METALCON has announced the winners of its sixth annual Top Products Awards, recognizing product innovations showcased at its 35th anniversary event, held Oct. 7–9 in Orlando, Florida.

Products were evaluated through public electronic voting before the show and attendee voting onsite, giving metal construction industry professionals a voice in recognizing products, technologies and solutions designed to address the evolving needs of metal construction with improved performance, efficiency and installation.

The 2026 METALCON Top Products Award winners are:

First Place

Company: Progressive Foam

Category: Insulation

Product: Progressive Foam ReadyClad®
 

Progressive Foam ReadyClad® combines continuous insulation with built-in treated plywood furring strips for exposed perimeter foundation applications. By integrating the fastening surface directly into the insulation panel, ReadyClad eliminates the need to install separate furring strips, helping reduce labor, materials, installation time and opportunities for error. Its Graphite Polystyrene (GPS) core delivers R-values up to R-9.2, while its vapor-permeable construction supports fast drying and moisture management.
 

Second Place

Company: BH-USA/Elite Fans

Category: Accessories

Product: Elite Electric Fans
 

BH-USA/Elite Fans offers industrial ventilation solutions for commercial, industrial, agricultural and manufacturing applications. Its Elite Electric Products line includes belt-driven cabinet exhaust fans, wall-mount panel exhaust fans, exhaust shutters and electric motors in multiple sizes.

Designed for demanding environments such as fabrication shops, warehouses, manufacturing facilities, agricultural buildings and equipment storage, the fans are engineered for long-term durability, powerful airflow and ease of maintenance.
 

Third Place

Company: PPG

Category: Coatings

Product: AQUACRON® Waterborne Shop Primers (WSP) for Structural Steel
 

PPG AQUACRON® Waterborne Shop Primers (WSP) are designed to help structural steel fabricators improve throughput while reducing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions. The primers deliver a smooth finish and are formulated to cure in approximately two minutes under standard heat, helping reduce drying and curing times and the space required for production. Factory-applied to beams, purlins, joists and framing components, the primers also help protect steel against flash rust and corrosion during transportation, storage and construction.

“METALCON’s 35th anniversary gave us an opportunity to reflect on how far the industry has come, but the METALCON Top Products Awards are really about what comes next,” said Judy Geller, vice president of trade shows at METALCON. “This year’s winners demonstrate how manufacturers are addressing real-world challenges through improvements in performance, efficiency and installation. We look forward to seeing how these innovations continue to shape the industry as we look ahead toward METALCON 2027 in Louisville, Kentucky on October 26-28.”

About METALCON

Established in 1991, METALCON is the only annual event dedicated exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction. Produced by PSMJ Resources, Inc., in partnership with the Metal Construction Association, it brings together decision-makers from across the metal construction ecosystem to explore innovations shaping the built environment. More than a trade show, METALCON serves as the industry’s annual business summit—where deals are made, partnerships are formed and the next 12 months take shape. METALCON 2027 takes place Oct. 26–28 at the Kentucky International Convention Center in Louisville, Kentucky. For more information, visit www.metalcon.com.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Following a successful METALCON, the newly united DMI-LCF Fastener Group is positioning itself for long-term growth, innovation and industry leadership. 

The newly formed DMI-LCF Fastener Group generated noticeable energy at METALCON 2026. The merger unites Direct Metals, Inc. (DMI) and Lakeside Construction Fasteners (LCF), two companies known for quality products, technical expertise and customer-first service in the metal construction industry. 

During METALCON, I spoke with Eric J. Velliquette, the recently appointed group president of the DMI-LCF Fastener Group. He shared how the combined organization will build on the strengths of both companies while creating new value for customers and employees. 

As contractors seek quality products, technical support and dependable supply chains, the timing is right. The DMI-LCF Fastener Group combines the companies’ capabilities while preserving the customer relationships they have built over decades. 

Eric will lead the DMI-LCF Fastener Group’s strategic vision as the companies combine their expertise in fasteners and foam alternative solutions for the metal building industry. He succeeds Andrew Mullen, one of the original founders of DMI Direct Metals, who will continue contributing at the board level. 

The companies bring complementary strengths to the new organization. DMI contributes national distribution and extensive experience serving metal building professionals, while Lakeside adds an innovative portfolio of construction fasteners, sealants, pipe flashings, snow retention systems and foam alternative solutions. 

Together, DMI’s national distribution capabilities and Lakeside’s innovative product portfolio give customers broader resources, deeper expertise and enhanced support while preserving the responsive service that has defined both brands. 

