By Emma Peterson. 

Exploring Valentine Roofing’s award‑winning reroof of a historic Tacoma home. 

In Tacoma, Washington, there is a neighborhood featuring shady trees, manicured lawns and historic homes called North End. One such home on this street is a stunning historic 1889 Victorian which was recently reroofed by local roofing company Valentine Roofing. – This is the project that won Valentine their second Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) Excellence in Roofing Award in two years!  

To learn more about this project and the win, we spoke with the Valentine team for a short interview. Jenna Esteves, one of their project coordinators, opened the conversation by sharing a bit about the house.

She shared, “This home stayed with the original family who built the home. It was originally the home of a husband, his wife and their daughter until 2006 when the daughter, at that point in her 90s, sold it to the current owners, Todd and Kim. They did a ton of refurbishing on it, making sure to preserve the historical look. That preservation of history is so important to Todd and Kim, they even have like artifacts from the original family displayed in the house.” 

Where Valentine came into the picture was when the current owners began looking for a team who could reroof the home for them without losing the historical charm they loved so much. However, that was far from a simple task, as that same charm created unique challenges when it came to the roof. Rochelle Robles, the project engineer on this reroof, shared some insight into these challenges:  

For starters, as a traditional Victorian home, there’s a turret. And then there's a bisected roof line on that turret. Below the turret is the upper level, and then there’s a floating skirt before you get to the lower level. There was also the curvature of the roof line, the fact that the home was such a high 12/12 pitch, the cap metal details and the built-in gutters to account for. So, it was a very difficult project both in terms of technicality and in terms of keeping our team safe as they worked. 

While that was a lot to navigate, the Valentine team rose to the occasion, hand-cutting shingles and custom fabricating metal on-site for the project. LeeAnn Stevens, Valentine’s operations manager, shared her thoughts on the crew’s incredible work, saying, “Every member of the team, from the estimators who worked with the Todd and Kim to figure out the vision to the production team coordinating all the moving parts and of course the crew, shoutout to the foreman Elmer, on the roof, really just put their heart into it. We’re so proud of how everyone showed up and made sure every detail was cared for.” 

And getting all that effort recognized with an RCAW Excellence in Roofing Award was just icing on the cake for a project well done!  As Valentine CEO Steven Heller put it, “Winning this award for the second year in a row is a tremendous honor for our team. This project reflects the level of care, craftsmanship, and coordination our team brings to every home. Protecting a historic property like this requires precision at every stage, and we are incredibly proud of the finished result.” 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Field-based education helps contractors improve accuracy, efficiency and overall system understanding. 

As labor shortages persist and roofing systems grow more complex, contractors are placing greater value on training that delivers accurate, efficient results. At the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) regional trade show, VELUX® represented that shift, demonstrating how hands-on education is equipping crews with the skills and confidence needed to execute skylight installations more effectively. In an interview with Cullen Daniels, a mobile installation trainer for VELUX, he shared how his work centers on bringing training directly to contractors, roofers and remodelers throughout the Pacific Northwest. Cullen noted, “We’re trying to instill confidence in our pro partners by showing them how to install a skylight confidently, quickly and efficiently.” 

That focus on confidence is reinforced through the structure of the program itself. Rather than relying on passive instruction, VELUX delivers training through a mobile setup that enables full-scale, hands-on installation. Participants work on mounted roof sections, practicing deck-mounted and curb-mounted skylight installs alongside sun tunnel systems. Along the way, they learn how to identify existing systems, take accurate measurements and understand the components that influence long-term performance. 

This approach reflects a broader movement within the trades toward experiential learning. As Cullen explained, “We’re actually able to do a full hands-on install, mount products, deck metal products, as well as our sun tunnels.” This gives contractors the opportunity to work through real installation scenarios in a controlled setting. That structure reduces uncertainty and helps prevent costly mistakes in the field while reinforcing proper technique. The result is a clearer understanding of both process and product, which translates directly to more consistent outcomes on the jobsite. 

