MCS Influencer Lauren Rogers with Sherwin-Williams says combining sustainability metrics with measurable business outcomes can create more compelling customer conversations.

As sustainability becomes increasingly important in building design and construction, customers are looking for solutions that deliver both sustainability attributes and financial benefits. Metal roofing and wall systems provide examples of how building materials can contribute to energy efficiency, resiliency and long-term value while supporting broader sustainability goals.

One effective way to communicate sustainability benefits is by linking them directly to measurable cost savings. Metal systems are known for their durability and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, including hail, high winds and fire. Because resilient building materials can help reduce the risk of damage, some insurance providers offer discounts for impact-resistant roofing systems. For example, certain commercial property insurers may provide premium reductions of 5% to 30% for buildings that meet specific resilience standards. While savings vary by insurer and location, the connection between reduced risk and lower insurance costs helps strengthen the business case for sustainable construction.

Additionally, energy performance is another important driver of value. Many metal roofing systems incorporate reflective "cool roof" coatings that reduce heat absorption, helping lower cooling demands and improve overall building efficiency. Building owners may benefit from utility rebates, local incentive programs or tax-based energy-efficiency credits. On top of incentive programs, building owners can see a 7-15% average reduction in energy usage due to cool coating technology, according to the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC). A great resource for home and building owners is the CRRC, which is a nonprofit organization that develops fair, accurate and credible methods for evaluating and labeling the radiative properties of roofing and exterior wall products. Cool roofing systems may qualify for utility-sponsored energy rebates, while energy-efficient building upgrades can contribute toward compliance with programs such as LEED certification or local energy benchmarking requirements.

Communicating the long-term value of sustainable metal systems requires looking beyond upfront costs. Metal roofs and wall panels often provide decades of service with minimal maintenance, reducing replacement cycles and lowering lifecycle costs. Their long lifespan also minimizes material waste and supports circular economy goals through high recycled content and end-of-life recyclability. Resilience further enhances long-term value. Buildings that perform well during severe weather events often experience fewer disruptions, lower repair expenses and improved asset protection. For businesses, avoiding a single roof replacement or weather-related shutdown can generate significant savings while supporting operational continuity.

Data plays a critical role in supporting sustainability and resilience claims. By combining sustainability metrics with measurable business outcomes, organizations can create more compelling customer conversations. Demonstrating reduced energy use, lower lifecycle costs, potential insurance savings and access to energy incentives help position sustainable metal systems as a smart investment that delivers value for both the environment and the bottom line.

By The Coffee Shops™. 

Sherwin-Williams color schemes help contractors and homeowners visualize exterior palettes before making selections. 

Choosing exterior colors is a significant project decision. From the roof and siding to the trim and accents, every element contributes to the finished appearance. Seeing how those selections work together can help contractors guide productive conversations and create visually appealing outcomes.  

Sherwin-Williams color schemes offer a simple way to explore complete exterior combinations. Each professionally curated palette brings together roof, siding, trim and accent colors, with combinations built around popular metal roofing colors. Instead of considering each surface separately, homeowners can view the exterior as a coordinated whole. This resource helps prevent a worst-case scenario outcome, where the customer’s chosen colors may not produce the result they imagined, either prolonging the project or lowering customer satisfaction.  

These collections are designed to support collaboration between homeowners and their contractors. Customers can begin by exploring different combinations and identifying the colors that stand out to them. They can then compare palettes, consider which options complement their home style and discuss their preferences with a contractor. 

That shared visual reference can make it easier to narrow the possibilities and align on a look that reflects the homeowner’s vision. It also gives contractors a practical tool for organizing the color conversation and helping customers move through the selection process with confidence. 

Sherwin-Williams extends that focus on color through its broader collection of resources. Color experts can assist with customization, while the company’s Effects line features colors that shift, shine and sparkle. Contractors can also explore their metal coating color library, Color Trends Forecast and Color of the Year for added project inspiration. 

Even if the customer does not ultimately choose a pre-made color pallet, the designs are still an excellent starting point for discussing what colors compliment the house style and will look good together. With the coordinated palettes and additional color resources available, contractors can help customers approach exterior selections as a complete design decision rather than a series of disconnected choices. 

Explore the Sherwin-Williams world of color.

Metal roofing is exploding across every segment of construction, and contractors who want to grow need to be paying attention. In this MetalTalk ™, sponsored by Sherwin-Williams, we dive into what is driving that demand and how contractors can capitalize on it, whether they are adding metal for the first time or scaling an existing offering. From selling smarter with MetalVue to streamlining estimating with Roofing Passport using precise data from EagleView, this conversation is packed with real strategies to win more metal work. But the real excitement is the MetalVue Road Show, bringing hands-on training, live demos and real-world applications directly to contractors across the country. This is not just another training; it is an immersive experience designed to help crews, sales teams and owners immediately level up their skills and close more business. Join us to see how technology, training and momentum are coming together to power the future of metal roofing.

Listen to the MetalTalk.

Watch the MetalTalk.

Metal roofing is exploding across every segment of construction, and contractors who want to grow need to be paying attention. In this MetalTalk ™, sponsored by Sherwin-Williams, we dive into what is driving that demand and how contractors can capitalize on it, whether they are adding metal for the first time or scaling an existing offering. From selling smarter with MetalVue to streamlining estimating with Roofing Passport using precise data from EagleView, this conversation is packed with real strategies to win more metal work. But the real excitement is the MetalVue Road Show, bringing hands-on training, live demos and real-world applications directly to contractors across the country. This is not just another training; it is an immersive experience designed to help crews, sales teams and owners immediately level up their skills and close more business. Join us to see how technology, training and momentum are coming together to power the future of metal roofing.

Listen to the MetalTalk.

Watch the MetalTalk.

By Emma Peterson.  

A look at the connections, conversations and community at FRSA 2026. 

At the beginning of June, the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association (FRSA) held their much-anticipated Convention and Expo. The biggest regional roofing show in the United States, the event saw hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of attendees come together at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in Kissimmee, Florida for three days of education, networking and fun!  

The show kicked off with a Welcome Reception sponsored by our friends at Adams and Reese and featuring food along with an open bar. It was a great way to set the tone for the show and get ready for the business of the next few days. And the next few days were busy! 

There were countless education sessions and opportunities to attend, with highlights including the National Women in Roofing (NWIR)’s Table Talks session and the FRSA Business Luncheon, along with plenty of events to keep you busy, like the Beer Bust, sponsored by Mid-Atlantic Roofing Supply and GAF and the annual Foundation Auction. Not to mention the extensive trade show floor, featuring leading companies like GenFlex, Gaco, Elevate, MetalVue, Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings, H.B. Fuller, Marco Industries and Progressive Metals, that was waiting for attendees to explore between events and sessions. 

The Coffee Shops™ was in attendance with several crew members running a soundstage (sponsored by TAMKO) in the expo lobby. One such crew member, Jessica Bravo, our En Español program coordinator, shared a bit about the experience: 

FRSA is one of my favorite trade shows of the year. Since it takes place during the summer, it has a great family friendly atmosphere and it's always nice to see so many families attending together... This year, I had the opportunity to help run the soundstage. Sitting behind the equipment with headphones connected to the microphones, I was able to listen in on some truly great conversations and interviews throughout the event. 

Our president, Heidi J. Ellsworth, shared some highlights from the week, saying, “The TAMKO-sponsored sound stage served as a hub for industry conversations throughout the event, hosting more than 30 interviews with contractors, manufacturers, distributors, association leaders and roofing professionals from across North America. In addition, two full-length Coffee Conversations brought together expert panels to discuss key trends, challenges and opportunities impacting the roofing industry today.” 

If you want to check out some of those conversations, they are available on demand via the RoofersCoffeeShop® YouTube channel!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

By Jenny Yu. 

As homeowner interest in metal roofing continues to grow, contractors can leverage new tools and resources to establish themselves in the metal space. 

As demand for metal roofing continues to rise, contractors are finding new opportunities to expand their offerings, increase margins and deliver long-term value to homeowners. During a recent episode MetalTalk™, Junny Lee of Sherwin-Williams discussed how metal roofing is evolving and how contractors can position themselves to take advantage of the trend through the company's MetalVue program. 

Junny, who joined the Sherwin-Williams marketing team after spending years in supply chain and operations roles, said metal roofing’s appeal comes down to performance, energy efficiency, aesthetics and value. “Metal continues to grow and drives interest from a lot of folks, especially homeowners and consumers,” Junny said. “Metal is a very durable product, and within durability, you still have several options based on the gauge and thickness of the steel.” 

Durability is an appealing selling point for many home and building owners, especially in areas where a sturdy roof is an essential line of defense against intense weather conditions. “In areas prone to extreme weather, especially hurricanes, a lot of failures of a home start with the roof,” Junny explained, noting that roof failures often lead to significant property damage when water penetrates the building envelope. “So, durable roofing material is extremely important.”  

Another factor driving the growth of metal in the market is energy efficiency. “A lot of our coatings can be measured through their solar reflectance and thermal emittance, which ultimately gives you the solar reflectance index,” Junny shared, adding that with energy efficiency comes increased savings. “On an annual basis, our coating will help you save money on energy bills, especially during the warm season. It all comes down to value: what is your roof doing for you?” 

At the same time, aesthetics has transformed metal roofing from a niche product into a mainstream design choice. With expanded color selections and textured finishes available through Sherwin-Williams coating systems, homeowners have more options than ever to create distinctive looks that complement their homes. “It’s a differentiator,” Junny said of the many options Sherwin-Williams provides. “It comes down to giving homeowners more options, and what better company to do that than one that knows color like Sherwin-Williams?” 

For contractors, Junny said metal roofing can open doors to higher-margin projects and hybrid business models. “It’s the opportunity for some to say, ‘you know what, I want to do less projects on an annual basis. Projects that provide wider margins,’” he said. 

Through MetalVue, Sherwin-Williams connects contractors with installation, sales and business development resources to help them successfully add metal roofing to their portfolios. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the full webinar to learn more about MetalVue, metal roofing trends and strategies for maximizing profitability.

You're invited to earn up to 3 CEs at a new, half-day educational program on May 29 in Chicago. Form, Function, and Finish: Designing with Metal is being developed and delivered by the Metal Construction Association (MCA)—the industry authority the use of metal in the building envelope. Breakfast is included, and you can make new connections with time to network with attendees and vendors.

Registration is free for architects, designers, and specifiers from throughout the Chicago area, Milwaukee, and northwest Indiana. Join us to learn design focused, technical, and practical tips from three experts, including an award-winning architect and an industry-leading specifier!

What you'll learn + from whom:

• Designing with Metal: Performance, Resilience, + Architectural Expression
  Rick Schneider, FAIA LEED, founder and principal of ISTUDIO Architects
  An architect will discuss how metal systems reduce long-term operational costs, streamline construction, and support resilient design via four award-winning projects. 
  1 LU/HSW
• Designing with Metal Composite Materials
  Samuel Chastain, director of commercial operations at Alfrex, Inc
  Learn about flexibility, sustainability, energy efficiency, and visual appearance designing with metal composite materials from an experienced industry professional who co-invented a composite building panel with improved resilience.
  1 LU/HSW
• Insulated Metal Panels: Performance, Sustainability, + Design
  Kyle Ferenc, CSI, district sales manager, ATAS International,
  + VP of the Chicago Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute
  A specifier will explore various uses for insulated metal panels in creative design, and the benefits of long-term sustainability. 
  1 LU/HSW/GBCI

Register today!

The Metal Construction Association (MCA) is hosting a new education program for architects, designers, and specifiers in the Chicago region! This new in-person event is a standalone education program created by MCA and sponsored by Sherwin-Williams.

Form, Function, and Finish: Designing with Metal is a half-day event held the morning of Friday, May 29, and focusing on how metal roofing and wall systems are used in today’s building envelope—covering performance, detailing, and design flexibility. Architects, designers, and specifiers from throughout the Chicago area, Milwaukee, and northwest Indiana are invited to sign up now for this free event to earn continuing education credits!

The half-day event offers up to three AIA continuing education credits and features sessions on design, performance, resilience, and metal building envelope systems from: 

• Rick Schneider, founder and principal of ISTUDIO Architects 
• Samuel Chastain, director of commercial operations at Alfrex, Inc 
• Kyle Ferenc, district sales manager at ATAS International and vice president of the Chicago Chapter of the Construction Specifications Institute 

This first of its kind event supports MCA’s mission to deliver credible education, practical technical guidance, and trusted resources for design professionals working with metal. 

Save your seat today!