METALCON October 7–8, 2026 | Orlando, Florida

Heading to METALCON? Add these two sessions featuring Carlisle Architectural Metals leaders to your schedule.

1) Growing Your Metal Business: Real-World Strategies from Industry Leaders

Oct. 7, 2026 | 10:15–11:15 a.m. ET
Brian McLaughlin, Director of Associations for Carlisle Architectural Metals, moderates a panel offering practical strategies to strengthen and expand your metal business.
Earn 1 AIA LU or 1 FL CILB 
Business Practices credit.

See session details.

2) Mistakes to Avoid When Designing Metal Roof Systems

Oct. 8, 2026 | 4–5 p.m. ET
Join Brandon Jackson, Regional Group Manager for Carlisle Architectural Metals, to learn how addressing slopes, penetrations, flashings, transitions and rooftop equipment early can help prevent costly design and installation problems.
Earn 1 AIA LU HSW, 1 FL CILB General
credit., or 1 IIBEC CEH.

See session details.

METALCON 2026 

Oct. 7–9, 2026 | Orlando, Florida
While you’re there, visit Petersen, Drexel Metals, and the Carlisle Architectural Metals team in Booth 1724.

Plan your visit.

By The Coffee Shops®. 

Experience live metal system demonstrations, contractor-focused education and business growth resources at METALCON 2026. 

Metal professionals heading to METALCON 2026 can connect with Petersen, Drexel Metals and the Carlisle Architectural Metals team October 7-9 in Orlando, Florida. At Booth 1724, attendees can explore the companies’ offerings for metal cladding, accessories and rollforming equipment while meeting team members and finding resources designed to support efficiency and business growth. 

Live demonstrations will feature the Board and Batten wall panel system and T-seam metal roofing panels. Designed for vertical commercial and residential wall applications, Board and Batten panels install with concealed mechanical fasteners through pre-punched holes. The system is available in 12- and 16-inch widths, with a 2-inch-wide, three-quarter-inch-deep batten that creates dimensional interest while keeping trim offsets to a minimum. 

The T-seam roof system combines structural performance with architectural aesthetics. The panels can be factory-formed or field-formed to length, installed over several substrate types and mechanically field-seamed. Its concealed-fastener clip system is designed to allow thermal expansion and contraction. Because the panel is bi-directional, installers can begin in the center of a roof and work in both directions, helping multiple crews work simultaneously while creating a symmetrical appearance. 

Carlisle Architectural Metals is also sponsoring the new Contractor Business Success Center. Its expert-led sessions address profitability, operations, workforce development, storm resilience, sales strategies and leadership challenges in privately owned businesses. On Wednesday, October 7, moderator Brian McLaughlin will join panelists Colin Palladino, Richard Pruden and Matt Leonard for “Growing Your Metal Business: Real-World Strategies from Industry Leaders.” The panel will explore smarter operations, strategic equipment investments, portable rollforming, in-house fabrication and customized project solutions. 

On Thursday, October 8, Brandon Jackson will present “Mistakes to Avoid When Designing Metal Roof Systems.” Attendees will learn how slopes, penetrations, flashings, transitions and rooftop equipment can affect standing-seam metal roof design, and why addressing these conditions early can help prevent costly field problems. 

Visit Booth 1724 for demonstration times and additional details or to connect directly with the team. 

Learn more about the products, education and business resources available from Petersen, Drexel Metals and Carlisle Architectural Metals at METALCON 2026.

By The Coffee Shops®.

Make sure these sessions and exhibitors are on your METALCON short list.

METALCON is just around the corner happening October 7-9 in Orlando, Florida! With over 60 education sessions and 250 exhibitors, it’s important for attendees to plan their schedules carefully. From new products and services to innovative solutions, you won’t want to miss the chance to talk to these Coffee Shop partners: Carlise Architechtural Metals, Central States Manufacturing, Malco, Roof Huger, Van Mark, ATAS International, Inc., Metal Construction Association (MCA), Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA), Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings and more! Don’t forget to stop by booth 408 to meet the MetalCoffeeShop team!

Featuring an impressive lineup of industry experts and motivational speakers, the METALCON headline sessions just scratch the surface of the learning opportunities.

