By Emma Peterson. 

Diving into how the NRCA advocates for the betterment of the roofing industry and our country, regardless of party lines. 

The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)’s mission focuses on finding ways to support the success of roofing professionals across the United States. And one of the biggest ways they achieve this mission is by acting as a unified voice for the industry in relation to advocacy efforts. To learn more about NRCA’s advocating efforts, we brought Brad Stine (NRCA’s director of federal affairs), Duane Musser (NRCA’s vice president of government relations) and Will Lorenz (president of General Coatings) together for a Roofing Road Trips® episode. 

Affordable housing 

One of the examples of NRCA’s advocacy efforts is their work to make housing more affordable. Brad spoke about why this topic is so important to them, “You want to talk about timely things that are bipartisan, look no further than affordability. And of all the issues related to affordability, housing is one of the biggest ones.” 

So, how is NRCA working to advocate for solutions to this bipartisan housing affordability issue? Brad explained:  

There are two specific bills we are currently advocating for. The first one is the Revitalizing Downtowns And Main Streets Act (H.R. 2410). This bill aims to establish a federal tax credit to facilitate the conversion of older, underutilized commercial buildings to residential housing. And the other is the bicameral Neighborhood Homes Investment Act (H.R. 2854 and S.B. 1686). This one is a federal tax credit that incentivizes the building of new or repairing residential homes in certain rural and urban areas around the US. 

Immigration and labor 

Another roofing-related issue that NRCA is putting advocacy efforts behind is immigration. Duane explained, "Immigration is often a controversial topic. But the way we approach it at NRCA is centered on advocating and uplifting legal, bipartisan policies that are focused on solving very real issues – like labor shortage.” 

A great example of this is the NRCA’s support of the Dignity Act, which was one of their biggest talking points at their annual advocacy day in April 2026. What is the Dignity Act? Duane explained:  

The Dignity Act has support from Democrats and Republicans. It’s a piece of legislation, that deals with the many immigrants who are here with under temporary protected work status that might be at risk of losing that. This legislation works to give those individuals the opportunity to earn permanent legal status, not citizenship, that would stabilize workforces for industries like roofing.  

Conclusion 

Oftentimes, when we hear the term political advocacy, we think about party politics and advocacy related to getting politicians elected. But that’s not the type of advocacy NRCA participates in. As Brad, Duane and Will highlighted in this podcast, NRCA is all about advocacy that crosses party lines. Will put it best, “Government and democracy is not an exact science. It gets things right many times. And then it fails and has to reset and figure it out again. And what we are talking about today are issues that really affect a lot of people... It’s not about red or blue, it’s about growth and success and helping people.” 

Want to learn more? Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording. 

By NRCA.

The NRCA shares ways roofing professionals can manage anxiety.

From changing weather and tight schedules to customer expectations, labor challenges and business pressures, roofing professionals often carry more than the work in front of them. The National Roofing Contractors Association is encouraging contractors and their teams to recognize the importance of managing stress and anxiety before it begins affecting their work, relationships or well-being. 

While common advice like taking a walk, getting enough sleep or meditating can help, NRCA notes that high-achieving professionals may need more intentional ways to step back from the constant pressure to perform. 

One place to start is by giving yourself permission to take a break. In an industry where there is always another estimate to send, crew to manage or customer to call back, stepping away can feel difficult. However, time away from work can help people return with a clearer perspective, stronger focus and more energy for the tasks ahead. 

NRCA also recommends starting with small, manageable changes rather than trying to overhaul everything at once. For example, a contractor who wants to spend less time checking their phone can begin by putting it on silent in another room for 15 minutes. Small adjustments can build into healthier routines over time. 

Another practical strategy is to move unfinished work out of your head and onto paper. At the end of the workday, write down three tasks that need attention tomorrow. Creating a clear plan can help prevent incomplete projects, customer issues and jobsite concerns from following you home. 

Breaking larger challenges into smaller steps can also make overwhelming situations feel more manageable. Whether the issue is a staffing concern, a complicated project or a growing to-do list, identifying the next immediate action can help create momentum. 

NRCA also points to the value of separating work mode from home mode. Taking a few minutes to reflect on the day, acknowledge what was accomplished and prepare for the next day can make it easier to leave work concerns behind and focus on time outside the business. 

Finally, connecting with trusted peers, friends or family members remains an important part of resilience. No roofing professional needs to carry stress alone. Honest conversations can provide support, perspective and a reminder that help is available. 

