By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Residential softness, nonresidential strength and cost pressure are creating a complicated outlook for roofing contractors. 

The May construction numbers tell a story that roofing contractors should be watching closely. On one side of the market, residential construction continues to feel the weight of affordability challenges, elevated mortgage rates and cautious buyers. On the other side, non-residential work is showing strength, especially in areas like data centers, healthcare, manufacturing, utilities and infrastructure. For roofing, that means opportunity is still out there, but it may not look the same across every market, every contractor or every segment of the industry.

According to National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) reporting on Associated Builders and Contractors data, construction industry leaders were less optimistic in May even though confidence remained above the threshold that indicates expectations for growth. ABC’s Construction Confidence Index fell in all three categories during May, with staff expectations dropping from 65.5 to 61.3, profit margin expectations falling from 54.9 to 52.5 and sales expectations declining from 66.2 to 61.1. At the same time, ABC’s Construction Backlog Indicator increased from 8.8 months in April to 9.1 months in May and was up 0.7 months compared with May 2025.

That combination — lower confidence but higher backlog — is important. It suggests contractors are still busy, but they are also feeling pressured. ABC Chief Economist Anirban Basu said the increase in backlog largely reflects major data center investments across the country, noting that the 14% of ABC members under contract to work on data centers had much higher backlog at 11.6 months compared with 8.6 months for those not working on data centers. For roofing contractors, this reinforces a key reality of today’s market: growth is not evenly distributed. Contractors tied into large-scale commercial, industrial or specialty work may be seeing strong demand, while others may be facing tighter margins, slower decisions and more competitive bidding.

The residential side of the market continues to be more challenging. The U.S. Census Bureau and U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development reported that privately owned housing starts in May were at a seasonally adjusted annual rate of 1,177,000, down 15.4% from the revised April estimate and down 8.7% from May 2025. Single-family starts were at a rate of 882,000, down 1.9% from April, while May housing completions were down 8.1% from April and 14.2% from May 2025. Thesenumbers matter to roofing because new residential construction directly affects demand for new roof installations, while slower completions can ripple through builders, suppliers, distributors and trade partners.

Builder confidence is also sending warning signals. The National Association of Home Builders reported that builder confidence in the market for newly built single-family homes fell two points to 35 in June, marking the 14th consecutive month that sentiment remained below 40. NAHB also reported that 35% of builders cut prices in June, up from 32% in May, and 62% were using sales incentives other than price cuts, up from 61% in May. NRCA highlighted the same numbers, noting that anything below 50 is considered negative in the NAHB/Wells Fargo Housing Market Index and that builder sentiment dropped amid rising construction material costs and elevated mortgage rates. 

For roofing contractors serving the residential market, this does not necessarily mean demand disappears. Roof replacement, repair, insurance restoration and service work continue to move based on roof age, weather, homeowner need and property maintenance. But it does mean contractors may need to pay closer attention to homeowners' sensitivity around pricing, financing and project timing. When builders are offering incentives and cutting prices, consumers become more aware of deals and negotiations. Roofing contractors may need to communicate value more clearly, especially around durability, ventilation, energy performance, warranties and long-term protection of the home. 

The broader building industry is also showing signs of strength, but much of that strength is concentrated in large nonresidential and infrastructure projects. Dodge Construction Network reported that total construction starts improved 34.1% in May to a seasonally adjusted annual rate of $1.78 trillion. Nonresidential building starts grew 17.8%, nonbuilding starts increased 91.9% and residential starts fell 2.1% over the month. On a year-to-date basis through May, total construction starts were up 12.7%, with non-residential starts up 12.3%, nonbuilding starts up 32.9% and residential starts down 4.9%. 

That is a clear reminder that the building industry is not moving as one market. Dodge reported that megaproject starts in healthcare, manufacturing, utilities and data centers drove sizable gains in May, while pockets of weakness remained in institutional construction, warehouses and residential construction. This unevenness affects roofing in very practical ways. Commercial roofing contractors may see opportunities tied to healthcare campuses, manufacturing facilities, energy projects, public work and data centers, while residential-focused companies may see a slower new construction pipeline. Distributors and manufacturers are navigating this split, balancing inventory and demand across steep-slope, low-slope, metal, coatingsand specialty systems. 

