By Jesse Sanchez.

The team behind the National Medal of Honor Museum explains how collaboration, complex waterproofing and meticulous planning helped bring an ambitious architectural vision to life.

The National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, presents a strikingly simple architectural form, but beneath its exterior is a roofing and waterproofing system shaped by years of planning, problem-solving and collaboration. During this Coffee Conversations® webinar, Heidi J. Ellsworth spoke with Mark DeFreitas, vice president of national and strategic accounts at SOPREMA and Chris Evans, vice president of estimating for KPost Roofing & Waterproofing, about the construction challenges behind the museum. From the beginning, Chris emphasized that success depended on approaching the project collaboratively, explaining, “We weren't winning a job, we were joining a team.”

The building's elevated steel structure is supported by five pillars representing five branches of the military, while an oculus recognizes the Space Force. Creating that seemingly simple design required the team to address weight restrictions, drainage, hundreds of penetrations and extensive structural elements above the roof. Chris described the challenge of translating architectural simplicity into a buildable system, noting, “With simplicity often comes complexity below and that's kind of what we got the benefit to try to work out and figure out.”

As the roofing design evolved, KPost installed a tapered lightweight insulating concrete assembly to establish drainage across the flat structure while working around more than 280 penetrations. Multiple roofing layers followed, along with DTEC Primer to support electronic leak detection before the completed roof was concealed beneath the building's exterior panels. The final assembly also included a reinforced ALSAN RS liquid-applied system, which allowed crews to address challenging transitions, flashing conditions and unique penetrations.

Quality control remained central throughout construction. Testing was completed before panel installation advanced, helping the team verify the continuity of the waterproofing system before it became inaccessible. Mark highlighted the importance of that long-term responsibility, observing, “I call this a reputational project.” For the manufacturers, contractors, consultants and installers involved, the work represented more than completing another commercial roof, it meant creating a system expected to protect the museum and its contents long after construction ended.

The project ultimately demonstrated how technical expertise, communication and strong relationships can turn a demanding architectural concept into a coordinated construction effort. From material logistics and technical support to safety, testing and trade coordination, each part of the process contributed to a roof designed to remain out of sight while performing an essential role.

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about the collaboration, roofing system and technical problem-solving behind the National Medal of Honor Museum!

Users can now translate more than 3,800 technical documents and product pages into 29 languages directly on the SOPREMA website.

SOPREMA U.S. now enables users to translate more than 3,800 product documents and website pages into 29 languages directly from SOPREMA.us. Available on both product pages and within the document portal, the new functionality gives contractors, architects, distributors and building owners instant access to technical, product and safety information in their preferred language.

"Our customers rely on quick access to accurate product information, regardless of language," said Frank Dippolito, director of sales operations and enablement. "Translation capabilities have been a valuable feature within our Sop'Direct mobile app, and we're pleased to extend that same convenience to our website and document library."

Previously, multilingual access to SOPREMA's technical documents was available through the company's mobile application, Sop'Direct. The new website functionality expands that capability to SOPREMA's online document portal and product pages, allowing visitors to instantly view content in their preferred language while maintaining the convenience and functionality available within the mobile app.

The enhancement reflects SOPREMA's ongoing investment in digital tools that improve accessibility and support users throughout the building envelope industry. With translation available across thousands of documents and product resources in 29 languages, SOPREMA offers one of the industry's most comprehensive multilingual content experiences.

For users who prefer a mobile experience, the Sop'Direct app remains available for download on iOS and Android devices, providing on-the-go access to product information, technical resources and multilingual document support.

About SOPREMA

SOPREMA is a global leader in roofing, waterproofing, wall protection and civil engineering solutions, driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation, sustainability and product excellence. SOPREMA U.S. is headquartered in Wadsworth, Ohio and operates manufacturing facilities across the country, providing high-performance building envelope solutions tailored to the needs of the North American market. The comprehensive product portfolio includes SBS and APP-modified bitumen, PMMA/PMA liquid-applied membranes, synthetic PVC membranes, air and vapor barriers, below-grade waterproofing, vegetative solutions, silicone and acrylic coatings and accessories. Backed by a legacy of proven performance and technical expertise, SOPREMA U.S. partners with architects, contractors and building owners to set the standard for durability, reliability and sustainable construction.

Meet the 2026 SOPREMA Scholarship Program cohort. 

SOPREMA U.S. is proud to announce the recipients of its 2026 SOPREMA Scholarship Program, recognizing students who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership and a commitment to pursuing careers that will help shape the future of the building and construction industries.