Training also extends beyond installation. Early portions of the sessions focus on system-level knowledge and how to communicate that value to homeowners. By connecting technical understanding with customer conversations, contractors are better positioned to present solutions with clarity and credibility. 

The trade show environment further reinforces that development. As Cullen shared, “Relationships are really important, especially in this business,” highlighting how events like RCAW create space for contractors to exchange ideas, evaluate new products and learn from peers facing similar challenges. 

That exchange continues to influence product innovation. VELUX recently introduced a black frame curb-mounted skylight, responding to increased demand for darker exterior accents that align with modern residential design trends. 

As the industry continues to evolve, the combination of hands-on training and collaborative engagement is emerging as a defining factor in how contractors adapt, improve and compete. 

Watch the full interview to learn more about how hands-on, field-based training is helping contractors improve skylight installation accuracy, efficiency and long-term performance!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how contractors are delivering high-performance roofing systems through innovation, safety and precision across complex projects. 

Roofing professionals across Washington were recognized for their craftsmanship and problem-solving at the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) Industry Insider event and Excellence in Roofing Awards, where projects were evaluated on execution, innovation and overall performance. The program demonstrated how contractors are navigating increasingly complex builds while maintaining a focus on long-term durability and system integrity. 

Across both low-slope and steep-slope categories, the projects showcased how technical expertise and planning directly impact performance. In the low-slope category, Axis Roofing and Gutter earned second place for a project that required a full system rebuild after multiple roofing layers exposed significant structural issues. Crews removed the existing assembly, completed truss repairs, replaced insulation and installed new tongue-and-groove decking before finishing with a 60-mil polyvinyl chloride (PVC) system. The result was a level, code-compliant roof designed to improve drainage and extend service life. 

First place in the low-slope category went to Tru Colors Contracting, whose multi-building development highlighted the balance between cost constraints and performance. The scope included membrane roofing, shingles and metal accents across residential and commercial structures. By integrating tapered insulation and securing approval for additional material upgrades, the contractor improved moisture control, enhanced energy performance and delivered a more durable system while remaining within budget expectations. 

Steep-slope winners reflected a different set of challenges, where material selection and installation precision were critical. Skilled Roofing earned third place for replacing cedar shake with composite Spanish tile engineered to perform in the Pacific Northwest’s moisture-heavy climate while maintaining a traditional appearance. 

Axis Roofing and Gutter also secured second place in the steep-slope category for reroofing a large, steep structure using laminated asphalt shingles. Crews implemented enhanced safety protocols, carefully staged materials and followed a phased installation approach to maintain efficiency and workmanship on extreme slopes. 

The top steep-slope honor went to Valentine Roofing for a historic restoration project on an 1889 Victorian home. Contractors worked through complex geometry, including a curved turret and built-in gutters, requiring detailed hand-cutting, custom metal fabrication and precise integration of modern materials. The finished system preserved the home’s architectural character while significantly improving weather resistance. 

Together, these projects reflect more than technical execution. They highlight the level of planning, coordination and craftsmanship required to deliver roofing systems that perform reliably and stand the test of time. 

Learn more about how award-winning roofing projects are combining innovation, safety and precision to solve complex structural challenges and deliver long-term performance!

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!

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Jesica Bravo.  

Aprende, compite y conecta en el evento de roodfingres más importante del estado de Washington. 

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) organizará su expo regional anual el 13 de marzo de 2026 en el Muckleshoot Casino & Resort. Este evento de un solo día (de 9 a.m. a 2 p.m.) es la expo especializada en techos más importante del estado de Washington y contará con patrocinadores nacionales como PABCO Roofing Products. 

Si tú y tu equipo quieren mantenerse un paso adelante de la competencia esta temporada de roodfing, no pueden perderse este día lleno de educación, conexiones y diversión. 