Beyond products and logistics, the companies share a commitment to integrity, accountability, quality and long-term customer relationships. That cultural alignment makes the merger feel less like an acquisition and more like a natural evolution. 

The company’s METALCON messaging reflected that shared philosophy. Its “One Team” theme supports the upcoming One-Team, First-Team initiative, which will promote cross-functional teamwork and organizational alignment.  METALCON conversations about innovation, efficiency, workforce development and the future of metal construction reinforced the need for reliable partners that can help contractors and manufacturers navigate change. The DMI-LCF Fastener Group appears well positioned to meet that need. 

After speaking with Eric and seeing the enthusiasm at METALCON, the DMI-LCF Fastener Group’s direction is clear. Experienced leadership with expanded capabilities and a unified team is positioning the organization to build on the legacies of DMI and Lakeside while creating new opportunities for customers, partners and employees. 

Learn more about the combined organization’s products, services and nationwide capabilities in the Lakeside Construction Fasteners directory on MetalCoffeeShop.

Rex joined EXCEPTIONAL Metals in 2022 and has demonstrated a strong ability to identify opportunities, understand evolving market needs and turn ideas into practical solutions.

EXCEPTIONAL Metals, part of the Duro-Last® family of brands under Amrize Building Envelope, is proud to announce that Travis Rex, director of sales operations, has been named a 2026 METALCON 40 Under 40 honoree.

METALCON's inaugural 40 Under 40 program recognizes emerging leaders who are making an impact on the metal construction industry through achievement, leadership, innovation and industry involvement. The honorees represent professionals who are helping shape the future of the industry.

Rex joined EXCEPTIONAL Metals in 2022 and has demonstrated a strong ability to identify opportunities, understand evolving market needs and turn ideas into practical solutions. His experience spans product management, market research, go-to-market strategy and sales operations.

Throughout his career, Rex has brought a fresh perspective to the challenges and opportunities facing the metal construction industry. He has a talent for connecting customer needs, market trends and business opportunities while identifying ways to improve processes and strengthen collaboration.

In his current role, Rex leads sales operations for EXCEPTIONAL Metals and supports strategic growth across key areas of the business. He has also helped identify opportunities for greater collaboration and efficiency across the broader Amrize organization to strengthen how the business serves its customers.

"Travis brings curiosity, strategic thinking and a strong focus on execution to everything he does," said Kevin Blaesser, EXCEPTIONAL Metals general manager. "He consistently looks for opportunities to improve, challenge conventional thinking and bring people together to find solutions. We are proud to see his leadership recognized by METALCON and the metal construction industry."

The 2026 METALCON 40 Under 40 honorees were recognized during METALCON, which took place Oct. 7-9 in Orlando, Florida.

About EXCEPTIONAL Metals

EXCEPTIONAL Metals is a leading manufacturer of edge metal, drainage and accessory solutions for the commercial roofing industry. With extensive custom capabilities, EXCEPTIONAL Metals manufactures high-performance, precision-crafted products designed to meet the unique specifications and demands of each project. EXCEPTIONAL Metals also offers a complete line of metal roofing and wall panel products, providing customers with a comprehensive selection of solutions for both performance and aesthetics. Known for its quality craftsmanship, customization and exceptional customer support, EXCEPTIONAL Metals delivers durable, dependable metal solutions for commercial construction projects. EXCEPTIONAL Metals is a brand of Amrize Building Envelope LLC. For more information on EXCEPTIONAL Metals, call 866.337.4599 or visit exceptionalmetals.com.

About Duro-Last

Duro-Last is a leading manufacturer of custom-fabricated thermoplastic single-ply roofing systems based in Saginaw, Michigan, with eight manufacturing locations across the U.S. Known as the “World’s Best Roof® ”, Duro-Last’s factory-controlled custom-fabrication can eliminate up to 85% of field seams, resulting in lower on-site labor costs and easier installation. Duro-Last’s roofing systems are sustainable and durable. More than 2 billion square feet of Duro-Last membrane has been installed throughout North America. Duro-Last is a brand of Amrize Building Envelope LLC. For more information on Duro-Last, call 800.248.0280 or visit duro-last.com.

About Amrize

Amrize (NYSE: AMRZ) is building North America, as the partner of choice for professional builders with advanced building solutions from foundation to rooftop. With over 1,000 sites and a highly efficient distribution network, we deliver for our customers in every U.S. state and Canadian province. Our 19,000 teammates uniquely serve every construction market from infrastructure, commercial and residential to new build, repair and refurbishment. Amrize achieved $11.8 billion in revenue in 2025 and is listed on the New York Stock Exchange and the SIX Swiss Exchange. We are ready to build your ambition. Learn more at amrize.com.

