By The Coffee Shops. 

Contractors, manufacturers and service providers came ready to learn, compete and connect, and RCAW’s annual trade show delivered. 

Amidst snow flurries, shingle competitions and interviews, the annual trade show hosted by the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) at the Muckleshoot Casino delivered what many attendees described as one of its most successful events to date. Contractors, manufacturers and service providers showed up ready to learn and converse. 

The event kicked off with an evening program dedicated to celebrating the trade. A motivational keynote underscored themes of generosity, risk-taking and giving back, followed by an awards ceremony showcasing standout projects from Washington contractors. Lauren White, editor in chief for The Coffee Shops (TCS), described the night as both inspiring and grounding, emphasizing the craftsmanship and commitment within the state. 

For Matthew Ramirez, TCS multimedia content creator, the event stood out for both its energy and personal significance. “My personal experience was comforting as I got to witness my father accept two awards on behalf of the company he works for. It made me proud and I look forward to what the future may hold.” 

What happened after the awards ceremony was TCS Account Manager Brenda Littau’s, favorite experience of the weekend. A few people had decided to get an ice cream nightcap, which quickly turned into a larger group. As Brenda shared, “When we sat down and started talking, all of a sudden there were 13+ people in this group. And everyone was excited to share information, connect with each other and build relationships that will last beyond the event. It was an amazing experience.” 

The tradeshow itself was, “Off the hook!” according to Amanda Fields, RCAW executive director. The show had record attendance, despite the weather, and everyone came ready to learn, to network, to compete and to have a good time! Hear from Justin Shirley, RCAW president, and Amanda Fields about their show experience: 

For Matthew, “Lots of new friends were made and new insights on the roofing industry were shared.” Covering the show from behind the camera, he spent time interacting with contractors and industry professionals, gaining a firsthand look at the people helping shape roofing today.  

Attending for her third year, Brenda described the show as the strongest yet. “The event was strong with great attendance,” she said. “Although it snowed all day, it didn't stop the industry from showing up.” From educational sessions to the fastest shingle competition, the energy remained high. She spent most of the time walking around the show and bringing attendees to the booth for interviews, connecting with both longtime partners and new faces.  

Brenda noted the variety of companies that were present at the regional show, sharing, “There were companies to help contractors navigate L&I claims; help their potential customers find financing to capture additional sales; and even to help contractors manage projects where insurance claims are a piece of the puzzle. These can be hurdles to contractors, so it is pretty amazing to be able to go to an event like this and just ask questions.” 

Attending for the first time, Lauren found the regional scale of the show especially valuable, sharing, “I love regional shows because you get more time to visit with people as opposed to some of the bigger shows. It's always fun to see people I've met from different events and get to know other people as well.” With The Coffee Shops' booth positioned at the front of the show floor, the team was able to connect with a variety of attendees and capture a wide range of interviews. “I had the chance to interview our customers and other attendees of the show. We had some great conversations, learned what's new with these companies and heard about all the great things RCAW is doing and has coming up,” Lauren shared. 

Across all three perspectives, a few themes stood out: resilience, community and opportunity. The thoughtfully designed layout encouraged networking, while hospitality events created space for conversations that extended well beyond business. Whether through interviews, educational sessions or spontaneous gatherings, attendees found value in every corner of the experience. Hear the live recap of the show from Brenda, Matthew and Lauren: 

As Matthew reflected, “The layout that was created by RCAW harbored an easy space to network and get to know others… I look forward to seeing RCAW grow as well as their attendees.” 

If this year’s event is any indication, that growth is already well underway. 

Check out all of the interviews from the RCAW Regional Tradeshow here!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

RCAW sounds the alarm on proposed legislation impacting Washington roofing contractors 

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is raising awareness about two companion bills currently moving through the Washington State Legislature that could have serious consequences for roofing contractors across the state. 

