By Emma Peterson. 

Check out what The Coffee Shops™ readers are clicking on. 

It’s hard to even believe that it’s already April. If your March has been anything like ours has been at The Coffee Shops™, it has been very busy! So, to help our readers keep track of everything that happened in the last month, we put together a list of the top-read articles on RoofersCoffeeShop®, MetalCoffeeShop® and CoatingsCoffeeShop® in March 2026.  

One thing we noticed when looking at the data for our trending article topics was the sheer number of articles focused on workforce development and business advice. For example, Emma Peterson highlighted how SkillsUSA helped two young roofers find a mentor for life and how National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has made workforce development one of their key initiatives.   

Additionally, Jenny Yu shared key information for metal roofers about how Sherwin-Williams' MetalVue program acts as “a comprehensive support system for contractors that connects them to all the tools they might need” to succeed. Additionally, John Kenney of Cotney Consulting Group dove into general construction safety practices and how the fundamentals are key to building a long-lasting, successful business.  

Our top article list from March 2026 

10 - Finding the path to roofing by Emma Peterson 

9 - Navigating a new world of technology by Emma Peterson 

8 - Business-in-a-box for metal roofing by Jenny Yu 

7 - Finding your path through mentorship by Emma Peterson 

6 - Brakes and beyond: Products for efficiency and customization by Jenny Yu 

5 - The state of roofing recruitment and retention by Emma Peterson 

4 - General construction safety principles: The core practices every outdoor trade should follow by John Kenney 

3 - Inspiring the next generation of roofers by Emma Peterson 

2 - A new safety frontier by Emma Peterson 

1 - Level up your team with training by Emma Peterson 

By Alberto Torres. 

Training in Miami brings contractors together to improve metal roof installation. 

Sherwin-Williams MetalVue organized an event in Miami, Florida, this February 2026 where Top Metal led a specialized training focused on the correct installation of metal roofing systems. The event brought together more than forty contractors and professionals from different parts of the United States. According to Heidi J. Ellsworth of RoofersCoffeeShop®, the event offered different types of training, and all information was provided in both English and Spanish. 

According to Aldin Mejia, owner and founder of Top Metal, this event has been a very positive experience for attendees, who had the opportunity to learn key techniques to ensure proper and professional installation. “The main objective of this system is to promote proper metal installation and make sure people learn to do it correctly, because that is the most important thing,” Aldin shared during the event. He also presented one of the products they use for metal roofs: “Titebond Metal Roof Sealant is specifically made for metal; it doesn’t contain acids that damage the material,” Aldin explained. 

One of the most noticeable aspects of the training was the diversity of attendees. Aldin reported the presence of participants from various states, including Texas, New Jersey, Florida, Oklahoma, Tennessee and California, among others. Their participation reflects the growing interest in the industry, especially in the metal roofing segment, where installation precision can make a significant difference in the durability and performance of the system. 

Amparo Sancen from Latinos en Roofing shared the importance of attending training like this one, highlighting that the knowledge provided can help contractors expand their services and strengthen their businesses. She also pointed out that this type of training is useful even for those who are already installing metal roofs, as it allows them to reinforce techniques and prevent issues in future projects. 

With the growth of the metal roofing market, training like this is essential to elevate work quality and reduce field failures. 

By Jenny Yu. 

Sherwin-Williams' Roofing Passport brings speed, accuracy and confidence to custom metal roofing bids. 

As metal roofing continues to gain ground in the residential market, Sherwin-Williams is equipping contractors with tools to compete more effectively. In this RLW®, Karen Edwards spoke with Junny Lee and Heather McGinnis of Sherwin-Williams about how the company’s Roofing Passport program is helping contractors streamline metal estimates and grow their businesses. 

Junny pointed to durability and longevity as key drivers behind metal’s rise. “We know that a metal roof is two, three, maybe four times longer than the lifespan of an asphalt roof,” Junny stated. Still, contractors face barriers when adding metal to their offerings. “We’ve narrowed it down to three things: lack of training, the cost perception or the uphill battle of upselling.” Through its MetalVue program, Sherwin-Williams addresses those concerns with training, sales support and data-backed performance metrics.  

Furthermore, their Roofing Passport program tackles one of the biggest hurdles: estimating custom metal jobs quickly and accurately.  

