By Jesse Sanchez. 

The growing case for stronger rooftop equipment attachment in today’s wind conditions. 

As wind events intensify across the country, Anchor Products is urging the roofing community to look beyond the membrane and focus on the equipment that often drives loss. On this episode of the Roofing Road Trips® podcast, Anchor Products’ Southeast regional manager, Harley Coleman, told host Karen Edwards that vulnerability to wind uplift is not confined to hurricane-prone coasts. While he lives and works in Florida, he stressed that every region has its own baseline risk. He stated, “I would say that it is applicable to every region and in the last couple of years at Anchor, I've certainly come to appreciate the impact of wind on regions outside of just the Southeast.” 

Harley pointed to the shifting footprint of severe weather. “If you look at a map of Tornado Alley, it is fascinating to me,” he said. “Back in the early 1900s, it's literally two or three states. And if you look at it now, it's almost encompassing 50% of the United States.” 

At the same time, rooftop equipment itself has evolved. Taller, lighter HVAC designs behave differently in high winds than the squat units many buildings were originally designed around. Harley said that in many markets he visits, “those units aren't attached, they're just floating.” 

A recent incident in Texas represented that risk. “April of this year, Dallas, Texas had just an afternoon thunderstorm,” he said. It was not a tornado, just a severe storm with 65 mile per hour winds. On one large facility, “we had a facility there that had a 15,000-pound unit that toppled off its curb and rolled across the roof,” Harley said. “This unit is 80 feet long, 10 feet wide.” 

The unit happened to roll in the same direction as the bar joists, which helped prevent a structural collapse, but the outcome could have been far worse. In response, the owner engaged Anchor Products to help redesign the attachment approach. “We went out and did a forensic walk on the roof, took some notes on the field conditions that were present and we put together a package using our U2400 anchors with our cable tie-down kits,” Harley said. An engineering partner validated the design against local codes and the damaged unit was replaced with a properly secured system. 

That one event is now driving broader change across the site. Harley shared that the owner is “putting together a proactive plan to remedy the rest of the units that weren't impacted by that directly but are sitting on the roof in the same manner as the one that blew off.” 

Harley expressed that real progress will require collaboration among roofing, mechanical and other rooftop trades, along with better specification language that calls out positive attachment from the start. 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about how smarter rooftop attachment can boost safety, meet today’s wind demands and open new opportunities for contractors!

By Emma Peterson. 

Join The Coffee Shops™ crew and our industry partners in Sacramento for four days of education, innovation and industry connection. 

The Coffee Shops™ crew is putting the finishing touches on our travel plans to get to Sacramento, California March 12–15, 2026 for the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC)’s International Convention and we want to see you at our booth and soundstage, sponsored by Western Colloid!  

This year’s show is predicted to host “1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other experts” for four days of learning, networking and more! With national sponsors like Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, IB Roof Systems™, Johns Manville, Polyglass USA Inc., Sika Corporation, SOPREMA and Versico, this show is a must-attend for professionals in all parts of the roofing world.  

Expert-led education  

This show gives attendees a chance to learn from a variety of industry leaders and experts through their cutting-edge education sessions. Here are some of the incredible presenters that will be at this year’s show:  

• Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese will be hosting a “State of the Industry” session that will explore contract provisions and other emerging regulatory trends.  
• Darren Perry of SOPREMA has a session that discusses how low slope roofing can be enhanced in response to severe climate risks. 
• Amrize’s National Technical Manager Victor Rosenthal and Project Manager Rachael DeMeio will be teaching about trends in roof re-cover applications this year. 
• Jennifer Stephan from Benchmark’s session will dive into the world of Refrigerated Processing and Cold Storage Operations in relation to industrial roofing projects.  

Check out the full speaker list online!

An expo floor route 

The Coffee Shops crew will be on the expo floor hosting a soundstage at booth #1113! Here’s just a few of the other Coffee Shops friends and partners that can be found on IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention expo floor:  

• All Weather Insulated Panels (booth #1216) 
• Anchor Products (booth #907)  
• ATAS International (booth #728)  
• BITEC Inc. (booth #1023) 
• Brava Tile (booth #208) 
• CertainTeed (booth #227)  
• General Coatings Manufacturing (booth #926) 
• H.B. Fuller (booth #113) 
• ICP Building Solutions Group (booth #133) 
• IKO Industries (booth #426) 
• Leister (booth #619) 
• Malarkey Roofing Products (booth #213) 
• MuleHide (booth #814) 
• Roof Hugger (booth #707) 
• S-5! (booth #1019) 
• Sheffield Metals International (booth #625) 
• Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions (booth #422) 
• Tremco (booth #321) 
• USG Securock (booth #401) 
• Western Colloid (booth #923) 
• Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions (booth #433) 

Explore the full expo floor map!

