Mastering metal roofing installation

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Learning the science and business of metal roofing and siding installation.

For contractors all over the U.S., staying ahead of industry standards for metal roofing is crucial. This necessity for specialized knowledge led to a recent, intensive three-day training event held at the Top Metal Supply facility in Miami, Florida. A diverse group of Latino contractors, attending from across the country, gathered to gain deep insights into best practices for metal roofing and siding installation. MetalCoffeeShop was on location documenting the sessions, which blended technical installation science with essential business acumen all in Spanish.

The event was hosted by Aldin Mejia, founder of Top Metal Supply, a prominent Miami-based company known for specializing in high-quality, custom-fabricated metal roofing for both residential and commercial projects. Top Metal focuses on providing durable solutions with added benefits like on-site bending and quick delivery. Aldin and his team worked with the contractors on teaching installation and translating critical information as needed.

The training emphasized a holistic approach to metal systems, featuring presentations from industry leaders: Sherwin-Williams experts detailed the science of advanced coil coatings and the business of the MetalVue program, Nick Cwikla of FT Solutions shared crucial information on the importance of underlayment and John Sheridan with Sheridan Consulting led the installation training with Moises Fregozo. The training was predominately in Spanish providing a critical opportunity for Latino roofing companies.

A key highlight was the participation of Latinos en Roofing, led by Amparo Sancen. She provided invaluable training on the intricate business side of the industry, specifically focusing on how insurance claims are currently influencing roofing projects and best practices for navigating those processes effectively.

The Miami training reinforced that contractors are the final link in the chain of quality control. Learning how metal is factory-coated and how to protect that coating is essential for long-term performance. It's vital that contractors ask their metal roofing fabricator or manufacturer exactly what coil coating they use, as formulations vary widely in quality. Ensuring the underlayment discussed by Nick Cwikla is compatible with the specified metal roofing system is also a key to success.

This vital training initiative was visualized and brought to life by Aldin Mejia and the dedicated team at Top Metal Supply. Aldin is deeply committed to providing the essential tools and education for Spanish-speaking roofing companies to receive high-level training in their first language, fostering a more knowledgeable and professional industry nationwide. This commitment was made possible through the generous support and partnership of the Sherwin-Williams MetalVue program and Sheridan Training. MetalCoffeeShop was honored to participate and document the event.