By Jenny Yu. 

Learn how Fortify Building Solutions works with their customers to provide quick resolutions and end user success.  

The COVID-19 pandemic brought disruptions in the roofing and metal industry that businesses are still recovering from. Historic material shortages expanded lead times, resulting in a new normal of slower, sometimes lower-quality services. “We're trying to break out of that normal, and we want to show people that service is really important to us. We want to find quick resolutions,” Jay Jacoby, director of sales at Fortify Building Solutions, said in this MetalCast™ episode. 

“A big thing that people talk about is ‘on time, in full,’” Jay added. “Some think of ‘on time, in full’ as getting materials on site, but I look at it as, ‘I told you something, I did it on time when I said it and I actually follow through on what you were expecting.’”  

As an integration of three industry leaders — Reed’s Materials®, Metal Depots™ and Heritage Building Systems® — Fortify Building Solutions aims to set a new standard of customer experience with local convenience, superior service and personalized support for big and small businesses alike. 

“We have small contractors oftentimes that are finding ways to get a foothold in their markets, we're able to help them to find that — whether it's training, getting on our contractor list, where an end user comes to us and they want to buy some of our material,” Jay stated.  

In providing a comprehensive service that has contractors, building owners and homeowners in mind, Fortify Building Solutions is able to provide high-quality products and services. Their customers are able to bring that performance to the field and take care of their customers, a win across the board for all involved. 

“Whether you're a new contractor or established contractor, we are always looking for more work. The second you get complacent is when you fall behind. The work that we do to make sure end users know about our business allows us to help our contractor customers grow and find work and feed their families.” Jay added, “Ultimately at the end of the day, why are we all here? It's to feed our families, and we help people do that.” 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about how Fortify Building Solutions works with their customers to achieve mutual success. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Fortify Building Brands are committed to helping their contractors overcome any real-world challenges they encounter. 

In the roofing industry, there are always bound to be unexpected issues and questions that crop up during the course of a project, no matter how well-prepared you are going into it. And it’s when those issues appear that partnering with manufacturers and distributors that support contractors throughout the entire roofing process is crucial to success. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth sat down with Jay Jacoby, director of sales for Fortify Building Brands, to talk about how they support the contractors that work with their company.  

Clear communication 

One of the biggest emphases at Fortify is being accessible to contractors in the field. Jay explained, “We really pride ourselves on our ease of access and speed to communicate. There's that horrible tendency today where it's so hard to get a person on the line to talk to people. You send in a lead submission and you don't know necessarily where it goes.” With Fortify, they make it easy to get in contact with someone for help without having to wait.  

Further, if you are looking to skip the phone entirely and go into a physical location for help, Fortify has a strong footprint of physical locations available. Jay shared, “If you're the type of person that enjoys face to face interaction, you can pop in at one of those branches across the greater south and they're going to be able to get you taken care of. If you're unable to go and visit one of the Fortify branches, we're going to have that opportunity to still service you because we are owned by Cornerstone Building Brands. So even if we don't have a Fortify branch location, there will be a place you can go for help.” 

Solution-based help 

And that help you’re going to get isn’t going to be general advice not related to your situation. The team at Fortify makes it a priority to learn about what you're dealing with and find a solution with you, as not just your distributor, but as your partner. Jay gave an example, sharing, “We have field service representatives that can come out to the job sites if there are any sort of issues to help get that resolved. If something goes wrong, we will help you get it fixed quickly.”  

At the end of the day, Fortify aims to help their contractors find solutions in any way possible. Jay summed it up, saying, “We pride ourselves on trying to just reply and respond as soon as physically possible, no matter what the inquiry is. And if it's something that we can't help you out with, we'd love to point you in the right direction to where you can get to somebody that can. We're always going to ask, ‘What do you need from us?’ And then work together to find the solution to your problem versus us telling you what your problem is.” 

Read the transcript or Listen to the full episode to learn more about Fortify and how they support their contractors. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Fortify Building Solutions is simplifying the contractor experience with products, production and people. 

