By Jenny Yu.  

At IRE, Carlisle Architectural Metals shares how metal material performance, design and resilience are shaping the future. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Heidi J. Ellsworth met with Mike Weis, vice president of sales for Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM). CAM brings together five established metal brands under one umbrella. “CAM is comprised of five different brands. Five different metal brands,” Mike explained. “Petersen Aluminum Corporation (PAC), Drexel Metals, Metal-Era, Hickman Edge Systems and Citadel Architectural Products.” While CAM serves as the parent organization, Mike emphasized that each brand maintains its own identity. “We are still very brand focused because every one of the brands provides its own value and has its own niche and its own market focus.” 

With over 25 years working in the industry, Mike has witnessed the exponential rise of metal in the roofing industry firsthand. “The significance of it is substantial,” Mike stated. “You can talk about sustainability, performance, visual aesthetics, design solutions, ease of install, longevity of product — so many reasons why metal has become more impactful to the architectural industry.” 

One of the main factors driving the accelerated adoption of metal is the extreme weather taking place nationwide, from fires on the west coast to hurricanes on the east coast. “If you think about Florida down in the southeast, all that hurricane work, you have to design a structure that can withstand that,” Mike said. He added that rigorous testing remains critical, noting, “That’s why testing is so important. We’re always going to invest in testing and always try to make sure that we’re helping create a safe building, that we’re providing a safe solution.” 

Along with impressive durability and weather-resistant properties, with metal, you don’t have to sacrifice design and aesthetics for performance. “There’s this new digital print technology that’s out there,” Mike explained. “You can create wood grains, you can create marble-looking finishes, you can produce a weathering aspect. Architects are really driving this. They like to make sure they're maintaining the original design intent of some of these buildings. You can do so many things with metal.” 

As contractors move beyond traditional roofing into full building envelope solutions, Mike emphasized that metal is here to stay. “Metal is going to continue to grow,” Mike said. “Carlisle is investing in the right way, and we’re proud to be a part of it.” 

Watch the interview to learn more about how CAM is helping lead the industry into the realm of metal.

By Jenny Yu.  

From wind uplift to water intrusion, choosing the right edge metal is critical for roof performance and structural integrity. 

Edge metal may only account for a small portion of a roof’s total surface area, but its role in protecting the structure from wind uplift and water intrusion is significant. As Jason Hildenbrand of Hickman Edge Systems and Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM) explains in this Read Listen Watch® (RLW) episode, edge metal helps anchor the membrane, reinforce the roof structure and distribute wind forces more evenly. 

“It's really about how wind reacts on a building,” Jason shared. “As wind approaches the building, it's going up, down, around the sides.” This dynamic creates extreme pressure at the most vulnerable points: the roof perimeter and corners. 

“Minor differences in wind speed can have a significant result on the force that's exerted on the roof,” he continued. “That wind uplift pressure increases exponentially with the wind speed. So, at two times the wind speed, the pressure is actually four times what it was previously. At three times, it's nine. At four times, it's 16.” These rapidly increasing forces are why well-designed edge metal systems are critical at perimeter zones, where the risk is highest. 

What happens when edge metal fails?  

While edge metal is designed to protect the roof, it can also become a primary point of failure if not properly installed or maintained. “In most cases, when we see a roof failure from a storm or wind event, it starts at the edge, from improperly designed or installed edge metal,” Jason shared. “When that edge fails, the rest of the roofing components really can't withstand those loads.” 

This can result in a domino effect that leads to membrane detachment, water infiltration, and costly structural damage. Jason referenced a case study from an insurance company, AIG, that highlighted a roof failure incident caused not by a direct hurricane hit, but by winds from the outer bands of storm winds. 

“There were about 7,000 square feet of roof covering loss. The roofing cost alone was about $70,000. There was also a $1.7 million content claim and a $1.7 million business interruption claim. We're talking about $4 million in loss,” Jason said. “And what they reported back was that proper flashing securement would've likely resulted in no loss.” 

Jason added, “When you look at it, a roof is generally 10% of the building cost. The perimeter edge is 1% of that. So, 1% to have a tested code-compliant, warranted system to avoid a $4 million potential liability is really cheap insurance, right?” 

How to ensure your edge metal performs as designed 

The best way to avoid edge-related failures is to install tested, code-compliant systems. 

“I would prefer that they went with a pre-engineered option,” Jason advised. But regardless of the system chosen, testing and compliance are of the utmost importance. “There are the testing options for making sure that the edge system is compliant and can meet those pressures.” 

He recommends checking for testing through agencies like UL, Intertek or NRCA. Some membrane manufacturers also certify contractors to fabricate tested systems. 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about edge metal system best practices.