The annual scholarship program reflects SOPREMA's commitment to investing in the next generation of professionals pursuing degrees in architecture, engineering, construction management and other building envelope-related fields.

This year, SOPREMA awarded scholarships of $5,000 each to outstanding students from across the United States.

The 2026 scholarship recipients are:

• Botao Li, Georgia Institute of Technology, pursuing a PH.D. in architecture
• Mitchell Braidic, Carnegie Mellon, pursuing a degree in chemical engineering
• Cameron Bloodgood, University of Southern California, pursuing a degree in architecture
• William Mar, University of Texas Austin, pursuing a degree in computer and electrical engineering

Recipients were selected through a competitive application process that evaluated academic achievement, career aspirations and their vision for the future of the building industry. Applicants also submitted essays highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing the construction sector and how they hope to contribute to its continued advancement.

"Supporting education is one of the most meaningful investments we can make in our industry's future," said Greg Morgan, CEO at SOPREMA U.S. "These students have demonstrated impressive dedication to their education and a genuine passion for improving the places where people live, work and learn. We are proud to support them as they continue their academic and professional journeys."

The SOPREMA Scholarship Program was established to help encourage and support students preparing for careers in fields critical to the future of building envelope design, construction and sustainability. By investing in emerging talent, SOPREMA aims to strengthen the industry and help foster innovation for generations to come.

About SOPREMA

SOPREMA is a global leader in roofing, waterproofing, wall protection and civil engineering solutions, driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation, sustainability and product excellence. SOPREMA U.S. is headquartered in Wadsworth, Ohio and operates manufacturing facilities across the country, providing high-performance building envelope solutions tailored to the needs of the North American market. The comprehensive product portfolio includes SBS and APP-modified bitumen, PMMA/PMA liquid-applied membranes, synthetic PVC membranes, air and vapor barriers, below-grade waterproofing, vegetative solutions, silicone and acrylic coatings and accessories. Backed by a legacy of proven performance and technical expertise, SOPREMA U.S. partners with architects, contractors and building owners to set the standard for durability, reliability and sustainable construction.

By Jenny Yu.  

Chem Link by SOPREMA demonstrates how M-1® combines safety, flexibility, and ease of use on the jobsite. 

At the 2026 National Frame Building Association (NFBA) show, Chem Link by SOPREMA highlighted its flagship M-1 sealant and adhesive product, showcasing the performance features that continue to make it a go-to solution for contractors working in demanding environments. Jamie White of SOPREMA demonstrated the versatility and durability of the M-1 product during a live booth demonstration, emphasizing its ease of use and weather-resistant capabilities. 

“Our M-1 product is our flagship sealing and adhesive,” Jamie explained. “It’s 100% solid and comes in a plastic tube, so when you're outside and it's raining, you don't have to worry about any damage here.” 

Designed for roofing and exterior applications, M-1 is engineered to provide instant and strong adhesion, allowing contractors to quickly create watertight seals around roof penetrations and other critical areas. According to Jamie, speed and simplicity are major advantages in the field. “We like to say, ‘M-1 and done,’ for a reason because it’s extremely strong and adheres to pretty much everything,” Jamie said. 

A standout feature Jamie highlighted was its ability to fix leaks even in situations of ponding water or rain. “The greatest thing about this is that it’s moisture cured. It’s going to work underwater,” Jamie said while providing a live demo.  “It doesn’t shrink, it doesn’t crack on you. It’s going to stay exactly where you put it and make that roof penetration watertight right away.” 

The product also offers long-term durability and safety benefits that appeal to contractors working in a variety of climates and conditions. Engineered as a polyether blend, Jamie noted that the sealant is UV stable and free from toxins commonly associated with other chemical formulations.  

“It’s not going to yellow on you. There are absolutely no carcinogens in it,” Jamie said, noting that the product is on the Proposition 65 list, a right-to-know law that requires businesses to provide "clear and reasonable warnings" before exposing consumers to any of the over 900 chemicals known to cause cancer, birth defects or reproductive harm. “It’s very hard to get on to that list. It’s not going to do any harm.” 

Learn more about Chem Link by SOPREMA's M-1 sealant and adhesive!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Smog-reducing granules give roofing contractors a distinctive way to discuss sustainability with homeowners and building owners. 

Sustainability is becoming a critical part of the roofing conversation, creating an opportunity for contractors to offer customers solutions that go beyond traditional roof performance. For homeowners and building owners interested in products with performance benefits, 3M Roofing Granules offers smog-reducing roofing technology that can give contractors an easy, distinctive way to start that discussion. 