Register today and make sure you stop by to say hi to us and our industry friends at the IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

SPRI is helping move the roofing industry toward a safer, healthier and more supportive future for all.

The Single Ply Roofing Industry (SPRI) is continuing its commitment to workforce well-being through its active Mental Health Task Force. The objective is clear and urgent: to identify and implement opportunities and solutions for mental health support and suicide prevention across the roofing industry by leveraging SPRI’s membership and extensive professional networks. 

Chaired by Lynsey Hull, CEO of Tyelus, and Joel Stanley, CEO of Anchor Products, the task force brings together industry leaders who are passionate about creating safer, healthier workplaces. Their leadership is helping guide meaningful conversations and actionable strategies that support roofing professionals at every level. 

“The statistics for suicide in construction are unacceptable, as is the ongoing crisis of mental health, and we want to do something as the Single Ply Roofing Industry,” said Lynsey. “We believe we have the influence and channels to really help spread the message of mental health and suicide prevention. Our objective is to help the entire roofing industry.” 

Roofing is demanding work, physically and mentally. Long hours, high-risk environments, weather pressures, workforce shortages and the stress of running complex businesses can take a serious toll. The SPRI Mental Health Task Force recognizes that addressing mental health is not only a personal issue but also an industry responsibility that directly affects safety, productivity and long-term sustainability. Their efforts are focused on practical actions, including promoting accessible resources, encouraging open dialogue within companies and associations and helping leaders understand how to build cultures where mental health is treated with the same importance as physical safety. 

Additionally, SPRI has made it clear that mental health and suicide prevention are not concerns limited to the jobsite. They also impact professionals in manufacturing plants, corporate offices, distribution centers and leadership teams throughout the roofing industry. By broadening the conversation beyond the field, SPRI is reinforcing that every role matters and every individual deserves support. 

To strengthen its impact, SPRI is working closely with the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and its mental health and suicide prevention initiative. By aligning efforts, the organizations are focused on sharing resources, reducing stigma and ensuring consistent messaging that reaches contractors, manufacturers, designers and the entire building enclosure community. 

A key component of this collaboration is support for Be Tough Enough, an industry-recognized nonprofit dedicated to mental health education, awareness and suicide prevention within construction. Through education, training and peer-driven conversations, Be Tough Enough provides tools that help individuals recognize warning signs, start difficult conversations and connect with help when it is needed most. 

At the end of the day, mental health challenges affect every segment of roofing, from the jobsite to the boardroom. SPRI’s ongoing commitment sends a strong message that no one has to face these challenges alone and that the industry is stronger when it takes care of its people. Through collaboration with NRCA and support of Be Tough Enough, SPRI is helping move the roofing industry toward a safer, healthier and more supportive future for all. 

If you or anyone you know is struggling with mental health, 988 is a great resource. This is a phone line for people struggling with mental health and for those trying to support someone who is struggling.  

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Roofing professionals assemble nearly 700 snack packs for Tucson-area students. 

Community service continues to define the culture of the roofing industry and members of the Single Ply Roofing Industry (SPRI) demonstrated that commitment during this year’s annual meeting! Held February 13–15, 2026, in Tucson, Arizona, this meeting brought leading manufacturers and suppliers of single ply roofing systems together with the purpose of advancing technical standards, research and education across the commercial roofing industry. 

For the second consecutive year, the service project was sponsored by Tyelus, a strategic process architect firm that helps construction and manufacturing companies align people, process and technology to build scalable and sustainable growth. In partnership with JustServe, a national nonprofit that connects volunteers with meaningful community opportunities, SPRI organized a hands-on event assembling food care packages for children in a local school within the Marana Unified School District. 

Lynsey Hull and Ashley Thompsen of Tyelus worked alongside Joel and Calli Stanley of Anchor Products, a leading manufacturer of engineered roof attachment systems and components for commercial roofing, to coordinate the effort. Their collaboration ensured the project was organized and efficient while creating an experience that was impactful not only for the children it served but also for the SPRI members who participatedin assembling the food packs. 

JustServe’s model makes volunteer engagement simple and accessible for associations and industry groups, allowing participants to focus on the purpose behind the project. During the event, SPRI members assembled nearly 700 packs filled with quick meals, snack bars, fruit and other nutritious items. These packs will be distributed to children facing food insecurity in the Marana Unified School District, helping bridge meal gaps outside regular school hours. 