By Jenny Yu.  

In a time of market uncertainty, this company unites five leading brands to fuel momentum across its architectural metals portfolio. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards spoke with Carlisle Architectural Metals’ (CAM) Vice President of Growth, Brad Van Dam, about the latest trends in the industry and how contractors can stay competitive in both commercial and residential roofing. The CAM portfolio brings together some of the most established and trusted brands in the metals industry, including Hickman Edge Systems, Metal-Era, Drexel Metals, PAC-Clad Petersen and Citadel Architectural Products, with roughly 17 facilities across the United States. 

“It's really cool to see CAM putting the effort into growing these five brands and the overall architectural metals group,” Brad shared. “I’m very proud to be a part of that. My job is to grow it as the vice president of growth. I like to say, my job title is not vice president of decline. So, how do we get it going, regardless of what the market is doing and all the craziness around us? How do we continue to grow this business and grow for our people and our culture?” 

This growth is anchored in the appeal and performance of metal. “It hits on a lot of the key points that are important in the market — sustainability, durability, ease of installation,” Brad said. “Aesthetically, people like the look of metal. It’s clean, it’s sleek, it’s newer, it really gives you that feel of something unique and strong.” 

Brad acknowledged that market uncertainty, from tariffs to interest rates, continues to shape the behaviors and decisions in the industry, or what Brad calls “the pulse.” Yet, he maintained that those challenges have also opened new opportunities. “Data centers, large warehouses, some multifamily — those segments have done better during this uneasy market — really have shined for a lot of contractors. Those veins of strength add a lot of momentum,” he stated. 

From CAM’s perspective, their mission remains clear. “It’s full steam ahead,” Brad said. “How do we help customers? How do we focus on the customer? What are the ways that we can bring more value to those we’re dealing with?” 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about how CAM is meeting the shifting needs of an evolving roofing market. 

By Jenny Yu.  

Learn how proper nailer design and installation can be the difference between a strong roof system and a failed one.   

When a commercial roof fails, it rarely starts in the center — it starts at the edge. According to Hickman Edge Systems, more than half of all roof failures begin at the perimeter, where inadequate or deteriorated nailers can weaken the entire system. FM Global data backs it up — one study found that 59% of wind-related roofing losses originated from edge metal failure. 

The nailer — the horizontal component that ties the roof membrane, edge metal, and structure together — plays a key role in resisting wind uplift forces at the perimeter.  

Hickman Edge Systems’ AIA- and IIBEC-approved course, Wood Nailer Alternatives: Designing for Longevity and Performance, takes a closer look at this critical detail — showing how proper nailer design and installation can determine whether a roof withstands the next storm or fails under pressure. 

“Security starts at the nailer,” Hickman Edge Systems notes. “Failure to properly specify or install the nailer system can lead to catastrophic results.” 

 Traditional wood nailers have long been the industry go-to, but they bring challenges: moisture absorption, rot, warping and insect infestation. Often unnoticed, these issues can reduce attachment strength and leave the roof vulnerable to costly failures. 

Beyond their material weaknesses, wood nailers can also create thermal bridges that reduce insulation performance and overall energy efficiency. 

The course examines common vulnerabilities in nailer performance and compares traditional wood systems with “wood nailer alternatives” — metal solutions designed to enhance uplift resistance, durability, installation consistency and energy efficiency. It also references key industry standards — including ANSI/SPRI ED-1, FM 1-49 and the NRCA Roofing Manual — which outline best practices for nailer attachment, fastener spacing and material compatibility. Attention to these standards and adherence to specifications are critical for achieving lasting perimeter performance. 

Architects, consultants and contractors will leave this seminar with practical guidance for longer-lasting, higher-performing roof systems — starting with the often-overlooked detail that holds it together. 

Learn more about best practices for nailer design and installation — and explore sustainable nailer alternatives — by requesting Hickman Edge Systems’ Wood Nailer Alternatives course.

By Emma Peterson. 

This month’s standout stories cover fire-rated systems, youth outreach, legal guidance and more!  

Summer has been rushing by at The Coffee Shops™ and it’s already time to look at the top articles from August 2025! One of the big topics we saw talked about this month was withstanding Mother Nature. In one article on our list, Dani Sheehan covers how Pli-Dek and fire-rated systems can protect people and property in areas at threat of wildfires. Drexel Metals also made our top list with an article sharing about how their new Defend-R Vent combines ventilation and insulation is a way that prevents ice dams from forming! Additionally, Jenny Yu wrote an article all about how edge metal keeps properties safe and secure in the face of tornadoes.  