House Bill 2191 and Senate Bill 6068 would expand wage and benefit liability within the construction industry. If passed these bills would make direct contractors and in some cases property owners jointly liable for unpaid wages and benefits owed to workers employed by subcontractors at any tier. 

In simple terms this means roofing contractors could be held financially responsible even when a subcontractor fails to properly pay their employees. 

For many contractors this represents a major shift in risk and responsibility. The proposed legislation increases legal and financial exposure for unpaid wages and benefits while adding stricter requirements for payroll compliance, recordkeeping and worker classification. It also creates additional administrative burdens that could drive up project costs and slow down job timelines. 

While limited exemptions may apply to some small residential projects the majority of commercial roofing work and larger residential projects would be affected. 

These bills are not law at this time but they are actively advancing which makes contractor involvement critical. RCAW Executive Director Amanda Fields encourages members to stay informed and engaged as the legislative session continues. RCAW is actively evaluating the impact of this legislation and advocating on behalf of Washington’s roofing industry to ensure lawmakers understand how expanded liability could affect local contractors workforce stability and overall project delivery. 

One important way contractors can make their voices heard is by participating in RCAW Olympia Hill Day on February 5 from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. This event provides roofing professionals with the opportunity to speak directly with legislators and share real world insight into how proposed laws impact daily operations jobsite management and business sustainability. Contractors are encouraged to register online at www.rcaw.com and take an active role in protecting the future of the roofing industry in Washington. 

For more information contact Amanda Fields, executive director of the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington at director@rcaw.com. 

The submissions for RCAW's 2026 Excellence in Roofing Awards Program are now open for contractors across Washington state! Every year, the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) hosts this program to celebrate the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into low-slope and steep-slope roofing projects every day. 

These submissions will be judged against three criteria: 

1. Challenges: What technical, operational and environmental challenges were overcome during this project? 
2. Distinction: How does this project stand out as unique? 
3. Beauty: Did this project elevate the aesthetic appeal of the structure or does it showcase impressive technical complexity?

Think you have project that fits the bill? Submissions are open until February 2, 2026! Winners will not only get a cash prize, they will also get special honors at the RCAW Industry Insider Event on March 12, 2026, and subsequent RCAW media coverage.

Submit your project now!

RCAW encourages contractors to submit all types of roofing projects for consideration, regardless of size or complexity.

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is now accepting submissions for its prestigious 2026 Excellence in Roofing Awards Program. Roofing contractors across Washington state can submit their best low- and steep-slope roofing projects at www.RCAW.com from this past year for a chance to win up to $1,000. Submissions are due by February 2, 2026.

“This awards program empowers roofing professionals to highlight their dedication, celebrate their craft and show the pride they bring to our industry.” stated Justin Shirley, RCAW president.

The highly competitive awards program covers the full spectrum of roofing systems. Winners must exhibit remarkable proficiency, demonstrate intricate workmanship and utilize superior-quality roofing products. RCAW encourages contractors to submit all types of roofing projects for consideration, regardless of size or complexity.

The application process on RCAW’s website, www.RCAW.com is free of charge, and interested RCAW contractors may submit multiple entries, provided the projects adhere to the specified criteria. Submissions must demonstrate exemplary skills in roofing and include detailed project write-ups and high-quality imagery. Please note you must be a current RCAW member to apply.

Contractors should take note of the judging criteria when submitting their project entries.

• Project challenges: Were there any technical, operational or environmental challenges successfully overcome through the innovative use of roofing materials? Does the project demonstrate the reliability, durability and overall system strength of roofing?
• Distinction: Why is this project different from its peers? Was the quality of the craftsmanship extraordinary, and were there any circumstances, pre-existing conditions or challenges that made it stand out? Can this project be considered a step above the rest?
• Beauty: Does the project showcase an aesthetic appeal or exhibit impressive technical complexity? Does it possess visual allure or intrigue, elevating the skyline, building use or design?