The newly formed Fortify Building Solutions brings together decades of industry expertise from Heritage Building Systems®, Metal Depots™ and Reed's Metals® — creating a unified brand that simplifies sourcing, speeds up delivery and supports contractors with boots-on-the-ground training. In a recent MetalCast episode, Heidi J. Ellsworth spoke with Jay Jacoby, director of sales at Fortify Building Solutions, about how this integration is helping contractors grow their businesses with more efficiency and flexibility than ever before. 

“We have the full metal building packages and then also the individual parts and pieces... all the way up to full panels, rafters, the actual frames that are holding up our building, and everything in between,” Jay explained. With one call, contractors now have access to everything they need, backed by a team that knows how to keep projects on track.  

A faster, flexible option 

While many customers love the look and performance of metal, they may not always know what’s required to bring a structure to life. Fortify Building Solutions steps in with tailored solutions for every design and budget — including cold-formed steel buildings, one of the fastest-growing options on the market. “We have an unmatched offering when it comes to our metal buildings,” Jay said. “Anything from pole barns to cold form metal buildings to rigid frame buildings... We’re able to offer something no matter what the customer's budget needs, design requirements are, so long as they're looking for a metal building.” 

Cold-formed metal buildings offer a faster, more flexible alternative to traditional rigid-frame structures. “Cold form buildings present a huge opportunity,” Jay explained. “You can manufacture them quite a bit more quickly than a rigid frame, and they’re perfect for applications like barndominiums where people want that open, clear-span space.” To support demand, Fortify Building Solutions has invested heavily in nationwide purlin production, which means materials can be manufactured closer to the jobsite, reducing freight costs and cutting down on wait times.  

Real training, real results 

Beyond products and delivery, Fortify Building Solutions sets itself apart with hands-on training and jobsite support. “There’s so much you can find on YouTube, but maybe you have to watch a 30-minute video for a 30-second question,” Jay noted. “By talking to a real live person, you can get to the facts of what you need a lot more quickly.” The company’s network of branches offers contractors the chance to get in-person training, view display buildings and get help on the jobsite when needed. 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to hear more about how Fortify Building Solutions is making it easier to enter the metal industry with confidence.

By Emma Peterson. 

Harness the power of three metal roofing brands with Fortify Building Solutions. 

These days, it seems like there are countless mergers and acquisitions happening across the industry, from Home Depot Pro acquiring SRS Distribution last year to QXO acquiring Beacon more recently. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth dives into the merging of Heritage Building Systems®, Metal Depots™ and Reed's Metals® with Jay Jacoby. 

Jay is the director of sales at Fortify Building Solutions, which is the new umbrella brand that Cornerstone Building Brands has combined Heritage, Metal Depots and Reed's into. Jay shared a bit about the merge, saying, “All three brands have their own long histories, but one thing that we found between them and saw a ton of opportunity in was the market they all shared.” By combining these three into a unified brand, Fortify Building Solutions is set up to leverage each of their individual strengths to grow their market presence.  

Jay shared a bit about each brand’s value propositions, saying, “Metal Depots has a strong footprint in the New Mexico, Texas and then the East Coast markets. And with that, they have had access to our NBCI manufacturing sites. Then Reed's Metals is similarly heavily in the components game, roofing panels, trims, et cetera, but a really big differentiator for them was their same day, next day service standards. And Heritage is bigger in the overall metal building side.” 

As they move forward under the Fortify brand name, Jay and his team are hoping to use Fortify to expand the offerings and support available to smaller contractors. He explained, “One thing we’re developing is our contractor list. So, when a customer comes to us and they know what they want but don’t have an installer, we can give them that list. So that opportunity for contractors to get put on that list is really huge for them, especially for smaller growing businesses there.” Further, they are creating a variety of resources that these contractors will have access to, including their training program (Metal Pro Institute) and warranties. Ultimately, the unification of Heritage, Metal Depots and Reed's into Fortify aims to grow the general metal market. Jay put it best, “Our goal is to grow the pie that is the metal market. We don't want to just eat into an existing pie. We want to grow this overall market. And one of the best ways to do that is to find and support more contractors that are going to be able to put up our material and grow themselves.” 

Read the transcript or Listen to the full episode to learn more about the Fortify Building Solutions brand. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Discover how metal buildings are revolutionizing construction with customizable, durable options tailored to your needs and budget.