Labor adds another layer to the picture. The NRCA reported that construction employment added 17,000 jobs in May, according to Associated Builders and Contractors, while nonresidential construction added 15,700 jobs with gains in all three subsectors. Non-residential specialty trade contractors added 11,400 jobs, heavy and civil engineering added 2,600 jobs and nonresidential building added 1,700 jobs. More construction jobs are good for the overall economy, but they also increase competition for skilled labor. Roofing contractors already dealing with workforce challenges may find themselves competing not just with other roofers, but with the broader construction market for crew members, foremen, estimators, project managers and service technicians. 

Material costs are another concern. The Associated General Contractors of America reported that input prices for new nonresidential construction rose 1.8% in May and 8.4% year over year, far outpacing the 3.5% year-over-year increase in what contractors said they would charge for new nonresidential building construction. The same report noted significant increases in diesel, aluminum, copper, brass and structural steel, and said construction respondents reported higher prices for items including construction materials, HVAC equipment, roofing materials and steel products. For roofing, this points directly to margin pressure. Even when backlog is strong, contractors can struggle if material, fuel, freight and labor costs move faster than pricing. 

The path forward is not all negative. The same May numbers show that demand still exists, especially in non-residential, infrastructure and specialized building sectors. Dodge Construction Network reported that nonresidential starts were up 12.3% year to date through May, commercial and industrial construction gained 32.9% and manufacturing starts rebounded 116.1% month over month in May. For roofing companies that can diversify across service, maintenance, reroofing, restoration, metal, coatings, commercial replacement or public work, the current market may create opportunities to stabilize revenue even when one segment slows. 

The takeaway for roofing professionals is that May’s construction numbers are less about a single up-or-down market and more about a market that is shifting. Residential construction is under pressure. Nonresidential work is being lifted by large projects, but not every contractor has access to those opportunities. Backlog remains encouraging, but confidence is slipping. Jobs are being added, but labor remains competitive. Material costs are increasing, but customers are still watching pricescarefully. 

For roofing contractors, now is the time to stay close to the numbers, understand the sectors driving work in their region and protect margins through disciplined estimating, strong purchasing relationships and proactive communication with customers. The building industry is still moving, but it is moving unevenly. Roofing companies that understand where the momentum is — and where the pressure points are — will be better positioned to adapt. 

Source note: This article draws from NRCA coverage of contractor confidence, employment market and homebuilder sentiment, U.S. Census Bureau May residential construction data, Dodge Construction Network May construction starts data, National Association of Home Builders builder sentiment reporting and Associated General Contractors of America reporting on May construction input prices.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The MCA Summer Meeting will drive innovation, education and industry growth.

As members of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) gather for their Summer Meeting, the conversations reflect an industry that continues to evolve with purpose. From technical education and market development to workforce recognition and major events, MCA is helping shape the future of metal construction while providing resources that support manufacturers, contractors, architects and design professionals. 

That leadership starts with a strong commitment to education and technical clarity. As demand grows for high-performing building systems, MCA continues to release updated technical bulletins and white papers that help the industry navigate changing codes, safety expectations and performance requirements. MetalCoffeeShop’s Karen Edwards participates in the MCA marketing committee and works to help amplify these important resources and events for the broader metal community. 

The latest updates address issues that are influencing projects across North America, including the use of foam plastic insulation within combustible wall assemblies, fire performance testing for metal composite materials and the changing landscape of cool roof requirements. By bringing these topics into focus, MCA is giving the industry practical guidance that supports better decisions in design, specification and installation. 

That same focus on practical support is also driving MCA’s work to expand opportunities for metal in residential construction. The new Residential Wall Marketing Initiative is designed to increase awareness and adoption of metal wall systems by clearly communicating their durability, design flexibility, low maintenance and long-term value. With member participation and support, the initiative will help fund outreach, tools and marketing resources that can open new doors in a rapidly growing segment of the market. 

As MCA looks to strengthen market awareness, it is also preparing for one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings. METALCON 2026, scheduled for October 7-9 in Orlando, will celebrate its 35th anniversary with a renewed emphasis on hands-on education. MCA will have a prominent presence at the show through Metal Mastery Clinics that highlight best practices for standing seam systems, metal shingles and retrofit applications. 