Calli Stanley shared during the event that showing up for the communities that host industry meetings is an important part of leadership. The spirit of teamwork and generosity was evident as members worked side by side, reinforcing the roofing industry’s strong culture of service. She emphasized why Tyelus continues to support the initiative:  

Community giving is not an add-on to what we do; it is a responsibility. When our industry gathers, we have an opportunity to leave a positive mark beyond business. Supporting projects like this allows us to invest directly in the communities that support us. When I heard that our donation would cover the kids for the rest of the school year plus some extra it was truly amazing to me. 

The service project was a powerful reminder that while innovation, education and advocacy are central to SPRI’s mission, giving back remains equally important. By combining collaboration with compassion, SPRI members once again proved that roofing is about more than roofing, it is about people. 

By Jenny Yu. 

Building enclosure professionals won’t want to miss out on this annual industry event!   

The International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) is gearing up for its 2026 International Convention and Trade Show, set to take place March 12–15 in Sacramento, California, at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. This annual event draws building enclosure professionals, including roofing consultants, architects, engineers and product manufacturers, for education, networking and industry insights. Registration is now open, with early rates available through February 6, 2026.  

Attendees will find a robust program that includes educational sessions covering topics ranging from roofing, waterproofing, sustainability and codes, as well as other related topics designed to advance professional knowledge and earn continuing education hours. A two-day trade show with more than 140 exhibiting companies will spotlight the latest roofing, exterior wall and building enclosure products and services. Participants can connect with manufacturers, consultants and peers on the show floor, which also features product demonstrations and sponsored receptions. The Coffee Shops™ will be there with a sound stage sponsored by Western Colloid — be sure to stop by! 

Beyond the exhibit hall, IIBEC has arranged a wide variety of exciting activities for attendees to participate in. The schedule opens with auxiliary seminars and networking opportunities on March 12, followed by formal welcome receptions, an annual awards ceremony and specialty events such as a golf tournament and an emerging professionals reception. The convention also hosts the Excellence in Building Enclosure Consulting (EBEC) Awards on March 14, recognizing outstanding achievements in the field. 

Hotel accommodations are available in the Sacramento area to assist attendees in securing convenient lodging near the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. IIBEC has secured official room blocks at the Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel, Residence Inn and The Citizen Hotel. Early planning is encouraged, as Sacramento draws visitors from across the United States and beyond for this premier industry gathering. 

A wide range of sponsorship packages are still available, each including prominent recognition and unique opportunities for memorable convention engagement. Current sponsors include Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, Johns Manville, Polyglass, Sika, SOPREMA and Versico Roofing Systems (platinum sponsors); Anchor Products, H.B. Fuller, IB Roof Systems™ and USG Securock® Brand (gold sponsors); and Georgia-Pacific Building Products.   

Register today to secure early registration and explore the latest developments in roofing, waterproofing and building enclosure design!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Building enclosure professionals across the industry are making plans to gather in Sacramento, California, March 12–15, 2026.

Hosted by the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC), the annual IIBEC International Convention & Trade Show brings together consultants, contractors, manufacturers and service providers focused on roofing, waterproofing and total building enclosure performance. With more than 20 education sessions and a trade show featuring over 140 manufacturers and service providers, the event delivers valuable insight, technical expertise and meaningful industry connection.

The convention runs Thursday, March 12 through Sunday, March 15, with the auxiliary seminar taking place on Thursday and the trade show floor openi on both Friday, March 13 and Saturday, March 14. From education to exhibits to networking, the week is designed to help professionals strengthen their knowledge and expand their relationships.

One of the featured moments of the week will be the opening ceremony and keynote presentation on Friday, March 13 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Attendees will hear from Brett Culp, an award-winning documentary filmmaker and keynote speaker, presenting Superhero Leadership in Uncertain Times. His message focuses on purpose-driven leadership, authenticity and service during moments of change, offering inspiration that resonates far beyond the conference hall.

Throughout the convention, attendees will also have the opportunity to connect during a full schedule of networking events including the RCI-IIBEC Foundation golf tournament, welcome reception, regional meetings, trade show receptions, awards ceremony, emerging professionals networking event, foundation live auction and the President’s Annual Banquet. These gatherings create valuable opportunities to build relationships that strengthen careers and businesses long after the event concludes.

