By Jesse Sanchez. 

Gain clearer guidance on how updated code language standardizes flashing practices and reinforces manufacturer-aligned installation. 

Roofing contractors preparing for upcoming projects will need to take a closer look at the changes made to flashing requirements in the 2026 9th Edition of the Florida Building Code, scheduled to be implemented starting December 31, 2026, as outlined by the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA). While flashing has always been central to protecting roof systems from moisture intrusion, the latest revisions move decisively to eliminate ambiguity and establish a more consistent standard across all roof types. 

The code continues to define flashing as the component used to seal roofing systems where they are interrupted or terminated. What has changed is how clearly that responsibility is communicated. Updated language in Section 1503.2 reinforces flashing’s role in safeguarding the entire roof assembly, extending beyond traditional areas such as wall intersections and parapet walls to include penetrations, joints and system transitions. The result is a more comprehensive expectation: flashing is not limited to isolated conditions but is essential to the integrity of the full roofing system. 

This clarification directly addresses a gap that existed in previous editions. In some roof covering sections, flashing was not explicitly referenced, which led to inconsistent interpretations in the field. The 2026 update resolves that issue by introducing a uniform requirement across a wide range of systems, including metal panels, shingles, built-up roofing, modified bitumen and photovoltaic assemblies. Each now specifies that flashing must comply with both the code and the manufacturer’s installation instructions. 

That alignment with manufacturer guidance strengthens both installation practices and code enforcement. In parallel, the revisions refine where flashing must be installed, adding clearer direction around roof edges, penetrations and transitions between materials. New exceptions further distinguish between steep- and low-slope applications, offering more precise, condition-based guidance for contractors. 

The code also expands into adjacent systems. A new section addressing lightning protection systems reinforces that any roof penetration or attachment must maintain proper flashing integration, ensuring continuity across all components. 

These updates establish a clearer, more enforceable baseline. For contractors, that clarity supports better planning, more consistent execution and improved long-term performance as the industry adapts to evolving building code requirements. 

Learn more about how updated Florida Building Code flashing requirements impact installation practices, compliance standards and long-term roof system performance!

By Jenny Yu.  

The MetalVue Roadshow is set to provide contractors with the knowledge, resources and confidence to develop metal roofing businesses that last. 

Before the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) Convention and Expo officially begins, attendees have an opportunity to get the party started early by attending a special Sherwin-Williams MetalVue event! Titled “MetalVue Roadshow: Grow With Metal,” this experience is free of charge and takes place on June 9, 2026, from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. 

The focus of this event is to help contractors unlock new business opportunities by demystifying metal roofing. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the resources available to them through MetalVue, Sherwin Williams’ comprehensive program that helps both manufacturers and contractors sell more residential and commercial metal roofs.  

Attendees will gain the knowledge and tools to build long-term, sustainable metal roofing businesses. Industry experts will share insights on how to train installation crews for high-quality installation and customer satisfaction, as well as techniques for selling metal roofing with more confidence.  

One key resource that attendees will explore at the MetalVue Roadshow is Roofing Passport, the industry’s only fully automated roofing software platform for both estimating and ordering. Roofing Passport, applicable for both residential and commercial roofs, integrates seamlessly with Eagleview for precise aerial property measurements of existing structures and with Roofing WRX for estimation derived from drawings for new construction.  

MetalCoffeeShop is proud to be a partner of the MetalVue Roadshow. Other partners include Watts Removal Products, GiddyUp Roofing Software, Sheridan Metal Resources, Uplevel Digital and The StoneGate Group. With this full suite of industry leaders providing resources and support, the MetalVue Roadshow is set to be the pre-FRSA event you can’t miss.  

Register now to secure your spot for the FREE Metal Vue Roadshow before FRSA begins!

By Jenny Yu.  

Contractors will gain practical insights from leading experts while connecting with top manufacturers and suppliers. 

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) is hosting its 104th Convention & Expo from June 10-12, 2026, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in in Kissimmee, Florida. With a strong lineup of sponsors and an educational program packed with timely topics, this year’s event is set to provide contractors with practical insights and valuable networking opportunities. 