The momentum around events and education also extends to the people who will carry the industry forward. MCA’s new 40 Under 40 program is designed to recognize emerging leaders who are already making an impact in metal construction. Alongside that recognition, the association continues to invest in workforce development through its scholarship program, providing financial support to students connected to member companies and helping build the next generation of industry professionals. 

Together, these efforts show how MCA continues to position metal as a high-value solution for both commercial and residential construction. Through technical leadership, collaborative engagement, market development and investment in future talent, the association is helping keep metal at the forefront of performance, sustainability and design innovation. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The MCA Summer Meeting will drive innovation, education and industry growth.

As members of the Metal Construction Association (MCA) gather for their Summer Meeting, the conversations reflect an industry that continues to evolve with purpose. From technical education and market development to workforce recognition and major events, MCA is helping shape the future of metal construction while providing resources that support manufacturers, contractors, architects and design professionals. 

That leadership starts with a strong commitment to education and technical clarity. As demand grows for high-performing building systems, MCA continues to release updated technical bulletins and white papers that help the industry navigate changing codes, safety expectations and performance requirements. MetalCoffeeShop’s Karen Edwards participates in the MCA marketing committee and works to help amplify these important resources and events for the broader metal community. 

The latest updates address issues that are influencing projects across North America, including the use of foam plastic insulation within combustible wall assemblies, fire performance testing for metal composite materials and the changing landscape of cool roof requirements. By bringing these topics into focus, MCA is giving the industry practical guidance that supports better decisions in design, specification and installation. 

That same focus on practical support is also driving MCA’s work to expand opportunities for metal in residential construction. The new Residential Wall Marketing Initiative is designed to increase awareness and adoption of metal wall systems by clearly communicating their durability, design flexibility, low maintenance and long-term value. With member participation and support, the initiative will help fund outreach, tools and marketing resources that can open new doors in a rapidly growing segment of the market. 

As MCA looks to strengthen market awareness, it is also preparing for one of the industry’s most anticipated gatherings. METALCON 2026, scheduled for October 7-9 in Orlando, will celebrate its 35th anniversary with a renewed emphasis on hands-on education. MCA will have a prominent presence at the show through Metal Mastery Clinics that highlight best practices for standing seam systems, metal shingles and retrofit applications. 

The momentum around events and education also extends to the people who will carry the industry forward. MCA’s new 40 Under 40 program is designed to recognize emerging leaders who are already making an impact in metal construction. Alongside that recognition, the association continues to invest in workforce development through its scholarship program, providing financial support to students connected to member companies and helping build the next generation of industry professionals. 

Together, these efforts show how MCA continues to position metal as a high-value solution for both commercial and residential construction. Through technical leadership, collaborative engagement, market development and investment in future talent, the association is helping keep metal at the forefront of performance, sustainability and design innovation. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Fire resistance, durability and design innovation are driving new demand. 

Metal siding is experiencing significant growth across residential and light commercial construction, and the reasons go far beyond aesthetics. In 2026, homeowners and contractors are increasingly choosing metal wall systems because they solve some of the biggest challenges facing building exteriors today: fire, pests and rot. What is especially notable is that this shift is not just anecdotal; it is backed by steady market growth and changing homeowner priorities. 

Globally, the metal siding market is growing at an estimated five to six percent annually, with steady expansion expected over the next decade. In the United States, growth is more measured, reflecting a mature market, but the real momentum is happening in higher-end residential applications where metal siding is gaining share due to performance, longevity and design flexibility. 

Unlike traditional materials, metal siding is non-combustible, making it an important option in areas where fire risk is increasing. It also resists insects and pests and eliminates the risk of rot caused by moisture exposure. These performance advantages are aligning with a market that is prioritizing long-term durability and reduced maintenance, especially among homeowners investing in remodels and “forever homes.” 

At the same time, the broader siding market continues to grow at approximately four to five percent annually, driven largely by residential remodeling and exterior upgrades. Within that growth, metal siding is carving out a larger role, particularly in premium segments where homeowners are willing to invest more upfront for lower lifetime costs and better performance. 