Aprende junto a tus colegas 

Expertos y líderes de la industria estarán presentes compartiendo información clave sobre temas fundamentales como seguridad, marketing, crecimiento empresarial y cumplimiento legal. Estas son algunas de las sesiones disponibles: 

• Construyendo tu marca (9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.): Este curso ofrecerá estrategias para fortalecer la reputación y la marca de tu empresa en el competitivo mercado del roofing. Las habilidades que aprenderás te ayudarán a generar confianza con los clientes, comunicar tu valor y lograr un crecimiento a largo plazo. 
• Suplementos de seguros (10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.): Impartida por Stephen Rollins de Prodigy Estimating & Consulting, esta sesión cubrirá las mejores prácticas y los errores más comunes al identificar, documentar y presentar suplementos para pagos de reclamaciones. 
• Implementando un sistema de ventas (10 a.m. - 10:45 a.m.): Aprende con Wendy Harmeyer de Grosso University cómo construir un sistema sólido de ventas para tu negocio de roodfing. Te llevarás pasos prácticos para implementar el sistema One Call Close Grosso Selling System, aumentar tu tasa de cierres, mejorar la confianza del cliente y maximizar la rentabilidad. 
• KOS vs. reembolsos retro (11 a.m. - 11:45 a.m.): Stop Claims Corp. explicará las dos principales opciones de compensación laboral en el estado de Washington (kept on salary y retro refunds). Los asistentes entenderán mejor cómo funciona cada opción y qué factores considerar al elegir la mejor estrategia para su empresa. 

Para los contratistas hispanohablantes, RCAW ha organizado sesiones completamente en español: 

• Persona competente en protección contra caídas (9 a.m. - 1 p.m.): Shield of Armor Safety explicará el uso adecuado de los sistemas personales de detención y restricción de caídas para trabajar de manera segura en áreas elevadas. Se revisarán normas y recomendaciones como OSHA, WAC 296-880, ANSI y NIOSH. 
• Estrategias inteligentes de impuestos (9 a.m. - 9:45 a.m.): Diseñada para contratistas y dueños de negocio que desean mejorar su estructura financiera. Aprenderás estrategias fiscales prácticas para maximizar ganancias y evitar errores costosos. 
• Proceso de seguros (11 a.m. - 1 p.m.): Amparo Sancen de Latinos En Roofing compartirá los pasos clave de las reclamaciones de seguros y cómo manejar el proceso de manera más efectiva. Una excelente oportunidad para entender mejor cómo funcionan los seguros en general. 

Recorre el piso de exhibición 

Entre sesiones educativas, asegúrate de visitar la expo. Este año contará con más de 40 booths con los productos y herramientas más innovadores de la industria del roofing. Además, RCAW organizará una divertida competencia donde los expositores competirán por los títulos de “Booth Más Interactivo” y “Booth Más Visitado.” Habrá juegos y actividades como la ruleta, trivias y cornhole. 

El equipo de The Coffee Shops™ también estará presente (booth #102), así que no olvides pasar a saludarlos. 

Participa en la competencia 

Este año regresa la popular competencia Fastest Shingle Competition, patrocinada por GAF. Es una excelente oportunidad para demostrar la habilidad y calidad de trabajo de los contratistas del PNW. Además del orgullo y reconocimiento, habrá premios en efectivo ($500 – 1er lugar, $250 – 2do lugar, $100 – 3er lugar), grabado en trofeo y reconocimiento en las plataformas sociales, impresas y digitales de RCAW. 

Ya sea que compitas o apoyes a alguien, no te pierdas la diversión (nota: debes registrarte con anticipación para participar). 

¡No te pierdas RCAW 2026! Regístrate hoy mismo y aprovecha la oportunidad de aprender, competir y conectar en el evento de roodfing más importante del estado de Washington.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Contractors gather for learning, networking and market insights at RCAW’s annual trade show. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth spoke with leaders from the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) about the upcoming March trade show. Amanda Fields, executive director of RCAW and Emerson Pagel, with ABC Supply and the RCAW Board of Directors, discussed the event’s special opportunities for participants to gain education and community connection.  

Amanda explained the event is centered around the association’s mission, which emphasizes providing resources, advocacy and training opportunities that help contractors build sustainable businesses across Washington state. The goal is for the trade show to be a practical forum for face-to-face learning and regional connection in a way that cannot be achieved digitally.  