Once the submission period closes on February 2, 2026, a panel of esteemed judges convenes to evaluate and score the top roofing projects. This panel comprises a diverse group of roofing industry experts with vast knowledge and technical expertise.

The projects that score the highest according to the judges’ evaluations will receive a monetary prize of $1,000 1st place, $500 for 2nd place and $250 3rd place for each low slope and steep-slope project as recognition for their exceptional performance and achievement.

Aside from the medal winners, the judges may also propose specific projects for best-in-class categories at the end of the evaluation process. There will be only one winner per category, and annual acknowledgments are optional.

• In the neighborhood: This category showcases homes that combine affordability with style. It focuses on how color and design choices can elevate the appearance of a typical neighborhood home.
• Commercial/mixed use: This category focuses on the complexities of flat roof projects. These projects are multifaceted, involving numerous components that work together to create a waterproof roofing system found in commercial, industrial, educational, data centers, hospitals, retail and other non-pitched roof systems.
• Craftsmanship: Roofing is an art, and it takes a true craftsman to install roofing materials on complex structures such as steeples, turrets and geodesic designs or large flat roofing projects exceeding 1,000 squares. These projects blend skill and artistry, showcasing intricate designs and sheer sizes. This category is open to low- and steep-slope applications.
• Technical difficulty: This category emphasizes operational and installation challenges, including projects involving multiple penetrations, work during nighttime, skyscraper steeples and cold weather applications. Contractors share the challenges of orchestrating the job, ensuring a safe environment and addressing the various design aspects.

Winners will be announced on March 12, 2026, at the Muckleshoot Casino at the RCAW Industry Insider Event starting at 6 p.m. Winning companies will receive an official RCAW Excellence in Roofing Award, elite winner logo, statewide/local media exposure and promotions on RCAW’s social media platforms.

“If you aim to increase your visibility and reputation in the roofing industry, make sure to submit your finest work before the deadline,” Shirley added. RCAW’s 2025 EIR winners were 1st place, Valentine Roofing; 2nd place, Roofscapes NW; and 3rd place, Tru Colors Contracting.

About the Excellence in Roofing Awards

The RCAW Excellence in Roofing Awards celebrate the highest standards of craftsmanship, innovation and professionalism within Washington’s roofing industry. These awards honor projects that embody exceptional skill, creative problem-solving and dedication to quality in both steep- and low-slope applications. More than a competition, the program reflects RCAW’s commitment to elevating the roofing trade, recognizing companies that go above and beyond to deliver safe, beautiful and durable roofing systems. Each entry showcases the pride, precision and passion that define our industry, and the awards serve as a powerful reminder of the value and expertise Washington’s roofing professionals bring to their communities every day.

About RCAW

Established in 1965, the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington continues to bring the roofing industry together to increase success through advocacy, continuing education, professional collaboration and consumer awareness. The RCAW is committed to expanding a diverse and inclusive membership that promotes credibility and camaraderie within the roofing industry. RCAW is proud of the role it plays in promoting roofing to those in the building industry and to the public.

The Basic Shelter Project remains a cornerstone of RCAW’s mission to support vulnerable homeowners across Washington by providing essential roofing services and improving the safety and stability of local housing.

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is proud to announce the successful completion of the 2025 RCAW Basic Shelter Project, Mary’s House, finalized on November 17, 2025. Mary, a 74-year-old widow whose roof was in severe disrepair – literally falling apart, with sections of shingles missing, now has a safe and secure new roof—delivered through the generosity, skill and compassion of our RCAW’s incredible roofing community.

This journey would not have been possible without the dedicated support of our contributors, volunteers and industry partners who came together to ensure Mary’s home was protected before the winter season. Their commitment reflects the very best of Washington’s roofing industry: collaboration, craftsmanship and community care. Thank you to Roofscapes NW, PABCO Roofing Products, ABC Supply Company, Velux America, Inc., Drain-Pro, IBA, State Roofing & Exteriors, Heartwarming Treasurers, Washington Cedar & Supply and Rainier Media.