Equally important is what is happening on the roofing side of the metal market. Metal roofing is not only growing; it is outperforming many traditional roofing materials and is projected to exceed five billion square feet of volume by 2029, with residential applications representing the majority of that demand. This growth is driven by the same factors influencing siding, including durability, sustainability, insurance considerations and long-term value. 

What is accelerating adoption across both roofing and siding is the rapid evolution of color, coatings and profiles. Contractors and homeowners are no longer limited to basic painted panels. Today’s metal systems offer an expanding range of matte finishes, textured coatings and nature-inspired colors such as charcoals, slate grays, greens and patina-style metallics that are seeing the fastest growth in demand. Matte and low-gloss finishes in particular are gaining popularity because they reduce glare, hide handling marks and elevate the perceived quality of both roofing and siding systems. 

Advanced coating technologies are playing a central role in this transformation. Modern coil coating processes create highly durable, factory-applied finishes that bond tightly to the metal surface, improving corrosion resistance and long-term performance. These coatings also enable printed and textured designs that realistically replicate wood grain, stone, tile and even traditional siding profiles, allowing metal to deliver both performance and aesthetics. 

Companies like Sherwin-Williams are leading this innovation with advanced coil coating systems that provide UV resistance, fade protection and long-term color retention while supporting a wide range of architectural finishes. At the same time, manufacturers such as Central States Manufacturing are bringing these innovations to market through finished metal siding and roofing panels that incorporate these new colors, textures and profiles into complete building envelope systems. 

This is an important distinction. While some companies in the supply chain focus on coated coil, manufacturers like Central States are delivering ready-to-install siding and roofing systems that allow contractors and homeowners to take full advantage of these design advancements in real-world applications. 

For contractors and homeowners, metal siding represents a shift in thinking. It is no longer a niche or purely commercial solution. It is a high-performance, design-forward option that meets the demands of modern construction while delivering resilience against fire, pests and moisture-related deterioration. 

As fire resilience, durability and long-term value continue to shape building decisions, metal siding and roofing are positioned to play an even larger role in the future of exterior design. The data supports what many contractors are already seeing in the field. This is not a short-term trend; it is a long-term shift toward better-performing materials that also meet the growing expectations for design and aesthetics. 

To learn more about these innovations, visit the directories for Sherwin-Williams and Central States Manufacturing on MetalCoffeeShop.com and RoofersCoffeeShop.com. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

New Workforce Pell Grants could help roofing contractors recruit, train and grow the next generation of skilled workers. 

A long-supported workforce initiative championed by the roofing industry is moving closer to reality and it could provide meaningful opportunities for contractors looking to build stronger crews for the future. On March 6, the Department of Education announced the publication of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to implement the Workforce Pell Grant Program approved by Congress in 2025 as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. The new program expands Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in short-term, career-oriented workforce training programs, helping put workforce education on a more equal footing with traditional college degree pathways. 

For years, Pell Grants have largely been limited to students enrolled in longer-term college degree programs. While traditional higher education received federal support, many students pursuing careers in the skilled trades often faced limited financial assistance for technical and workforce training. Workforce Pell Grants are designed to help change that by creating greater access to career-focused education for students interested in hands-on professions such as roofing.

This development is especially important to the roofing industry. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has long supported Workforce Pell legislation and advocated for its approval over many years. Expanding access to workforce education funding has also been a recurring priority during Roofing Day in D.C., where industry leaders regularly meet with lawmakers to discuss workforce shortages, training needs and policies that strengthen the skilled trades. 

The timeline

Beginning July 1, 2026, eligible students who meet the standard financial need criteria for traditional Pell Grants may qualify for assistance while enrolled in approved workforce training programs. To qualify, programs must be offered through accredited institutions that participate in federal financial aid and must meet several requirements. Eligible training programs must:

• Be between eight and 15 weeks in length
• Prepare students for employment in high-skill, high-wage or in-demand careers
• Lead to portable, industry-recognized credentials

Credentials also must count toward an associate or bachelor’s degree pathway while meeting performance standards.

The big picture

For roofing contractors, this could become an important workforce development tool at a time when labor shortages continue to challenge businesses across the country. By opening financial aid opportunities for shorter-term workforce education, more students, veterans, career changers and young workers may see skilled trades such as roofing as a realistic and affordable career path. Contractors who partner with accredited technical schools, trade programs and workforce development organizations may gain access to a stronger pipeline of trained workers who already have foundational knowledge in safety, roofing systems and construction practices. 