NRCA offers mental health resources designed to help roofing employers and employees support themselves and their teams. Creating a stronger industry starts with taking care of the people who power it. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

By making suicide prevention training readily available, NRCA is helping companies create safer, healthier workplaces while fostering a culture of care and support. 

Mental health continues to be one of the most important conversations taking place across the roofing industry. Roofing professionals face unique pressures, including physically demanding work, economic uncertainty, labor shortages and the daily responsibilities that come with running successful businesses. As awareness that mental health is not simply a benefit but an essential part of building stronger teams and healthier organizations grow, industry leaders and professionals are increasingly looking for ways to strengthen their mental health programs and policies. 

It's this growing interest that inspired the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) to partner with LivingWorks so that it's easier than ever for their members to access online suicide prevention training for NRCA member companies. The free program from this partnership is specifically designed to equip individuals, teams and organizations with evidence-based tools to recognize when someone may be struggling and help connect them with the support they need. 

In addition to this free training, NRCA has worked to provide a variety of mental health resources that allow organizations to deepen their mental health initiatives and provide broader education throughout their workforce. Some of these offerings include a 60% discount to expanded LivingWorks trainings, free hard hat stickers promoting awareness, suicide prevention fact sheets available in English and Spanish and break room posters. 

All of this is designed to keep mental health conversations visible and accessible in the workplace while reinforcing the message that mental health is a critical component of workplace safety and employee wellbeing. Overall, for roofing companies looking to strengthen their mental health programs, the new partnership between NRCA and LivingWorks offers a valuable opportunity to access trusted, proven resources and further the industry's commitment to caring for its people. 

Learn more about NRCA's mental health resources, available training opportunities and growing collection of workforce wellness tool by visiting their website.

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about all the events, seminars and exhibitors that will be at this year’s Western Roofing Expo. 

Navigating today’s roofing industry can be a bit of a challenge. Whether you’re facing more extreme storms in the field or juggling labor issues and material shortages in the office, it can be hard to stay up to date with the information and tools you need to succeed. Luckily, the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) hosts a two-day event designed to help professionals handle all those issues and more – Western Roofing Expo (WRE).  

This premier regional roofing and waterproofing event boasts a two-day trade show, over two dozen education seminars, multiple engaging luncheons, The Roofing Games™ shingling competition, golf and sporting clays tournaments, a live auction, product demonstrations and more! Keep reading to learn about what to expect from this year’s show, which will be held September 27-29, 2026 at the Paris Las Vegas! 

The core of the show 

The core of the show occurs on Monday (9/28) and Tuesday (9/29) with 30 seminars planned, two luncheons organized and a trade show floor that is free for contractors to attend. 

The seminars at WRE are a great way to upgrade your skills! Experts from across the industry will be teaching about everything from business management to technical developments. And if you’re a part of The Coffee Shops™ family, there will be a lot of familiar faces like Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese, Amparo Sancen from Latinos En Roofing, John Kenney from Cotney Consulting Group and our very own president, Heidi J. Ellsworth!  

As for the luncheons, WSRCA has organized two invaluable luncheons for WRE attendees. The first will be hosted on Monday from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and is presented by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Craig Brightup, The Brightup Group, and Chad Collins, NRCA, will take this opportunity to talk to attendees about the key developments in Washington D.C. that are impacting the roofing industry.  

The second luncheon will run at the same time (11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) on Tuesday and is sponsored by Malarkey Roofing Products. This luncheon gives attendees an opportunity to hear from the WRE 2026 keynote speaker – Shereen Thor. Shereen is a comedian turned coach who has worked with organizations like Google, Pandora, Slack, Safe Place For Youth and The Social Justice Learning Institute. Her keynote will be a great resource to professionals and business owners in all parts of their careers.  

And last but not least, the trade show floor will be open both Monday and Tuesday. This is a great opportunity to see the latest innovations and newest technology in the industry as product demos will be hosted on the hour. At that same demo stage there will also be the return of the much-anticipated Roofing Games on Tuesday!  

The trade show is a great opportunity to talk to representatives of leading companies around the industry. And the best part? The exhibit floor is FREE for contractors and roofers to attend! We’ll be in booth 12, so make sure to stop by and say hi, and we have countless industry friends who will be around the floor, such as Anchor Products (815), APOC (609), BITEC (151), Brava Roof Tile (840), Carlisle Architectural Metals (509), Drexel Metals (509), Equipter (826), Integrity Insurance & Bonding (360), Lakeside Construction Fasteners (154), New Tech Machinery (356), PABCO Roofing Products (703), Rocket Equipment (638), RoofScope (822), Sentry Building Innovations (150) and VELUX (361). 