With the rise of custom steel buildings, residential and commercial customers have more options than ever before. Below, Fortify Building Solutions as a part of Cornerstone Building Brands offers insights into different metal building types and their uses in both commercial and residential settings. 

When it comes to versatile construction solutions, metal buildings are leading the charge, offering a customizable, durable and budget-friendly option for various applications. Whether you’re embarking on a commercial project or planning a personal workshop, understanding the process and options available will ensure a smooth experience. Here's what you need to know to make confident decisions. 

The building buying process 

Starting strong is crucial when planning your metal building project. Make sure you know what you need for your metal building. Measure out the width, length and height you’ll require. This sets the stage for a smooth project, ensuring your building fits and serves its purpose well. 

Custom steel building providers are prepared to simplify the process by offering tools like building visualizers and quick start quote assistants. These resources make it easy to translate your vision into a tangible project while staying within budget. According to Cornerstone Building Brands, reaching out to a knowledgeable expert can make all the difference: “Our team is prepared to answer your questions and guide you through the process, from exploring design options to obtaining a quote.” 

Customizing to fit your needs 

No two projects are alike, and customization is key. Start by identifying your building's purpose — be it storage, housing equipment or serving as a workshop — and assess additional features like insulation, windows or even aesthetic elements. By prioritizing “must-haves” and scaling back on “nice-to-haves,” you can create a structure that checks all the boxes without overextending your budget. 

Tools & resources at your fingertips 

Many providers offer downloadable brochures, design templates and detailed color charts to help you visualize your project. Whether you choose a Simplisteel™ rigid-frame or Hypersteel™ option, the goal is to align the final design with your vision and budget. 

Metal buildings offer endless possibilities and with the right preparation, your project can be as seamless as it is functional.  

Ready to explore your options? Consult with an expert today to start bringing your vision to life. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

The consolidation of leading metal brands under one name marks a major shift in the roofing and building industry. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth sat down with Jay Jacoby, director of sales for Fortify Building Solutions, to discuss the motivations behind this strategic move and what it means for contractors and customers moving forward. The roofing and metal building industry saw a significant transformation in 2024 with the unification of three major brands — Heritage Building Systems, Metal Depots and Reed’s Metals — under the newly launched Fortify Building Solutions, a division of Cornerstone Building Brands. The move aims to streamline operations, enhance service and create a stronger, more recognizable brand in the market. 

“We saw that alignment while also seeing them all play in different geographic markets,” Jay said. “And with that opportunity, when you're talking end users, you're talking smaller contractors, having a unified brand, there's just a ton of value in that.” 

The newly formed Fortify brand seeks to leverage the strengths of its three legacy companies, each of which brings unique advantages to the table. Metal Depots, with its strong presence in Texas, New Mexico and the East Coast, offers a wide array of products backed by NBCI’s manufacturing network. Meanwhile, Reed’s Metals has built a reputation for rapid service, with its same-day and next-day material turnaround making it a preferred choice in the Southeast. Heritage Building Systems rounds out the trio, bringing expertise in pre-engineered metal buildings, mini-storage solutions and rigid-frame construction. 

“One thing that we found between them, and we saw a ton of opportunity, was the market that they primarily played in when we talk customer profiles,” Jacoby explained. “Each of those three brands primarily work with, as I mentioned, end users, small contractors. They're not really going after the big dogs.” 

With an eye on 2025, the transition to Fortify Building Solutions is expected to bring increased efficiency, improved service for contractors and a greater ability to meet the growing demand for metal roofing and building solutions. While the industry faces challenges such as supply chain disruptions and rising costs, the newly consolidated brand hopes to provide a seamless and simplified experience for customers. 

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about how Fortify Building Solutions is reshaping the metal roofing and building industry, streamlining services for contractors and setting the stage for future growth! 

By Cornerstone.

Eco-friendly, resilient and built to last — metal roofs are redefining sustainable construction.

In an era where eco-conscious choices are no longer optional but essential, the roofing industry is turning its attention skyward — literally. Metal roofs are emerging as a modern-day hero in the push for sustainability, offering homeowners and builders a powerful combination of durability, energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. This movement is shaping the future of roofing and redefining how people think about their roofs. Discover why Cornerstone’s metal roofs, whether Slimline® concealed fastener panels or MasterRib® exposed fastener panels,  are more than just a stylish upgrade.

“As someone who’s been building homes for two decades, I’ve seen firsthand how sustainable practices aren’t just a trend — they’re the future,” says Dave Marrs, a seasoned builder with 20 years of home design and construction experience and a passion for sustainable building practices. “And when it comes to roofing, metal is a game-changer.”

Roofs that last: the durability and longevity of metal roofing

Metal roofs can last over 50 years, typically three times longer than traditional asphalt shingles, which begin to deteriorate from weather exposure starting on the day they are installed. The durability of metal roofs reduces the need to replace them and cuts down on waste. “This longevity means less roofing material in landfills and more money saved by homeowners in the long run,” says Dave, who cohosts the HGTV show “Fixer to Fabulous” with his wife and interior designer, Jenny Marrs.

Reduce, reuse, recycle: the recyclability and recycled content in metal roofing

For homeowners who live by the mantra “reduce, reuse and recycle,” metal roofs are a natural choice. Metal roofs are often made from recycled materials and are recyclable at the end of their life cycle. On the other hand, 20 billion pounds of asphalt shingles end up in U.S. landfills each year according to Home Innovation Research Labs™.

An old metal roof’s destiny is not a landfill. It can be recycled into new aluminum and steel products and even be made into future metal roofs. Slimline and MasterRib metal roofing are made of steel, which includes some recycled content and a protective Galvalume® coating consisting of a blend of zinc, aluminum and silicon.

“When I tell homeowners that their new metal roof might have once been a steel can that held beans, corn or tomato sauce, they’re usually pretty impressed,” Dave says. “It’s a material that truly embodies the concept of ‘reduce, reuse, recycle.’”

If asphalt shingles are already installed, with proper preparation of the roof surface, metal roofing can often be installed on top of the shingles to help limit shingle waste.

Reduced carbon footprint: the energy efficiency and environmental impact of metal roofing

“Metal roofs don’t just protect your home,” Dave says. “They help protect the planet by lowering energy consumption and your carbon footprint.”

The coating on the metal, as well as lighter colors, help to keep interiors cooler by reflecting solar waves and reducing heat absorption. Roofing systems that include metal roofing can contribute to reduced energy use and lower cooling costs by up to 25% compared to similar roofing systems that use asphalt shingles.* For homeowners looking to maximize their home’s energy efficiency, the durability of metal roofs makes them a great companion for solar panels.

Homes that stand the test of time: the role of metal roofing in building resilience

Roofs can be an essential line of defense when natural disasters strike. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of these events and metal roofing is a resilient material that can provide fire, wind and impact resistance that is key to sustaining the roof and home.

Common extreme weather events in the U.S.

• Forest fires: Homes in the Western U.S. increasingly face threats from forest fires that spread through airborne burning brands.
• Hurricanes: Hurricanes have become more frequent in the Southeast and East Coast, subjecting homes to high winds.
• Hailstorms: The Central U.S. typically gets three to four severe hailstorms yearly.

“One of the reasons I swear by metal roofing is its unmatched resilience,” Dave says. “Whether it’s fire, hail or high winds, a metal roof stands strong, protecting homes when it matters most. It’s not just about sustainability — it’s about building homes that can weather any storm.”

Properly designed, installed and maintained Slimline and MasterRib metal roofing has five key resiliency features:

1. Class A fire rating: The highest fire rating obtainable
2. Class 4 impact resistance: The most durable and impact resistant
3. Class 90 wind uplift rating: The highest rating available during wind uplift testing
4. Florida Building Code approved: Evaluated for compliance with the structural requirements of the Florida Building Code
5. Texas Department of Insurance: Roof performance evaluated

Embrace metal roofing for a sustainable future

You and your homeowners can rely on metal roofs for durability, sustainability and energy efficiency. The construction industry’s eyes are on the effects of climate change and many homeowners want to do their part by choosing sustainable building materials.

