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!

By Jenny Yu.  

The MetalVue Roadshow is set to provide contractors with the knowledge, resources and confidence to develop metal roofing businesses that last. 

Before the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) Convention and Expo officially begins, attendees have an opportunity to get the party started early by attending a special Sherwin-Williams MetalVue event! Titled “MetalVue Roadshow: Grow With Metal,” this experience is free of charge and takes place on June 9, 2026, from 12:00 to 5:00 p.m. at the Gaylord Palms Resort in Kissimmee, Florida. 

The focus of this event is to help contractors unlock new business opportunities by demystifying metal roofing. Attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the resources available to them through MetalVue, Sherwin Williams’ comprehensive program that helps both manufacturers and contractors sell more residential and commercial metal roofs.  

Attendees will gain the knowledge and tools to build long-term, sustainable metal roofing businesses. Industry experts will share insights on how to train installation crews for high-quality installation and customer satisfaction, as well as techniques for selling metal roofing with more confidence.  

One key resource that attendees will explore at the MetalVue Roadshow is Roofing Passport, the industry’s only fully automated roofing software platform for both estimating and ordering. Roofing Passport, applicable for both residential and commercial roofs, integrates seamlessly with Eagleview for precise aerial property measurements of existing structures and with Roofing WRX for estimation derived from drawings for new construction.  

MetalCoffeeShop is proud to be a partner of the MetalVue Roadshow. Other partners include Watts Removal Products, GiddyUp Roofing Software, Sheridan Metal Resources, Uplevel Digital and The StoneGate Group. With this full suite of industry leaders providing resources and support, the MetalVue Roadshow is set to be the pre-FRSA event you can’t miss.  

Register now to secure your spot for the FREE Metal Vue Roadshow before FRSA begins!

By Jenny Yu.  

Explore how contractors can overcome common barriers and transform their workflows with the proper training and resources.   

In a recent Lunch & Learn titled “Building Better Metal Roofing Installers,” host Megan Ellsworth spoke with John Sheridan, MCS Influencer and owner of Sheridan Metal Resources, about the importance of training for metal roofing contractors to improve profitability, craftsmanship and long-term resiliency in a crowded market.  

The learning objectives of this Lunch & Learn were threefold: 

1 - Understand why metal installation training is critical today 

2 - Identify how training improves contractor performance and profitability 

3 - Explore modern training resources and strategies for metal contractors 

Why metal installation training is critical today 

With 40 years of experience in the industry, John shared his insights on the first objective, stating, “The popularity of metal is outgrowing the skill set of metal contractors. Training needs to ramp up to keep up with demand.” 

Part of the metal evolution includes the number of options available in the market, from snap block systems, nail strip systems, standing seam systems and mechanical lock systems, and the complexity these choices add. “You can't teach anybody on one system anymore,” John explained. “You have to teach people on several systems, because most manufacturers that are using coil coatings have several different profiles, so you can't lock yourself into one specific product.” 

How training improves contractor performance and profitability 

Beyond improving installation quality, John emphasized that training directly impacts profitability by reducing costly mistakes and warranty issues. “A roof is never going to leak in the middle of a roof panel; it’s going to leak where something comes through that roof — a chimney, pipe, skylight or valley,” John said. “That’s where training comes in.” 

One of the newer approaches Sheridan Metal Resources has introduced is “boot camp” training, where trainers work alongside crews on active projects rather than in a classroom setting. “They learn real skills in a real-world application,” John shared. “That upfront investment gets their guys up to speed faster.” 

Modern training resources and strategies for metal contractors 

When it comes to finding the best training resources, John suggested that contractors take advantage of the tools offered by reputable suppliers in their area and attend trade shows to learn from peers in the industry. 

As a Sherwin-Williams MetalVue^SM vendor partner, John attested to the impact the cohesive program provides for contractors, no matter what stage they are in their metal roofing business. “You don't have to spend all your time weeding through so many different services; they have it ready to go,” John said. From estimating tools to lead generation, MetalVue offers a complete suite of resources for contractors to grow. “They've done their homework. They know what works and what doesn't. I wish I’d had that when I started my business.” 

Watch the full Lunch & Learn to learn more about metal roofing training strategies.

By Metal Construction Alliance.

Join us to learn design‑focused, technical and practical tips from three experts, including an award-winning architect and an industry-leading specifier!

You're invited to earn up to three continuing education (CE) credits at a new, half-day educational program on May 29, 2026 in Chicago. Form, Function, and Finish: Designing with Metal is being developed and delivered by the Metal Construction Association (MCA)—the industry authority on 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.

The details

When: Friday, May 29, 2026 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: 633 North St. Clair Street, Chicago
What: Earn three (3) CEs in one morning
Why: Level up your skills and network

Registration is free for architects, designers and specifiers from throughout the Chicago area, Milwaukee and northwest Indiana.

What you'll learn and 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. 

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.

Insulated Metal Panels: Performance, Sustainability, + Design
Kyle Ferenc, CSI, district sales manager, ATAS International and 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. 

Companies you can connect with

In addition to learning, you can network with other attendees and meet leading suppliers for the metal building envelope. These companies include McElroy Metals, ATAS International, Sheffield Metals and more. The entire event is sponsored by Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings. Make new connections and find products to help you achieve your goals!

Save your seat today! 

Industry leaders were recognized for decades of innovation, mentorship and impact across metal buildings, insulated metal panels and metal roofing. 