Emerson emphasized how roofing is a relational industry, where success and connections are built through shared experience rather than transactions. “We're doing things that, while we're not changing the world itself, but we're changing somebody's world every day,” Emerson said. Roofing work directly affects peoples’ homes, livelihoods and trust. At the trade show, competitors, industry veterans and new contractors will have the opportunity to exchange insight shaped by decades of different experiences on the jobsite.  

The trade show itself is designed to feel immersive rather than overwhelming, bringing together roughly 45 vendors alongside a full slate of education. Sessions range from jobsite safety and workforce development to marketing strategy, brand building and insurance supplementation, reflecting the realities contractors are navigating right now. Amanda framed the programming as an extension of the association’s broader purpose. “I’m passionate about supporting our industry, building community and making sure contractors have a voice at the table,” Amanda said. That approach shows up in sessions built for both field crews and owners, including Spanish-language fall protection training and certifications that meet evolving workforce needs. By housing education, products and peer insight under one roof, the show gives contractors space to compare systems, ask questions and make informed decisions in real time. 

Networking continues beyond classrooms through evening events and informal gatherings. The Industry Insider event on March 12 includes networking, vendor setup and the Excellence in Roofing awards. The trade show follows on March 13 at Muckleshoot Casino, bringing attendees together for educational sessions and exhibits to explore. Amanda and Emerson encourage participation by showing up, engaging with peers and investing in growth.  

Listen to the podcast to learn more about the RCAW trade show and registration details!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

RCAW sounds the alarm on proposed legislation impacting Washington roofing contractors 

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is raising awareness about two companion bills currently moving through the Washington State Legislature that could have serious consequences for roofing contractors across the state. 

House Bill 2191 and Senate Bill 6068 would expand wage and benefit liability within the construction industry. If passed these bills would make direct contractors and in some cases property owners jointly liable for unpaid wages and benefits owed to workers employed by subcontractors at any tier. 

In simple terms this means roofing contractors could be held financially responsible even when a subcontractor fails to properly pay their employees. 

For many contractors this represents a major shift in risk and responsibility. The proposed legislation increases legal and financial exposure for unpaid wages and benefits while adding stricter requirements for payroll compliance, recordkeeping and worker classification. It also creates additional administrative burdens that could drive up project costs and slow down job timelines. 

While limited exemptions may apply to some small residential projects the majority of commercial roofing work and larger residential projects would be affected. 

These bills are not law at this time but they are actively advancing which makes contractor involvement critical. RCAW Executive Director Amanda Fields encourages members to stay informed and engaged as the legislative session continues. RCAW is actively evaluating the impact of this legislation and advocating on behalf of Washington’s roofing industry to ensure lawmakers understand how expanded liability could affect local contractors workforce stability and overall project delivery. 

One important way contractors can make their voices heard is by participating in RCAW Olympia Hill Day on February 5 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event provides roofing professionals with the opportunity to speak directly with legislators and share real world insight into how proposed laws impact daily operations jobsite management and business sustainability. Contractors are encouraged to register online at www.rcaw.com and take an active role in protecting the future of the roofing industry in Washington. 

For more information contact Amanda Fields, executive director of the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington at director@rcaw.com. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Reflecting on a year shaped by advocacy, education and connection while inviting members to help carry that progress forward in 2026. 

As 2025 came to a close, the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) paused to reflect on a year defined less by milestones and more by momentum. Rather than framing the year as a conclusion, the association positioned it as a checkpoint in its ongoing effort to strengthen and elevate Washington’s roofing industry. That tone was captured in a message shared with members: “Goodbye 2025! We couldn't do it without you.” 

That statement speaks to how RCAW approaches its mission. Supporting, protecting and advancing the roofing industry depends on active participation from contractors, suppliers and partners who are willing to engage beyond their own businesses. Throughout 2025, that engagement translated into progress across advocacy, workforce development and industry connection. 