Additional events and more 

In addition to the core two days, there are extra events both before (Sunday, 9/27) and after (Wednesday, 9/30). On Sunday, the Davis Memorial Foundation will host two tournaments, one sporting clays tournament and one golf tournament. The proceeds from these events go directly to the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund. The scholarships from this fund have helped more than 195 aspiring high school, undergraduate and graduate students pursue their dreams. These events have their own registration and their own fees. 

And on that Wednesday, the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants will host a special education day. This event runs from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and will elevate attendees’ expertise in the building enclosure industry. It features two courses, one about the fundamentals of roof assemblies and the other highlighting key updates to international codes. The registration and fees for this education day are separate from general registration. 

Get registered and reserved 

Registration for the 2026 WRE is now open! You can register online, again the show will be held at the Paris in Las Vegas, Nevada from September 27-29, 2026. Being at the Paris, there are many options for hotels nearby. WSRCA has worked specifically with the Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood and Horseshoe Hotel to get discounted room blocks that start as low as $91.  

Not sure if you can make the registration fee work in your budget? RoofersCoffeeShop® is partnering with Western Colloid to send five professionals to the show for free! By entering our contest, you get the chance to win an all-inclusive pass to the show, which gives you access to the trade show, annual luncheon, en Español content, educational sessions and the legislative luncheon.  

Learn more about the 2026 WRE show!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Why roof deck assessments are essential before any roofing project. 

Safety has always been one of the most important responsibilities in the roofing industry. Before a roofing crew ever steps onto a roof, contractors need confidence that the roof deck can support workers, materials and equipment. That is why the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) developed the Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool, a practical field guide designed to help roofing professionals evaluate the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of roof decks before work begins. 

The tool serves as an important resource for roofing contractors, estimators, project managers and safety professionals who are responsible for assessing rooftop conditions during inspections, estimating and project planning. By providing a structured approach to evaluating roof decks, the assessment tool helps contractors identify potential hazards before they become serious safety incidents. 

One of the primary goals of the Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool is to support compliance with OSHA fall protection and structural safety requirements. Roof deck failures can result in severe injuries, fatalities, costly project delays and significant liability exposure. Conducting a thorough assessment before work begins helps reduce these risks while creating a safer environment for everyone involved on the project. 

The assessment tool includes guidance for evaluating a variety of roof deck conditions. For roof decks where the underside is visually accessible, inspectors can look for signs of water intrusion, staining, deterioration and structural concerns that may indicate compromised deck integrity. These visual indicators can provide valuable clues about hidden damage that could affect worker safety. 

The tool also addresses situations where the underside of the roof deck is inaccessible. In many commercial and industrial buildings, contractors may not have direct access to the deck structure below. The assessment guide provides criteria and procedures for evaluating these conditions and determining whether additional investigation or engineering review may be necessary before work proceeds. 

By documenting observations and following a consistent evaluation process, contractors can make more informed decisions about project planning, worker access and safety precautions. This proactive approach not only protects workers but can also help contractors avoid unexpected conditions that impact project schedules and budgets. 

The Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool is available as a downloadable PDF through the Stop Construction Falls Resource Page. Roofing professionals are encouraged to incorporate the assessment process into their standard pre-job planning and safety protocols. 

In addition to the assessment tool itself, NRCA offers ongoing educational opportunities through its popular Power Hour webinar series. These webinars regularly address technical roofing issues, risk management topics, safety best practices and emerging industry challenges. Contractors can access both upcoming live events and on-demand recordings through the NRCA Education Center, making it easier than ever to stay informed on critical industry issues. 

For those focused specifically on worker safety, NRCA also provides a wide range of fall prevention resources, including webinars and educational materials covering both residential and commercial roofing applications. These resources are designed to help contractors build stronger safety cultures while reducing the risks associated with roofing work. 

As roofing projects continue to become more complex, taking the time to properly assess roof deck conditions before work begins is one of the smartest investments a contractor can make. Safe projects start with informed decisions, and the NRCA Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool provides a valuable framework for protecting workers, ensuring compliance and reducing risk across every jobsite. 

For more information about the Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool, educational webinars and fall prevention resources, visit the NRCA. NRCA members can also reach out directly to the association's Enterprise Risk Management team for additional guidance and support.

