on schedule.  

Overall, visiting a CDS location is a sure-fire way to elevate your next roofing project. And with 45 locations across 22 states, there is likely a team near you! 

Learn more about working with Commercial Distribution Specialists!

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Jessica Bravo.  

Cómo Johns Manville está cerrando la brecha del idioma con su biblioteca de recursos de productos en español. 

Fundada en 1858 en la ciudad de Nueva York, Johns Manville (JM) se ha convertido en un fabricante líder de productos de aislamiento y techado comercial. Con clientes en más de 80 países alrededor del mundo, su equipo está “dedicado a construir relaciones a largo plazo con nuestros clientes y proveedores, apasionado por ofrecer un lugar de trabajo seguro y equitativo para nuestros 8,000 empleados a nivel global y comprometido con generar un impacto positivo en las comunidades donde vivimos y trabajamos.” Una parte importante de este compromiso con sus clientes es el desarrollo de recursos diseñados para apoyar a los hispanohablantes y encontrarlos donde están. 

La importancia de los trabajadores latinos e hispanos en la construcción 

En un boletín de 2024, el Center for Construction Research and Training informó que, “[De 2000 a 2023], el porcentaje de trabajadores de la construcción que eran hispanos se duplicó, pasando de 16.5% a 34.0%. De 2020 a 2023, los hispanos aumentaron de 30.0% a 34.0% de la fuerza laboral de la construcción, lo que representa un incremento del 13.3%.” Estas cifras demuestran lo importantes que son nuestros colegas hispanos para mantener a nuestra industria funcionando de manera eficaz y eficiente. 

Sin embargo, muchos de estos valiosos miembros de las cuadrillas a menudo se sienten desconectados debido a las barreras del idioma. Como lo señaló la National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), “Muchos trabajadores latinos de la construcción se sienten desconectados de sus compañeros no latinos debido a factores como la falta de diversidad en la construcción y una posible barrera del idioma para los trabajadores cuyo primer idioma no es el inglés.” 

Cómo JM está apoyando a nuestros colegas hispanohablantes 

Es precisamente esta desconexión la que JM busca superar mediante su amplia biblioteca de recursos en español. Esta biblioteca incluye desde guías de instalación y aplicación hasta hojas de datos de seguridad (SDS) y videos sobre productos líderes de JM, como membranas (incluyendo TPO, PVC, EPDM, SBS, APP, BUR y sistemas líquidos aplicados), aislamiento y tableros para techos, adhesivos, tornillos y placas, cementos, primers y más. 

¡Explora hoy mismo todos los recursos en español de Johns Manville!

By Emma Peterson. 

How Johns Manville’s ProtectoR® HD Cover Board maximizes long-term roof performance. 

There are many factors that can impact the long-term performance of a commercial roof—severe weather, foot traffic, wind uplift and hail can all compromise the membrane and lead to costly repairs. One of the most effective ways to strengthen a roofing system against these challenges is by using a high‑quality cover board. Cover boards add a durable protective layer that reinforces the membrane and helps ensure long-term system integrity. 

For contractors looking for a proven, high-performance option, Johns Manville (JM)’s ProtectoR® HD is a standout solution. This 1/2" high‑density polyiso cover board is engineered to perform under demanding rooftop conditions, offering durability, efficiency and exceptional value. ProtectoR HD is designed to provide resistance against hail, wind uplift, punctures and moisture — making it a reliable choice for any project. 

Engineered for success 

ProtectoR HD is built with a closed‑cell polyisocyanurate foam core — delivering an added R‑value of 2.5, along with low water absorption and lightweight characteristics. It is faced with inorganic coated glass facers (with no cellulose), which provide mold resistance, dimensional stability and a smooth, durable surface ideal for adhered and self-adhered systems. This construction gives the board high impact, flexural and compressive strength, ensuring it can withstand harsh rooftop environments. 

Performance that lasts 

Thanks to its strength and durability, ProtectoR HD serves as a robust protective layer over insulation, contributing to reliable membrane and system longevity. It also offers excellent fire performance: systems with can achieve a UL Class A fire rating directly over a combustible wood decks up to 1/2:12" slope, expanding design flexibility across project types. 

Rated to win 

ProtectoR HD meets ASTM C1289, Type II, Class 4, Grade 1 classification, reflecting its high compressive strength and inorganic coated glass facers. It also delivers a thermal advantage with its 2.5 R‑value, outperforming traditional wood fiber or gypsum cover board options in thermal efficiency. 