The 2026 Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA) Annual Conference Awards Ceremony featured the Metal Construction News Hall of Fame induction ceremony. Metal Construction News publisher Melanie Kowal and Editor-in-Chief Anthony Capkun hosted the ceremony and highlighted the purpose of the program: to recognize individuals who have helped initiate, advance and shape the metal construction industry through dedication, innovation and inspiration. Inductees were selected with help from the association partner judges from the Metal Construction Association, the Metal Building Manufacturers Association and the MBCEA. The following individuals were inducted this year:  

Mark Detwiler (Cornerstone Building Brands) 

Recognized for a career that strengthened the foundation of metal construction through leadership and service with multiple construction associations, Mark noted this this honor wouldn’t be possible without a broader team effort and he credited the colleagues and partners who helped make it possible. 

Arnold Corbin (Metl-Span) 

Honored for more than four decades of leadership in insulated metal panels and pre-engineered metal buildings, Arnold shared a personal story of how he entered the industry with a hands-on job while in college because he needed date money. That date money resulted in him not only marrying his wife but developing a long-tenured, rewarding career in metal. He expressed gratitude for the mentors and teams who invested in his growth over the years. 

Jeff Alexander (The Sherwin-Williams Company) 

Jeff was recognized for more than 40 years of contributions that helped drive growth in coil coatings and support metal roofing’s rise from a niche product to a premium residential option. Jeff was unable to attend the ceremony, and the award was accepted on his behalf. 

Ted Wolf (Butler Manufacturing) 

Ted was honored for helping shape dealer networks, advancing standing seam systems and championing innovations that strengthened the industry. Unable to attend, his prepared remarks were shared during the ceremony, reflecting on a career that began in 1972 as a sales trainee, progressed through field sales leadership and culminated in serving as president of Butler’s North American operations before retiring in 2010. 

T.R. “Tony” Raimondo (Bayland Manufacturing) 

Raimondo was recognized for a vision that helped transform both a company and an industry. He passed away in 2022, and the honor was accepted by his son, Tony Raimondo Jr., who spoke about his father’s deep involvement in the Metal Building Manufacturers Association and the pivotal 1984 buyout that set Bayland on a long-term path from heavy losses to profitability. 

Phil Raimondo (Bayland Manufacturing) 

Recognized for helping define modern standards of quality and reliability in metal building systems, Phil Raimondo was inducted posthumously (he passed away in 2021). His son, Patrick Raimondo—plant manager at Bayland’s Sarasota, Florida, location—accepted the award and noted the lasting impact of his father’s dedication, while committing to carry the legacy forward. 

More information on this year’s Hall of Fame class is available in the April 2026 issue of Metal Construction News. The ceremony concluded with congratulations to the inductees and appreciation for the industry leaders and associations who continue to support the program.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Inside a visit to Schulte Building Systems with Sherwin-Williams showcasing innovation, people and performance.

My recent visit to Schulte Building Systems alongside Sherwin-Williams offered a firsthand look at what happens when advanced manufacturing meets deep-rooted craftsmanship and an exceptional company culture. It was more than a plant tour; it was an inside view of how innovation and people work together to drive the metal building industry forward. 

Walking through the facility, the scale of automation immediately stands out. Overhead cranes move massive steel components seamlessly across the plant while robotics and advanced machinery handle precise fabrication with efficiency and consistency. With three state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities serving the Midwest and Southeast, Schulte continues to invest in advanced technologies that drive precision and quality. The integration of coil coatings from Sherwin-Williams plays a critical role in ensuring durability, performance and long-term protection for metal roofing and building systems. These coatings are engineered to deliver corrosion resistance, color consistency and long-term performance across a wide range of building applications. This level of automation is not just about speed, it is about delivering consistent, high-quality products that meet the demands of modern construction across commercial buildings, metal roofing systems and the fast-growing barndominium market. 

What truly sets Schulte apart is how technology and human expertise work side by side. While robotics handle repetition and scale, the craftsmanship of skilled welders brings precision and integrity to every component. Watching these professionals work in tandem with advanced machinery reinforces an important truth, innovation does not replace people, it elevates them. The welders’ attention to detail ensures that each structural element performs as intended, contributing to the overall strength and reliability of complete metal building systems. 

Beyond the technology and production, the culture at Schulte Building Systems is what makes the company truly special. As a generational, family-owned business, their commitment to employees is evident in everything they do. One of the most memorable highlights was learning about their Easter weekend celebration, where the company hosts a massive gathering featuring more than 750 pounds of crawfish along with catfish, hushpuppies and all the traditional favorites. This is not just an event; it is a reflection of a culture that values people, connection and appreciation. That kind of environment builds loyalty, pride and a workforce that is deeply invested in the success of the company and the quality of its products. 

Schulte Building Systems serves a wide range of industries, from large-scale commercial buildings to agricultural structures, barndominiums and metal roofing and siding systems. Their role as a manufacturer of pre-engineered metal buildings and components supports architects, builders and contractors across multiple sectors. By combining advanced manufacturing, premium coatings from Sherwin-Williams and a workforce grounded in craftsmanship and culture, Schulte is helping to build more than structures, they are helping to build stronger communities. This visit was a powerful reminder that the future of construction is not just about technology. It is about the people behind it, the partnerships that support it and the culture that sustains it. 

To learn more about high-performance metal coatings and building solutions, visit Sherwin-Williams on the MetalCoffeeShop directory.