At the center of that conversation is 3M, whose roofing granule technologies are incorporated into products from a variety of manufacturers across steep- and low-slope roofing. Among those technologies are smog-reducing granules, designed to help improve air quality while serving as part of a roofing system. 

Several manufacturers incorporate 3M smog-reducing granule technology into their roofing materials. In steep-slope roofing, Atlas and Malarkey Roofing Products® offer products using the technology. In low-slope roofing, Elevate™, Garland, Johns Manville and SOPREMA are among the manufacturers incorporating smog-reducing granules into their materials. Together, these companies give roofing professionals more opportunities to bring sustainability into conversations with customers. 

For contractors, that conversation can also become a point of differentiation. Smog-reducing granules offer a unique solution that can help roofing companies stand out from competitors while giving homeowners and building owners another consideration when selecting roofing materials. The significance extends beyond an individual project. Roofing products incorporating smog-reducing technology create an opportunity to connect decisions made at the roof level with broader conversations about communities and air quality. 

As sustainable roofing options become more visible, contractors who understand the technology and the companies behind it can be better prepared to explain those choices to their customers and distinguish their businesses in the marketplace. 

Learn more about 3M™ Smog-Reducing Granules and how they support cleaner air!

By Emma Peterson. 

Mark your calendar and be part of Arizona’s premier roofing event! 

The Arizona Roofing Contractors Association (ARCA) is gearing up for their annual trade show! The ARCA show, which will be hosted September 17 – 19, 2026, at the Prescott Resort & Conference Center, anticipates to see over 250 industry professionals come together for exclusive education seminars, powerful networking opportunities and more!  

This show has something for everyone, whether you’re an owner hoping to score incredible deals at the Roofers' Auction (featuring over $40,000 in roofing materials), a contractor looking for the newest products on the market or a supplier trying to build connections with their customers.  

In addition to the business opportunities, this show offers unmatched experiences that celebrate the people who keep the roofing industry running! Some highlights include: 

• Sporting clay competition: Kick off day one (9/17) at 11 a.m. with a friendly shooting competition at Prescott Trap & Skeet. 
• Cornhole tournament: Hosted during the opening day party, this is your opportunity to have great conversations with your peers and maybe gain some bragging rights.  
• Golf excursion: Day 2 of the expo (9/18) is the day of ARCA's highly anticipated 57th Annual Golf Tournament! This is your opportunity to tee up on StoneRidge Golf Course for a day on the range with the best in the roofing business. 
• Awards banquet: And to round out the show, ARCA will be hosting their awards banquet, which celebrates the successes and skills of roofers, on the last day of the show (9/19). The event will start with a cocktail party in the ballroom foyer (5 p.m.), move into the ballroom proper for the banquet (6 p.m.) and wrap up with an after party on the Eagle's Nest & Sunset Patio (8 p.m.). 

Between all these events, make sure to take some time to catch up on some expert-lead education and explore the trade show floor! This year’s show floor will be host to a variety of industry-leading companies including SOPREMA, Eagleview, ATAS International, General Coatings, CertainTeed, Geocel, Malarkey, Polyglass, Estimating Edge and Eagle Roofing Products. The RoofersCoffeeShop® team will be there, so be sure to stop by to say hello at table 15!  

Get registered today!

By Jenny Yu.  

SOPREMA's roofing solutions are designed to help contractors complete projects faster and more efficiently.  

Labor shortages, tight project schedules, and increasing pressure to do more with fewer crew members continue to challenge roofing contractors across the country. As contractors look for ways to improve productivity without sacrificing quality, labor-saving roofing solutions can play an important role in streamlining installation and reducing time on the roof.

SOPREMA offers several solutions designed to help contractors work more efficiently while maintaining the performance building owners expect. Among them are COLPLY® EF Adhesive, 2-1 SOPRASMART® Board and SOPRAFIX® BASE Membranes.  

1 - COLPLY® EF Adhesive  

COLPLY EF Adhesive is a 

ingle-component, moisture-cure adhesive designed for rapid attachment of a vapor barrier membrane to cement decks in as little as 8 to 10 days after pour. By applying the COLPLY EF Adhesive in ribbons, vapor pressure from the cement deck is vented without affecting adhesion of the vapor barrier membrane. COLPLY EF Adhesive is very easy to work with, as it has a low odor, a low VOC, and a rapid cure. 

2 - 2-1 SOPRASMART® Board  

Another labor-efficient option is SOPREMA's 2-1 SOPRASMART® Board, available in both Flam and Sanded versions. The product combines a SOPRABOARD cover board and a SOPRALENE® base ply into a single component, reducing the number of materials contractors need to install. By eliminating a base ply installation step, crews are saving both labor and time. The roof dries faster, and a cap sheet is added to complete the SOPREMA roofing system.