The timing aligns with broader workforce efforts already underway across roofing. NRCA continues investing in workforce development, technical education and initiatives such as SkillsUSA, where the association will support a record number of roofing competitors during the 2026 national competition in Atlanta. These efforts, combined with Workforce Pell Grants, have the potential to strengthen roofing’s talent pipeline and create more opportunities for the next generation of skilled workers. 

As implementation moves forward, NRCA remains optimistic about the impact Workforce Pell Grants can have on the skilled trades. For roofing contractors, this program may offer more than educational access. It may help create a stronger future workforce while making roofing careers more attainable and affordable for those interested in joining the trades. 

For more information on workforce development, advocacy initiatives and how the roofing industry is supporting future workforce solutions, visit NRCA and the NRCA ROOFPAC directory on RoofersCoffeeShop. 

By Jenny Yu.  

The honor highlights Heidi's leadership in advancing the roofing and outdoor industries. 

The Coffee Shops™ are proud to share that our President, Heidi J. Ellsworth, was recently recognized by Women We Admire as one of the Top Women Leaders of Oregon for 2026. The annual list honors accomplished women leaders who are making significant contributions across industries while demonstrating leadership, innovation and a commitment to advancing their professions. 

Women We Admire is a membership organization and professional network comprised of women executives and leaders across the United States and Canada. Through its annual recognition programs, the organization celebrates women who are driving growth, fostering innovation and creating positive impact within their industries and communities. 

Heidi was recognized for her decades-long leadership in the roofing and building industries and for her role in helping grow The Coffee Shops into some of the industry's most influential media and community platforms. Heidi has spent more than 30 years advancing roofing sales, marketing, business development and industry engagement and is also widely known for her advocacy of workforce development, industry inclusion and education. 

Under Heidi’s leadership, The Coffee Shops have continued to expand their reach and influence. Over the past year, they've launched OutdoorCoffeeShop™, a digital community dedicated to the outdoor living and exterior construction markets. The new platform extends The Coffee Shops’ mission of connecting contractors, manufacturers and industry professionals through education, networking and business resources. 

They also expanded internationally with the launch of RoofersCoffeeShop.uk, bringing its established model of industry news, education and community engagement to roofing professionals across the United Kingdom. The expansion reflects the growing demand for accessible industry resources and opportunities to connect roofing professionals around the globe. 

In addition to leading The Coffee Shops, Heidi remains active throughout the industry through speaking engagements, board service and mentorship initiatives. Her work with organizations such as National Women in Roofing, National Roofing Contractors Association and Roofing Alliance has helped strengthen opportunities for professionals throughout the roofing sector. 

To learn more about the women recognized on this year’s list, visit Women We Admire’s Top Women Leaders of Oregon for the 2026 feature. You can also learn more about Heidi’s ongoing impact on the industry at her RoofersCoffeeShop directory! 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Advanced coatings and integrated metal systems give contractors new ways to deliver durability, efficiency and design flexibility. 

Metal is moving well beyond traditional roofing and siding applications into some of the most dynamic areas of today’s building envelope. A major factor behind that shift is coil coating, a technology that continues to influence how metal products perform in real-world conditions. 

High-performance coil coatings from manufacturers like Sherwin-Williams provide a level of consistency and protection that field-applied finishes cannot match. By bonding coatings to metal substrates under controlled conditions, these systems help resist corrosion, UV degradation and surface wear. For contractors, that translates into fewer callbacks, better color retention and materials that hold up under demanding environments. 

Material selection is also being shaped by growing attention to fire performance. Metal’s non-combustible properties make it a strong choice for assemblies where fire resistance is a priority. Incorporating metal doors and components into projects can help meet stricter codes and insurance requirements while adding another layer of protection to the structure. 

At the same time, demand for metal products continues to rise across residential and light commercial construction. Growth in coil coating capacity reflects increasing use not only in roofing and siding, but also in fabricated components such as doors and architectural elements. This broader adoption is creating new opportunities for contractors to deliver more comprehensive metal packages on a single project. 

