By The Coffee Shops™. 

Understanding how metal roofing materials react to temperature changes is essential for achieving long-term system performance. 

As metal roofing continues to gain popularity for its durability and longevity, understanding how roofing systems respond to changing temperatures remains critical for long-term performance. In the article, "Thermal expansion and contraction in metal roof systems," PAC-CLAD Petersen examines how temperature fluctuations affect metal roof panels and outlines best practices for designing systems that can accommodate natural movement. 

Metal roof panels expand when heated and contract when cooled, but the building structure beneath them often moves at a different rate. If thermal movement is not properly addressed during design and installation, the resulting stress can contribute to issues such as oil canning, fastener fatigue and panel movement over time. 

According to Petersen, the amount of expansion and contraction depends on several factors, including metal type, panel length and temperature variation. Aluminum, for example, expands and contracts significantly more than steel. A 30-foot aluminum panel exposed to a 100-degree temperature swing can move nearly twice as much as a comparable steel panel. 

The article also addresses a common concern among building owners and occupants: popping noises. While these sounds can be alarming, they do not typically indicate a defect or failure in the roofing system. Instead, they are often part of the natural expansion and contraction process and generally lessen as the roof system adjusts to local environmental conditions over time. 

To help ensure long-term roof performance, Petersen recommends several design and installation strategies. These include using floating clip systems or slip joints on longer panels, allowing for movement at ridges, eaves and transitions, avoiding rigid attachment at both ends of a panel and preventing over-tightening of clips and fasteners. The article also notes that darker roof colors can absorb more heat and contribute to greater panel movement over time. 

By accounting for thermal movement early in the design process and following proven installation practices, contractors can help minimize stress on roofing components while supporting the long-term durability and performance of metal roof systems. 

Read the full article to learn more about thermal expansion and contraction in metal roofing and review Petersen’s full recommendations.

By The Coffee Shops™. 

A shift in durability expectations and cost analysis is driving more homeowners toward metal roofing systems. 

Contractors across the country are rethinking traditional roofing materials as performance, durability and long-term value take center stage. In the article “Why More Contractors Are Recommending Metal Over Asphalt Shingles to Homeowners,” experts from Drexel Metals outline the growing shift away from asphalt shingles toward standing seam metal roofing systems. While asphalt has long dominated the market due to affordability and familiarity, changing conditions are driving a new conversation. 

The first factor the article points to as a driver of this shift is performance. Asphalt shingles often fall short under real-world conditions, especially in regions prone to extreme weather. Heat, humidity, wind and heavy rain can significantly shorten their lifespan, leading to more frequent repairs or full replacements. In contrast, standing seam metal roofing systems are engineered to withstand harsh environments, offering superior resistance to wind uplift, water infiltration and impact from debris. The article references post-storm data that continues to reinforce this gap, showing significantly less damage to metal roofs compared to aging asphalt systems. 

Another consideration that Drexel Metals notes as having an impact on the rise of metal is pressure from insurance companies. As insurers tighten requirements and raise premiums for asphalt roofs, homeowners are feeling the financial impact. Metal roofing, with its proven durability, is often viewed more favorably by insurance providers. This can translate into longer coverage terms and potential premium reductions, making metal a more attractive long-term investment for homeowners. 

On top of insurance pressures, warranty coverage further strengthens the case for metal. Metal roofing systems backed by manufacturers like Drexel Metals often include non-prorated warranties that extend for decades and may even be transferable. Asphalt warranties, on the other hand, typically decline in value over time, leaving homeowners responsible for a larger share of replacement costs. 

Read the full article by Drexel Metals or visit Drexel Metals' directory on MetalCoffeeShop.com to learn more about the benefits of metal roofing.

By Drexel Metals. 

A Florida restoration project shows how Drexel Metals’ innovative solutions can protect historic structures without sacrificing their original character. 