METALCON October 7–8, 2026 | Orlando, Florida

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

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

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

See session details.

2) Mistakes to Avoid When Designing Metal Roof Systems

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

See session details.

METALCON 2026 

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

Plan your visit.

By The Coffee Shops®. 

Shifting fabrication off-site improves labor efficiency, creates more reliable schedules and protects project margins. 

Prefabricated metal building systems are giving contractors greater control over three of construction’s most persistent pressures: time, labor and cost. Also known as pre-engineered metal buildings (PEMBs), these systems are designed, engineered and manufactured off-site before arriving at the jobsite prepared for assembly. 

According to this article by METALCON, a key advantage is the ability to manufacture structural components while site preparation and foundation work are underway. This parallel process can compress schedules and help crews move directly into installation when the building package arrives. Because columns, beams, roof panels and wall systems are pre-engineered and pre-cut, contractors can also reduce field cutting, welding, adjustments and rework. 

Moving fabrication indoors further limits weather-related production interruptions. More predictable manufacturing and coordinated deliveries can help contractors align subcontractor schedules, equipment and installation activities while reducing downtime between construction phases. 

The business impact can extend directly to project margins. Extended schedules, overtime, rework, idle crews and coordination problems can create hidden costs throughout a project. Prefabrication allows skilled crews to spend more time assembling systems and less time modifying components in the field. According to Metal Construction News, PEMBs typically offer cost savings of 25% to 30% compared with traditional construction. 

Recent projects demonstrate how these advantages translate into the field. Following the 2025 Pacific Palisades wildfire, a homeowner used a prefabricated steel system for the neighborhood’s first completed residential rebuild. In Springdale, Arkansas, Central States Inc. opened a 105,000-square-foot steel frame plant to expand automated fabrication capacity and improve production of PEMB packages. 

For owners, faster completion can support earlier occupancy and revenue generation. For contractors, reliable turnover can free crews and equipment for the next job. Together, those benefits are making prefabrication a strategic tool for managing risk and maintaining momentum. 

To learn more about prefabricated building systems and project delivery solutions, read the full article.  

Don’t forget to register for METALCON, October 7-9, 2026 in Orlando, Florida.

METALCON 2026 page sponsored by: 

Where the metal construction year is made.

The products you’ll specify. The partners you’ll choose. The ideas shaping your next projects. It all happens here. 4,000+ professionals • 250+ exhibitors • 3 days that shape the year ahead.

Show Floor Hours

• Wednesday, October 7, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Thursday, October 8, 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
• Friday, October 9, 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Join us this year in Orlando, Florida!

Register for METALCON 2026.

See what's planned this year.

View our map of exhibitors.

By The Coffee Shops®. 

Industry experts to explore how metal roofing supports sustainability, long-term value and resilience in residential construction. 

Sustainability is increasingly important when homeowners and construction professionals evaluate roofing options. On Thursday, October 8 at METALCON, the Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) will present “Residential Metal Roofing – The Sustainable Choice,” a session focused on the environmental, performance and long-term advantages of metal roofing. 

The session will examine how metal roofing can help reduce resource consumption, lower lifecycle costs and improve building efficiency. Attendees will learn how attributes such as recycled content, recyclability, durability, longevity and energy-saving performance contribute to a roof’s overall sustainability. 

The discussion will also define sustainability and understand why it matters to homeowners. Presenters will address specific roofing characteristics that can affect environmental performance, from the recycled content used in metal roofing products to the material’s recyclability at the end of its service life. 

Beyond material considerations, the session will explore environmental benefits associated with metal roofing, including solar applications, water catchment and potential heating and cooling cost savings. Speakers will also cover how metal roofing performs during extreme weather events such as hail, high winds and hurricanes. 

The presenter lineup brings experience from across the metals, roofing, manufacturing, sales and sustainability sectors. Speakers include Melissa Dunson, vice president of sales at Central States; Renee Ramey, executive director of MRA; Brian Smallwood, marketing manager – construction for Steel Dynamics Inc.; Mitch Heitsch, director of sales at Westlake Royal Building Products; and Lauren Rogers, global sustainability manager for the Sherwin-Williams Coil and Extrusion team. 

Attendees will leave with practical guidance for communicating metal roofing’s sustainable advantages to homeowners, developers, architects, building owners and facility managers. 

Make sure to add this session to your calendar to learn about positioning residential metal roofing as a sustainable, durable and long-term building solution. 

By The Coffee Shops®.