“In 20 years, I’ve seen a lot of trends come and go, but the push for sustainability is here to stay,” Dave says. “Metal roofing is one way to ensure you’re building not just homes but also a better future.”

Metal roofs benefit both homeowners and the environment. Their durability, weather resilience and reflective properties contribute to utility savings and homeowner peace of mind, not to mention helping the environment.

* “A Study of the Energy-Saving Potential of Metal Roofs Incorporating Dynamic Insulation Systems,” Thermal Performance of the Exterior Envelopes of Whole Buildings XII International Conference, 2013.

Original article and photo source: Cornerstone

By Fortify Building Solutions. 

Think metal roofs are just for barns and warehouses? Think again. 

Metal roofing has a reputation problem and it’s time to set the record straight. Enter Dave and Jenny Marrs, the charming and knowledgeable duo from HGTV’s “Fixer to Fabulous,” having partnered with Fortify Building Solutions who are on a mission to debunk the most common misconceptions about metal roofs. From sizzling summer myths to lightning strike paranoia, they’re tackling every falsehood head-on, proving that metal roofs are not only stylish and versatile but also a wise investment for the long haul. Buckle up, because what you thought you knew about metal roofing is about to be transformed. 

Myth 1: Metal roofing makes buildings hotter during the summer 

Contrary to popular belief, metal roofing can actually help keep your home cooler in the summer. Fortify Building Solutions’ metal panels come with a solar-reflective coating that reflects the sun’s heat, keeping interiors cool. In the winter, metal roofs act as natural insulators, maintaining a stable indoor temperature. 

Products like the Slimline® concealed fastener roof panels and the Stormproof® metal panel system use this advanced technology to help homeowners save up to 40% on energy costs. 

“Metal roofing is the whole package,” says Dave Marrs. “It’s beautiful, long-lasting, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. It’s one of my favorite products because it completely transforms a home and its performance is unmatched.” 

 Myth 2: Metal roofing is easily damaged and needs frequent replacement 

Worried about storm damage? Fortify Building Solutions offers a 45-year warranty on painted coating film integrity and a 30-year warranty on chalk and fade. The Stormproof metal panel system is designed to withstand high winds and storms and it’s noncombustible, offering better protection than asphalt shingles. 

According to the Metal Roofing Alliance, metal roofs can last 40 to 70 years, giving homeowners peace of mind and long-lasting protection. 

Myth 3: Metal roofing looks too industrial for homes 

Think metal roofs only belong on industrial buildings? Think again. The Slimline concealed fastener roof panels and the Stormproof metal panel system come in over 20 colors, making them adaptable to a wide range of architectural styles. Whether you’re aiming for farmhouse charm, mid-century modern aesthetics or contemporary elegance, metal roofing can enhance your home’s design. 

“Metal roofing is versatile,” Jenny Marrs says. “It works beautifully with styles like modern, farmhouse or even Victorian. I love Charcoal Gray for a timeless look and Cobalt Blue for a vibrant pop of color.” 

Slimline panels provide a sleek finish that suits various residential styles, including: 

• Modern 
• Art Deco 
• Contemporary 
• Modern Farmhouse 

Meanwhile, the Stormproof metal panel system is an exposed fastener panel that pairs perfectly with farmhouse and Victorian designs. 

Myth 4: Metal roofing will attract lightning 

A common concern is that metal roofs attract lightning, but there’s no evidence to support this. Metal roofs do not draw lightning strikes more frequently than other materials. Like all other buildings, a metal-roofed home should have a proper lightning protection system to safely redirect strikes to the ground. 

Fortify Building Solutions Slimline and Stormproof metal panels have undergone independent testing and meet UL 790 and UL 263 standards for fire safety, ensuring they are noncombustible and a safe choice for your roof. 

Myth 5: Metal roofing is expensive 

Metal roofs have a lower lifetime cost and require less maintenance compared to other roofing materials. While the initial cost of a metal roof may be higher than asphalt, it’s important to consider the long-term savings. Metal roofs require less maintenance and have a much longer lifespan. Asphalt roofs typically last 15 to 20 years, while metal roofs can endure for 40 to 70 years with proper care. 