The Basic Shelter Project remains a cornerstone of RCAW’s mission to support vulnerable homeowners across Washington by providing essential roofing services and improving the safety and stability of local housing. Melissa & Jonathan Baldivino, owners of Roofscapes NW said “We’re committed to serving our community, and this project gave us the chance to help someone who really needed it. That’s what the RCAW Basic Shelter Project is all about.”

Mary and her son, Andrew, extended their heartfelt gratitude to everyone and said, “I’m just so grateful for this new roof. This home means everything to us. We can already feel the difference, the warmth, the comfort it truly feels like a new home.”  RCAW Basic Shelter project chair, Allison Woslager said “Collectively everyone helped bring visibility to this important initiative and highlighted the impact RCAW members can make when we come together.”

“RCAW looks forward to continuing this vital work and partnering with more members and community organizations in the year ahead. Every project like this reinforces the power of collaboration within our industry and the positive impact we create. We are committed to expanding our reach, supporting more homeowners in need and strengthening the communities we serve through the RCAW Basic Shelter Project” said RCAW executive director, Amanda Fields.

Please click HERE to watch the video of the 2025 RCAW Basic Shelter Project created by Rainier Media on behalf of Roofscapes NW.

The RCAW Basic Shelter Project is an annual community initiative designed to help Washington residents in need of essential roofing repairs or replacements. Through the support of RCAW members and generous industry partners, the program continues to make a lasting impact—one roof, one family, one act of kindness at a time.

About RCAW

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization dedicated to advancing the roofing industry through education, advocacy, safety and community service. Established in 1965, RCAW represents roofing professionals across Washington State who are committed to the highest standards of quality, integrity and craftsmanship.

By Emma Peterson. 

It’s been a busy month at The Coffee Shops™, here are some must-read articles to keep you informed. 

November has been a busy month here at The Coffee Shops™! Our crew has been hard at work and you can tell from the number of articles we published this month. To recap everything that’s happened, we’ve collected the top five articles from November (as well as five honorable mentions).  

With it being the off-season, many roofers are taking the time to brush up on their training. In fact, two of our honorable mentions are articles about training! Both by Coffee Shops writer Emma Peterson, one covers the Tremco mobile training program that travels the country meeting contractors at their offices! The other is about the upcoming Tremco webinar series. This series is a great opportunity for contractors to earn AIA LU|HSW credits and doesn’t kick off until December 4, 2025, so there’s still time to register! 

In our top five articles of the month, we have multiple articles about the trade shows that kick off 2026! In one, writer Jesse Sanchez dives into the upcoming  2026 World of Concrete show and the innovations, demos and education that will be hosted there. In the other, which is also our top article of the month, Coffee Shops writer Jenny Yu explores six events that should be on your International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2026 itinerary.  

Explore our top articles from November 2025 

Five honorable mentions 

10 - All the reasons to roof in the fall by Central States Manufacturing 

9 - RCAW Basic Shelter Project brings a new roof — and new hope — to Tacoma widow

8 - Trade Association Coalition Announces Q3 Findings from Market Index Survey for Reroofing

7 - ‘Tis the season for learning by Emma Peterson 

6 - Training that meets you where you’re at by Emma Peterson 

The top five 

5 - Showcasing innovation, efficiency and hands-on education by Jesse Sanchez 

4 - RoofersCoffeeShop® releases 2025 Roofing Industry Trends Report

3 - Roofing in a deregulatory era by Emma Peterson 

2 - Roof smart: Why common sense is your first line of safety by Cotney Consulting Group 

1 - IRE 2026: Events you can’t miss! by Jenny Yu

The RCAW Basic Shelter Project is an annual community initiative designed to help Washington residents in need of essential roofing repairs or replacements.

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is proud to announce its upcoming Basic Shelter Project taking place (weather pending) on November 10, 2025, in Tacoma, Washington. This year’s project will help Mary, a 74-year-old widow whose roof is in severe disrepair — literally falling apart, with sections missing shingles entirely.