Beyond covering how roofs are standing up to Mother Nature, this month saw three unique top articles! In number three, an article by Emma Peterson covered an exciting moment for our very own multimedia manager, Megan Ellsworth, when she was brought onto the Roofer Growth Hacks podcast to talk about building connections and growing your business through media. In the number two spot is an article from Christee Roberson (Graham Roofing) all about how National Women In Roofing (NWIR) is helping dismantle industry barriers by helping young women get their start in the trades through youth summer camps. 

And our top article of the month comes from Mary Kate Fernandez of Adams and Reese. Mary Kate is an association who is very familiar with immigration enforcement policies and has run a variety of trainings to help industry-members navigate workforce management and legal compliance in the face of shifting immigration polices. In this article, she covers nine tips for keeping your I-9 paperwork in order through mergers, acquisitions and anything else that might crop up.  

Read the August 2025 top articles! 

10 - The Coffee Shops™ welcome World of Concrete!

9 - Fire-rated solutions for the Wildland Urban Interface by Dani Sheehan 

8 - MRA hosts 4th annual fishing trip in Bigfork, Montana by MRA 

7 - Steep slopes and ice dams, beware. Defend-R Vent is here. by Drexel Metals 

6 - SRS Distribution announces expansion in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex with the acquisition of Roadrunner Roofing Supply, Inc. 

5 - Edge metal: A structure’s shield from tornados by Jenny Yu 

4 - Make the most of your silicone roof coatings by Progressive Materials 

3 - Podcasting, marketing and roofing success by Emma Peterson 

2 - Camps for girls: Building on a proven blueprint by Christee Roberson, Graham Roofing 

1 - 9 strategic tips for I-9 compliance by Mary Kate Fernandez, Adams and Reese

By Jenny Yu.  

Learn about the importance of edge metal in protecting properties from increasing severe weather events.  

In a recent Read Listen Watch® (RLW) episode, Megan R. Ellsworth spoke with Hickman Edge Systems’ Director of Private Label and OEM Jason Hildenbrand about the role that edge metal plays in securing the roof’s edge and protecting the building envelope. With more than 20 years of experience in the industry, Jason started as a field technician, worked his way to becoming a field manager and now oversees strategic partnerships and private label initiative development for Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM). Through all these experiences, Jason has a wealth of knowledge on metals that he shared with us at The Coffee Shops. 

He started by sharing a basic definition of edge metal: “It's essentially the termination and transition between the roofing membrane and other building envelope components. It can be a parapet, a roof edge or even a flow-over edge condition — a coping, a fascia, drip edge, various flashings and of course, a gutter. The key is really having a system that is applicable to the condition and properly securing the membrane at the perimeter.”  

“In basic terms,” Jason simplified further, “It's the edge of a building.” 

After defining edge metal, Jason explained that the roof’s edge is the most vulnerable part of the building envelope because it is the area where the roof and the wall transition is subject to the highest pressures. This is an issue now more than ever because the number and severity of weather incidents continues to increase. 

“In the past two years, there have been 46 states that have experienced billion-dollar loss events, and that's significant,” Jason noted. “It's five times more billion-dollar events than in the past 20 years and even in the previous two decades before that. The industry projections indicate that those losses are going to double in the next 10 years.” 

Because these intense storms and weather incidents are only expected to worsen, the industry is tasked to address these concerns in envelope design and roofing installation. Jason shared a real-world example of how proper installation and code-compliant materials were the difference between an intact structure and an adjacent damaged one in the event of an EF3 tornado. 

“One of the buildings was re-roofed and installed with an extruded edge system and code-compliant material warranted. About 30 days after installation, an EF3 tornado came through the area. The building that was not re-roofed ended up looking like open storage. You could see the membrane that had been pulled off was in the power lines behind it,” Jason said. 

“The building that had been re-roofed within that 30-day period was able to weather that storm,” he continued. “The membrane stayed intact, because the perimeter edge metal protected it. And outside of some minor damage to the membrane because of debris and things like that, that building was essentially able to stay intact. The folks from the building that was damaged actually sheltered in the newly roofed building.” 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about the role edge metal plays in protecting the building envelope. 

Now required in 37 states by building code, the ANSI/SPRI GT-1 test standard for gutters is quickly gaining adoption nationwide.

Included in 2021 International Building Code, ANSI/SPRI GT-1 provides a consensus for an acceptable level of performance for gutter systems.

Register today to join Brad Van Dam, VP CAM Growth, for your Gutters & ANSI/SPRI GT-1 Webinar (AIA & IIBEC approved) on Thursday, August 7 at 12 p.m. ET / 11 a.m. CT.