A wide range of industry leaders are lending their support for the event, underscoring its importance across the roofing and metal construction sectors. Platinum sponsors include Eagle Roofing Products, ABC Supply and TAMKO®; while gold sponsors CertainTeed LLC, Polyglass and SOPREMA further highlight the depth of industry participation. Additional support from emerald sponsor Adams & Reese LLP; sapphire sponsors BITEC, Drexel Metals, MetalForming LLC and Sika Corporation; silver sponsor SRS Building Products; bronze sponsors Duro-Last®, IB Roof Systems™, PAC-CLAD Petersen and Roof Hugger; and affiliate sponsor, Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida (RCASF), reinforce the event’s focus on innovation, performance and contractor success. 

Educational sessions 

Education remains the cornerstone of the convention, with sessions designed to address today’s most pressing challenges in the industry while providing attendees with opportunities to earn CE credits. Legal and compliance topics are a hot topic with multiple sessions led by Trent Cotney, RoofersCoffeeShop® Influencer and partner at Adams & Reese LLP, including: 

• “Building an OSHA Inspection SOP” - Wednesday, June 10, 8:00 a.m. 
• “Roofing Legal, Labor and Policy Trends” - Wednesday, June 10, 12:30 p.m. and Friday, June 12, 7:00 a.m. 
• “Artificial Intelligence in Roofing” - Thursday, June 11, 7:00 a.m. 
• “ICE Raids and I-9 Audit Defense” - Thursday, June 11, 8:15 a.m. and Friday, June 12, 8:15 a.m. 

These sessions will provide contractors with actionable guidance on navigating regulations, mitigating risk and adapting to emerging technologies.  

Business operations are also a key focus. John Kenney, Influencer of The Coffee Shops™ and CEO of Cotney Consulting Group, will lead “Estimating for Small Business” on Wednesday, June 10, at 9:15 a.m. and Thursday, June 11, at 7:00 a.m., offering practical strategies to improve accuracy and profitability for contractors of all sizes. Meanwhile, Chad Westbrook, founder of Service Alignment, will present “Documenting a Roofing Project” on Thursday, June 11, at 9:30 a.m. and Friday, June 12, at 7:00 a.m., helping attendees strengthen processes that support accountability, communication and long-term project success. 

Additional sessions cover critical issues including Florida Building Code updates, metal roofing best practices and safety topics such as heat illness prevention. The “SkillsUSA: Build a Workforce Pipeline” session on Thursday, June 11, at 9:30 a.m., will also highlight strategies for developing the next generation of roofers, a growing priority for contractors facing ongoing workforce shortages. Together, these seminars provide well-rounded education opportunities tailored to both roofing and sheet metal professionals.  

Register to reserve your spot and take full advantage of everything the 104th FRSA Convention & Expo has to offer!

By Emma Peterson. 

The highly anticipated 104th Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association Convention and Expo is just around the corner!  

In a new Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth sat down with Tibor Torok, president of the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metall Association (FRSA), for a conversation about their annual convention and expo. This year’s show will take place June 10-12, 2026, at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Florida.  

This is a highly anticipated event, drawing thousands of contractors, suppliers and industry leaders from across Florida and beyond. Tibor explained, “There's only one roofing association that is larger than our trade show, and that's the NRCA...People from all over gravitate to our show to see what's upcoming, what's new.” 

In preparation for this, Tibor and his team have been working hard at making sure the show will be one to remember. He spoke a bit about the event highlights attendees can look forward to this year:  

We have a dozen or so first-time exhibitors offering new products and services in addition to the hundreds of long-term people that come year after year and support us. We have a free welcome reception (sponsored by Adams and Reese) and a business lunch that are great for networking. There’s also a Jimmy Buffet themed casino party, a clay sporting tournament and a golf tournament for people to enjoy.  

FRSA will also be offering over 30 hours of continuing education. Taught by professionals in the field, these courses cover everything from Florida building codes and sales training to metal roofing training and fall protection education.  

All of this can feel like a lot to take in, especially if this is your first time attending the FRSA Convention and Expo. Tibor’s advice to newcomers? Take your time and ask questions. He explained:  

Last year we had over 5,000 attendees. So, give yourself time for things like registration. Also Gaylord Palms is large and events happen in multiple locations. Download the show app to get a complete exhibitor list, seminar schedule and floor plan. Overall, take your time and enjoy learning about the new products and methods in the industry. And if you have any questions, ask. You’ll be surprised how many people will engage with you. 

Listen to the episode or Watch the recording to hear more from Tibor. And if you haven't already, make sure to register for the 104th FRSA Convention and Expo.