Thanks to the generosity and compassion of local roofing professionals, Mary’s home will soon be safe, dry and secure again.

Jonathan & Melissa Baldivino, Roofscapes NW, Inc., a family-owned roofing company, has stepped up to lead the charge, donating their time and skilled crew to complete the installation. They are joined by an incredible group of partners, including PABCO Roofing Products, Velux America, ABC Supply, State Roofing & Exteriors, Drain-Pro and IBA, who have all donated materials and resources to make this project possible.

“This is what our industry is all about — coming together to protect and uplift members of our community,” said Justin Shirley, RCAW president. “Mary’s story reminds us why the RCAW Basic Shelter program exists: to provide the most basic need — shelter — for those who truly need it.”

Mary, who has lived in her Tacoma home for decades, shared that her late husband always took care of home maintenance. Since his passing, she’s done her best to keep up, but the roof became more than she could manage. “I’m just so grateful,” she said softly. “This home means everything to me. Having a roof that’s safe again makes it feel like home.”

The RCAW Basic Shelter Project is an annual community initiative designed to help Washington residents in need of essential roofing repairs or replacements. Through the support of RCAW members and generous industry partners, the program continues to make a lasting impact — one roof, one family, one act of kindness at a time.

About RCAW

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization dedicated to advancing the roofing industry through education, advocacy, safety and community service. Established in 1965, RCAW represents roofing professionals across Washington State who are committed to the highest standards of quality, integrity and craftsmanship.

Gary will be remembered for his integrity, sharp wit and unwavering commitment to the members of RCAW.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Gary Smith, Executive Director of the Independent Business Association (IBA), who served as the Lobbyist for the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) for over a decade. Although his memorial service has already been held, we wanted to take a moment to recognize and remember the immense impact he had on our organization, our industry and the people who were fortunate enough to work alongside him.

Gary was a tireless advocate for Washington’s roofing industry for more than 10 years, Gary was RCAW’s voice in Olympia. His expertise in public policy, combined with a practical understanding of the roofing industry, made him an indispensable part of our advocacy efforts. He worked behind the scenes to promote fair regulations, protect small businesses and ensure that the roofing industry was represented in legislative conversations that mattered. Whether it was testifying at hearings, meeting with lawmakers or guiding our board through complex political issues, Gary brought clarity, conviction and a deep sense of purpose to everything he did.

He was a trusted partner, respected professional and friend. Beyond his political skill, Gary will be remembered for his integrity, sharp wit and unwavering commitment to the members of RCAW. He believed deeply in our mission and in the hardworking contractors who keep roofs over Washington’s homes and businesses. He was not just a lobbyist — he was a reliable partner, a mentor and a friend to many within our association. His presence at RCAW meetings, annual events and legislative updates will be greatly missed.

Our thoughts are with Gary’s family and loved ones and on behalf of the RCAW board, staff and membership, we extend our heartfelt condolences to Gary’s family and loved ones during this difficult time. Though Gary is no longer with us, his legacy will live on in the policies he shaped, the relationships he built and the example he set for all of us. We are grateful for his years of service and honored to have had him as part of the RCAW family.

If you would like to share your memories or messages about Gary, please feel free to email us at Director@RCAW.com.

Rest in peace, Gary. Thank you for everything.

By Emma Peterson. 

Explore the top ten May articles from The Coffee Shops™! 

This past month we saw a variety of articles make it onto our top ten list! From sharing heartwarming stories about brands giving back to their communities to informational articles about products and industry shifts, here at The Coffee Shops we’ve made sure to keep you up to date on everything happening in the industry.  