Advocacy stood out as a defining focus. RCAW expanded its role at the legislative level by hosting its first Olympia Hill Day, creating a direct forum for contractors to meet with lawmakers and discuss how policy decisions affect roofing operations across the state. The initiative marked a shift from monitoring legislation to actively shaping the conversation, ensuring the roofing industry’s perspective was represented where decisions are made. 

Education and workforce development continued to anchor the association’s work. Through Lunch and Learns, safety resources and compliance-focused training tailored to Washington State, RCAW emphasized practical education that aligns with real jobsite and regulatory conditions. That approach helped members navigate evolving requirements while reinforcing safety and professionalism across crews. 

Industry connection tied those efforts together. Events such as the PNW Regional Tradeshow brought contractors, vendors and partners together in person, strengthening relationships that extend beyond individual projects. Community involvement added another layer when RCAW members collaborated through the Basic Shelter Project in Tacoma to provide a new roof for an elderly widow whose home was in urgent need. 

Looking ahead, RCAW is inviting members to build on the foundation in 2026. The upcoming calendar includes Olympia Hill Day, the Excellence in Roofing Awards, the PNW Regional Trade Show and a full slate of networking and community events designed to keep the industry connected and engaged. 

Learn more about the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington and how to get involved in upcoming RCAW events!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Washington roofing contractors can showcase their standout projects in RCAW’s 2026 awards program. 

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) has opened submissions for its 2026 Excellence in Roofing Awards Program, inviting contractors across the state to put forward their strongest work from the past year. The annual program recognizes exceptional craftsmanship, innovation and professionalism while offering participants the opportunity to gain industry visibility and monetary awards. 

Submissions are now being accepted through their website and must be completed by February 2, 2026. Eligible contractors can submit low- and steep-slope projects of any size or complexity, provided they meet program criteria and the submitting company is a current RCAW member. There is no cost to apply, and multiple entries are allowed. 

“This awards program empowers roofing professionals to highlight their dedication, celebrate their craft and show the pride they bring to our industry.” stated Justin Shirley, RCAW president. 

The Excellence in Roofing Awards are designed to capture the full range of roofing systems and challenges contractors face in the field. Judges evaluate entries based on several core criteria, including project challenges, distinction and beauty. Submissions should demonstrate how technical, operational or environmental obstacles were addressed through effective system design and installation, while also highlighting durability, reliability and visual impact. 

To support a thorough evaluation, contractors are asked to provide detailed project write-ups along with high-quality imagery that clearly documents workmanship and execution. The judging panel, composed of roofing industry experts with extensive technical knowledge, convenes after the submission period closes to score the top projects. 

Top-scoring entries will receive cash awards of $1,000 for first place, $500 for second place and $250 for third place in both low-slope and steep-slope categories. Judges may also designate best-in-class winners across specialized categories such as In the Neighborhood, Commercial or Mixed Use, Craftsmanship and Technical Difficulty, further recognizing projects that stand apart for design, complexity or execution. 

Winners will be announced March 12, 2026, during the RCAW Industry Insider Event at Muckleshoot Casino beginning at 6 p.m. In addition to monetary awards, winning companies receive an official Excellence in Roofing Award, an elite winner logo and promotional exposure through statewide and local media as well as RCAW social media channels. 

“If you aim to increase your visibility and reputation in the roofing industry, make sure to submit your finest work before the deadline,” Justin added. 

Learn more about the 2026 RCAW Excellence in Roofing Awards Program and submission details!

RCAW encourages contractors to submit all types of roofing projects for consideration, regardless of size or complexity.

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is now accepting submissions for its prestigious 2026 Excellence in Roofing Awards Program. Roofing contractors across Washington state can submit their best low- and steep-slope roofing projects at www.RCAW.com from this past year for a chance to win up to $1,000. Submissions are due by February 2, 2026.

“This awards program empowers roofing professionals to highlight their dedication, celebrate their craft and show the pride they bring to our industry.” stated Justin Shirley, RCAW president.

The highly competitive awards program covers the full spectrum of roofing systems. Winners must exhibit remarkable proficiency, demonstrate intricate workmanship and utilize superior-quality roofing products. RCAW encourages contractors to submit all types of roofing projects for consideration, regardless of size or complexity.