Learning Objectives:

• The importance of GT-1
• How GT-1 is incorporated into IBC
• Why GT-1is important to specifiers
• GT-1 test methods and understanding how the pressures are calculated

Attendees Are Eligible to Earn:

• One (1) AIA Health, Safety and Welfare (HSW) Learning Unit
• One (1) IIBEC Continuing Education Hour (CEH)

Questions? Please reach out to info@hickmanedgesystems.com.

Register today!

By Jenny Yu. 

In this upcoming RLW, discover the best practices for securing roof edges. 

RoofersCoffeeShop® has made it easier than ever for members of the roofing and construction industries to learn how they want, when they want, where they want with their Read Listen Watch® (RLW) initiative. Whether you want to read a transcript, listen to a podcast or watch a webinar, the Coffee Shop has made it possible for you to learn your way. 

The Coffee Shops want to make sure you’re not sleeping on roof edges. In an upcoming RLW on July 16, 2025, at 11 a.m. PT, 2 p.m. ET, Megan R. Ellsworth meets with Hickman Edge Systems’ Director of Private Label and OEM Jason Hildenbrand to talk all things roof edges and edge metal.  

In this webinar, you will learn the ins and outs of wind uplift protection’s secret weapon: edge metal. Megan and Jason explore why roof edges are the most vulnerable part of a system, how edge metal defends against failure, and what codes, materials and best practices contractors need to know. Jason will also dive into the differences between shop-fabricated versus pre-engineered systems and will share installation tips and sales advantages he’s learned throughout the years.   

Since 1945, Hickman Edge Systems, part of the Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM) portfolio, has developed premier edge metal solutions for contractors to secure building envelopes. Some of their key products include fascia, coping, water control and wood nailer alternatives.  

At the end of this RLW, attendees will walk away with valuable insights every roofing pro should know in order to secure the roof perimeter and protect the building envelope. Learn how to use edge metal as one of the best-selling tools in your toolbox. 

Ready to explore all there is to know about edge metal? Join Megan R. Ellsworth and Jason Hildenbrand on July 16, 2025, at 11 a.m. PT, 2 p.m. ET to learn more.  

Register for this RLW and start securing roof edges.

In this Read Listen Watch® (RLW), Megan R. Ellsworth sits down with Hickman Edge System's Director of Private Label and OEM, Jason Hildenbrand, to talk about the unsung hero of wind uplift protection, edge metal.  They’ll explore why roof edges are the most vulnerable part of a system, how edge metal defends against failure and what codes, materials and best practices contractors need to know. He dives into shop-fabricated versus pre-engineered systems followed by installation tips and sales advantages.  This episode delivers what roofing pros need to secure the roof perimeter and protect the building envelope.

Register today!

By Anna Lockhart.  

Industry expert explains the importance of wooden nailers, their design functions and how to choose the right alternatives.  

In an episode of the Roofing Road Trips® podcast, host Karen Edwards sat down with Eric Younkin, leader of the product and engineered services team for Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM), to discuss wood nailers and the important, yet unsung, role they play in maintaining a roof’s integrity.  

The term “wood nailers” refers to the wooden component that is put on a wall or on the roof deck of a roofing system, allowing roofers to build up the insulation layer to the equal height of the wood. Eric shared, “This allows for securement of both the roofing membrane and, more importantly, the edge securement, so the metal edge, whether that be a drip edge or some type of fascia. It's really the foundation for edge securement. It's the unseen factor that really goes into performance on the edge.”

This means wood nailers play a critical role in keeping a roof in place during severe weather or over decades of wear and tear. Due to this, Eric emphasized the importance of getting the properly sized nailer for your project. Some buildings, like those with a metal edge with a large flange, it might be necessary to seek a nailer larger than the typical size, 2x6.  

For those wondering why these are traditionally wooden instead of another, seemingly more durable material, it’s thanks to wood’s reputation for being a reliable and sturdy material if applied correctly. Eric explained, “Wood's been around for a long time, and it’s proven the test of time as well... Whenever you're installing wood, it's critical that you design it accordingly to meet the uplift pressures for the design.”

If not using wood, Eric recommended alternatives that are best suited for the job. “With some of the galvanized options, they come in smaller sections, so you could actually create radiuses and curves quite easily,” he shared. “Imagine if you had a radius coping or a radius edge, having your wood nailer meet the radius of the building could be hard to meet the aesthetics. So, we have these metal components that are a little easier to radius. Extruded aluminum is also an option.”

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about wood nailers and their alternatives.