The survey is an industrywide effort to collect information about the reroofing market spearheaded by a coalition of trade associations.

The National Roofing Contractors Association encourages roofing professionals to join industry trade associations representing contractors, consultants and manufacturers in the U.S. and Canada in taking part in the latest Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing to evaluate business conditions during the second quarter of 2026.

For more than two years, the survey has taken the pulse of the reroofing industry and continues to serve as a regular barometer of the industry’s business conditions. By asking a handful of business questions and measuring responses across several demographics, the survey helps give an indication of the reroofing market’s strength and trajectory. Your response provides valuable insight.

The results of the Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing are made available to all survey participants via an online dashboard that enables users to filter results by region and other metrics.

For the previous survey that measured business activity during the first quarter of 2026, 70% of responses came from roofing contractors and 30% came from roof consultants. 

The survey is an industrywide effort to collect information about the reroofing market spearheaded by a coalition of trade associations, including the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, Canadian Roofing Contractors Association, Chemical Fabrics & Film Association Inc., EPDM Roofing Association, International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants, Metal Construction Association, Metal Roofing Alliance, National Roofing Contractors Association, National Women in Roofing, Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association, Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association and Single Ply Roofing Industry.

The Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing is available at https://bit.ly/RoofingSurvey. 

Survey responses may be submitted through July 20.

About NRCA

Since 1886, the National Roofing Contractors Association has been the home for generations of entrepreneurial craftsmen and enterprises who shelter and protect America’s families and businesses and each other. Our vision is the recognition of our members as professionals and to unite the industry to that purpose. NRCA is one of the construction industry’s most respected trade associations and the voice of roofing professionals and leading authority in the roofing industry for information, education, technology and advocacy. It represents all segments of the roofing industry, including contractors; manufacturers; distributors; architects; consultants; engineers; building owners; and city, state and government agencies. For information about NRCA and its services and offerings, visit nrca.net.

By Emma Peterson. 

We had a great time sharing stories and photos over social media with our roofing community!  

National Roofing Week is an annual event hosted by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) that aims to raise awareness of the roofing professionals who keep our communities safe and secure. The event also acts as a way to build community with other professionals, both near you and across the country.  

Participation in National Roofing Week is primarily conducted online by posting photos and videos through the #NationalRoofingWeek2026 hashtag. And NRCA has created themes for each day of National Roofing Week to guide posts.  

Sunday – Kickoff  

The week kicked off with posts about the importance of roofers. NRCA started everything with a post sharing the schedule for the week and some highlights from last year’s National Roofing Week! Here at The Coffee Shops™ we joined in the fun on all our social media pages, making sure to thank the coating installers, roofing professionals and contractors who make our community amazing. 

Monday – Signature projects 

For the Monday theme, NRCA invited National Roofing Week participants to share photos showcasing their company’s signature residential and commercial projects. There were too many amazing projects posted to put them all here, but some that stood out to us came from QXO, Sika and Eagle Roofing Products!  

QXO’s post was a carousel of some of their customers projects, including one from Toitures Scott, one from Nedlaw Group and one from RUHS in California. Likewise, Eagle Roofing Products’ post showcased signature projects featuring their concrete roof tiles from across the country.  

As for Sika, they took the opportunity to shine the spotlight on their 2025 Sika Project of the Year award winners, which includes stunning projects like the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center project in Los Angeles, California and the South Station Tower project in Boston.  

Tuesday – Charitable projects 

The next day of National Roofing Week was all about giving back, and the National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Oregon Council stole the show with a free roof!

The replacement went to a community member in need, which is an incredible reminder of the power our industry has to do good.

They put it best in their post:  

Seeing contractors, manufacturers, distributors and industry partners come together with a shared purpose — without competition, without agendas, and focused solely on helping someone else — is truly inspiring. For one day, company names and logos took a back seat to teamwork, generosity and service. 

Projects like this showcase the heart of our industry. The relationships we build, the willingness to lend a hand, and the collective impact we can make when we work together are some of the best parts of being in roofing. 

NWIR extended huge thanks to industry partners, like Malarkey Roofing Products, ABC Supply, SRS Building Products, Owens Corning, Bliss Roofing and Raindrop Roofing NW, for making this incredible charitable project possible. 

Wednesday – Employee appreciation 

The midpoint of the week was all about the people who get things done – the employees that keep our industry moving. For this theme, the #NationalRoofingWeek2026 hashtag was flooded with pictures and appreciations for hardworking workers around the country. 

Drexel Metals posted some behind-the-scenes of their team hard at work, captioning it, “To everyone who continues to show up ready to learn, teach and push the industry forward: thank you. Your commitment is what drives stronger partnerships, better projects and continued progress year after year.” 

IKO Industries and CertainTeed also posted, shouting out the ROOFPROS who get the job done every day and recognizing the “craftsmanship, innovation, and dedication of the teams who help bring CertainTeed products and solutions to life” respectively.  

Thursday – Training and learning 

For Thursday, NRCA chose training as the theme, inviting contractors and companies to share the ways they keep learning and growing on the job. For this theme, GAF joined the party, sharing an incredible milestone from their GAF Roofing Academy – since 2020, the tuition-free program has helped more than 3,000 individuals find employment in the roofing industry!  

And this is just one of the many stories added to the #NationalRoofingWeek2026 hashtag! The Durable Restoration Company posted about the hard work their craftspeople put into their apprenticeship program and QXO shared how they connect their team with everything from stand downs to plant tours. 

Friday – Celebration 

And you can’t have National Roofing Week without taking the time to celebrate the amazing industry we are all a part of! For this theme, the Roofing Contractors Association of Texas (RCAT) took their followers on a trip down memory lane, sharing the “conferences, tournaments, regional events and industry gatherings where Texas roofing professionals connect, learn and celebrate together.”  

Drexel Metals also posted, sharing a common sentiment of thanks related to the power of the industry, “From the shop floor to the jobsite, your dedication, craftsmanship and collaboration are truly what make a lasting impact. We’re proud to be part of an industry built on innovation, resilience and strong partnerships.” 

Saturday – Wrap up 

Overall, this year’s National Roofing Week was a resounding success. From everyone that posted to event sponsors like International Roofing Expo, Georgia-Pacific Building Products, SRS Distribution, Roofing Alliance and SOPREMA, it was all made possible thanks to the incredible roofing community.  

The Coffee Shops crew already can’t wait for next year’s roofing week! As Atlas Roofing put eloquently in their final #NationalRoofingWeek2026 post, “This week gave us the opportunity to celebrate the people, organizations and partnerships that make the roofing industry such a rewarding one to be part of. Here’s to another year of collaboration, innovation and success.” 

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.

ARCA and NRCA training helps roofing foremen and supervisors build practical leadership skills. 

There is a growing recognition across the roofing industry that leadership development cannot wait until someone reaches the executive level. It has to start in the field, where foremen and supervisors are guiding crews as well asinfluencing culture and jobsite performance every day. A training opportunity from the Arizona Roofing Contractors Association (ARCA) and the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) is putting that belief into action with a focused, practical approach to field leadership.

The NRCA Field Leadership Training Level 1 program is designed to meet roofing companies where they are, equipping field managers with the skills they need to lead more effectively right now. This one-day training isn’t theoretical. It is built around real-world applications, helping participants immediately strengthen communication along with improving productivity and stronger, more accountable teams. 

What makes this training especially relevant is its focus on the daily challenges facing field leaders. Communication gaps, misaligned expectations and unresolved conflict can quickly impact both morale and project outcomes. By addressing leadership styles, team engagement and conflict-resolution strategies, the program gives foremen and supervisors tools they can use the moment they return to the jobsite. 

The training, scheduled for July 10, 2026, in Phoenix, Arizona, also brings together respected industry experts who understand the realities of roofing. Participants will learn from professionals such as Amy Staska, vice president of NRCA University, and Jon Goodman, an NRCA subject matter expert, former roofing contractor and ProCertification® assessor. Their combined experience in workforce development and contractor education ensures the content is grounded in what truly works in the field. 

For companies looking to take the next step, this program can be paired with NRCA’s Foreman Management Training, held the day prior. That course expands into broader job management concepts including safety, customer service, quality, productivity and profitability, giving participants a more complete perspective on how their decisions affect project success. 

Opportunities like this highlight an important shift happening across the industry. Contractors are realizing that investing in people is just as critical as investing in equipment or materials. Strong leadership at the field level improves not only project outcomes but also retention. 

For contractors and companies focused on building the next generation of leaders, programs like NRCA’s Field Leadership Training are more than a class. They are a strategic investment in the future of their teams and their business. If you are looking to strengthen leadership from the ground up, now is the time to take action. Explore the training, and engage your future leaders.  It is a commitment to invest in their success. The strongest companies are built on strong leaders in the field. 

To register visit www.azroofing.org/events. 

By The Coffee Shops.™ 

Roofing found energy, talent and momentum at this year’s event.  

The roofing industry made a strong showing at SkillsUSA 2026, and the takeaway was clear: the next generation of skilled tradespeople is ready to get to work. Held during the National Leadership & Skills Conference in Atlanta, the event brought together students, educators and industry leaders for hands-on competitions, career exploration and workforce development. More than 19,000 people attended, and 7,000 students competed in 115 contests, showing just how much energy and opportunity is surrounding the skilled trades right now. 

Students bring confidence and curiosity 

In a conversation from the show floor, Heidi J. Ellsworth, Karen Edwards and Lauren White of RoofersCoffeeShop® shared what stood out most at this year’s event. For Lauren, who has attended SkillsUSA competitions for the past three years, it was the students themselves. “They’re making eye contact with you. They’re asking you thoughtful questions. They’re shaking your hand. They’re not looking at their phones,” she said. “They’re happy to be here. They’re happy to have good conversations.” Across the event, students from a range of trades were eager to learn more about roofing and where a career in the industry could take them. 

That curiosity matters. Lauren said students were asking questions like, “Tell me more. Tell me about roofing,” which showed how much impact a simple conversation can have. Karen heard a similar theme while interviewing students, many of whom talked about how SkillsUSA helped them build confidence and push past their comfort zones. That willingness to try, learn and grow is exactly what makes SkillsUSA such a strong pipeline for the trades. 

The size of the event reinforced that message. The championships filled the Georgia World Congress Center, a venue that features more than four million square feet of meeting and event space and relied on nearly 2,000 industry volunteers to support the competitions. On the roofing side, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) continues to expand the industry’s presence through the commercial roofing competition, which featured 22 competitors this year. 

The Roofing Pavilion keeps growing 

Lauren pointed to the Roofing Pavilion as one of the clearest signs the industry is serious about workforce development. “Our roofing pavilion gets bigger every year, and it always makes a statement,” she said.

This year, the pavilion showcased more parts of the industry, including tile and metal, giving students and visitors a broader look at the opportunities available in roofing. “They’re really trying to pull in all aspects of roofing, and all types of roofing to show what’s possible in the industry,” Lauren said. 

One industry, one opportunity 

That broader industry support is a big part of the story. NRCA emphasizes that contractors, manufacturers, distributors and trade groups all have a role to play by supporting local programs, donating materials, showing up at competitions and building relationships with schools. 

That spirit of collaboration came through clearly in the conversation. As Heidi put it, “It’s not just contractors, it’s not just manufacturers, it’s not just distribution. It’s all of us. One voice. One industry.” At SkillsUSA, that message feels real. Students are not just watching from the sidelines. Many are already networking, interviewing, and, in some cases, getting hired before the event concludes. One student competitor shared that he had already received additional offers while attending the competition, a sign that employers are paying attention. 

For an industry facing ongoing labor shortages, SkillsUSA is more than an inspiring event, it’s part of the solution. “It’s not only a feel-good experience, but also real solutions for our workforce and labor shortage,” Heidi said. Her message to contractors was simple: “If you’re a contractor, get involved.” Lauren suggested a practical first step: attend a state competition, spend time getting to know students and instructors, and start building relationships locally. 

That local-first approach is one of the best ways roofing companies can strengthen their workforce pipeline. Getting involved with nearby schools, supporting curriculum and showing up at competitions as volunteers, trainers or sponsors can make a real difference, both for students and for the future of the industry. 

And the winners are... 

High school 

• First place: Mason Miller from Larned High School in Larned, Kansas 
• Second place: Nathan Lutz-Santos form Lebanon High School in Lebanon, Tennessee 
• Third place:  Austin Gibson from Golden Strip Career Center in Greenville, South Carolina 

Post-secondary level 

• First place: Sean McWilliams from Alfred State College-School of Applied Technology 
• Second place: John Prophete from Orange Technical College – West Campus in Ocoee, Florida 
• Third place: Adam Thornton from Central Georgia Technical College in Macon, Georgia 

By the end of the week, one thing was obvious: SkillsUSA 2026 was more than a celebration of talent. It was proof that roofing’s future is already taking shape. The students brought skill, professionalism and curiosity. The industry brought opportunity, visibility and support. Together, they created the kind of momentum that can open doors, launch careers and strengthen the trades for years to come. 

Watch the full wrap up video live from the Roofing Pavilion at SkillsUSA: 

Check out the full playlist of interviews to hear about SkillsUSA from the students themselves!