The application process on RCAW’s website, www.RCAW.com is free of charge, and interested RCAW contractors may submit multiple entries, provided the projects adhere to the specified criteria. Submissions must demonstrate exemplary skills in roofing and include detailed project write-ups and high-quality imagery. Please note you must be a current RCAW member to apply.

Contractors should take note of the judging criteria when submitting their project entries.

• Project challenges: Were there any technical, operational or environmental challenges successfully overcome through the innovative use of roofing materials? Does the project demonstrate the reliability, durability and overall system strength of roofing?
• Distinction: Why is this project different from its peers? Was the quality of the craftsmanship extraordinary, and were there any circumstances, pre-existing conditions or challenges that made it stand out? Can this project be considered a step above the rest?
• Beauty: Does the project showcase an aesthetic appeal or exhibit impressive technical complexity? Does it possess visual allure or intrigue, elevating the skyline, building use or design?

Once the submission period closes on February 2, 2026, a panel of esteemed judges convenes to evaluate and score the top roofing projects. This panel comprises a diverse group of roofing industry experts with vast knowledge and technical expertise.

The projects that score the highest according to the judges’ evaluations will receive a monetary prize of $1,000 1st place, $500 for 2nd place and $250 3rd place for each low slope and steep-slope project as recognition for their exceptional performance and achievement.

Aside from the medal winners, the judges may also propose specific projects for best-in-class categories at the end of the evaluation process. There will be only one winner per category, and annual acknowledgments are optional.

• In the neighborhood: This category showcases homes that combine affordability with style. It focuses on how color and design choices can elevate the appearance of a typical neighborhood home.
• Commercial/mixed use: This category focuses on the complexities of flat roof projects. These projects are multifaceted, involving numerous components that work together to create a waterproof roofing system found in commercial, industrial, educational, data centers, hospitals, retail and other non-pitched roof systems.
• Craftsmanship: Roofing is an art, and it takes a true craftsman to install roofing materials on complex structures such as steeples, turrets and geodesic designs or large flat roofing projects exceeding 1,000 squares. These projects blend skill and artistry, showcasing intricate designs and sheer sizes. This category is open to low- and steep-slope applications.
• Technical difficulty: This category emphasizes operational and installation challenges, including projects involving multiple penetrations, work during nighttime, skyscraper steeples and cold weather applications. Contractors share the challenges of orchestrating the job, ensuring a safe environment and addressing the various design aspects.

Winners will be announced on March 12, 2026, at the Muckleshoot Casino at the RCAW Industry Insider Event starting at 6 p.m. Winning companies will receive an official RCAW Excellence in Roofing Award, elite winner logo, statewide/local media exposure and promotions on RCAW’s social media platforms.

“If you aim to increase your visibility and reputation in the roofing industry, make sure to submit your finest work before the deadline,” Shirley added. RCAW’s 2025 EIR winners were 1st place, Valentine Roofing; 2nd place, Roofscapes NW; and 3rd place, Tru Colors Contracting.

About the Excellence in Roofing Awards

The RCAW Excellence in Roofing Awards celebrate the highest standards of craftsmanship, innovation and professionalism within Washington’s roofing industry. These awards honor projects that embody exceptional skill, creative problem-solving and dedication to quality in both steep- and low-slope applications. More than a competition, the program reflects RCAW’s commitment to elevating the roofing trade, recognizing companies that go above and beyond to deliver safe, beautiful and durable roofing systems. Each entry showcases the pride, precision and passion that define our industry, and the awards serve as a powerful reminder of the value and expertise Washington’s roofing professionals bring to their communities every day.

About RCAW

Established in 1965, the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington continues to bring the roofing industry together to increase success through advocacy, continuing education, professional collaboration and consumer awareness. The RCAW is committed to expanding a diverse and inclusive membership that promotes credibility and camaraderie within the roofing industry. RCAW is proud of the role it plays in promoting roofing to those in the building industry and to the public.