3 - SOPRAFIX® BASE Membranes  

For high-performance roofing assemblies, especially when part of a re-roof design, SOPRAFIX® BASE provides another opportunity to improve productivity. The membrane is designed to reduce installation complexity compared with traditional multi-layer assemblies, while delivering high uplift performance. The installation process combines a mechanical attachment method with simplified heat welding of only the edge laps for a fast and efficient throughput that can exceed 100 squares a day on a steel deck.

As labor availability remains a concern throughout the industry, products that simplify installation and reduce jobsite steps can help contractors improve productivity, manage costs and keep projects on schedule. By combining performance with installation efficiency, SOPREMA's labor-efficient solutions are designed to help roofing professionals meet today's challenges while positioning their businesses for future growth.  

Learn more about SOPREMA and explore their full range of products designed to support contractor success.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

An upcoming Coffee Conversations will take you behind the scenes of an award-winning roofing and waterproofing project to uncover what it takes to protect an architectural landmark. 

In an upcoming RoofersCoffeeShop® Coffee Conversations® on August 27 at 7 a.m. PT, Heidi J. Ellsworth meets with Mark DeFreitas, vice president of strategic accounts for SOPREMA and Chris Evans, vice president of estimating for KPost Roofing & Waterproofing, to explore the award-winning roofing system installed on the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas. 

High-profile architectural projects demand much more than simply selecting a roofing system and installing it. Unique geometries, steep and low slopes, multiple elevations and intricate waterproofing details can all increase the complexity of a project. Mark and Chris will share how collaboration, careful planning and attention to performance requirements helped the teams navigate those challenges while balancing durability, aesthetics and long-term protection. 

Bringing perspectives from both the manufacturer and contractor sides of the project, Mark and Chris offer insight into the decisions and coordination required to turn a challenging design into a successful installation. Their roles with SOPREMA and KPost Roofing & Waterproofing give attendees the opportunity to hear directly from professionals involved in roofing product strategy, estimating and the execution of complex roofing and waterproofing work. 

Contractors will learn what performance requirements should be considered when evaluating roofing and waterproofing solutions, what criteria matter when comparing systems and how planning during the design phase can affect the finished project. The conversation will also explore the communication strategies, operational considerations and installation techniques that helped keep this project on track. 

Attendees will come away with real-world lessons they can apply to their own complex roofing projects, including ways to improve collaboration between the design team, manufacturer and contractor, strengthen material-selection decisions and approach highly technical installations with greater preparation. 

If you have ever looked at a one-of-a-kind building and wondered how the roofing team transformed an ambitious architectural vision into a durable, watertight reality, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. 

Join Heidi, Mark and Chris on August 27 at 7 a.m. PT to learn more about the roofing and waterproofing strategies behind the National Medal of Honor Museum. 

Register for this Coffee Conversations to discover the lessons contractors can take from this nationally recognized project and apply to their next complex roofing and waterproofing challenge!

Built on a strong foundation and decades of proven performance, SOPREMA U.S. is well positioned for continued success.

Greg Morgan has officially assumed the role of chief executive officer of SOPREMA U.S., following the leadership transition announced earlier this year. 

For more than 25 years, Morgan has developed a deep understanding of SOPREMA’s business, its customers and its people while contributing to the company’s continued growth. 

As Morgan steps into the role, the company’s direction remains clear: continuing to grow the business, strengthening operational performance and staying closely aligned with customer needs. 

“We have a clear path forward,” said Morgan. “Our focus remains on delivering for our customers, strengthening how we operate and building on the momentum already in place.” 

Built on a strong foundation and decades of proven performance, SOPREMA U.S. is well positioned for continued success.

About SOPREMA 

SOPREMA delivers high-performance solutions for roofing, waterproofing, wall protection and civil engineering, driven by a relentless pursuit of innovation, sustainability and product excellence. The comprehensive building envelope portfolio includes SBS and APP-modified bitumen, PMMA/PMA liquid-applied membranes, synthetic PVC membranes, STPE and PU sealants and adhesives, air and vapor barriers, below-grade waterproofing, vegetative roofing and indoor SOPRANATURE BioWall solutions, silicone and acrylic roof coatings and accessories. With a legacy of proven performance, SOPREMA sets the standard for durability and reliability in the building industry. 

By Emma Peterson. 

We had a great time sharing stories and photos over social media with our roofing community!  