The trade show floor will once again feature leading manufacturers and service providers supporting the building enclosure industry. RoofersCoffeeShop is proud to have partners participating as sponsors at the conference, including Carlisle Construction Materials, Elevate, GAF, Johns Manville, Sika, SOPREMA, Versico Roofing Systems, Anchor Products, H.B. Fuller, IB Roof Systems and USG. Their continued involvement reflects a shared commitment to education, innovation and long-term industry advancement.

Adding to the energy of the event, The Coffee Shops™ will once again host a full sound stage on the trade show floor sponsored by Western Colloid, interviewing consultants, contractors and exhibitors throughout the conference. These live conversations will spotlight industry trends, real-world challenges and the voices shaping the future of the building enclosure and roofing communities.

Overall, the 2026 IIBEC International Convention & Trade Show delivers a powerful combination of education, innovation and connection in one place. Whether your focus is technical expertise, professional development or expanding your industry network, this event offers insight and opportunity at every level.

And time is running out to take advantage of early registration pricing. The early registration deadline is February 6, 2026, and once it passes, rates are set to increase. Hotel rooms at the official convention hotels are also filling quickly, making now the best time to finalize travel plans.

Register now to secure early pricing, book your hotel before availability is gone and join building enclosure professionals from across the country in Sacramento. Be part of the conversations shaping the future of the industry.

By Jenny Yu.  

The 2026 SPRI Annual Conference’s education sessions are primed to help members focus on what matters most in 2026. 

It’s conference and expo season, and just around the corner is the Single Ply Roofing Industry’s (SPRI) 44th annual conference! The 2026 SPRI Annual Conference and Business Meeting takes place February 13-15, 2026, at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Arizona, and is sure to provide invaluable information for attendees to thrive in the year ahead. 

The 44th SPRI Annual Conference and Business Meeting’s theme is “Accomplish more with less stress.” Members will engage in educational sessions, explore the newest solutions and develop key connections with one another. Designed to promote innovation and share expertise, the conference is a must for leaders looking to make significant leaps for their business this year.  

Below is an outline of the educational sessions that are sure to prepare you for a successful 2026. 

Keynote address - Control your attention, control your life: Practical strategies for focus, freedom and fulfillment  

• Speaker: Maura Thomas 
• When: Saturday, February 14, 9:00-10:00 a.m. 
• What to expect: Attendees will learn from the attention management expert about how to eliminate the hidden drains on attention, reduce metal overload and use proven strategies to stay focused in a world designed to distract.  

Session 1 - An industry update 

• Speaker: McKay Daniels, CEO of National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) 
• When: Saturday, February 14, 10:15-11:15 a.m. 
• What to expect: An insightful exploration of the current state and future trajectory of the roofing industry, including the latest trends, challenges and innovations that are impacting roofing contractors. 

Session 2 - The view from Washington, D.C. 

• Speaker: Duane L. Musser, vice president of government relations in Washington, D.C., NRCA 
• When: Sunday, February 15, 9:00-10:00 a.m. 
• What to expect: Learn what to expect from the 119th Congress and current administration, including the latest on federal agencies, tariffs, trade actions, tax charges, workforce-related policies, federal procurement shifts and other regulatory and funding moves. 

Session 3 - Construction outlook: What’s in the mix for ‘26? 

• Speaker: Ken Simonson, chief economist of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) 
• When: Sunday, February 15, 10:00-11:00 a.m. 
• What to expect: Explore the results from AGC’s 2026 Outlook Survey and Ken’s insights into the economy’s impact on the construction industry. Topics that will be addressed include immigration enforcement, tariffs, federal funding, regulations and more. 

SPRI is welcoming sponsors for the conference, with some levels providing free registration to conference activities. Sponsors include Anchor Products (speaker sponsor); Duro-Last®, IKO Industries and ATAS International, Inc. (silver sponsors); Carlisle Construction Materials,  H.B. Fuller and Sika Roofing & Waterproofing (gold sponsors); and Amrize (platinum sponsor). 

Register for the SPRI 2026 Conference and Business Meeting and learn more about what the weekend has in store!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

A mobile showroom, rising code standards and growing demand are helping redefine what rooftop security means in today's evolving commercial roofing landscape. 

Justin Smith, national sales manager at Anchor Products, spoke at the RoofersCoffeeShop® soundstage during the 2025 Western Roofing Expo, where the company made a strong impression with its hands-on approach to rooftop equipment security. Known for its innovative attachment systems, Anchor Products continues to expand beyond its solar roots into broader applications, HVAC units, electrical equipment, plumbing, and more. 