Homeowners also save on maintenance, energy bills and even insurance, thanks to metal’s durability and resistance to weather-related damage. 

“The functionality and durability of a metal roof can’t be beaten,” says Dave Marrs. “For homeowners looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance option, I always recommend metal roofing.” 

Thinking about making the switch to metal? 

If you’re ready to add metal roofing to your product offerings, contact Fortify Building Solutions today to learn more about pricing, sampling and ordering. 

Original article and photo source: Fortify Building Solutions 

By Jonny Suchor. 

A detailed exploration of an advanced exposed fastener panel system. 

Metal Depot, a metal manufacturer with the Sherwin-Williams MetalVue program, introduces the STORMPROOF® panel system. As their most popular exposed fastened panel, STORMPROOF’s versatility and strength is ideal for various building types, including residential, agricultural, light commercial and storage applications. More information about STORMPROOF is accessible in English and Spanish, to appeal to diverse client needs. 

The brochure features detailed and precise technical details and information about the product including rib spacing, rib height and minimum slope it should be attached on, among others. STORMPROOF has a coverage width of 36 inches and should be installed atop a solid, waterproof deck for roofing purposes. It is available in 29 gauge, which is the standard size and is also available in 26 gauge. The brochure highlights the various different color options available in 29 gauge, some of which include Rustic Red, Hawaiian Blue, Saddle Tan, Solar White and Galvalume Plus. There’s something to appeal to every home or building owners preference for their roof The system is enhanced by its finishes and coatings, notably the Galvalume Plus® and Signature® 200 series coatings, which are chosen for their exceptional durability and contribution to energy conservation. 

The brochure includes a dedicated accessories section, presenting key components like gutter end caps, fasteners and tape sealers. These accessories are crucial to helping ensure a successful installation of the system and are key to helping improve water resistance and performance against diverse weather conditions. 

STORMPROOF shows the company's dedication to quality and their informational brochure serves as a detailed guide for clients and contractors. STORMPROOF strikes a balance between functional, sustainable and aesthetically flexible solutions, positioning the exposed fastener panel system as a comprehensive choice for contemporary construction projects. 

Learn more about the benefits of STORMPROOF in English or in Spanish.

By Jonny Suchor. 

Learn more about the durable and eco-friendly roofing solutions available from Metal Depots. 

Metal Depots has transformed the metal roofing market with its eco-friendly and detailed solutions. Their brochure, which is offered in Spanish and English, emphasizes that metal roofing, trusted worldwide for over a century, is the ideal solution for any commercial or residential project no matter how big or small! 

Metal roofs bring numerous benefits and are praised for their durability and require minimal maintenance, thus saving costs over time. Thanks to Metal Depots’ innovative Cool Roof Coating Technology, they also significantly reduce energy consumption and costs for home and building owners. Another benefit of Metal Depots metal roofs is that they are ENERGY STAR® approved and meet the Cool Roof Rating Council requirements. 

“When properly designed and installed, a cool metal roof can reduce energy consumption, providing significant cost savings as it absorbs up to 34% less heat than asphalt shingles. This, in turn, decreases unnecessary stress on the cooling system within your home or business and, with ever-rising costs of utilities, you’ll see an immediate and long-lasting return on your investment,” according to Metal Depots. 

Offering diverse styles and colors, Metal Depots strives to have something for everyone no matter their design preference. "Whether you’re looking for a bold, distinctive color...or a low profile with a naturalistic earth tone, you’ll find what you need,” says Metal Depots. 

There are two types of metal roofing systems available from Metal Depots: concealed fastener systems and exposed fastener systems. Their concealed fastener systems include their Slimline® and LokSeam® panels while their exposed fastener series include Stormproof®, 5V Crimp and PBR panels. The brochure provides information about each of their product offerings, explains which application is best for each panel, and shows a real-world application of the product in addition to the colors available for that specific panel system, providing you a snapshot of their line of products. 

Metal Depots strives to provide an all-encompassing metal roofing solution to contractors and home and building owners. Their focus on quality, eco-friendliness and customer service positions them as a top choice for roofing projects. 

Read the catalog in English or Spanish to learn more about Metal Depots, the benefits of their products and their various product offerings.