National Roofing Week is an annual event hosted by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) that aims to raise awareness of the roofing professionals who keep our communities safe and secure. The event also acts as a way to build community with other professionals, both near you and across the country.  

Participation in National Roofing Week is primarily conducted online by posting photos and videos through the #NationalRoofingWeek2026 hashtag. And NRCA has created themes for each day of National Roofing Week to guide posts.  

Sunday – Kickoff  

The week kicked off with posts about the importance of roofers. NRCA started everything with a post sharing the schedule for the week and some highlights from last year’s National Roofing Week! Here at The Coffee Shops™ we joined in the fun on all our social media pages, making sure to thank the coating installers, roofing professionals and contractors who make our community amazing. 

Monday – Signature projects 

For the Monday theme, NRCA invited National Roofing Week participants to share photos showcasing their company’s signature residential and commercial projects. There were too many amazing projects posted to put them all here, but some that stood out to us came from QXO, Sika and Eagle Roofing Products!  

QXO’s post was a carousel of some of their customers projects, including one from Toitures Scott, one from Nedlaw Group and one from RUHS in California. Likewise, Eagle Roofing Products’ post showcased signature projects featuring their concrete roof tiles from across the country.  

As for Sika, they took the opportunity to shine the spotlight on their 2025 Sika Project of the Year award winners, which includes stunning projects like the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center project in Los Angeles, California and the South Station Tower project in Boston.  

Tuesday – Charitable projects 

The next day of National Roofing Week was all about giving back, and the National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Oregon Council stole the show with a free roof!

The replacement went to a community member in need, which is an incredible reminder of the power our industry has to do good.

They put it best in their post:  

Seeing contractors, manufacturers, distributors and industry partners come together with a shared purpose — without competition, without agendas, and focused solely on helping someone else — is truly inspiring. For one day, company names and logos took a back seat to teamwork, generosity and service. 

Projects like this showcase the heart of our industry. The relationships we build, the willingness to lend a hand, and the collective impact we can make when we work together are some of the best parts of being in roofing. 

NWIR extended huge thanks to industry partners, like Malarkey Roofing Products, ABC Supply, SRS Building Products, Owens Corning, Bliss Roofing and Raindrop Roofing NW, for making this incredible charitable project possible. 

Wednesday – Employee appreciation 

The midpoint of the week was all about the people who get things done – the employees that keep our industry moving. For this theme, the #NationalRoofingWeek2026 hashtag was flooded with pictures and appreciations for hardworking workers around the country. 

Drexel Metals posted some behind-the-scenes of their team hard at work, captioning it, “To everyone who continues to show up ready to learn, teach and push the industry forward: thank you. Your commitment is what drives stronger partnerships, better projects and continued progress year after year.” 

IKO Industries and CertainTeed also posted, shouting out the ROOFPROS who get the job done every day and recognizing the “craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication of the teams who help bring CertainTeed products and solutions to life” respectively.  

Thursday – Training and learning 

For Thursday, NRCA chose training as the theme, inviting contractors and companies to share the ways they keep learning and growing on the job. For this theme, GAF joined the party, sharing an incredible milestone from their GAF Roofing Academy – since 2020, the tuition-free program has helped more than 3,000 individuals find employment in the roofing industry!  

And this is just one of the many stories added to the #NationalRoofingWeek2026 hashtag! The Durable Restoration Company posted about the hard work their craftspeople put into their apprenticeship program and QXO shared how they connect their team with everything from stand downs to plant tours. 

Friday – Celebration 

And you can’t have National Roofing Week without taking the time to celebrate the amazing industry we are all a part of! For this theme, the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) took their followers on a trip down memory lane, sharing the “conferences, tournaments, regional events and industry gatherings where Texas roofing professionals connect, learn and celebrate together.”  

Drexel Metals also posted, sharing a common sentiment of thanks related to the power of the industry, “From the shop floor to the jobsite, your dedication, craftsmanship and collaboration are truly what make a lasting impact. We’re proud to be part of an industry built on innovation, resilience and strong partnerships.” 

Saturday – Wrap up 

Overall, this year’s National Roofing Week was a resounding success. From everyone that posted to event sponsors like International Roofing Expo, Georgia-Pacific Building Products, SRS Distribution, Roofing Alliance and SOPREMA, it was all made possible thanks to the incredible roofing community.  

The Coffee Shops crew already can’t wait for next year’s roofing week! As Atlas Roofing put eloquently in their final #NationalRoofingWeek2026 post, “This week gave us the opportunity to celebrate the people, organizations and partnerships that make the roofing industry such a rewarding one to be part of. Here’s to another year of collaboration, innovation and success.”