Backed by industry partners General Coatings and EVERROOF, Anchor Products drew attention not just for its products but for how it showcases them. The company’s mobile showroom, a dream-turned-reality for founder Joel Stanley, has become a centerpiece, crisscrossing the country to give contractors a firsthand look at Anchor’s range of secure rooftop solutions. 

As roofing codes tighten and severe weather events become more frequent, particularly across the central U.S., demand is climbing for better rooftop fastening. Justin noted growing interest from regions experiencing more wind-related damage, where unsecured rooftop equipment has become a liability. Evolving code language is also pushing contractors to reconsider their standard practices. 

“You’d be amazed what you find up on that roof that is just sitting up there kind of with a hope and a prayer,” Justin said. “With our anchor, it enables us to find a way to secure it to the roof in a way that doesn't put the roof at risk.” 

Anchor Products’ attachment systems are compatible with a wide variety of membrane types and are offered in multiple configurations, allowing for job-specific customization. The company partners with roofing manufacturers and distributors to ensure accessibility and proper integration into existing systems. 

“You can kind of see these light bulb moments that happen,” Justin said. “They start going, ‘Oh, I just saw that the other day or I could use it here.’” 

Watch the full interview to learn more about Anchor Products’ rooftop attachment systems and mobile showcase!

Carlisle SynTec Systems is excited to announce the addition of Anchor Products U-Anchors and select accessories to our product offering. This new line gives you a single-source, code-compliant and watertight solution for securing rooftop equipment and accessories directly to the roof deck. Made in the USA, Anchor Products’ patented U-Anchors are lightweight and quick to install (typically in under five minutes) and are built to last the life of the roof system, simplifying detailing and reducing long-term maintenance needs.

Carlisle will be offering Anchor Products’ two most common anchor models:

• U2400: One 3/8” 304 stainless steel bolt welded to a 5.5” galvanized steel plate
• U3400: Two 3/8” 304 stainless steel bolts welded to an 11” x 5.5” galvanized steel plate

Both options are available with Carlisle’s EPDM, TPO and PVC/KEE HP flashing in all standard colors and in a 60-mil thickness (80-mil flashing is available upon request with extended lead times). TPO and PVC/KEE HP flashings are factory induction-welded to the plate, while EPDM models include a separate pressure-sensitive flashing for field application.

In addition to the anchors, Carlisle will also be introducing three accessory solutions to accompany the launch, including: the HVAC Tie-Down Kit, which provides additional securement for rooftop HVAC units; the Guy Wire Tie-Down Kit, which provides stability for rooftop accessories such as vent stacks and the Snow Retention System, an engineered and tested solution for higher-slope single-ply systems whichprevents snow from sliding off the roof. These accessories establish Carlisle’s ability to provide safe, durable and code-compliant rooftop securement solutions from a single source. When purchased through Carlisle, the anchors are covered under Carlisle’s Watertight Warranty for added assurance and long-term peace of mind.

These accessories establish Versico’s ability to provide safe, durable and code-compliant rooftop securement solutions from a single source.

Versico Roofing Systems is excited to announce the addition of Anchor Products U-Anchors and select accessories to our product offering. This new line gives you a single-source, code-compliant and watertight solution for securing rooftop equipment and accessories directly to the roof deck. Made in the USA, Anchor Products’ patented U-Anchors are lightweight and quick to installand are built to last the life of the roof system, simplifying detailing and reducing long-term maintenance needs.

Versicowill be offering Anchor Products’ two most common anchor models:

• U2400: One 3/8” 304 stainlesssteel boltwelded to a 5.5” galvanized steel plate
• U3400: Two 3/8” 304 stainlesssteel bolts welded to an 11” x 5.5” galvanized steel plate

Both options are available with Versico’s EPDM, TPO and PVC/KEE HP flashing in all standard colors and in a 60-mil thickness (80-mil flashing is available upon request with extended lead times). TPO and PVC/KEE HP flashings are factory induction-welded to the plate, while EPDM models include a separate pressure-sensitive flashing for field application.

In addition to the anchors, Versicowill also be introducing three accessory solutionsto accompany the launch, including: the HVAC Tie-Down Kit, which provides additional securement for rooftop HVAC units; the Guy Wire Tie-Down Kit, which providesstability for rooftop accessoriessuch as vent stacks and the Snow Retention System, an engineered and tested solution for higher-slope single-ply systems which prevents snow from sliding off the roof. These accessories establish Versico’s ability to provide safe, durable and code-compliant rooftop securement solutions from a single source. When purchased through Versico, the anchors are covered under Versico’s Watertight Warranty for added assurance and long-term peace of mind.