Design flexibility is another driver. Today’s coatings can replicate natural materials like wood while maintaining the strength of steel or aluminum, allowing contractors to meet aesthetic demands without compromising performance. Operable wall systems, sliding doors and statement entryways are becoming more common, requiring coordination across multiple trades and systems. 

This architectural shift is being fueled by advancements in coating technologies. Today’s coil coatings allow metal doors and panels to replicate the look of natural materials like wood and stone while delivering the durability of steel or aluminum. Rich woodgrain finishes, matte textures and metallic tones give designers and homeowners the ability to create warm, inviting spaces without sacrificing performance. 

Companies like Central States Manufacturing are supporting this evolution with integrated product offerings that align roofing, siding and accessory components. This system-based approach helps streamline installation and ensures compatibility across the build. 

For contractors, understanding how coatings and metal systems work together is becoming essential. Performance is no longer tied to a single product. It is built through the combination of materials, finishes and installation practices that deliver durability and consistency over time. 

To learn more about advanced coil coating technologies and metal building solutions, visit the directories for Sherwin-Williams and Central States Manufacturing on MetalCoffeeShop.com. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The policies shaping the future of roofing. 

As I begin my service on the board of directors for the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), one of the most valuable parts of the onboarding process has been gaining a deeper understanding of the association’s government affairs efforts. While many roofing professionals immediately think of technical education, workforce development or industry networking when they think of NRCA, the reality is that advocacy plays an equally important role in protecting and advancing the roofing industry.

During a recent onboarding session, NRCA Vice President of Government Affairs Duane Musser provided an update on the legislative and regulatory issues that continue to impact roofing contractors, manufacturers, distributors and construction professionals across the country. The presentation reinforced just how important it is for roofing professionals to understand the policies being debated in Washington, D.C. and how those decisions directly affect businesses, jobs and long-term industry growth.

One of the key takeaways from the presentation was that government policy is not an abstract issue. It directly affects profitability, workforce availability, tax planning, energy incentives and training opportunities. NRCA continues to advocate for tax policies that support roofing businesses, including maintaining the Section 199A deduction for pass-through businesses, preserving the 21% corporate tax rate, maintaining estate tax exemptions and restoring full deductions for research and development costs. The association also continues to support provisions that allow full expensing for nonresidential roof improvements under Section 179.

These tax policies matter because they influence investment decisions, business growth and succession planning for roofing companies of every size. For many contractors, these policies can determine whether they purchase new equipment, expand operations or invest in additional employees. Tax issues have also been a major focus of Roofing Day in Washington, D.C. for several years, demonstrating how important these policies are to the future success of roofing businesses.

At the same time, NRCA is closely monitoring changes to federal energy efficiency incentives. Several energy-related tax credits and deductions are being phased out over the next one to two years, including incentives tied to commercial building energy efficiency, residential energy-efficient construction and renewable energy investments. While future opportunities may emerge, the current landscape highlights the need for roofing professionals to stay informed as energy policy continues to evolve and impact project opportunities.

Workforce development remains another critical priority for the roofing industry. The update included discussions around the reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which provides funding and support for workforce training programs across the country. NRCA supports reforms that would streamline administrative requirements, expand access to competency-based training and certification programs and increase employer representation on workforce development boards. These efforts align directly with the roofing industry's ongoing need to recruit, train and retain skilled workers.

The association is also continuing its advocacy efforts around Career and Technical Education (CTE) funding. Through support of Perkins Career and Technical Education grants and other workforce initiatives, NRCA is helping expand opportunities for students and future trades professionals to pursue careers in roofing and construction. The association has successfully advocated for increased funding over the years and continues working to expand career and technical education opportunities that help build the industry's future workforce.

As someone who has spent decades advocating for workforce development through industry media, associations and educational initiatives, it was encouraging to see how much focus NRCA continues to place on creating pathways into the roofing profession. Developing the next generation of roofing professionals remains one of the most important challenges and opportunities facing our industry.

Another important topic discussed during the onboarding session was immigration legislation and workforce availability. NRCA continues to support efforts that improve access to legal workforce programs, including maximizing the effectiveness of the H-2B seasonal visa program. The presentation also highlighted legislative proposals that could create additional workforce opportunities through expanded visa programs designed to address labor shortages in critical industries.