Keynote: nothing Can Stop You

Former Major League Baseball pitcher Jim Abbott shares his remarkable journey from Flint, Michigan, to throwing a no-hitter at Yankee Stadium. Born without a right hand, Jim developed creative ways to pursue his goals while learning the importance of accountability and trust. His inspiring keynote explores how mindset can transform adversity into personal growth, helping attendees recognize their own challenges as opportunities to build resilience, adapt and celebrate the experiences that shape who they are.

Register today!

Keynote: Building Through Uncertainty: A Market Outlook for the Construction and Design Industries

What economic forces will shape construction and design during the next 12 months? Former American Institute of Architects Chief Economist Kermit Baker examines the indicators influencing project activity, sector growth and client priorities. Attendees will gain a data-driven view of shifting pipelines, regional market differences and emerging opportunities. The session provides a forward-looking framework to help industry professionals anticipate risks, align business planning with changing conditions and make informed decisions in an uncertain market.

Register today!

Industry Outlook: Metal Construction Code Updates: What’s Changed and What it Means

Code changes can lead to permit delays, redesigns and compliance gaps when they are missed or misunderstood. Industry experts Bill Beals, Paul Deffenbaugh and Bob Zabcik will break down significant recent and upcoming updates affecting metal construction. Covering design, specifications, fabrication and installation, the session will help attendees understand current compliance requirements, distinguish the roles of standards organizations and prepare for emerging trends that could influence future projects and business decisions.

Register today!

Industry Outlook: 2027 the Future of Metal Construction

Industry leaders examine the economic, regulatory, material and jobsite forces expected to shape metal construction through 2027. Panelists Kermit Baker, Jeff Henry, Vincent Sagan and Benton Trotter will connect current market realities with the challenges and opportunities ahead. Attendees will explore how supply conditions, evolving codes and construction pressures are influencing project costs, delivery methods and building practices, gaining practical insights for managing risk and positioning their businesses for the next 12 months.

Register today!

The formal sessions are just one way to learn. Attendees will also enjoy a massive exhibition hall where they can network and learn from each other. Make sure our MetalCoffeeShop booth 408 is on your list too!

While you’re in the hall, don’t miss our Coffee Shops partners including: Western States Metal Roofing, BITEC, Franklin International, Giddy Up, H.B. Fuller / GSSI, Latinos en Roofing, MARCO Industries, Metal Building Manufacturers Association (MBMA), McElroy Metal, MetalForming Inc., MFM Building Products, RoofScope and more!

Don’t miss the metal event of the year! Register for METALCON and use code 30MCS for $30 off passes!

By The Coffee Shops®.  

New evaluation report provides independently reviewed documentation for select metal wall panel systems. 

Code compliance documentation can help project teams move confidently from specification through installation. Petersen, part of Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM), has expanded its customer resources with the issuance of International Code Council Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) Evaluation Report ESR-5839, which covers select wall panel systems. 

The report includes the Box Rib Series 1, 2, 3 and 4; Highline Series B1, B2, C1, C2, M1, S1 and S2; HWP; Flush Panel; and 7.2 Panel. Through an independent technical review, ICC-ES Evaluation Reports demonstrate compliance with applicable International Building Code (IBC) and International Residential Code (IRC) requirements. 

For architects and designers, the documentation supports clear, code-referenced specifications while defining evaluated applications and system limitations. It can also simplify plan review and product selection by providing independently verified technical information. 

Contractors and fabricators can use the report to help streamline permitting and submittals, follow installation guidance for evaluated systems and reduce uncertainty during inspections. Clear documentation can also support smoother communication among the project teams involved in design, approval and installation. 

“Earning ICC-ES Evaluation Reports is another way Petersen is investing in the success of our customers,” said Mike Weis, vice president of sales for Carlisle Architectural Metals. “These reports provide architects and designers with trusted technical documentation while giving contractors and fabricators greater confidence during specification, permitting and installation. It’s another example of our commitment to delivering tested systems backed by the resources our customers need to succeed.” 

By bringing approved applications, installation requirements and compliance information together, ESR-5839 can help reduce questions and approval delays throughout the project review process. 

Learn more about Petersen’s evaluated wall panel systems.

The Coffee Shops™. 

Perimeter edge metal plays a critical role in protecting low-slope commercial roofs from wind-driven failure. 