By Jenny Yu.  

This year’s convention offers a full lineup of events designed to connect professionals and their families, on and off the show floor. 

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) 104th Convention & Expo is set to return June 10–12, 2026, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, bringing together roofing professionals for three days of networking, education and a wide range of exciting social events designed for attendees and their families!  

Eat, drink and network 

The fun begins at the Welcome Reception on Wednesday, sponsored by Adams & Reese LLP, featuring food stations and an open bar in a relaxed setting. The excitement continues the next evening with the Jimmy Buffett Casino Party, an evening of games, dancing and tropical flair, alongside key presentations. Throughout the expo, the Beer Bust, sponsored by Mid-Atlantic Roofing Supply and GAF, and complimentary Expo lunches from PAC-CLAD Petersen and USG Securock offer casual opportunities to connect. 

Give back 

A cornerstone of the convention, the Foundation Auction runs throughout the event, raising funds for the FRSA Educational & Research Foundation. With both in-person and online bidding, attendees can support scholarships and industry advancement from wherever they are! Bidding starts on June 5 at 8:00 a.m. and ends June 12 at 2:00 p.m. 

Spotlighting women and Spanish speakers in the industry 

Professional development meets community at the National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Table Talks Session on Wednesday, June 10, where women in roofing can exchange insights on leadership and relationship building in a round-robin format. Registration is $25 and includes refreshments. 

On Thursday, June 11, SRS Building Products and CertainTeed join forces to host a special session for Spanish speakers to learn, connect and celebrate. This event is free, with limited spots available. 

Family fun for everyone! 

Enjoy time with loved ones, starting with Wednesday's Family Fun Event featuring indoor mini golf and a new “Brick Lab” competition where families can build and race custom Lego cars. The Kids’ Program adds even more excitement throughout the convention, with pizza-making, scavenger hunts, arcade competitions and interactive gaming experiences, ensuring younger roofers-to-be are just as engaged as their parents. 

Sports and creative experiences 

For those seeking active or creative outlets, attendees can participate in golf and clay shooting tournaments or explore artistic options like a textured painting workshop and a chocolate rose culinary experience. 

From networking receptions to family activities and charitable giving, FRSA’s 104th Convention & Expo offers something for everyone.  

Register now to secure your spot and experience it all.

By Emma Peterson. 

Soak up some summer sunshine and boost your business at the FRSA’s 104th Convention and Expo!  

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association (FRSA) Convention and Expo offer a great yearly opportunity for contractors to network and learn through educational seminars each year. It’s an event contractors won’t want to miss, as it’s the largest regional roofing show in the U.S. and offers an abundance of must-see events and booths on the trade show floor! Last year, over 250 companies exhibited, showcasing the latest products and services in the roofing world to over 5,000 contractors.  

This year, the show will be held at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, Florida, from June 10-12, 2026. FRSA has worked with the resort to get a discounted group rate at $189+ (resort fees included) that will be available to reserve in April. They have also secured a discounted self-park price of $23 a day for FRSA attendees. There is also an additional room block available at Delta Hotels (one mile from Gaylord) at $118+ (including parking and resort fees).  

And, as is the precedent, “the expo is FREE for all roofing contractors. For all non-exhibiting manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, there is a $295 per person fee to attend the expo and a $995 per person fee for industry service providers.”  

If you are planning on attending, make sure to say hello to The Coffee Shops™ crew who will be hosting a live sound stage from the lobby! Additionally, go find some our industry friends around the expo, like GenFlex (booth 924), Gaco (booth 923), Elevate (booth 717), MetalVue (booth 1309), Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings (booth 1309), HB Fuller (booth 1110), Marco Industries (booth 335) and Progressive Metals (booth 304). You can find the whole expo floor map online.  

Learn more about the show and get registered at www.floridaroof.com/convention.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Lawmakers advance tax relief proposals and debate artificial intelligence rules ahead of pivotal 2026 sessions. 

Property tax relief and artificial intelligence (AI) regulation are emerging as defining issues for Florida’s 2026 legislative sessions, according to GrayRobinson legislative counsel and the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA). Early committee action has elevated competing tax proposals, while AI policy debates are accelerating ahead of a focused committee week. Together, the measures signal a session shaped by affordability pressures, technology oversight and voter-driven constitutional questions. 