Preserving historic architecture while meeting modern performance demands is no easy task, but Drexel Metals demonstrates how it can be done in its case study, “Historic Cade Allen Residence: Preserving history with metal.” As a leading provider of engineered metal roofing and architectural systems, Drexel Metals is known for delivering durable, energy-efficient solutions across a wide range of applications.  

In this project, the company’s expertise is applied to a historically significant residence, where maintaining architectural integrity was just as critical as improving long-term performance. By carefully balancing aesthetics with durability, the team proved that metal roofing can replicate the timeless look required by preservation standards while delivering superior longevity and protection. 

Project preview: Cade Allen’s Foster Grove House 

Cade Allen, an early 20th-century developer and homebuilder, left a lasting mark on St. Petersburg, Florida, specifically the historic Allendale neighborhood, with his distinctive architectural style and commitment to quality workmanship. His works are typically characterized by meticulous exterior stonework (he started as a mason and carpenter) and Mediterranean and Spanish Revival-inspired design elements, like vaulted wood-beam ceilings and arch-top windows and doors. 

One of his earliest projects, the Foster Grove House, is one of several Cade Allen residences in St. Pete that meet the strict local standards to be designated as a historic landmark. In fact, it was the very first home that Allen occupied with his own family. It came with the purchase of a sprawling 160-acre citrus grove, which Allen purchased from the Foster family in 1923. Allen and his sons would spend the next 30+ years building 40 houses on the citrus grove property and surrounding area to create what we now know as the Allendale neighborhood. Because of its historical significance, the Foster Grove House required careful preservation and oversight during a summer 2025 renovation project. 

Further, this re-roofing project represents a turning point for how historic homes in hurricane-prone regions can be preserved. “As far as I know, this is the first designated historic home in Florida that has received approval to have asphalt shingles replaced with metal roofing,” said Jeremy Wood, general manager at GMR Metal Roofs. GMR installed the house’s new metal roof, which was fabricated by Innovative Sheet Metals, a Drexel Metals Plus Member, using Drexel Metals’ coil. “It sets a precedent for future projects, showing that we can protect historic structures better with a metal roof without sacrificing their character.” 

Read the full case study to learn more about how advanced metal systems like Drexel Metals can extend the life of historic structures.

By Jenny Yu.  

Carlisle Architectural Metals simplifies complex roofing projects with integrated systems and hands-on support across every stage of construction. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo in Las Vegas, Lauren White of The Coffee Shops™ stopped by the Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM) booth to learn about how the company continues to be a leader in delivering comprehensive building envelope solutions under one umbrella. 

Mike Weis, vice president of sales, said the company’s evolution into a multi-brand platform is reshaping how it serves the industry. “We’re not just one company anymore supporting the contractor. We’re five brands. It’s a building solution,” he said, pointing to the integration of its five brands: PAC-CLAD Petersen, Drexel Metals, Hickman Edge Systems, Metal-Era and Citadel Architectural Products. 

That growth has required a deliberate approach to sales and support. Rather than relying on a centralized model, CAM emphasizes localized expertise supported by robust internal resources. “We have very localized support through our reps,” Mike explained. “Behind the reps, you have a full team of technical support, inside sales, estimating and engineering. We try to bring all that to every market we touch.” 

For contractors, that structure translates into faster response times and more cohesive project execution. Mike noted that having team members positioned close to job sites allows for real-time troubleshooting and collaboration. “If we have an issue in a market, we usually have somebody within an hour or two who can be on site to help solve problems and come together on design solutions,” he said. 

The approach reflects the relationship-driven nature of the construction industry, where evolving codes and architectural demands require constant communication. “It’s a very personal business,” Mike stated. “We want to be part of the solution from the design aspect all the way until the job gets closed out.” 

As building design grows more complex, Carlisle Architectural Metals is positioning itself as a single-source partner capable of supporting all aspects of the building envelope. “We’re covering all six sides of the building,” Mike said. “We want to be that one-stop solution for contractors and architects.” 

Watch the full interview to learn more about the CAM advantage of complex, integrated solutions.

By Drexel Metals. 

Drexel Metals highlights the critical role underlayment plays in protecting and enhancing residential metal roofing systems. 

When designing a high-performance residential metal roof, contractors and architects often focus on panel profiles, coatings and structural durability. However, according to roofing experts at Drexel Metals, one of the most important contributors to long-term roof performance is what sits beneath the panels: the underlayment. This hidden component plays a critical role in protecting the roof assembly from moisture, heat transfer and environmental stress while helping the entire system perform as intended. 

For both new construction and reroofing projects, selecting the right underlayment is essential to maximizing the lifespan of a metal roofing system. Roofing technology continues to evolve, and underlayment products have improved significantly over the past several decades. While traditional roofing materials may last 15 to 30 years, modern metal roofs can remain in service for 50 to 70 years or more. Because of that longevity, contractors must choose underlayment systems that can match the durability and performance expectations of today’s metal roofing solutions. 

The following is a guide to picking the right underlayment for a project’s needs. 

What is underlayment, and where does it fit in a roofing system? 

Underlayment is a protective layer installed between the roof deck and the surface roofing material (i.e. the metal roof panels). Ultimately, it contributes to the overall health of a roof system. In addition to providing a smoother surface for the metal panels to be installed on top of, underlayment maximizes the performance capabilities a metal roof offers by doing these things: 

• Provides a secondary barrier against moisture and condensation 
• Self-seals around roofing nails, screws and roofing clips to prevent water intrusion 
• Mitigates heat transfer from structural roofing elements for increased efficiency 
• Offers sound-deadening properties to dampen noise transfer from the outside 

What kinds of underlayment are available for metal roofing systems? 

While metal roofs deliver long-term value on their own merit, underlayment still provides a must-have critical layer of protection. Contractors are encouraged to select a modern synthetic underlayment with self-sealing and high-temperature properties for a metal roof. This type of underlayment has a lifespan that is comparable to the long service life of metal roofing panels. With a self-healing underlayment, contractors have less risk of creating holes that allow moisture in. This is important for installation efforts and accommodating future roof upgrades. 

Which underlayment is the best for extreme climates? 

Underlayment with high-temperature properties can withstand temperatures of up to 250°F without degradation, ensuring structures in even the hottest locations are protected. This type of underlayment is often UV-resistant to reduce damage from direct sunlight. Further, most high-temperature underlayment resists tearing and can stretch upwards of 250%. As such, tested products like MetShield® HT are essential for homes in Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Southern California and anywhere else that experiences high heat. 

On the opposite end of the weather spectrum are northern climates, which often experience extreme freeze-thaw cycles that cause materials to expand and contract at different rates. In these conditions, underlayment with self-healing properties can help mitigate issues from deck expansion and contraction. They also create a secondary boundary to water intrusion from ice and snow melt. 

Follow manufacturer instructions 

It’s also important to note that installing underlayment according to the manufacturer’s instructions ensures that metal panels and underlayment work together without compromising weather protection. While installation can vary slightly between systems, it is typically recommended that contractors install an underlayment horizontally across the roof deck and work from the bottom to the top, overlapping strips of underlayment to ensure full effectiveness. For all areas of installation, contractors are encouraged to install underlayment using corrosion-resistant cap nails with a minimum 1-inch diameter cap, unless the product is self-adhered. 

For more information on the benefits of underlayment and how to install a full metal roofing system to maximize its potential, reach out to your Drexel Metals Representative.

Original article and photo source: Drexel Metals

By Jenny Yu.  

Investment in robotics and data-driven systems is helping CAM and its partners improve efficiency and performance. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM) Vice President of Growth Brad Van Dam outlined how automation, robotics and artificial intelligence are reshaping both manufacturing and contracting. 

For over a decade, CAM has invested in robotics. “We started investing in robotics and automation in 2008,” Brad said, noting how the company is continuing this trajectory. “In 2025, we installed a new robotic cell in Asheville, North Carolina, and another upgrade is being installed and tested down in our Acworth, Georgia, facility to help move along some additional panel and gutter systems that we manufacture.” 

At CAM, automation isn’t about replacing workers, but elevating them. “It’s a never-ending process of figuring out how to keep getting better so we can upskill our people,” he explained. “Our total employment continues going up; how do we give people the tools to be more effective?” 

One of those tools is artificial intelligence, which Brad believes can provide immediate value, particularly in training and internal systems. “AI can certainly be a jumpstart to build training programs, offset menial tasks and review data for decision-making,” he said. Still, Brad advised thoughtful implementation. “You have to be careful of what you share externally and publicly. Dumping your financials? Not the greatest idea. But, it can be very useful to automate the process of pulling out that data.” 

At CAM, a dedicated group focuses on this type of innovation. “They do a great job of putting together challenges and focusing on what we should be aiming for. It’s cool to see,” Brad shared. “As a contractor, I would integrate automation systems as soon as possible to improve my business and bottom line.” 

Read the first article in this series or Listen to the podcast to learn more about CAM’s growth strategy and how technology is driving change across the metal roofing industry. 

By Jenny Yu.  

Drexel Metals explains why oil canning is cosmetic and how contractors can minimize its appearance. 

Metal roofing is widely recognized for its durability, longevity and architectural appeal, but like any premium building material, it comes with considerations contractors and building owners should understand. In the article “Potential Metal Roofing Issues and How to Minimize Their Impact: Oil Canning,” Drexel Metals breaks down one of the most discussed aesthetic concerns associated with metal roofing and how thoughtful planning can significantly reduce its appearance. 

Oil canning refers to subtle waviness or rippling that may appear on the flat areas of metal roof panels. It is most noticeable when sunlight reflects across the surface, particularly in the afternoon. Importantly, Drexel Metals emphasizes that oil canning is not a structural or material defect. Instead, it is a cosmetic issue that does not affect the roof’s performance or weather resistance. 

According to the article, oil canning can result from several factors throughout the manufacturing and installation process. Stresses introduced during coil production and roll forming, variations in panel width and metal gauge, irregular roof decks and over-tightened fasteners can all contribute to panel distortion. Because flat sheet metal is naturally sensitive to minor variances, oil canning should be viewed as an expected characteristic rather than a failure. 

Drexel Metals outlines multiple best practices to help minimize oil canning. Increasing panel rigidity is one of the most effective strategies. This can be achieved by selecting heavier-gauge metal, reducing panel width and incorporating ribs or striations into the panel design. Proper deck preparation is equally important, as an uneven roof deck can telegraph through finished panels and create unwanted distortions. 

Installation techniques also play a critical role. Avoiding over-tightened fasteners and allowing for proper thermal expansion and contraction helps reduce added stress on panels. In addition, choosing a low-gloss finish can significantly reduce the visual impact of any remaining waviness by minimizing glare and reflection. 

To learn more about oil canning and how to address it effectively, read the original article from Drexel Metals.

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 Jesse Sanchez. 

Explore education sessions, networking events and trade show details for the 2026 IIBEC International Convention. 

As design requirements grow more complex and performance expectations rise, building enclosure professionals are looking for practical solutions backed by research, testing and real-world experience. The 2026 International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Convention and Trade Show, taking place March 12–15, 2026, at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center in Sacramento, California, brings those conversations together under one roof. 

Hosted by IIBEC, the event is expected to draw 1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other experts specializing in roofing, waterproofing, fenestration, cladding, building commissioning and exterior wall technologies. The convention features education sessions approved for IIBEC Continuing Education Hours (CEH), with all sessions submitted to the American Institute of Architects (AIA). 

The show runs March 13–14, with exhibit hall hours from 3:15 p.m. to 7:15 p.m. on Friday and 8:00 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Attendees can connect with leading manufacturers and service providers while exploring the latest advancements in building enclosure technology. 

Education programming spans multiple disciplines, including below-grade waterproofing, building commissioning, business and professional development, codes and standards, exterior wall systems, research and technology, roofing, safety, sustainability and wind and structural design. Featured sessions address topics such as fire-resistant code standards, low-slope roofing enhancements for severe climate risks, trends in roof re-cover applications, condensation control in industrial roofing projects and hail impact testing of modified bitumen roof membranes. 

Beyond the classroom, the convention offers extensive networking opportunities. Thursday includes an auxiliary seminar (ALA) on reroofing and the RCI-IIBEC Foundations’ Golf Tournament at Haggin Oaks Alister MacKenzie Course, followed by a welcome reception that evening. Friday features an opening ceremony and keynote speaker, along with the trade show’s grand opening and reception. Saturday highlights include the Annual Awards Ceremony, EBEC Awards Presentations, the Emerging Professionals Reception and the invitation-only V.I.Platinum Reception. On Sunday, the RCI-IIBEC Foundations’ Live Auction and Reception precedes the President’s Annual Banquet. 

A range of registration options are available, including full registration, one-day passes, trade show-only access, auxiliary seminar-only registration and exhibitor packages. Early registration rates are available through February 6, 2026, with standard rates through March 6 and onsite registration beginning March 7. Full registration includes access to Friday through Sunday events, Thursday’s welcome reception and digital access to the event’s proceedings and session recordings when available. 

With Platinum Sponsors including Carlisle, Elevate™, Flynn Group of Companies, GAF, IB Roof Systems™, Johns Manville, National Gypsum Services Company, Polyglass USA Inc., Sika Corporation, Siplast, SITURA INC, SOPREMA and Versico, along with Gold, Silver and additional sponsors, the event reflects broad industry support. 

For professionals seeking technical depth, peer exchange and exposure to emerging trends in building enclosure performance, the 2026 IIBEC Convention and Trade Show offers a concentrated opportunity to prepare for the year ahead. 

Register now to secure your spot at this year’s convention!

By Jenny Yu.  

At IRE, Carlisle Architectural Metals shares how metal material performance, design and resilience are shaping the future. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Heidi J. Ellsworth met with Mike Weis, vice president of sales for Carlisle Architectural Metals (CAM). CAM brings together five established metal brands under one umbrella. “CAM is comprised of five different brands. Five different metal brands,” Mike explained. “Petersen Aluminum Corporation (PAC), Drexel Metals, Metal-Era, Hickman Edge Systems and Citadel Architectural Products.” While CAM serves as the parent organization, Mike emphasized that each brand maintains its own identity. “We are still very brand focused because every one of the brands provides its own value and has its own niche and its own market focus.” 

With over 25 years working in the industry, Mike has witnessed the exponential rise of metal in the roofing industry firsthand. “The significance of it is substantial,” Mike stated. “You can talk about sustainability, performance, visual aesthetics, design solutions, ease of install, longevity of product — so many reasons why metal has become more impactful to the architectural industry.” 

One of the main factors driving the accelerated adoption of metal is the extreme weather taking place nationwide, from fires on the west coast to hurricanes on the east coast. “If you think about Florida down in the southeast, all that hurricane work, you have to design a structure that can withstand that,” Mike said. He added that rigorous testing remains critical, noting, “That’s why testing is so important. We’re always going to invest in testing and always try to make sure that we’re helping create a safe building, that we’re providing a safe solution.” 

Along with impressive durability and weather-resistant properties, with metal, you don’t have to sacrifice design and aesthetics for performance. “There’s this new digital print technology that’s out there,” Mike explained. “You can create wood grains, you can create marble-looking finishes, you can produce a weathering aspect. Architects are really driving this. They like to make sure they're maintaining the original design intent of some of these buildings. You can do so many things with metal.” 

As contractors move beyond traditional roofing into full building envelope solutions, Mike emphasized that metal is here to stay. “Metal is going to continue to grow,” Mike said. “Carlisle is investing in the right way, and we’re proud to be a part of it.” 

Watch the interview to learn more about how CAM is helping lead the industry into the realm of metal.