When discussing commercial roofing performance, perimeter edge metal is often treated as a finishing detail. That mindset can create significant risk for contractors and building owners alike, according to Jason Hildenbrand from Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM), parent company to Hickman Edge Systems. 

During a recent episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Jason explained that perimeter edge metal is far more than an aesthetic component. It serves as a critical connection that secures roofing membranes and helps protect the entire building envelope from severe weather. 

Contractors face constant pressure to complete projects efficiently while reducing labor demands and minimizing callbacks. Jason noted that perimeter edge metal can support those goals when it is considered early in the project. “Perimeter edge metal can actually help support those things, if it is handled appropriately up front and there’s a plan for it,” he explained. 

The stakes are high because perimeter failures often trigger much larger roofing problems. Jason pointed to industry data showing that edge-related failures account for a significant percentage of weather-related roof damage. “It is a big piece of it,” Jason said. “If the perimeter metal fails, the rest of the roofing components cannot withstand the pressures from wind and storms and other weather events and that leads to subsequent failure.” 

Building code reflects that importance. Jason explained that ANSI/SPRI/FM 4435/ES-1 establishes testing requirements for perimeter edge metal systems like fascia and coping, while ANSI/SPRI GT-1 addresses gutter systems that terminate or secure roofing membranes. Together, these standards help verify that perimeter edge components are designed to resist project-specific wind pressures. 

For applicable low-slope commercial roof systems, compliance is not optional. “It’s required for every building,” Jason said. Understanding those requirements is a foundational step in delivering a high-performing roof system. 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about perimeter edge metal performance and code compliance. 

By The Coffee Shops®. 

The Fall Facades 2026 Webinar Series offers three days of practical education focused on architectural metal systems. 

Decisions made during design can have a lasting effect on building envelope performance. Continuing education gives architects, designers and other building professionals opportunities to strengthen their understanding of system selection, detailing and performance while earning American Institute of Architects (AIA) learning units. 

Petersen and Citadel Architectural Products, part of Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM), will present Fall Facades 2026 from September 15–17, 2026, with three live, AIA-approved webinars from 2:00–3:00 PM ET daily. 

The series will explore practical design and performance considerations across architectural metal roofing, metal wall panels and metal composite material (MCM) systems. Attendees can earn 1 AIA LU for each webinar and may register for individual webinars or all three. 

Fall Facades 2026 begins September 15 with Mistakes to Avoid When Designing Metal Roof Systems, presented by Petersen. The webinar examines standing-seam metal roof design considerations including slopes, penetrations, flashings, transitions and rooftop equipment. Participants will explore how addressing these conditions early can help reduce installation challenges, costly field problems,and disconnects between design intent and construction. 

On September 16, The Art of Metal Wall Panels, presented by Petersen, will explore exposed- and concealed-fastener metal wall panel systems. Topics include applications, field-flashing details, wind-load considerations, panel selection and the design and detailing decisions that contribute to successful installations. 

Fall Facades 2026 concludes September 17 with Metal Composite Material (MCM): Components, Systems and Performance, presented by Citadel Architectural Products. The webinar examines MCM components and manufacturing methods, attachment systems, barrier and rainscreen approaches and field-assembled and shop-fabricated systems. Participants will learn how these considerations influence façade performance, moisture management, constructability, fabrication and installation. 

Attendees can view the complete Fall Facades 2026 lineup and register for all three AIA-approved webinars.

By The Coffee Shops™. 

Four things contractors should look for in their metal roofing supplier.  

A successful metal roofing project depends on more than installation quality — it also relies on having the right supplier behind the scenes. Having a supplier that supports your work from start to finish, helping improve efficiency, ensuring quality and keeping you on schedule is key not only to individual project success but to your business’ overall growth. So, what should you be looking for in your metal roofing supplier?  

1 – Quality 

One of the most important considerations is product quality, which often begins with domestic sourcing. Why domestic? Sourcing materials within the United States allows for greater control over production and quality assurance. Domestic manufacturing also contributes to more dependable supply chains, reducing delays and helping contractors keep projects on schedule while avoiding unnecessary labor and material costs. 

2 - Portfolio 

Beyond materials, contractors should take a system-based view of roofing. Metal roofing performance depends on more than panels alone — components such as underlayment, insulation, gutters and snow retention systems all influence long-term results. Working with a supplier that offers a complete system approach helps ensure compatibility across components, simplifying installation and improving overall roof performance. 

3 - Warranty 

Warranty coverage is another critical factor. Because metal roofs represent a long-term investment, strong warranties help protect both contractors and their customers. Look for suppliers that have solid, reliable warranties that do not diminish over time, like Drexel Metals’ non-prorated paint and substrate warranties for up to 35 years. 

4 - Service 

Finally, the best suppliers provide ongoing support well beyond the initial sale. Contractors benefit from access to technical expertise, training, continuing education and dedicated regional representatives who understand local market conditions. This level of support helps contractors troubleshoot issues, stay competitive and better educate customers about metal roofing solutions. 

Learn more about finding the right supplier to partner with on your next metal project.

By Emma Peterson. 

Explore how Drexel Metals combines experience, collaboration and digital tools to deliver exceptional metal solutions. 

Over the four decades that Drexel Metals has existed, the brand has grown, notably expanding their offerings through a 2011 acquisition of custom fabricator Met-Fab Manufacturing and becoming a part of the Carlisle Architectural Metals family in 2024. As the company has gone through these different phases of growth and development, it has made a name for itself by specializing in the distribution of painted metal through an on-demand approach, a dedication to premium quality fabrications and a commitment to cost efficiency. 

How has the Drexel team achieved this stellar reputation? By keeping their core business processes solid. These processes are described on their website:  

Our proven process starts by listening to each customer’s concepts and requirements. Then, our technical and architectural specialists consult, collaborate and troubleshoot throughout the entire project cycle with a commitment to authenticity and excellence that ensures the highest standards of quality and value. 

How does this process play out in reality? Oftentimes, the Drexel team recommends that customers start with their visualizer. Powered by Renoworks, this is a powerful tool that allows users to see what Drexel’s durable roof, wall and trim products would actually look like on their home or building. There are two ways to use Drexel’s visualizer:  

1. QuickView: This is the best starting place for customers that just want to explore their options. It uses auto-recognition technology to identify the roof and siding of a submitted photo. From there, the user can easily apply Drexel projects to their home or building – all online and all for free!  
2. ProView: For those further into a project, this visualizer provides a more customization options and a more realistic design experience. When using ProView, users send in their photo and any special details they want included. It comes at a $25 fee, but in return customers get an expertly prepared design within two business days. 

Try the visualizer yourself today!

By The Coffee Shops™. 

Petersen’s PAC-CLAD perforated panels helped designers create a cohesive identity across an expanding campus. 

In the case study, “Painted, perforated panels provide school with pulled-together polish,” Petersen highlights how architectural metal panels helped create a cohesive visual identity across an expanding Illinois school campus. 

The Williamsville-Sherman Community Unit School District No. 15, located near Springfield, Illinois, recently expanded its existing junior-senior high campus to include fifth- and sixth-grade students. The project added a new wing for fifth graders along with new amenities, including a multi-use theater, band and choral spaces and athletic facility upgrades. 

With multiple grade levels sharing the same campus, designers from BLDD Architects sought a way to visually unite the facilities while maintaining distinct spaces for different age groups. Their solution was a bold signage and screening system that incorporated the district’s purple and yellow school colors through painted perforated metal panels. 

To achieve that vision, the project team selected Petersen’s PAC-CLAD® perforated corrugated metal panels. The architects had previously worked with Petersen products and specified approximately 2,200 square feet of PAC-CLAD 7.2 Perforated Corrugated aluminum panels for the project. Finished in Stone White and enhanced with custom-applied graphics in the school’s colors, the panels were installed over glass curtainwall areas at key building corners. 

The perforated screens serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. Visually, they create a striking contrast against the building’s neutral concrete and masonry exterior while reinforcing a consistent campus identity. The abstract purple and yellow graphics also provide an eye-catching focal point that reflects the district’s branding and athletic traditions. 

The project demonstrates the versatility of architectural metal in educational environments. Beyond traditional wall and roof applications, perforated metal panels can help architects incorporate branding, color and visual interest into building designs while maintaining durability and long-term performance. 

For contractors and design professionals, the Williamsville-Sherman project offers an example of how perforated metal systems can be used to solve both design and identity challenges on educational facilities and other institutional projects. 

Read the full case study and learn more about Petersen’s PAC-CLAD architectural metal products!

Image source: alanblakely.com

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about all the events, seminars and exhibitors that will be at this year’s Western Roofing Expo. 

Navigating today’s roofing industry can be a bit of a challenge. Whether you’re facing more extreme storms in the field or juggling labor issues and material shortages in the office, it can be hard to stay up to date with the information and tools you need to succeed. Luckily, the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) hosts a two-day event designed to help professionals handle all those issues and more – Western Roofing Expo (WRE).  

This premier regional roofing and waterproofing event boasts a two-day trade show, over two dozen education seminars, multiple engaging luncheons, The Roofing Games™ shingling competition, golf and sporting clays tournaments, a live auction, product demonstrations and more! Keep reading to learn about what to expect from this year’s show, which will be held September 27-29, 2026 at the Paris Las Vegas! 

The core of the show 

The core of the show occurs on Monday (9/28) and Tuesday (9/29) with 30 seminars planned, two luncheons organized and a trade show floor that is free for contractors to attend. 

The seminars at WRE are a great way to upgrade your skills! Experts from across the industry will be teaching about everything from business management to technical developments. And if you’re a part of The Coffee Shops™ family, there will be a lot of familiar faces like Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese, Amparo Sancen from Latinos En Roofing, John Kenney from Cotney Consulting Group and our very own president, Heidi J. Ellsworth!  

As for the luncheons, WSRCA has organized two invaluable luncheons for WRE attendees. The first will be hosted on Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is presented by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Craig Brightup, The Brightup Group, and Chad Collins, NRCA, will take this opportunity to talk to attendees about the key developments in Washington D.C. that are impacting the roofing industry.  

The second luncheon will run at the same time (11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) on Tuesday and is sponsored by Malarkey Roofing Products. This luncheon gives attendees an opportunity to hear from the WRE 2026 keynote speaker – Shereen Thor. Shereen is a comedian turned coach who has worked with organizations like Google, Pandora, Slack, Safe Place For Youth and The Social Justice Learning Institute. Her keynote will be a great resource to professionals and business owners in all parts of their careers.  

And last but not least, the trade show floor will be open both Monday and Tuesday. This is a great opportunity to see the latest innovations and newest technology in the industry as product demos will be hosted on the hour. At that same demo stage there will also be the return of the much-anticipated Roofing Games on Tuesday!  

The trade show is a great opportunity to talk to representatives of leading companies around the industry. And the best part? The exhibit floor is FREE for contractors and roofers to attend! We’ll be in booth 12, so make sure to stop by and say hi, and we have countless industry friends who will be around the floor, such as Anchor Products (815), APOC (609), BITEC (151), Brava Roof Tile (840), Carlisle Architectural Metals (509), Drexel Metals (509), Equipter (826), Integrity Insurance & Bonding (360), Lakeside Construction Fasteners (154), New Tech Machinery (356), PABCO Roofing Products (703), Rocket Equipment (638), RoofScope (822), Sentry Building Innovations (150) and VELUX (361). 

Additional events and more 

In addition to the core two days, there are extra events both before (Sunday, 9/27) and after (Wednesday, 9/30). On Sunday, the Davis Memorial Foundation will host two tournaments, one sporting clays tournament and one golf tournament. The proceeds from these events go directly to the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund. The scholarships from this fund have helped more than 195 aspiring high school, undergraduate and graduate students pursue their dreams. These events have their own registration and their own fees. 

And on that Wednesday, the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants will host a special education day. This event runs from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and will elevate attendees’ expertise in the building enclosure industry. It features two courses, one about the fundamentals of roof assemblies and the other highlighting key updates to international codes. The registration and fees for this education day are separate from general registration. 

Get registered and reserved 

Registration for the 2026 WRE is now open! You can register online, again the show will be held at the Paris in Las Vegas, Nevada from September 27-29, 2026. Being at the Paris, there are many options for hotels nearby. WSRCA has worked specifically with the Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood and Horseshoe Hotel to get discounted room blocks that start as low as $91.  

Not sure if you can make the registration fee work in your budget? RoofersCoffeeShop® is partnering with Western Colloid to send five professionals to the show for free! By entering our contest, you get the chance to win an all-inclusive pass to the show, which gives you access to the trade show, annual luncheon, en Español content, educational sessions and the legislative luncheon.  

Learn more about the 2026 WRE show!