Four property tax proposals advanced through the House State Affairs Committee in December, each structured as constitutional amendments tied to non-school levies. HB 211 would allow homeowners to transfer accrued “Save Our Homes” benefits to a new homestead, preserving lower taxable values during relocation. One distinction to note is the law enforcement funding protections which are embedded across the bills, preventing reductions below recent budget levels. 

Related measures expand exemptions based on insurance coverage, age and homestead status. HB 209 links relief to comprehensive, multiperil insurance while HB 205 targets seniors by eliminating non-school property taxes without an income cap. HB 201 proposes the broadest approach, removing non-school property taxes for homesteads and prompting debate over impacts to local services. 

Questions during debate highlighted concerns about equity, service funding and voter clarity. Supporters argued that homeowners should retain the “Save Our Homes” benefit wherever relocation occurs, framing portability as fairness. Opponents warned of shifting burdens to renters, retirees and working families while excluding fire, EMS and stormwater programs from protections. 

Beyond taxes, AI regulation is gaining momentum as policymakers assess risks and opportunity. Governor Ron DeSantis is urging state level oversight that limits exploitative uses, protects data privacy and restricts certain applications by government and attorneys. Proposed legislation would require human review of AI influenced insurance claim denials, a development closely watched by contractors nationwide. 

Learn more about legislative developments shaping property taxes, AI oversight and insurance decision making statewide!

By Emma Peterson. 

This IIBEC education session is a great opportunity for contractors and other professionals interested in the legal landscape of construction. 

In just a couple weeks, March 12-15, 2026, over 1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other professionals working in the building envelope industry will convene in Sacramento, California for the 2026 International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Convention and Tradeshow.  

This event is not only a great opportunity to network with your peers in the industry and explore an extensive expo hall full of the latest advancements in building science technology, but it is also an opportunity for you to learn from industry leaders in education sessions designed to help you grow professionally! One such session is the “State of the Industry: A Look at Contract Provisions and Other Emerging Trends” led by Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese. 

Trent is one of the leading construction lawyers in the field. With over 25 years of legal experience, Trent is licensed in nine different states and serves as general counsel for more than 10 trade associations and organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association (FRSA), Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) and Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). 

In his IIBEC education session, which will be hosted Friday, March 13, 2026 from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Trent will share an up-to-date overview of the industry’s legal landscape and guide attendees through an exploration of “how recent legal developments, regulatory changesand market conditions are reshaping risk allocation, project delivery and compliance strategies.” Participants will walk away with actionable strategies that equip them to:  

• Navigate contract provisions confidently: Whether it’s scope of work, indemnification, payment terms or dispute resolution provisions, Trent’s session will help attendees recognize and navigate these key elements of a contract.  
• Analyze and respond to emerging trends: You will walk away with a better understanding of current and anticipated policy trends, such as those related to labor and immigration.  
• Evaluate risk management options: Attendees of the session will learn about evolving contract language as related to risk management for owners, general contractors and subcontractors. 
• Adapt their businesses to new market realities: Ultimately, this session will give you the skills needed to adapt your business to reflect new market realities. 

Not only is this a great opportunity for you to get a better understanding of your industry and boost your career, but Trent’s session has been approved for 1.25 IIBEC CEH and 1.25 AIA LU/Elective!  

If you haven’t already, make sure you are registered to attend the 2026 IIBEC Convention and Expo! And if you’re interested in learning more about Trent’s session or any of the other education opportunities at the show, check out the full schedule online.

By Emma Peterson. 

We sat down with roofing industry leaders to hear their thoughts about 2025 and predictions for 2026.  

For the last Coffee Conversations® of 2025, we hosted a panel of professionals from all sides of the roofing industry to reflect on 2025 and look ahead to 2026. This powerful conversation, sponsored by SRS Distribution, is a great resource for any professional moving forward in the roofing world this year. Keep reading to hear some insights from each professional.  

Trent Cotney 

Trent is the construction team lead at Adams and Reese, as well as the general counsel for industry associations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association, Western States Roofing Contractors Association and Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association.  

When asked about the roofing industry in 2025, Trent highlighted the importance of preparation in relation to challenges like immigration and tariffs. He explained, “What you're starting to see coming out of 2025 and moving into 2026 is contractors embracing the idea that preparation is key.” Whether that looks like organizing tax forms or adding supply clauses to contracts, contractors are improving when it comes to preparation in the last year according to Trent. 

This is a testament to the resilience of roofers, which Trent sees as a key force in the new year. He explained, “There's nothing more resilient than roofing... There will always be issues, struggles and hardships, but we’ve proven this year that we can course correct as they crop up. I see nothing but positivity for 2026.” 

Elizabeth Hurst 

In her role at Sherwin-Williams, Elizabeth examines external market indicators in order to help the Sherwin-Williams sales team stay competitive. She talked about the larger economic picture of the roofing industry sharing what she saw in 2025: “There a lot of uncertainty around things like tariffs that changed the game... But in response I saw a lot of leaders in the industry fall back on the adage of control what you can control.”  

In other words, Elizabeth shared about the same resilience that Trent was talking about. She explained, “A lot of leaders were investing in a growth mindset because they trusted that it was all going to work out. Their perspective was, ‘It's going to shake out, as long as I do what I need to be doing and focus on what I need to focus on.’” And that perspective is what will carry our industry through whatever 2026 throws at us and beyond. 

Steve Little 

As for Steve, he is not only the owner/head coach of K-Post Roofing and Waterproofing, but also a founding partner of National Roofing Partners, which includes over 200 contractors across the United States.  

In both these ventures, Steve has seen firsthand how contractors have risen to the challenges that Trent, Elizabeth and Patrick mentioned. He shared an example: “It's very challenging right now, but we’re seeing a lot of contractors adapt. For example, capital projects were down. In response, a lot of contractors invested in the service side of the business with coatings and other options that extend the life of the roof.”  

Additionally, as we continue to face labor challenges, whether that comes from the pre-existing shortages or more recent immigration policy changes, Steve has seen the industry come together to adapt. He explained, “The Roofing Alliance and NRCA have really come together through SkillsUSA to introduce young people to roofing. There’s also the program at Clemson’s Center for Roofing and the Merit Shop apprenticeship will launch soon...On the immigration side, Congress is working on a Dignity Bill that would allow for a seven-year work permit, which would be huge for our economy and immigrant workers... So there’s a lot to be hopeful about in the new year.”  

Patrick Garcia 

And last but not least, Patrick is responsible for “digital engineering, AI and innovation” for both SRS and Heritage. He had similar insights to Elizabeth, sharing, “This year had a variety of challenges, from labor shortages to cost pressures, but these challenges also offered opportunities.” The main opportunity? A chance to step back and truly think about and improve the collaboration between manufacturers, distributors and contractors. 

Looking ahead at 2026, Patrick hopes this collaboration continues to develop and grow. He shared, “Today, we have a more connected, data-driven ecosystem across distribution contractors and manufacturers. And as we face challenges, this connection is driving deeper conversations about creating a win-win-win mindset wherein, if the manufacturers win, the distributor wins and the contractors win... If we can achieve that, we move the whole industry forward to a more connected, inclusive and resilient future.” 

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording to hear more expert insights as we move into the new year.

By Emma Peterson. 

Enter for a chance to win a free book from industry leader and expert Trent Cotney! 

Being a roofing contractor often means wearing many hats, whether it’s the hard hat at the job site or a baseball cap while working on sales and marketing in the office. But one of the most challenging hats to wear is that of a legal expert. From contracts and invoices to warranties and insurance, it can be very overwhelming to start a roofing project.  

This is something that Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese is very familiar with. Trent is a lawyer with a specialization in roofing litigation and arbitration. He has almost three decades of experience “defending roofers on construction defect claims, prosecuting lien and bond law claims, defending OSHA citations, contractor licensing defense and bid protests.” Further, he is the general legal counsel for several industry associations including the West Coast Roofing Contractors Association (WCRCA); Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA); and National Women in Roofing (NWIR).  

And his expert insights and advice are available to you through his new book, Roofing Law: Contracts. In this book he dives into the process of starting a roofing project from a legal perspective. As he puts it, “Getting payment from customers has always been an issue, but the need for contracts and written documents was not as important as it is today. I always say that roofers’ policies, procedures and contracts are like wills; they don’t want to look at them until it’s too late.” This book was designed to be accessible to professionals working in the field. In other words, it was “written for contractors, not lawyers.”  

Enter for a chance to win a free copy of Trent’s new construction law book today!