Regardless of individual political viewpoints, one fact remains clear: roofing companies across the country continue to face workforce shortages. Industry leaders need to understand the policy discussions surrounding workforce availability because these decisions directly impact the ability of contractors to meet customer demand, complete projects and grow their businesses.

One of the reasons I have always valued industry associations is their ability to serve as the collective voice of the industry. Individual roofing companies often do not have the time or resources to monitor every legislative proposal, regulatory change or policy debate occurring at the federal level. NRCA's government affairs team provides tremendous value by staying engaged in these discussions and ensuring the roofing industry's perspective is represented.

The issues discussed during this onboarding session are not future concerns. They are current issues affecting contractors today. Tax policy influences business investments, workforce legislation impacts hiring, career and technical education affect the future labor pipeline and energy policies shape product demand and project opportunities. Understanding these issues helps roofing professionals make better business decisions while ensuring our industry continues to have a strong voice in the policymaking process.

As I begin my service on the NRCA Board of Directors, I am even more convinced that advocacy is one of the most important services our industry association provides. The work happening behind the scenes in Washington, D.C. may not always make headlines, but it has a profound impact on the future of roofing. I am particularly honored to be serving on the PAC Advisory Committee, which helps raise funds to support ROOFPAC, NRCA’s political action committee, which helps ensure that bipartisan lawmakers understand the issues affecting roofing contractors, manufacturers, distributors and workers across the country. Supporting advocacy through NRCA and ROOFPAC helps strengthen our industry's voice and protect the future of roofing for generations to come.

For roofing professionals who want to make a difference, there has never been a better time to get involved. I encourage contractors and industry leaders to become members of NRCA and learn more about supporting ROOFPAC. Together, we can help ensure the roofing industry remains represented on critical issues including workforce development, tax policy, career and technical education, energy incentives and regulatory reform. To learn more, visit NRCA's ROOFPAC program and consider becoming an active participant in shaping the future of our industry.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Experiencing the craftsmanship, durability and history of slate roofing firsthand across the United Kingdom. 

To truly understand the beauty, durability and craftsmanship of roofing and especially slate roofing, you have to experience it firsthand. For me, that is exactly what happened when RoofersCoffeeShop® joined the National Slate Association (NSA) and the Slate Roofing Contractors Association (SRCA) for their recent educational tour through the United Kingdom focused on slate roofing, history and best practices. 

Alongside Megan Ellsworth, multimedia director for The Coffee Shops™, I had the incredible opportunity to travel with contractors, association leaders and slate professionals to experience the rich history and extraordinary performance of natural slate roofing firsthand. From visiting historic installations and award-winning projects to learning directly from industry experts, one message became very clear to me throughout the trip: Slate remains one of the most durable, sustainable and high-performing roofing materials available today. 

Throughout the journey, RoofersCoffeeShop worked closely with NSA and SRCA to document and share the experience in real time through social media and online coverage, helping bring the story of UK slate roofing to contractors and roofing professionals back home. From centuries-old slate roofs still protecting structures today to hands-on learning about quarrying, installation and craftsmanship, I was reminded again and again why slate continues to stand the test of time. 

After arriving in London and getting settled in, one of the first truly memorable experiences of the tour was the opportunity to visit the rooftop of the historic Admiralty Arch. This exceptional rooftop tour would not have been possible without the support and coordination of National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and EWN Leadwork Specialists. Standing atop one of London’s most iconic landmarks offered an incredible perspective on both historic roofing craftsmanship and modern restoration efforts. 

Located at the western end of The Mall near Trafalgar Square, Admiralty Arch serves as the ceremonial gateway toward Buckingham Palace and has long stood as one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Known for its impressive Edwardian architecture, intricate stonework and ceremonial significance during royal events and parades, the structure carries both architectural and cultural importance.

Today, the building is being thoughtfully transformed into a luxury hotel and private residences while preserving its remarkable historic character. Being able to tour the rooftop and better understand the restoration work taking place gave me a unique appreciation for the specialized craftsmanship required to preserve historic structures while adapting them for future generations. For roofing professionals, it was an extraordinary opportunity to see how restoration, waterproofing and historical preservation come together on one of the United Kingdom’s most significant buildings. 

The educational opportunities continued throughout the tour with another exceptional experience, visiting the quarry and production facilities at Burlington Stone in Northern England.  Seeing natural slate extracted directly from the quarry and following the process through preparation for roofing applications gave me an entirely new appreciation for the craftsmanship, engineering and precision behind premium slate systems. From the careful quarrying methods to the grading, splitting and preparation of slate for roofing, the visit offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at how one of the industry’s most respected roofing materials begins its journey. Watching slate move from the mountainside to a finished roofing product was not only educational but truly exceptional. It reinforced for me the incredible quality control, natural performance characteristics and legacy behind slate roofing. 

Equally impressive was seeing the incredible longevity and resilience of slate roofs across the UK. Many of the buildings we visited showcased roofing systems that have performed for generations, proving slate’s unmatched durability and long-term value. Natural slate’s low water absorption, resistance to harsh weather and remarkable life expectancy continue to make it a premium roofing choice around the world. 

The trip also showcased the artistry behind slate roofing. The precision, craftsmanship and technical expertise required to install and maintain slate systems were on full display throughout the experience. For me, it served as an important reminder of how specialized roofing trades preserve both performance and architectural history while creating roofs designed to last for decades, and often centuries. 

This experience was truly amazing. Being able to see the history, craftsmanship and long-term performance of slate up close was incredibly educational. I was honoured that RoofersCoffeeShop could help share the story through social media and online coverage, helping show the roofing industry why slate continues to be one of the highest-performing roofing systems available. 

The trip also underscored the importance of industry collaboration and ongoing education. By joining NSA and SRCA abroad, I was reminded how valuable it is when associations, contractors and manufacturers come together to share best practices, preserve craftsmanship and continue advancing roofing excellence. 

To learn more about the UK slate tour and upcoming slate initiatives, visit the National Slate Association and explore the NSA and SRCA directories on RoofersCoffeeShop.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

NFRC president turns personal passion into powerful industry giving during his tenure. 

Leadership in roofing is often defined by technical expertise, advocacy and service to the industry. But for Colin McCorquodale, current president of National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), leadership is also deeply personal. 

During his tenure as NFRC president, Colin has chosen to champion the Cystic Fibrosis Trust as his official charity, dedicating his presidency to raising awareness and critical funding for this disease. The Cystic Fibrosis Trust plays a critical role in supporting individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis through research, advocacy, clinical care support and education. More than 10,500 people in the U.K. are living with cystic fibrosis, a life-limiting genetic condition that affects the lungs and digestive system. Through groundbreaking research and patient support, the trust continues to improve lives while working toward a cure.

Through fundraising efforts across NFRC events and the support of the U.K. roofing community, Colin has already helped raise more than £50,000 for the charity, including an incredible £10,000 raised during the 2026 U.K. Roofing Awards evening. Held annually to celebrate excellence across the roofing and cladding industries, the U.K. Roofing Awards bring together contractors, manufacturers and roofing professionals from across the country. This year, alongside recognizing exceptional craftsmanshipand innovation, attendees rallied behind a cause that has become deeply meaningful through Colin’s leadership. 

In a personal message shared with roofing professionals, Colin explained why this mission matters so deeply to him. “This charity is fighting a condition with no cure and one which has had an impact on my wider family,” he shared, noting that throughout his presidency he hopes to raise both awareness and funds for the organization. 

What makes Colin’s efforts especially meaningful is the way he has brought the roofing community together around a cause that extends beyond business. Roofing has always been an industry built on relationships, family and helping others and Colin’s presidency reflects those values in a powerful way. From regional events to national celebrations like the U.K. Roofing Awards, the generosity of the roofing industry continues to shine through. 

As Colin concludes his term as NFRC president, his commitment to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust serves as a reminder that true industry leadership is about more than business success. It is about using your platform to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Through the generosity of the U.K. roofing industry, Colin’s passion project has not only raised significant funds but also increased awareness for families affected by cystic fibrosis across the country. 

To support Colin’s fundraising efforts and help make a difference for individuals and families living with cystic fibrosis, visit the Cystic Fibrosis Trust at www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk and make a donation today.