“As far as going into the home and bidding, the thing that we heard over and over again was the fact that it was hard, because it’s a custom product, to deliver on a bid for metal,” Heather said. “So, what we did as a company that just wants to get another piece of metal on a roof was to say: we need to simplify this estimating process. We need to make it easy. We need to be able to compete alongside with asphalt.”  

From there, Sherwin-Williams created Roofing Passport, a cloud-based software that ingests Eagleview reports, blueprints or XML files and generates a detailed takeoff report, including panel layouts, trim, accessories and fasteners. “It provides fewer errors and delays, it’s accurate and it’s an automated turnaround,” Heather shared, adding that estimates are typically within $200 of final costs. 

Notably, Sherwin-Williams does not charge contractors to use the platform beyond third-party report fees. “This is just something we wanted to do for the contractors to help get more metal up there,” Heather expressed. 

Read the first article in this series, Listen to the conversation or Watch the presentation to learn more about Roofing Passport and see the software in action. 

By Jenny Yu.  

Discover the facts behind some of the most common misconceptions about metal roofs.  

Metal roofing is growing to be one of the most popular roofing material choices, and for good reason. Metal is versatile, durable and cost-effective, requiring less maintenance than most traditional materials and offering greater energy efficiency benefits. However, some people in roofing are still hesitant to adopt metal into their business because of myths or misinformation about the trending material. MetalVue by Sherwin-Williams is here to set the record straight. Below are a few common myths that MetalVue debunks so that contractors can make informed decisions about incorporating metal into their services. 

1 – Metal comes in only one color and texture.  

Actually, metal has a lot more variety than one might think. Metal panels can be coated with a variety of colors, gloss levels, textures and prints that can mimic the look of traditional roofing materials like asphalt shingles, clay tiles and more. 

2 – Metal roofs rust easily. 

With the proper galvanized coatings and protective finishes, metal roofs resist the damaging effects of water, acid rain and UV rays. In addition, these coatings are fade- and dirt-resistant while deterring algae and mold growth. Finally, metal roof warranties often have much longer warranties compared to other roofing materials.  

3 – Metal roofs cost more than other roofs. 

While the upfront cost of a metal roof may be higher than that of traditional materials like asphalt shingles, the economic benefits typically outweigh the costs in the long run, making metal roofs a smart long-term investment.  

For instance, MetalVue notes that metal roofs can last 50 years or more compared to the average 20 years for traditional roofs, saving on maintenance and replacement costs. Metal roofs are also eligible for significant tax credits due to their sustainable impact, saving homeowners as much as $1,500. Furthermore, metal roofs can lower household energy costs by 40% due to their heat-reflecting properties.  

Learn more metal myths and how to incorporate metal into your business!

By Jenny Yu.  

Explore how incorporating metal can take your business to the next level. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards spoke with Sherwin-Williams’ MetalVue OEM Program Manager, Brendan McGinnis and Sherwin Williams’ Contractor Sales Representative for the MetalVue program, Heather McGinnis, about consumer trends and why roofing contractors should incorporate metal into their offerings.  

First, property owners are choosing metal because of its long-term performance and durability. “We're seeing a shift from the consumer perspective, where they're tired of dealing with the replacement of an asphalt roof,” Brendan explained. “Realistically, an asphalt roof is going to last 12 to 15 years, while a metal roof is going to last 40 years. You're going to have to replace that asphalt roof three to four times within the life of a metal roof — that's just not something that homeowners have a lot of appetite for when they're buying a forever home.” 

Along with performance, customers enjoy the aesthetic properties and customization that metal provides. Sherwin-Williams's Sher-Color™ program expands asphalt shingle offerings beyond the typical colors of greys, browns and beiges. “There are so many color options available within the metal space; if somebody can dream it, we can create it,” Heather stated. “There are pigments of every color of the rainbow, and the combination of those makes all the customization in the world possible.” 

In fact, Brendan shared a unique story that speaks to Sherwin-Williams' customization and customer collaboration: “I think the weirdest thing that I ever matched was when someone sent me a purple spoon. I created a paint system in the color of that purple spoon in our Weather Excel product, and I think they ended up purchasing it.” 

Finally, beyond performance and endless customization possibilities, metal offers what all contractors want: margins. “Margin is great in metal, and it has to be because it is a product that is not designed to be replaced over and over again,” Brendan said. “This is an opportunity for you to make a margin on one job, service that customer and make a name for yourself.”  With Sherwin-Williams' Roofing Passport program, contractors can take advantage of this opportunity and become leaders in their areas. 

Read the first article in this series or Listen to the podcast to learn more about how Sherwin-Williams is helping roofing contractors add metal to their services. 

By Jenny Yu.  

Sherwin-Williams leaders explain how their MetalVue and Roofing Passport tools are helping contractors sell more metal with confidence. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, The Coffee Shops™ stopped by the Sherwin-Williams booth to learn more about its MetalVue program acts to remove barriers to entry for contractors looking to sell and install metal roofs. 

“Sherwin-Williams went out and identified gaps within the roofing industry of why people weren't putting metal roofs on houses,” explained Heather McGinnis, contractor sales representative for MetalVue. The solution was to build a comprehensive support system for contractors that connects them to all the tools they might need: installation training, lead generation support, visualization technology and estimating software. “So, MetalVue is basically an à la carte business-in-a-box that Sherwin developed for contractors.” 

A key component of that toolbox is Roofing Passport, Sherwin-Williams' online platform that simplifies roof takeoff and project estimations. “Roofing Passport is an online tool that helps sell roofs faster and allows you to sell metal roofing alongside asphalt, not as an afterthought,” stated Brendan McGinnis, MetalVue OEM program manager. “You can enter an address, or you can upload blueprints, plans or drawings, and it comes back with a full material takeoff list of any of our 155 different manufacturers spread across the United States.” 

The convenience of the platform has earned raving reviews from contractors. “MetalVue is the only product that they've seen that actually pulls everything together in one spot for them. So that's the best feedback to have them say, ‘You've done what we've been wanting,’” Heather shared. “That was our goal: to make their lives easier. And at the end of the day, we just want to sell another gallon of paint. All we do is make the coating.” 

Finally, the power of a trusted brand is a huge benefit. “Contractors love a brand they can sell,” Brendan pointed out, encouraging contractors to use their logo on marketing materials. Ultimately, the goal is simple: “We want to put more metal roofs on houses nationwide. We’ve got to find a way to sell more metal, and I think we've done it.” 

Watch the interview to learn more about MetalVue and Roofing Passport!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Learning the science and business of metal roofing and siding installation.

For contractors all over the U.S., staying ahead of industry standards for metal roofing is crucial. This necessity for specialized knowledge led to a recent, intensive three-day training event held at the Top Metal Supply facility in Miami, Florida. A diverse group of Latino contractors, attending from across the country, gathered to gain deep insights into best practices for metal roofing and siding installation. MetalCoffeeShop was on location documenting the sessions, which blended technical installation science with essential business acumen all in Spanish.

The event was hosted by Aldin Mejia, founder of Top Metal Supply, a prominent Miami-based company known for specializing in high-quality, custom-fabricated metal roofing for both residential and commercial projects. Top Metal focuses on providing durable solutions with added benefits like on-site bending and quick delivery. Aldin and his team worked with the contractors on teaching installation and translating critical information as needed.

The training emphasized a holistic approach to metal systems, featuring presentations from industry leaders: Sherwin-Williams experts detailed the science of advanced coil coatings and the business of the MetalVue program, Nick Cwikla of FT Solutions shared crucial information on the importance of underlayment and John Sheridan with Sheridan Consulting led the installation training with Moises Fregozo. The training was predominately in Spanish providing a critical opportunity for Latino roofing companies.

A key highlight was the participation of Latinos en Roofing, led by Amparo Sancen. She provided invaluable training on the intricate business side of the industry, specifically focusing on how insurance claims are currently influencing roofing projects and best practices for navigating those processes effectively.

The Miami training reinforced that contractors are the final link in the chain of quality control. Learning how metal is factory-coated and how to protect that coating is essential for long-term performance. It's vital that contractors ask their metal roofing fabricator or manufacturer exactly what coil coating they use, as formulations vary widely in quality. Ensuring the underlayment discussed by Nick Cwikla is compatible with the specified metal roofing system is also a key to success.

This vital training initiative was visualized and brought to life by Aldin Mejia and the dedicated team at Top Metal Supply. Aldin is deeply committed to providing the essential tools and education for Spanish-speaking roofing companies to receive high-level training in their first language, fostering a more knowledgeable and professional industry nationwide. This commitment was made possible through the generous support and partnership of the Sherwin-Williams MetalVue program and Sheridan Training. MetalCoffeeShop was honored to participate and document the event. 

By Jenny Yu. 

The show’s growth in technical education and charitable outreach demonstrates why it remains a cornerstone event for the metal construction industry. 

Another successful METALCON is in the books, and the conversations leading up to the event offered valuable insight into why the show continues to resonate with industry professionals. In this MetalCast™ episode recorded before the expo, Karen Edwards spoke with METALCON Tradeshow Director Judy Geller about what makes the event unlike any other. 

Judy emphasized the show’s singular focus on metal and its role as a comprehensive education hub. “One of the things that we feel very, very strongly about is that METALCON is the only show that is really all about metal construction,” she stated. “We are well aware that there are a lot of other shows out there. But this is the only show that completely focuses on the application of metal in construction and design.” 

To take advantage of their unique position in the industry, METALCON offers a wide variety of educational opportunities for professionals to talk to experts, discover new products and get hands-on training. Sponsored by Sherwin-Williams, the training zone increases in size and scope every year.  

“John Sheridan and his crew offer two and a half days of hands-on training, and it is buzzing,” Judy shared. “From the time the show floor opens until we throw them out at the end of the day, they’re showing installers and contractors — in English and in Spanish —how to up-skill and finesse everything they do. They'll show you how to use the right tools and how to improve your techniques.” 

METALCON also continued its tradition of giving back, reinforcing a mission that extends beyond the exhibit floor. One of the most ambitious efforts showcased this year right on the show floor. “We are building a barndominium for charity,” Judy said. In partnership with the Military Warriors Support Foundation, the Scottsdale Construction Company and Oliver Bell and Stacee Lynn of the The Barndominium Company, the frame for Eagles Landing, a 2,500 square foot retreat center for veterans, was assembled at the center of the show floor. After METALCON, the frame was disassembled, moved to Hall, Montana, where it will be completed in 2026 to serve as a retreat for combat-wounded veterans and Gold Star families. 

With countless opportunities for education and giving back, METALCON reminds us why it’s an experience you just can’t miss.  

Listen to the podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about all that METALCON has to offer.

By Anna Lockhart.  

Expand your knowledge of the power of metal roofing and sales strategies by visiting the Sherwin-Williams booth on the trade show floor! 

Sherwin-Williams is bringing together the power of color science, digital tools and complete metal roofing solutions under one roof for the roofing industry’s biggest event. At the 2026 International Roofing Expo (IRE), attendees can visit booth 3645 to connect with Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings, Sherwin-Williams MetalVue and the MetalVue Roofing Passport for a hands-on look at how the company is supporting the expanding metal roofing market. From January 20-22 in Las Vegas, IRE will be the place to see the brand’s product lines and services in action!  

Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings 

Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings proudly serves as one of the world’s leading manufacturers of coil and extrusion metal coatings. Offering insights into the latest color trends and a forward-thinking approach that prioritizes innovation and performance, their color experts anticipate industry needs with great precision. By continuously asking what’s next, Sherwin-Williams pushes coatings technology forward, delivering products that balance durability with design flexibility. From architectural panels to metal roofing systems, their coatings options lead to endless possibilities across industry uses, applications and geographic regions. 

Color plays a central role in metal roofing, influencing curb appeal, energy performance and long-term value. Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings brings deep expertise to that conversation, helping contractors and manufacturers find the right finish for every project. Engineered to perform in real-world conditions, their coating offerings are a testament to the brand’s commitment to creating durable, aesthetic solutions. 

MetalVue 

The MetalVue program was created to help contractors and OEMs find steady growth in the rapidly expanding metal roofing market. The program offers a flexible, step-by-step approach to sales that can be tailored based on a company’s individual goals, brand messaging and target markets. Whether solving common industry challenges, expanding service offerings or improving collaboration across the supply chain, MetalVue provides a customizable path forward for contractors looking to find success. The program is made possible through partnering with respected industry experts who deliver training, tools and insights designed to remove barriers and increase profitability. 

Roofing Passport 

Attendees also won’t want to miss out on the special Roofing Passport demonstrations taking place at their booth! As a part of the MetalVue program, Roofing Passport is designed to save contractors valuable time and resources. These live demos will show how digital tools can remove friction from the sales and planning process while improving accuracy and efficiency. 

For contractors and industry professionals looking to up their market savvy and successes in 2026, a stop by the Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings booth (#3645) is a must! The future of metal roofing is built on innovation, collaboration and the power of color – and who’s better to learn those insights from than the experts themselves?  

Learn more by visiting the Sherwin-Williams Coil Coatings booth at IRE 2026! 

By Jesse Sanchez 

From profitability tools and retrofit strategies to shop growth and workforce insights, the most impactful MetalCoffeeShop content in 2025 focused on helping contractors succeed with metal. 

MetalCoffeeShop’s strongest engagement in 2025 centered on content that helped contractors make better business decisions with metal. At the top of that list was the MetalTalk™ webinar “Roofing Passport: Making More Money With Metal,” which explored the relaunch of Sherwin-Williams’ Roofing Passport within the MetalVue program. 

During the session, guests from Sherwin-Williams walked contractors through how automated, one-click metal estimates and integrated job details can remove friction from both residential and commercial bidding. By tying technology directly to margin control and efficiency, the conversation reflected a growing appetite for tools that simplify metal work rather than complicate it. 

MetalCast highlights retrofit momentum 

That same practical focus carried into the MetalCast™ episode “Rodger Russ: Unlocking Retrofit Potential for Metal Roofs.” In the conversation, Rodger Russ of Tremco examined the expanding role of metal retrofits across roofs and walls. 

The episode positioned retrofit work as a way to extend building life, improve sustainability and minimize disruption for owners — a message that resonated as contractors increasingly look for alternatives to full tear-offs. By addressing design considerations, safety advantages and long-term performance, the discussion reinforced metal’s versatility as both a technical and strategic solution. 

MetalTalk - Sheet metal shop growth draws strong interest 

Educational MetalTalk™ sessions also drew strong engagement, particularly “How to Start a Sheet Metal Shop,” which focused on when it makes sense for contractors to bring fabrication in-house. 

From equipment selection and workflow planning to lean staffing models and turnaround times, the session helped demystify shop ownership and highlighted how faster production and tighter control over trim and panels can become a competitive advantage in local markets. 

LIVE from METALCON 2025 

On the show floor, MetalCoffeeShop’s YouTube playlist “LIVE From METALCON 2025!” extended that education into real time. The 40-plus video series featured conversations with manufacturers, associations and service providers, capturing emerging trends in coatings, accessories, tools and workforce development at METALCON. 

Together, the interviews offered contractors a snapshot of where the metal market is heading and who is shaping it. 

Top article – Advocacy in roofing   

Beyond products and processes, 2025 content also reflected the industry’s broader priorities. The article “Key advocacy efforts advance for the roofing industry” highlighted how tax policy and workforce legislation supported by National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) could impact reroofing decisions and long-term planning. 

Top Influencer – Recruiting and retaining skilled workers 

Influencer content also resonated strongly, including “How the metal industry can recruit and train the next generation of skilled workers,” written by John Kenney, CEO of Cotney Consulting Group. His perspective expressed the importance of apprenticeship programs, technology adoption and mentorship in sustaining the metal workforce. 

Top social media posts 

Short-form video rounded out the year’s top content. A TikTok highlighting a metal roof installation demo at the International Roofing Expo (IRE) showcased hands-on training in action, while an Instagram Reel featuring Malco Tools’ Power Assisted Seamer demonstrated how modern tools are improving jobsite efficiency. These quick-hit videos reinforced MetalCoffeeShop’s educational mission while meeting contractors where they already consume content. 

Together, MetalCoffeeShop’s most-engaged content in 2025 reinforced a central theme: growth in metal depends just as much on people and policy as it does on panels and equipment. 

Explore this year’s highlights and dive into MetalCoffeeShop’s most impactful Read, Listen, Watch content from 2025!