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

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

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

Keynote: nothing Can Stop You

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

Register today!

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

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

Register today!

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

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

Register today!

Industry Outlook: 2027 the Future of Metal Construction

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

Register today!

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

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

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

By Emma Peterson. 

Explore this month’s most popular roofing stories.  

As we enter the final quarter of 2026, it can be hard to keep up with everything that’s happened so far! From the surge of AI tools to the constantly evolving landscape that is global geopolitics, there's a lot going on. To make it a bit easier, we highlighted the articles that resonated the most with our audience.  

For September 2026, our top ten list featured multiple articles focused on safety. One of these articles was written by Heidi J. Ellsworth, who is the CEO and president of The Coffee Shops®. Her article focused on Construction Suicide Prevention Week (which was September 14-18) and highlighted the importance of “creating a workplace where people know it is safe to speak up, supervisors know how to respond and everyone understands where immediate help is available.” The other safety article focuses more on the physical aspect of safety, specifically how maintenance and driver training are key to keeping your fleet of vehicles safe.  

The Coffee Shops’ talented writing team also made the list this month! One was Jesse Sanchez’s article about Polyglass’ new single-ply, insulation and waterproofing systems and how they protect “all six sides of the building envelope.” The other two articles from the editorial team came from me and focused on the state of the roofing industry market and an innovative solution to recycling construction waste.  

Read all ten of the top articles:

10 - METALCON announces inaugural 40 Under 40 honorees

9 - Customer reviews put roofing software on top

8 - An uneven but expanding market

7 - Keep your fleet safe on summer roads

6 - Master the market with metal

5 - Leadership takes the stage at MRCA

4 - Protecting all six sides of the building envelope

3 - How much wood could a Woodchuck divert?

2 - Don’t miss NRCA’s LEGALCon Live 2026

1 - Building a safer construction industry starts with a conversation

Located in the center of the exhibit hall, this interactive experience brings to life the story of steel and its essential role in building infrastructure and products that power everyday life.

U.S. Steel is celebrating 125 years of steelmaking, innovation and American manufacturing in 2026. The milestone will be recognized as part of METALCON’s 35th anniversary, October 7-9 at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando.

As the largest international event in the metal construction and design industry, METALCON will recognize U.S. Steel’s longstanding role in the steel industry and the company’s continued focus on innovation for the future. At METALCON, U.S. Steel (booth 1077) is hosting Steel on the Move Experience, an exhibit celebrating 125 years of innovation, craftsmanship and leadership in American steelmaking. Located in the center of the exhibit hall, this interactive experience brings to life the story of steel and its essential role in building infrastructure and products that power everyday life.

For more than a century, steel has helped shape everyday life in America — from the infrastructure that connects communities to the vehicles, appliances and buildings people rely on every day.

“For 125 years, U.S. Steel has helped build the infrastructure, industries and products that move America forward,” said Robert Kopf, vice president – sales for U.S. Steel. “What’s exciting today is how steel continues to evolve — becoming stronger, lighter and more durable to meet the changing needs of our customers and the next generation of American manufacturing.”

This evolution combines advances in manufacturing, materials science and process technology, ultimately allowing steelmakers to tailor products for increasingly demanding applications.

“Innovation has always been part of steel’s story,” Kopf said. “Today, advances in technology give us greater ability to engineer steel for our construction customers in all subsegments which provides strength where it is needed, lighter weights for design optimization and superior corrosion resistance capable of enduring the harshest environments to deliver the performance our customers need.”

Steel also offers important advantages for a more sustainable future given its ability to be recycled again and again.

“Steel’s combination of strength, durability and recyclability makes it an incredibly important material for the future,” Kopf said. “As our customers’ needs continue to evolve, we are focused on developing steel solutions that can help them meet their performance and sustainability goals.”

These attributes are especially relevant to the construction and design industries, where material performance, durability and long-term value are critical considerations.

“Steel has a long history of looking ahead, anticipating challenges and playing a tremendously important role in the products and infrastructure of the future,” Kopf says.

About METALCON

METALCON is the largest international event in the metal construction and design industry. Established in1991, it’s the only annual tradeshow and conference devoted exclusively to the application of metal in design and construction. Each year, contractors, architects, developers, owners, installers, fabricators, manufacturers and suppliers from more than 50 countries attend. 200+ leading companies exhibit the latest products, solutions and game-changing technologies. Produced by PSMJ Resources, Inc., in partnership with the Metal Construction Association, METALCON’s success is based on a dynamic exhibit hall, extensive educational programs and interactive learning opportunities. For information, visit www.metalcon.com or call 800-537-7765.