Easy to work with 

Weighing just 12 pounds per 4'×8' board, ProtectoR HD is extremely lightweight, making it easier to handle, hoist and position on the roof. The board is also easy to score, cut, and snap, allowing crews to work efficiently while producing clean fabrication with low dust. 

Even better, contractors can use up to 50% fewer fasteners compared to other high-density cover boards. ProtectoR HD achieves FM 1‑90 ratings with just 8 fasteners per 4'×8' board (reinforced membrane) or 11 fasteners (non‑reinforced membrane) over steel or structural concrete decks. This translates into meaningful labor and material savings across larger projects. 

Closing thoughts 

Overall, JM’s HD Polyiso cover board offers high performance in a competitive package. By installing them on your next project, you are not only securing the future of that roof but also helping your crew work more efficiently.  

Learn more about Johns Manville’s High-Density Polyiso cover boards.

By Emma Peterson. 

Join The Coffee Shops™ crew and our industry partners in Sacramento for four days of education, innovation and industry connection. 

The Coffee Shops™ crew is putting the finishing touches on our travel plans to get to Sacramento, California March 12–15, 2026 for the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC)’s International Convention and we want to see you at our booth and soundstage, sponsored by Western Colloid!  

This year’s show is predicted to host “1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other experts” for four days of learning, networking and more! With national sponsors like Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, IB Roof Systems™, Johns Manville, Polyglass USA Inc., Sika Corporation, SOPREMA and Versico, this show is a must-attend for professionals in all parts of the roofing world.  

Expert-led education  

This show gives attendees a chance to learn from a variety of industry leaders and experts through their cutting-edge education sessions. Here are some of the incredible presenters that will be at this year’s show:  

• Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese will be hosting a “State of the Industry” session that will explore contract provisions and other emerging regulatory trends.  
• Darren Perry of SOPREMA has a session that discusses how low slope roofing can be enhanced in response to severe climate risks. 
• Amrize’s National Technical Manager Victor Rosenthal and Project Manager Rachael DeMeio will be teaching about trends in roof re-cover applications this year. 
• Jennifer Stephan from Benchmark’s session will dive into the world of Refrigerated Processing and Cold Storage Operations in relation to industrial roofing projects.  

Check out the full speaker list online!

An expo floor route 

The Coffee Shops crew will be on the expo floor hosting a soundstage at booth #1113! Here’s just a few of the other Coffee Shops friends and partners that can be found on IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention expo floor:  

• All Weather Insulated Panels (booth #1216) 
• Anchor Products (booth #907)  
• ATAS International (booth #728)  
• BITEC Inc. (booth #1023) 
• Brava Tile (booth #208) 
• CertainTeed (booth #227)  
• General Coatings Manufacturing (booth #926) 
• H.B. Fuller (booth #113) 
• ICP Building Solutions Group (booth #133) 
• IKO Industries (booth #426) 
• Leister (booth #619) 
• Malarkey Roofing Products (booth #213) 
• MuleHide (booth #814) 
• Roof Hugger (booth #707) 
• S-5! (booth #1019) 
• Sheffield Metals International (booth #625) 
• Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions (booth #422) 
• Tremco (booth #321) 
• USG Securock (booth #401) 
• Western Colloid (booth #923) 
• Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions (booth #433) 

Explore the full expo floor map!

Register today and make sure you stop by to say hi to us and our industry friends at the IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Explore education sessions, networking events and trade show details for the 2026 IIBEC International Convention. 

As design requirements grow more complex and performance expectations rise, building enclosure professionals are looking for practical solutions backed by research, testing and real-world experience. The 2026 International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Convention and Trade Show, taking place March 12–15, 2026, at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center in Sacramento, California, brings those conversations together under one roof. 

Hosted by IIBEC, the event is expected to draw 1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other experts specializing in roofing, waterproofing, fenestration, cladding, building commissioning and exterior wall technologies. The convention features education sessions approved for IIBEC Continuing Education Hours (CEH), with all sessions submitted to the American Institute of Architects (AIA). 

The show runs March 13–14, with exhibit hall hours from 3:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. on Friday and 8:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Attendees can connect with leading manufacturers and service providers while exploring the latest advancements in building enclosure technology. 

Education programming spans multiple disciplines, including below-grade waterproofing, building commissioning, business and professional development, codes and standards, exterior wall systems, research and technology, roofing, safety, sustainability and wind and structural design. Featured sessions address topics such as fire-resistant code standards, low-slope roofing enhancements for severe climate risks, trends in roof re-cover applications, condensation control in industrial roofing projects and hail impact testing of modified bitumen roof membranes. 

Beyond the classroom, the convention offers extensive networking opportunities. Thursday includes an auxiliary seminar (ALA) on reroofing and the RCI-IIBEC Foundations’ Golf Tournament at Haggin Oaks Alister MacKenzie Course, followed by a welcome reception that evening. Friday features an opening ceremony and keynote speaker, along with the trade show’s grand opening and reception. Saturday highlights include the Annual Awards Ceremony, EBEC Awards Presentations, the Emerging Professionals Reception and the invitation-only V.I.Platinum Reception. On Sunday, the RCI-IIBEC Foundations’ Live Auction and Reception precedes the President’s Annual Banquet. 

A range of registration options are available, including full registration, one-day passes, trade show-only access, auxiliary seminar-only registration and exhibitor packages. Early registration rates are available through February 6, 2026, with standard rates through March 6 and onsite registration beginning March 7. Full registration includes access to Friday through Sunday events, Thursday’s welcome reception and digital access to the event’s proceedings and session recordings when available. 

With Platinum Sponsors including Carlisle, Elevate™, Flynn Group of Companies, GAF, IB Roof Systems™, Johns Manville, National Gypsum Services Company, Polyglass USA Inc., Sika Corporation, Siplast, SITURA INC, SOPREMA and Versico, along with Gold, Silver and additional sponsors, the event reflects broad industry support. 

For professionals seeking technical depth, peer exchange and exposure to emerging trends in building enclosure performance, the 2026 IIBEC Convention and Trade Show offers a concentrated opportunity to prepare for the year ahead. 

Register now to secure your spot at this year’s convention!

By Emma Peterson. 

How Johns Manville is bridging language gaps with their library of Spanish-language product resources. 

Founded back in 1858 in New York City, Johns Manville (JM) has grown into a leading manufacturer of insulation and commercial roofing products. With customers in more than 80 countries around the world, their team is “dedicated to long-term partnerships with our customers and suppliers, passionate about providing a safe and equitable workplace for our 8,000 global employees and committed to making a positive impact in the communities where we live and work.” A significant part of this dedication to their customers is the development of resources that aim to meet Spanish-language speakers where they are.  

The importance of Latino and Hispanic construction workers 

In a 2024 bulletin, the Center for Construction Research and Training reported that “[From 2000 to 2023], the percentage of construction workers who were Hispanic doubled from 16.5% to 34.0%. From 2020 to 2023, Hispanics increased from 30.0% to 34.0% of the construction workforce, a 13.3% increase.” These numbers show just how important our Hispanic peers are to keeping our industry operating effectively and efficiently.  

However, many of these invaluable crew members are often left feeling disconnected due to language barriers. As the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) put it, “Many Latino construction workers feel disconnected from their non-Latino co-workers because of factors such as a lack of diversity in construction and a potential language barrier for workers whose first language is not English.” 

How JM is serving our Spanish-speaking peers 

It’s this disconnect that JM is working to overcome through their comprehensive library of Spanish-language resources! This library includes everything from installation and application guides to safety data sheets (SDS) and videos about leading JM products, such as membranes (including TPO, PVC, EPDM, SBS, APP, BUR and liquid applied), insulation/roofing boards, adhesives, screws/plates, cements, primers and more!  

Explore all of Johns Manville’s Spanish-language resources today!

The elected leadership will guide the association’s strategic initiatives, advocacy efforts and industry advancement on behalf of asphalt roofing manufacturers across North America.

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) has announced its newly appointed Executive Committee and Board of Directors for the 2026-2027 term. The elected leadership will guide the association’s strategic initiatives, advocacy efforts and industry advancement on behalf of asphalt roofing manufacturers across North America, effective January 1, 2026.

“The experience and leadership represented by this group will be instrumental as ARMA continues to address key industry priorities,” said Reed Hitchcock, ARMA executive vice president. “We look forward to working with this team on ARMA’s strategic priorities and to further strengthen the asphalt roofing industry.”

Ken Roberts, Atlas Roofing Corporation, will serve as ARMA’s president through December 31, 2027. Roberts has been president of Atlas Roofing Corporation for the past three years and brings more than 30 years of experience from Masco Corporation. During his tenure at Masco, he held numerous leadership roles, including president of Delta Faucet, president of Masco Canada, vice president of international sales, vice president of specifications and national accounts and vice president of Asian business, among other positions spanning purchasing and manufacturing.

“ARMA has a strong legacy of advocating for asphalt roofing as a high-performance, reliable and sustainable building material,” said Roberts. “I’m honored to serve as president and look forward to working with our members to strengthen industry collaboration and ensure asphalt roofing continues to deliver value to the construction industry.”

As ARMA president, Roberts will play a pivotal role in advancing asphalt roofing, supporting the industry's long-term sustainability and recycling objectives, and fostering innovation across the sector.

Members of the 2026 ARMA Executive Committee are as follows:

• Ken Roberts (Atlas Roofing Corporation) – ARMA president
• Tim Kersey (SOPREMA, Inc.) – ARMA vice president
• Nico Del Monaco (Owens Corning) – ARMA treasurer/secretary
• John Barkhouse (GAF) – ARMA executive committee at-large member
• David Humphreys (TAMKO Building Products LLC) – ARMA executive committee at-large member

Members of the ARMA Board of Directors are as follows:

• Robert Almon (Mid-States Asphalt) – ARMA director
• Betiana Acha (Polyglass USA, Inc.) – ARMA director
• DJ Damberger (CertainTeed Corporation) – ARMA director
• Katie Domenico (Henry a Carlisle Company) – ARMA director
• Julianna Grippa (American Hydrotech, Inc./Sika) – ARMA director
• Brian Hobdy (Pacific Coast Building Products, Inc.) – ARMA director
• David Koschitzky (IKO Production, Inc.) – ARMA director
• John Quante (Johns Manville) – ARMA director
• Steve Ratcliff (Tarco Roofing) – ARMA director
• Charles Collins (Malarkey Roofing Products) – ARMA director

For additional information concerning ARMA, its programming and resources, visit asphaltroofing.org. 

About ARMA

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) is a trade association representing North America’s asphalt roofing manufacturing companies and their raw material suppliers. The association includes the majority of North American manufacturers of asphalt shingles and asphalt low slope roof membrane systems. Committed to advances in the asphalt roofing industry, ARMA is proud of the role it plays in promoting asphalt roofing to those in the building industry and to the public. 

By Jenny Yu. 

Building enclosure professionals won’t want to miss out on this annual industry event!   

The International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) is gearing up for its 2026 International Convention and Trade Show, set to take place March 12–15 in Sacramento, California, at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. This annual event draws building enclosure professionals, including roofing consultants, architects, engineers and product manufacturers, for education, networking and industry insights. Registration is now open, with early rates available through February 6, 2026.  

Attendees will find a robust program that includes educational sessions covering topics ranging from roofing, waterproofing, sustainability and codes, as well as other related topics designed to advance professional knowledge and earn continuing education hours. A two-day trade show with more than 140 exhibiting companies will spotlight the latest roofing, exterior wall and building enclosure products and services. Participants can connect with manufacturers, consultants and peers on the show floor, which also features product demonstrations and sponsored receptions. The Coffee Shops™ will be there with a sound stage sponsored by Western Colloid — be sure to stop by! 

Beyond the exhibit hall, IIBEC has arranged a wide variety of exciting activities for attendees to participate in. The schedule opens with auxiliary seminars and networking opportunities on March 12, followed by formal welcome receptions, an annual awards ceremony and specialty events such as a golf tournament and an emerging professionals reception. The convention also hosts the Excellence in Building Enclosure Consulting (EBEC) Awards on March 14, recognizing outstanding achievements in the field. 

Hotel accommodations are available in the Sacramento area to assist attendees in securing convenient lodging near the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. IIBEC has secured official room blocks at the Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel, Residence Inn and The Citizen Hotel. Early planning is encouraged, as Sacramento draws visitors from across the United States and beyond for this premier industry gathering. 

A wide range of sponsorship packages are still available, each including prominent recognition and unique opportunities for memorable convention engagement. Current sponsors include Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, Johns Manville, Polyglass, Sika, SOPREMA and Versico Roofing Systems (platinum sponsors); Anchor Products, H.B. Fuller, IB Roof Systems™ and USG Securock® Brand (gold sponsors); and Georgia-Pacific Building Products.   

Register today to secure early registration and explore the latest developments in roofing, waterproofing and building enclosure design!

By Jenny Yu.  

Accelerate your business success at this year’s four-day event. 

The 2026 Carolinas Mid-Winter Roofing Expo returns to the Durham Convention Center in Durham, North Carolina, from February 16-19, 2026, bringing one of the Southeast’s largest regional roofing trade shows to contractors, manufacturers, suppliers and industry professionals. Hosted by the Carolinas Roofing & Sheet Metal Contractors Association (CRSMCA), the multi-day event features nearly 100 exhibiting companies showcasing the latest roofing technology, safety tools, equipment and industry services. 

Attendees can expect an energized atmosphere where networking and product innovation drive the conversation. On Wednesday, February 18, keynote speaker Mike Metcalf, Jr., of D.E.C.K. Leadership will take the wheel. A NASCAR pit-crew coach, Mike will present “12 Second Culture,” a presentation that will inspire leaders to run their crews like a cockpit, prioritizing efficiency, teamwork and kindness. 

Wednesday is also Trade Show Day, where exhibitors will offer exciting hands-on demonstrations of the latest technological trends. One demonstration to pencil into your calendar is “Mastering TPO Hand Welding” with Johns Manville at 1:45 p.m. Pull up to booth #311 to learn the best practices of hand welding TPO membranes from their team of technical experts! 

Alongside the bustling exhibition floor, CRSMCA’s expo includes educational opportunities designed for professionals at every level. Thursday, February 19, is Education Day when the learning switches to full gear. Curated sessions will deliver actionable takeaways that help businesses sharpen operations and stay ahead of evolving market demands. Here are the three educational sessions you can’t miss:  

Session 1: How to build a profitable business that you can sell or take to the bank  

• Presenter: Matt Thompson, Splash Omnimedia 
• When: Thursday, 2/19, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 

Session 2: PVC - The other white sheet 

• Presenter: Mary Beth Reed, GAF 
• When: Thursday, 2/19, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. 

Session 3: Modern roofing technologies 

• Presenter: Hannah Safren, Polyglass 
• When: Thursday, 2/19, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 

Registration fees cover access to all education sessions, networking receptions, trade show entry and more! Sponsorship packages are still available, providing a variety of booth, advertising and branding opportunities. Sponsors include BITEC, Inc.® and KARNAK (Team Goodwill) and Petersen Aluminum Corporation (PAC), a Carlisle Architectural Metals company (Team Diamond). 

Register and learn more about the 2026 Carolinas Mid-Winter Roofing Expo!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Building enclosure professionals across the industry are making plans to gather in Sacramento, California, March 12–15, 2026.

Hosted by the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC), the annual IIBEC International Convention & Trade Show brings together consultants, contractors, manufacturers and service providers focused on roofing, waterproofing and total building enclosure performance. With more than 20 education sessions and a trade show featuring over 140 manufacturers and service providers, the event delivers valuable insight, technical expertise and meaningful industry connection.

The convention runs Thursday, March 12 through Sunday, March 15, with the auxiliary seminar taking place on Thursday and the trade show floor openi on both Friday, March 13 and Saturday, March 14. From education to exhibits to networking, the week is designed to help professionals strengthen their knowledge and expand their relationships.

One of the featured moments of the week will be the opening ceremony and keynote presentation on Friday, March 13 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Attendees will hear from Brett Culp, an award-winning documentary filmmaker and keynote speaker, presenting Superhero Leadership in Uncertain Times. His message focuses on purpose-driven leadership, authenticity and service during moments of change, offering inspiration that resonates far beyond the conference hall.

Throughout the convention, attendees will also have the opportunity to connect during a full schedule of networking events including the RCI-IIBEC Foundation golf tournament, welcome reception, regional meetings, trade show receptions, awards ceremony, emerging professionals networking event, foundation live auction and the President’s Annual Banquet. These gatherings create valuable opportunities to build relationships that strengthen careers and businesses long after the event concludes.

The trade show floor will once again feature leading manufacturers and service providers supporting the building enclosure industry. RoofersCoffeeShop is proud to have partners participating as sponsors at the conference, including Carlisle Construction Materials, Elevate, GAF, Johns Manville, Sika, SOPREMA, Versico Roofing Systems, Anchor Products, H.B. Fuller, IB Roof Systems and USG. Their continued involvement reflects a shared commitment to education, innovation and long-term industry advancement.

Adding to the energy of the event, The Coffee Shops™ will once again host a full sound stage on the trade show floor sponsored by Western Colloid, interviewing consultants, contractors and exhibitors throughout the conference. These live conversations will spotlight industry trends, real-world challenges and the voices shaping the future of the building enclosure and roofing communities.

Overall, the 2026 IIBEC International Convention & Trade Show delivers a powerful combination of education, innovation and connection in one place. Whether your focus is technical expertise, professional development or expanding your industry network, this event offers insight and opportunity at every level.

And time is running out to take advantage of early registration pricing. The early registration deadline is February 6, 2026, and once it passes, rates are set to increase. Hotel rooms at the official convention hotels are also filling quickly, making now the best time to finalize travel plans.

Register now to secure early pricing, book your hotel before availability is gone and join building enclosure professionals from across the country in Sacramento. Be part of the conversations shaping the future of the industry.