By Emma Peterson. 

Industry experts break down what roof restorations are and why they are growing popular now. 

Roof restoration has grown to be the go-to alternative for traditional tear-offs and replacements. To help people learn more about what defines a restoration project and the key standards that guide a successful restoration project, the Roof Coating Manufactures Association (RCMA) recently sponsored a Coffee Conversation® on the topic. In the episode, Megan Ellsworth sat down with an expert panel that included Josh Poole from Tremco, Cody Wilson of Uni Roofing and James Santiago from Benchmark. 

Josh opened the conversation by defining what a roof restoration is, explaining, “I would define it as the process of extending the service life of an existing roof. And generally, that's going to feature a roof coating or some type of a liquid-applied roofing product.” As for why the fluid-applied restoration market has taken a while to grow in popularity, it all has to do with a misunderstanding of what coatings are. Cody explained:  

A lot of people used to think restoration meant temporary repair. And it really isn’t; we’re not just painting your roof and calling it a day. When a contractor restores a roof, there’s a lot of prep work that goes into it, from assessment of the existing structure to repairs that need to be done beforehand to make sure that this roof is tight and ready to go. 

James shared a bit more about what these preparation tasks might look like, saying, “The first step is always determining if a roof is a good candidate for restoration. Here, good contractors will do things like perform infrared scans determine the attachment of the existing system.” And, as the industry has finally begun to realize, when these proper preparation steps are taken, coatings can be a powerful option for aging roofs. As Josh added: 

Restoration has really established itself as a viable solution that truly performs for the customer or the end user at the end of the day. It can typically be done at a fraction of the cost of replacement, it minimizes disruption to the building beneath it, requires minimal contractor labor/equipment and has a number of sustainability benefits including reduction in landfill material and greenhouse gases. 

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the episode to learn more about liquid-applied roof restoration and its benefits.  

Teresa's vision is for Benchmark's people systems to be as intentional and disciplined as its technical expertise. 

We are pleased to welcome Teresa Weber as head of people & organizational effectiveness. Teresa brings deep experience in human resources, organizational development and leadership effectiveness. Her work has focused on helping organizations grow with intention by aligning the right people together with business goals. In this role, she will help Benchmark strengthen the systems, structure and leadership practices that support long-term performance.

A leadership role built for growth

Benchmark has earned client trust through technical expertise, independent advice and reliable service. As the company continues to grow, strong internal alignment becomes even more important. Clear expectations, defined accountability,and effective leadership practices help ensure that growth supports quality rather than distracting from it.

That is where Teresa’s experience will make an immediate impact. Her role is centered on helping Benchmark’s people systems match the same discipline and rigor that clients already expect from its consulting work. This means supporting leaders, improving organizational clarity and building scalable systems that reinforce company values and business strategy. People and organizational effectiveness shape how a company hires, develops talent, manages performance and prepares for the future. When these areas are strong, teams work better together, leaders make better decisions and clients benefit from a more aligned organization.

Helping organizations create clarity and improve performance

Before joining Benchmark, Teresa served as Vice President of Talent and Culture, where she worked closely with executive leadership to align people strategy with business outcomes, strengthen organizational structure, clarify accountability and build scalable people systems designed to support growth.

Her work consistently centers on a few core priorities:

• Put the right people in the right seats
• Build clarity around roles and expectations
• Reinforce accountability at every level
• Align people systems with company values and strategy

These priorities directly address the risks that come with expansion – blurred reporting lines, slower decision-making and uneven expectations, making Teresa especially well-suited for Benchmark's next phase.

A vision for people systems that match technical excellence

Teresa's vision is for Benchmark's people systems to be as intentional and disciplined as its technical expertise. Sustainable growth depends not only on adding capacity or expanding reach, but on having the structure, leadership and accountability to support that growth well. She sees an opportunity to strengthen that foundation and help the company continue elevating the roofing and paving consulting industry by pairing technical excellence with strong leadership practices and clear organizational accountability.

Her long-term focus includes stronger organizational alignment, better leadership support, succession readiness and sustainable growth.

From foundational systems to long-term leadership capability

One of the most important parts of Teresa’s perspective is that organizational effectiveness is not static. What a company needs at one stage of growth may not be enough for the next.

Early on, the focus may be on building foundational people systems. As the business grows, leadership development becomes more important, succession planning more urgent and cross-functional alignment more complex. Teresa understands that progression and sees her role evolving alongside Benchmark's needs – keeping people strategy closely connected to business strategy through clear choices, consistent expectations and strong leadership habits.

Education and interests

Teresa holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Northern Iowa. Providing a strong foundation for her work in people strategy, leadership and organizational effectiveness.

Outside of work, Teresa enjoys spending time with her family and staying active. She especially enjoys boating, hiking and traveling, interests that reflect her appreciation for the outdoors and for exploring new places.

Looking ahead

Teresa joins Benchmark at an important time, and her addition strengthens our path forward by ensuring the internal organization is equipped to support future growth with the same discipline and excellence our clients have come to expect. We look forward to the leadership she will bring to Benchmark's next chapter.

Benchmark, Inc., a recognized leader in roof and pavement consulting, proudly announces the appointment of Nathan Williams as the new Chief Financial Officer.

As a certified public accountant with a strong background in financial strategy, Williams will play a crucial role in advancing Benchmark’s internal operations to better serve clients across the roofing and facility management industries.

Williams holds dual degrees in accounting and interdepartmental studies: health science from the University of Iowa. He began his career in public accounting as an auditor with RSM, where he built a solid foundation in financial compliance and reporting. He subsequently transitioned to the private sector, serving as controller at Metro Pavers. This foundational experience in the paving and construction sector provides him with valuable insight into the operational landscape of Benchmark’s consulting services.

Following his time at Metro Pavers, Williams served as the director of finance for Iowa Speedway and NASCAR. Most recently, he held the position of vice president of finance at Farmers Hen House. During his tenure there, he proved himself as a catalyst for transformative corporate growth. His notable achievements included managing the financial strategy to double the branded business, facilitating the acquisition of a drinkable yogurt company and successfully completing a comprehensive sales initiative over a three-year period.

"Nathan is exactly the kind of leader we were looking for - sharp, strategic and ready to roll up his sleeves," said Vince Ellison, president of Benchmark, Inc. “He brings real depth in financial leadership,and he's already making an impact. We're building something special at Benchmark, and adding Nathan to this team gives us even more firepower to get where we're going.”

In his new position, Williams looks forward to collaborating closely with the company's consulting and operational teams. By aligning financial strategies with departmental goals, Williams aims to support the company’s ongoing commitment to delivering independent advice, innovative services and reliable solutions to its roofing clients.

About Benchmark

Benchmark, Inc. has been a trusted leader in roof and pavement consulting for over 30 years. Dedicated to delivering independent advice, innovative services and reliable solutions, the company helps organizations make informed decisions, mitigate risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of their facility assets. With a mission to empower its clients, Benchmark consistently raises the bar for technical expertise and fosters strong, collaborative relationships built on trust.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how contractors are using planning and communication to navigate labor pressures and position for growth in 2026. 

Labor challenges are not new to roofing, but the stakes surrounding them continue to rise. At the International Roofing Expo (IRE), contractors and industry partners acknowledged that workforce constraints are reshaping how projects are planned, staffed and executed. Speaking on the RoofersCoffeeShop® sound stage sponsored by SRS Distribution, Vince Ellison, president of Benchmark, described labor as a long-standing issue that now carries greater operational complexity. Shifting schedules, tighter margins and increased coordination across stakeholders have raised the cost of miscommunication. 

“First of all, there's no magic bullet,” Vince said. That reality, he explained, places greater responsibility on preparation and planning. Contractors cannot rely on last year’s assumptions or informal coordination. Instead, they must anticipate workflow demands, maintain consistent communication with clients and align early with manufacturers, consultants and other project partners. 

When communication falters, the impact compounds quickly. A minor delay in materials or staffing can ripple through an entire project timeline. Conversely, proactive communication allows teams to adjust before small disruptions escalate into costly setbacks. Events such as IRE provide a concentrated opportunity to reinforce those relationships. For Benchmark, the show offers a chance to meet with long-standing partners and newer contacts alike. “When our team comes out here, we get to meet with so many contractors,” Vince said. “In one trip, we can meet with 10, 15, 20 contractors that we've been working with for the last year or maybe the last 20 years.” 

As the industry looks toward 2026, Vince anticipates growth but stresses adaptability. “In 2026 we believe there is going to be growth. I would say the lesson that we learned in 2025 was to anticipate change, but don't let that stop you,” he said. For contractors, growth will depend less on quick solutions and more on disciplined planning, steady communication and the ability to adjust as conditions evolve. 

Learn more about planning for growth amid change at IRE 2026 and how contractors are strengthening communication and preparation to navigate labor pressures in the year ahead!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

How consultants are navigating evolving fire codes, wind requirements and commissioning practices to strengthen building performance. 

As building codes evolve and environmental risks intensify, roofing consultants are sharpening their focus on how entire building systems perform, not just individual components. That shift was evident at the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) show, where conversations centered around these topics.  

For Brad Conlin, senior roof consultant at Benchmark, the value of the event starts with the people it brings together. “The number one reason to come to this show is that it's a conglomeration of professionals from the roofing and building enclosure industries in one spot,” Brad said. That concentration of expertise creates a consistent exchange of ideas and experience. He added, “I don't think I ever leave here without learning something new.” 

Those insights are becoming increasingly critical as consultants respond to a changing risk landscape. Fire protection, in particular, has emerged as a central topic, with more attention being paid to fire ratings and how buildings perform in wildfire-prone environments. Brad noted that discussions are expanding beyond individual assemblies to include the broader wildlife urban interface, where the spread of fire between structures must be addressed at a system level. He said, “It really is an entire building envelope issue to make sure you not only know you're containing the combustion of fires, but also the propagation of fires and the spread of fires.” 

At the same time, evolving codes are reshaping design priorities. Brad pointed to the adoption of the 2024 International Building Code (IBC), which introduces updated wind requirements, including considerations tied to tornado activity. As jurisdictions begin to implement those standards, consultants are working to ensure that designs remain both compliant and performance driven. 

Alongside these developments, building commissioning is gaining momentum as a critical part of the process. While historically outside the core scope of roofing, Brad said consultants are increasingly aligning their work with broader envelope testing and verification efforts. “I learned a little bit about that this week,” he said, highlighting the need for coordination across systems. 

Together, these trends reflect a more integrated approach to building performance, where consultants play a key role in connecting code compliance, risk mitigation and long-term durability. 

Watch Brad's full interview to hear him discuss fire risk, wind performance, and commissioning requirements in today’s evolving code environment!

By Benchmark.

Benchmark named a 2025 Top Workplace in Iowa, an achievement we celebrate as a company, and as a community of professionals committed to excellence.

We are thrilled to announce that The Des Moines Register has awarded Benchmark a 2025 Top Workplaces honor (#37 for company size: 35-149). This prestigious recognition is a direct result of our team’s dedication and the vibrant culture we have cultivated together. It’s an achievement we celebrate not just as a company, but as a community of professionals committed to excellence.

This award is especially meaningful because it is based entirely on employee feedback. It reflects the authentic experiences and perspectives of the people who make Benchmark what it is today. We are incredibly proud of this accomplishment and what it says about our commitment to creating a supportive, engaging and rewarding work environment.

Our amazing team

This achievement belongs to every single member of the Benchmark team. Our leadership is honored to guide such a talented and dedicated group of individuals.

Vince Ellison, President of Benchmark, shared his thoughts on the award: “What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it comes from our people — the talented, committed team driving our work forward every day. This award reflects the relationships we’ve built, the accountability we hold ourselves to and the pride we take in our work. I’m incredibly proud to be part of this team and excited about what we’ll continue to build together.”

This employee-centric philosophy is at the core of our operations. We believe that investing in our people is the most effective way to drive success for our clients and our organization.

Lori Madrick, HR Director, also commented on the significance of this recognition: "Earning the Top Workplace award is a proud moment for all of us. It highlights the passion and commitment our people bring to their work each day. Our positive culture doesn't just make for a better workplace; it translates directly into the exceptional service and innovative solutions we deliver to our clients. I am so proud to be part of a team that genuinely supports one another and celebrates shared success."

Our commitment

We understand that our success is built on the foundation of a strong, healthy culture. This award is not a finish line but a milestone on our continuous journey of improvement. It inspires us to keep listening to our employees and investing in initiatives that support their personal and professional growth.

We are dedicated to creating an environment where our team feels empowered, heard and valued. From professional development opportunities to fostering a healthy work-life balance, our goal is to make Benchmark an exceptional place to build a career.

What makes a top workplace?

The Top Workplaces award is not determined by a panel of judges, but by the people who know a company best: its employees. The process is managed by Energage, LLC, an employee engagement technology partner. They conduct a confidential survey that goes directly to our team members.

This survey measures 15 key culture drivers that are essential for organizational success. These drivers include:

• Alignment: Understanding where the company is going and how we will get there.
• Execution: Believing that the company operates efficiently and in line with its goals.
• Connection: Feeling appreciated, valued and that your work has meaning.

By Emma Peterson. 

Honor the past, celebrate the present and get ready for the future at this year’s NWIR conference!  

Originally conceived in 2014, but officially founded in 2016, the National Women in Roofing (NWIR)'s goal has always been to support the women “breaking [the stereotype that the roofing industry is geared towards men] by pursuing a variety of career paths and demonstrating that a diverse industry is a stronger industry.” One of the ways they work towards fulfilling that mission is by hosting their annual conference, NWIR Days!  

NWIR Days is an event always full of opportunities for attendees to not only network and learn together, but to build each other up and create a stronger community of roofers. This upcoming NWIR Days will be hosted from January 17-18, 2026, at the Sahara Hotel in Las Vegas, Nevada. Keep reading to learn more about the special events, keynotes and sessions happening at the upcoming conference! 

Special events 

On Saturday, January 17, attendees can attend one of two luncheons hosted by the DEI Committee and the NWIR Hispanic Council. Following lunch, attendees can choose from a variety of education sessions presented in Spanish or the inaugural Council Leader Training session. That evening will feature an optional ticketed event themed “Starry, Starry Night.” This is a great way to catch up with old friends and make new ones while celebrating 10 years of NWIR! The welcome event runs from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. 

Day two is the “main event” and includes an exciting Grand Opening Kickoff Celebration marking NWIR’s incredible 10 years of existence! From speaking with the founders about the organization’s beginnings to looking ahead at the new areas of focus for 2026, this celebration will be a great way to learn more about NWIR.  

More highlights of the day include three blocks of informative education sessions and the 2026 Awards Luncheon featuring the 2026 World Awards and Rising Star winners. Later in the day, CertainTeed and QXO are hosting a networking event including refreshments and the QXO Challenge – A fun challenge/race that attendees can take part in and win prizes! 

Finally, the 2026 conference will end with the Closing Ceremony thanking outgoing chair Christee Roberson and installing new chair, Christine Mockenhaupt! 

Check out the full event schedule.

Education sessions 

This year’s conference boasts over a dozen different sessions across three blocks on Sunday, January 18, 2026. We can’t cover them all, but we wanted to highlight some of the ones that Coffee Shop crew members and customers are a part of:  

• Roofing is like a sandwich – Understanding the basics: Taught by Lynn Picone and Kimberly Santiago of GAF, this foundational course is perfect for anyone who is new to the roofing industry looking for a fun way to gain “essential knowledge of roofing systems, materials, terminology and common practices.” 
• Bridge the gap with your content – How to create videos that convert: In the modern era, video and visuals are the language of modern marketing. In this session, our very own Heidi J. Ellsworth will moderate a discussion all about building engagement and trust with an audience through video.  
• Strong teams and tough conversations – A panel discussion: Featuring Maya Irizarry of Solutions by Maya, LLC, Dave MacLean of the Certified Contractors Network and Elise Schmidt of Benchmark, Inc., this panel will dive into ways to strengthen your team with key communication tools. 
• Build loyalty, not turnover – Supporting working parents in roofing: Presented by the NWIR DEI Committee and moderated by The Coffee Shops’ Megan Ellsworth, this panel will talk about how you can support your employees as they navigate one of life’s biggest challenges – parenting.  
• Shark tank savvy: Software tools to help you up your game – Maureen Greeves and Mardee Billingsley of Tremco will dive into how contractors can use SafetyCulture, Smartsheet and 0365 Power Apps to make their operations more efficient.  
• What roofing can learn from HVAC and technology – In a session all about operational efficiency and service-based models, Sue Drummond and Angie Snow from ServiceTitan share what we can learn from the HVAC and tech sectors. 
• Speak up, show up: Building confidence in work and life – Whether you are asking for a raise at work or setting a personal boundary, Mandy Mcintyre (Level-Up Consulting) wants to help you find the language and mindset to stand tall.  

Explore all the education sessions.

Registration for NWIR Days 2026 is now open! There is also a special room block available at the Sahara for attendees. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Regular maintenance keeps facilities operating smoothly while protecting long-term investments. 

Benchmark works with facility leaders who want to extend the life of their assets, and roof health sits at the center of that strategy. Roof maintenance may sound routine, but experts say the impact is anything but ordinary. As Jason Hackman, the company’s RRO, notes, a roof serves as a facility’s “frontline defense against weather” and the choices made about inspection and upkeep echo across financial, operational and environmental outcomes. 

Professionals responsible for capital planning know that small issues can grow quickly when a roof is ignored. Jason warns that deferred maintenance can lead to escalating repair costs and even structural problems linked to water infiltration and mold. With an emphasis on routine care reinforces a broader message across the industry. Keeping a roof in good shape is not just a matter of safety. It is a matter of smart asset protection. 

One of Jason’s key ideas is the way proactive maintenance extends the life of roof systems. Identifying minor leaks, checking flashings and keeping drainage paths clear all help reduce premature failures. As Jason explains, longevity is closely tied to proactive care, which allows teams to spot underlying issues before they compromise an entire system. 

There is also a positive financial angle. Planned maintenance reduces the shock of unbudgeted repairs and supports better forecasting. Facilities that build consistent inspection programs typically see fewer disruptions and steadier spending, which helps reinforce confidence among stakeholders. 

Energy performance is another selling point. When insulation stays dry and membranes remain watertight, buildings run more efficiently and rely less on HVAC systems. This can translate into reduced utility costs and measurable sustainability gains. Even simple cleaning routines, like removing debris from gutters, support both energy performance and system health. 

Across industries, planned roof care supports safety, cuts costs and strengthens long term value. It also reflects the growing expectation that facilities operate responsibly and efficiently. 

Learn more about how consistent roof maintenance can protect your facility and improve long term performance!

In her new role, Lesley will leverage her extensive leadership expertise to support Benchmark’s next phase of growth and innovation within the roofing industry.

Benchmark, Inc., a trusted leader in roof and pavement consulting, is pleased to announce the appointment of Lesley Vossenkemper as its new chief operating officer/integrator. With 25 years of experience leading mission-driven organizations, Lesley brings a proven record of scaling businesses and driving strategic growth while maintaining a core focus on operational excellence.

In her new role, Lesley will leverage her extensive leadership expertise to support Benchmark’s next phase of growth and innovation within the roofing industry. Throughout her career, she has demonstrated a remarkable ability to build and scale operations, including growing a new business unit to $70 million in revenue. Her experience ensures that as Benchmark expands its services, its foundational commitment to quality and client success will remain paramount.

Vince Ellison, president of Benchmark, expressed his confidence in the new appointment. "What stood out about Lesley from the start was her ability to lead real growth while staying grounded in what’s best for people and clients. She’s led complex teams, scaled new lines of business and knows how to execute a plan. I’m confident she’s the right person to help us strengthen the business we have today and build the one we’re aiming for next."

A transparent and diplomatic leader, Lesley is dedicated to developing high-performing teams and fostering a culture of teamwork and accountability. She holds a BA in Communications/Marketing/Public Relations from Mount Mercy University and an AA from Kirkwood Community College. Her community involvement includes recently joining the Board of Directors for Kirkwood's Facility Foundation.

"I’m inspired by Benchmark’s enduring commitment to its people and clients," said Lesley. "I am excited to partner with Vince and our exceptional team to build on the decades of success to advance and accelerate the firm’s next phase of growth and innovation."

About Benchmark, Inc.

Benchmark, Inc. has been a trusted leader in roof and pavement consulting for over 30 years. Dedicated to delivering independent advice, innovative services and reliable solutions, the company helps organizations make informed decisions, mitigate risks and ensure the long-term sustainability of their facility assets. With a mission to empower its clients, Benchmark consistently raises the bar for technical expertise and fosters strong, collaborative relationships built on trust.

By Benchmark. 

Drone tech is transforming how commercial roofs are inspected, maintained and budgeted. 

Collecting data for a roof doesn’t always require climbing ladders or guessing from grainy photos nowadays. Today’s roofing decisions start hundreds of feet above ground with the help of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV’s), also known as drones. As drones have become more than just a buzzword in commercial property management, companies like Benchmark are leading the charge by combining aerial data capture with deep industry know-how. The result? Sharper insights, safer inspections and a proactive strategy that protects your assets and your bottom line. 

An integral part of the big picture 

A proactive, comprehensive approach is imperative in roof asset management. Data collected via a Benchmark UAV is added to a client’s secure SITEMAN® database, where it’s easily accessible for them to review. 

UAV drone services 

• Orthomosaic: A series of photographs are taken, which are then processed to create one single image which is uniform in scale. This image can then be used to create highly accurate drawings of the site. 
• Visual/Thermal: By taking photos in both the visual and infrared light spectrum the images can help identify defects within building assets. By conducting infrared moisture scans of roof areas with a UAV, highly accurate measurements can be obtained to assist in budgeting and planning repairs and replacements. 
• Remote inspection: Whether due to safety or inability to access, there are times when an inspection with “boots on the roof” approach is not possible. When these situations arise, a UAV inspection of the roof may be the next best option. High resolution orthomosaics and 200x telephoto cameras allow for a detailed visual inspection. 
• Additional drone services: While Benchmark remains committed to providing top-tier roof and pavement consulting, they can also provide additional imaging services, including: 
  • Solar panel thermal inspections 
  • Lighting inspections 
  • Site photos 

Watch this webinar to learn more: 

Original article and photo source: Benchmark