Making an appearance multiple times on our top list for the month are articles from our incredible president and industry expert Heidi J. Ellsworth. You don’t want to miss out on the chance to read about her experience at the April 2025 Roofing Alliance Member Meeting. This dynamic and productive gathering offered meaningful updates, great networking opportunities and renewed motivation for the year. Her insights about the 2025 National Roofing Partners (NRP) Leadership Summit are also a must-read! 

In addition to Heidi’s articles, our top list features articles from a variety of Coffee Shop writers, including Jesse Sanchez’s article about TUBOS Inc.'s innovative plumbing vent pipe extensions that prevent water intrusion at roof penetrations (and look good while doing it). There’s also Emma Peterson’s article that dives deep into the meaning and tests behind impact-rated shingles if you want to learn more about roofing products.  

And coming in at our number one spot for the month is a timely article from Justin Shirley of the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) about protecting your employees and business as tariffs and immigration policies continue to shift around us.  

Read all the top articles! 

Five honorable mentions to note: 

10 - Building the future, one skill at a time by Lauren White, The Coffee Shops 

9 - The Roofing Alliance continues to give back by Heidi J. Ellsworth, The Coffee Shops 

8 - Donating time, money and more by Emma Peterson, The Coffee Shops 

7 - The product that's busting myths about vent extensions by Jesse Sanchez, The Coffee Shops 

6 - Project profile: MacArthur Park in Oklahoma by Emma Peterson, The Coffee Shops 

And be sure to check out the top five from the last month: 

5 - RoofersCoffeeShop® announces opening of 2025 Roofing Industry Trends Survey

4 - The National Roofing Partners Leadership Summit brings top roofing companies together by Heidi J. Ellsworth, The Coffee Shops 

3 - Drew Buchanan joins MuleHide as Blue Ridge territory manager

2 - What is an impact rating and why does it matter? by Emma Peterson, The Coffee Shops 

1 - When ICE shows up unannounced by Justin Shirley, Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) 

By Justin Shirley, Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW).

Preparation means protection for your people and your business.

Disclaimer: Please note, this information is not legal advice and RCAW strongly encourages members to work with their local counsel to establish a compliance protocol that suits their unique needs.

They might arrive without notice — badges, clipboards, questions in hand. But with the right plan in place, that unexpected moment doesn’t have to spiral into chaos. For Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) and beyond, being ready for a visit from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) isn’t just smart — it’s a sign of leadership. In a time when skilled labor is scarce and immigrant workers help keep jobsites moving, a proactive approach shows your team you’ve got their backs. Here's how contractors can stay compliant, calm and in control — no matter who comes calling.

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) has issued guidance to help businesses like ours stay informed, compliant and ready.

Here are a few key takeaways:

1 — Understand the law:

The Immigration Reform and Control Act (IRCA) requires all employers to verify identity and employment eligibility using
Form I-9. These forms must be kept on file for all active employees and be ready for inspection.

2 — Have a protocol:

Create a response plan. Designate a manager or leader on every site who knows how to handle an ICE visit. Ensure your team is trained in what to do and has access to legal counsel if needed.

3 — Know your rights:

If ICE arrives with a Notice of Inspection (NOI), you are legally entitled to at least three business days to respond. Use this time to review your records thoroughly with an immigration attorney. If a judicial search warrant is presented, it must clearly outline the scope of the search. Remember: employees are not required to speak to ICE or consent to a search.

4 — Debrief and reassure:

Once ICE leaves, take time to meet with your team and your counsel. Document what happened, review any materials taken and most importantly — reassure your employees. Let them know your business takes their safety, rights and dignity seriously.

Learn more about NAHB’s “When ICE Comes Calling. U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement on the Jobsite.”
We stand by the hardworking individuals who show up every day, climb ladders, brave the elements and build our communities.

By being proactive and informed, we protect not only our teams but the integrity and future of our industry. You can review the full guidance from NAHB here or reach out to RCAW if you’d like help putting together a site protocol. Let’s continue to support one another and stay strong as a community.

For more information about how to prepare for ICE on the jobsite, check out this Coffee Conversations with Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese.