By Jenny Yu.  

This year’s convention offers a full lineup of events designed to connect professionals and their families, on and off the show floor. 

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) 104th Convention & Expo is set to return June 10–12, 2026, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, bringing together roofing professionals for three days of networking, education and a wide range of exciting social events designed for attendees and their families!  

Eat, drink and network 

The fun begins at the Welcome Reception on Wednesday, sponsored by Adams & Reese LLP, featuring food stations and an open bar in a relaxed setting. The excitement continues the next evening with the Jimmy Buffett Casino Party, an evening of games, dancing and tropical flair, alongside key presentations. Throughout the expo, the Beer Bust, sponsored by Mid-Atlantic Roofing Supply and GAF, and complimentary Expo lunches from PAC-CLAD Petersen and USG Securock offer casual opportunities to connect. 

Give back 

A cornerstone of the convention, the Foundation Auction runs throughout the event, raising funds for the FRSA Educational & Research Foundation. With both in-person and online bidding, attendees can support scholarships and industry advancement from wherever they are! Bidding starts on June 5 at 8:00 a.m. and ends June 12 at 2:00 p.m. 

Spotlighting women and Spanish speakers in the industry 

Professional development meets community at the National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Table Talks Session on Wednesday, June 10, where women in roofing can exchange insights on leadership and relationship building in a round-robin format. Registration is $25 and includes refreshments. 

On Thursday, June 11, SRS Building Products and CertainTeed join forces to host a special session for Spanish speakers to learn, connect and celebrate. This event is free, with limited spots available. 

Family fun for everyone! 

Enjoy time with loved ones, starting with Wednesday's Family Fun Event featuring indoor mini golf and a new “Brick Lab” competition where families can build and race custom Lego cars. The Kids’ Program adds even more excitement throughout the convention, with pizza-making, scavenger hunts, arcade competitions and interactive gaming experiences, ensuring younger roofers-to-be are just as engaged as their parents. 

Sports and creative experiences 

For those seeking active or creative outlets, attendees can participate in golf and clay shooting tournaments or explore artistic options like a textured painting workshop and a chocolate rose culinary experience. 

From networking receptions to family activities and charitable giving, FRSA’s 104th Convention & Expo offers something for everyone.  

Register now to secure your spot and experience it all.

By Emma Peterson. 

Ronn Levine’s article dives into the challenges and opportunities in the roofing industry presented by labor, economic and technology trends. 

Recently, award-winning writer and editor Ronn Levine wrote an article for LBM Journal diving into the roles technology, relationships and training play in the roofing industry. The article provides great insight into how roofing professionals can find success in a challenging economic and labor market.  

Throughout the article, Ronn spoke to industry experts, such as Jack Gottesman (marketing and brand director at IKO), Sarah Lograsso (director of marketing and product management for Westlake Royal Building Products), Brian Cross (operations manager of Rocky Mountain Snow Guards),  David Ellis (VP for residential marketing at GAF) and The Coffee Shops™ President Heidi J. Ellsworth!  

In their conversation, Ronn and Heidi dove into the challenges and growth that Heidi has seen through the lens of RoofersCoffeeShop®, which will be celebrating its 25th anniversary next year!  

First she highlighted the labor shortages, which has been a persistent issue over the years, explaining, “Contractors and associations are working very strongly on workforce development, getting back into the high schools, the vocational schools, and thinking, ‘How do we get more skilled labor?’”  

From there, the conversation shifted to the economic outlook for roofing. One thing Heidi specifically mentioned was the semi-recent advancement of private equity firms, sharing, “The mergers of many companies into regional and national players, along with the influx of private equity funds, has changed the competitive marketplace.”  

Interested in the rest of Ronn and Heidi’s conversation, as well as the experts he interviewed? Read the whole article on LBM Journal’s website!

Alma Garnett moves to advisory role as of 2027.

GAF, a Standard Industries company and North America’s largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, today announced that Dan Karins will assume responsibility for the full Commercial Sales business, succeeding Alma Garnett, who will step back from her day-to-day responsibilities at the end of 2026 and transition into a long-term strategic advisory role.

In his expanded role, Dan Karins will oversee the full spectrum of the Commercial Sales business, driving its strategic management and growth. Karins and Garnett have worked in close alignment over the last several years to grow the GAF Commercial business by strengthening customer relationships, expanding its portfolio and building a sustainable foundation for the future. 

“Alma’s impact on GAF and the broader roofing industry cannot be overstated. She joined us with a reputation for excellence that has been instrumental in growing our Commercial business,” said John Barkhouse, CEO and president of GAF. “Over Dan’s 20-plus years at GAF, he has earned the deep respect of our customers through his tenacity and proven ability to advance our Commercial business. His leadership will be vital as we continue to build on the organization's strong momentum.”

“Alma has been a great mentor and phenomenal partner in building a world-class foundation for GAF Commercial,” said Dan Karins. “I am eager to lead our team as we continue to set the standard for excellence and ensure GAF remains the most trusted partner in the commercial roofing industry.”

Alma Garnett joined GAF in 2021, bringing a distinguished career spanning several decades. She will remain actively involved throughout the remainder of 2026 to support the handover of responsibilities. 

“It has been a privilege to lead such a talented team and to work alongside our customers to advance the roofing industry,” said Alma Garnett. “I am incredibly proud of what we have built. Having worked closely with Dan for years, I have seen firsthand his dedication to our partners and his vision for the business. GAF Commercial is in the best possible hands as I transition into this next chapter.”

About GAF

GAF, a Standard Industries company, is the leading roofing and waterproofing manufacturer in North America. For more than 135 years, GAF has been trusted to protect what matters most for families, business owners and roofing professionals with its innovative solutions and focus on exceptional service. GAF's leadership extends to its commitment to strengthen its communities and industry through investments in career development, sustainable products and local community resilience. Learn more at www.GAF.com

This collaboration kicks off with providing a new roof for local veteran.

GAF, North America’s largest roofing and waterproofing manufacturer, has partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa to provide a new FORTIFIED Roof™ for a Tuscaloosa veteran. This install kicks off a joint effort between GAF, Habitat Tuscaloosa and Strengthen Alabama Homes (SAH) to expand access to storm-resilient roofing systems in West Alabama. Through this program, eligible homeowners can access grants to install a FORTIFIED Roof™ system with materials donated by GAF and installed by a GAF Master Elite® contractor.  

The first completed project supports Ms. Evelyn Smith, a retired Army veteran and longtime Tuscaloosa resident, whose home was in need of critical roof replacement for her aging roof following years of wear and tear. “I am so grateful and excited about my new roof,” said Ms. Smith. “I just can’t express how happy I am that I was chosen." 

Through this collaboration, her home now features a FORTIFIED Roof, a nationally recognized roofing method developed by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS) to help protect homes from severe weather, including high winds and heavy rain.  

For this project, GAF donated roofing materials and provided additional support to help the home meet FORTIFIED Roof standards, while local GAF-certified contractor Alliance Roofing donated labor for the installation. As part of its nearly 50-year presence in Tuscaloosa, GAF continues to invest in the community through partnerships that help strengthen local homes and neighborhoods including volunteering time and expertise, and donating product. In the last ten years alone, the team at GAF's Tuscaloosa manufacturing plant has produced and donated roofing materials to more than 100 homes. 

“A FORTIFIED Roof can make a meaningful difference for homeowners, and expanding access to that level of protection is critical in communities that frequently face severe weather like Tuscaloosa,” said Mike Thomas, director of external learning & development, storm restoration at GAF. “We’re proud to continue our partnership with Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa to support those in our local community and help make homes across the region more resilient.”  

Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa, administers the application and qualification process for the program, which supports income-eligible homeowners across Tuscaloosa, Pickens, Hale and Greene counties. The initiative focuses on upgrading existing homes with FORTIFIED Roof systems that can help reduce storm damage and may lower insurance costs while increasing home value. 

“GAF has been a terrific partner in this neighborhood for years and their support allows us to extend the impact of this effort and serve more homeowners in need,” said Ellen Potts,  executive director of Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa. “Ms. Smith has given so much through her service, and we’re honored to help ensure her home is safe, secure and better prepared for whatever weather comes next.” 

This project is part of GAF Community Matters, GAF’s social impact initiative focused on building resilient communities by leveraging roofing expertise, resources and products to make a positive, lasting difference. Since launching an alliance with IBHS, GAF is helping expand the nationwide network of roofing professionals who can make FORTIFIED Roofs more accessible to homeowners across the country. 

About GAF 

GAF, a Standard Industries company, is the leading roofing and waterproofing manufacturer in North America. For more than 135 years, GAF has been trusted to protect what matters most for families, business owners and roofing professionals with its innovative solutions and focus on exceptional service. GAF's leadership extends to its commitment to strengthen its communities and industry through investments in career development, sustainable products and local community resilience. Learn more at www.GAF.com. 

About Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa 

Habitat for Humanity of Tuscaloosa was established in 1987 by Hank Hawkins and has since grown through the dedication of local volunteers and staff committed to expanding access to affordable housing. Following the devastating April 27, 2011, tornado, the need for safe, affordable housing in Tuscaloosa increased significantly. Since then, Habitat Tuscaloosa has built more than 100 homes and completed over 500 repairs, continuing to play a vital role in helping families build strength, stability and self-reliance through shelter. Learn more at www.habitattuscaloosa.org. 

About Strengthen Alabama Homes 

Strengthen Alabama Homes is a program of the Alabama Department of Insurance and provides grants to residents of certain counties in Alabama for residential wind mitigation on existing, owner-occupied, single-family homes. Funding for this program comes from the insurance industry in Alabama and is not funded from the state's general budget, nor is it tied to a federally funded program.  SAH began its partnership with Habitat Tuscaloosa in 2020 to help low to moderate income individuals and families better prepare their homes for severe weather. 

Por Jenny Yu, traducido por Alberto Torres. 

El 17.º Proyecto Anual de Servicio Comunitario reunió a 30 voluntarios para ayudar a residentes necesitados de Las Vegas. 

Antes de que expositores y asistentes llenaran el piso de exhibición de la International Roofing Expo, 30 voluntarios se reunieron el lunes 19 de enero de 2026 para participar en el 17.º Proyecto Anual de Servicio Comunitario del evento. 

En colaboración con la organización sin fines de lucro Rebuilding Together — Southern Nevada y con el patrocinio de líderes de la industria como Sika Corporation y GAF, el Día de Servicio Comunitario de este año brindó a los asistentes la oportunidad de retribuir a la comunidad local donando su tiempo para reparar las viviendas de dos residentes de bajos ingresos de Las Vegas. 

“Donamos $15,000 para ayudar a pagar todos los materiales de construcción y la mano de obra de Rebuilding Together,” dijo Bill Bellico, vicepresidente de Sika, a KLAS 8 News Now. 

La primera propietaria beneficiada fue Minnie Davis, de 78 años. Minnie ha sido dueña de su casa desde 1985, pero tras el fallecimiento de su esposo Bob en octubre de 2025, mantener la propiedad se volvió demasiado difícil física y económicamente. Los voluntarios de IRE se ofrecieron para pintar paredes, reparar puertas y limpiar el patio, ganándose la gratitud de Minnie. 

“Es abrumador ver a toda esta gente cuidándome,” expresó Minnie. “¡Si pudiera, les daría un millón de dólares a todos por ayudarme!” 

Los voluntarios también colaboraron con reparaciones y limpieza del patio de una pareja de 73 años con bajos ingresos, quienes han sido propietarios de su hogar durante 20 años y han tenido dificultades para mantenerlo debido a su edad avanzada y limitaciones financieras. 

En general, el Día de Servicio Comunitario de IRE fue una jornada de ayuda y unión dentro de la industria, preparando el terreno para una experiencia exitosa en la conferencia. “Es un día realmente gratificante, porque reúnes a personas de toda la industria y creas lazos más fuertes dentro de la comunidad,” compartió Bill. 

Fuente de la imagen: International Roofing Expo

Por Alberto Torres. 

Como Roof Hub está ayudando a los contratistas a organizar mejor sus proyectos de techado. 

En un Almuerzo y Aprendizaje, Jessica Bravo y Julian Fontanillas de SRS Distribution comparten como la plataforma Roof Hub está cambiando la manera en que los contratistas gestionan sus proyectos de techado. Julian forma parte del equipo de ventas digitales y plataformas de integración dentro de Roof Hub, SRS Distribution. Con casi nueve estados bajo su responsabilidad y más de 14 años de experiencia trabajando con SRS Distribution, aporta una perspectiva práctica sobre cómo la tecnología puede hacer más eficientes las operaciones diarias de los contratistas. 

 Durante la conversación, explica cómo la plataforma ayuda a organizar pedidos, coordinar entregas y mantener un mejor control sobre los cronogramas de trabajo. “Roof Hub es una herramienta que permite a los contratistas ver todo su calendario de órdenes en un solo lugar, tanto las actuales como las futuras, lo que facilita la organización de cada proyecto,” comenta Julian. Roof Hub no solo funciona como una plataforma para ordenar materiales. La plataforma también se integra con herramientas populares de la industria como Eagleview, Hover, JobNimbus, Giddyup, Acculynx y GAF QuickMeasure, entre otras, lo que permite conectar estimaciones, mediciones de techos y gestión de proyectos directamente con los pedidos de materiales.  

Uno de los puntos que más destaca Julian es que Roof Hub está disponible sin costo para los clientes de SRS Distribution. A través de la plataforma, los contratistas pueden programar órdenes de materiales y visualizar cuando estarán listas para entrega o recogida. Según explica, aunque es posible programar órdenes con mucha anticipación, recomienda mantener una ventana de una a dos semanas. “Lo ideal es agendar los pedidos entre una y dos semanas antes, porque así también se puede asegurar los precios de los productos,” señala. 

Además, la plataforma ofrece un calendario completo donde se pueden revisar las órdenes programadas, lo que ayuda a los contratistas a mantener una mejor planificación de sus proyectos. Otro beneficio importante de Roof Hub es la capacidad de seguir las entregas en tiempo real. La plataforma está conectada directamente con sistemas de rastreo que permiten conocer la ubicación de cada pedido y estimar con mayor precisión la hora de llegada. “Los contratistas pueden ver dónde está su entrega en tiempo real, lo que reduce la incertidumbre y mejora la coordinación en el lugar de trabajo,” explica Julian. 

Al momento de cada entrega, el equipo también toma fotografías de la mercancía para verificar que todo llegue en buen estado. Si algún producto presenta daños o irregularidades, esas imágenes sirven como evidencia para comunicar la situación tanto al contratista como al propietario del proyecto. Esto se vuelve especialmente útil cuando hay materiales que ya estaban dañados antes de la entrega o cuando es necesario documentar reemplazos. 

Roof Hub también facilita el proceso de hacer pedidos de materiales. Los contratistas pueden realizarlos directamente en línea o comunicarse con su distribuidor con algunas horas de anticipación para que la orden esté lista al momento de recogerla. “Tenemos muchas maneras de ayudar a los contratistas a hacer su trabajo más eficiente, dependiendo de cómo prefieran manejar sus pedidos,” comenta Julian. 

Para la comunidad latina en la industria del roofing, Roof Hub también ofrece la opción de navegar la plataforma en español. Aunque Julian reconoce que aún hay secciones que siguen en proceso de traducción, el equipo continúa trabajando para mejorar la experiencia. Además, dentro de la plataforma los usuarios pueden acceder al Programa de Lealtad de SRS, que permite obtener recompensas por compras de productos participantes. Julian invita a los contratistas que necesiten apoyo a contactarlo directamente para recibir entrenamiento sobre cómo navegar la plataforma. “Si alguien necesita ayuda para aprender a usar Roof Hub, con gusto podemos ofrecer entrenamientos o seminarios, porque queremos que los contratistas aprovechen todas las herramientas disponibles,” concluye. 

A medida que la industria del roofing continúa adoptando nuevas tecnologías, herramientas como Roof Hub buscan simplificar procesos que tradicionalmente han sido complejos y demandantes. Para Julian, el objetivo es claro: ayudar a los profesionales de la industria a trabajar de manera más eficiente y con menos incertidumbre en su día a día. 

Ver el video de Almuerzo y Aprendizaje para conocer más sobre Roof Hub.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how contractors can successfully install single-ply roofing systems when temperatures fall below 40°F. 

The arrival of colder weather does not necessarily mean roofing work must stop. Industry guidance from GAF indicates that single-ply systems such as EverGuard® TPO and PVC can still be installed successfully during cooler conditions, provided contractors plan carefully and follow manufacturer recommendations designed for cold-weather applications. 

In roofing, cool weather installation generally refers to ambient temperatures below 40°F (4.4°C). Yet temperature alone does not determine whether a project can move forward. Contractors must also evaluate jobsite conditions such as wind chill, surface temperature, humidity, precipitation and the level of sun exposure throughout the day. These factors collectively influence how roofing materials behave during installation and ultimately affect the quality of the finished system. 

Because colder environments introduce additional risks, thorough planning becomes a critical part of the process. One important step is structuring the work schedule so crews can complete each section of the roof during a single work period. Leaving areas partially finished overnight can expose materials to moisture or freezing conditions, increasing the potential for membrane wrinkling, adhesion failures, poor welds and blistering. 

Proper material handling is equally important as temperatures decline. Water-based products must be stored in warm conditions to prevent freezing, while solvent-based adhesives must reach specific temperature thresholds before they can perform as intended. Contractors may rely on heat blankets or temperature-controlled storage to maintain those conditions. Membranes should also remain in controlled storage until installation because thermoplastic materials become stiffer in cold weather, making them more difficult to unroll and position on the roof. 

Installation practices may also require adjustment in cooler conditions. Lower temperatures often require slower welder speeds so equipment can deliver sufficient heat to create durable seams. Because weather conditions can change throughout the day, crews should perform field test welds regularly to confirm proper equipment settings. Routine quality checks, including probing seams and conducting end-of-day inspections, help verify that the system is performing as expected. 

Worker safety is another important consideration. Cold environments can expose crews to cold stress, making proper protective clothing, portable heaters and designated warming areas essential parts of the jobsite plan. 

For contractors determining whether a project can proceed in cooler conditions, GAF Design Services provides technical support and resources to help evaluate building needs and guide installation decisions. 

Best practices for cool weather application 

In an article by GAF, they share best practice recommendations for cool weather application that can help contractors achieve a quality installation in temperatures below 40°F. Here are some key components to keep in mind: 

• Membrane storage. By leaving membrane rolls in storage until ready to install, they will remain more flexible and easier to work with. 
• Seam welding settings. Outdoor conditions play a big role in your welder settings. Lower air temperatures will typically require slower speed settings, allowing the welder to deliver the additional heat energy needed to compensate for the cooler conditions. Hand welders will require consideration and adjustment for cooler temperatures. 
• Field test welds. Field test welds are critical to finding the correct settings for your welders. Conditions and temperatures can change throughout the day, so test welds will need to be done several times per day. Always test in the morning before work begins, after any extended breaks, and after any changes in the weather, such as a change in wind speed or temperature. Daily quality control checks should be done, including probing and checking seams at the end of the workday. 
• Adhesives, sealants and primers. Lower temperatures mean these products will take longer to flash off and dry. Also, be aware of the "working time" for solvent-based spray adhesives. The working time is the time between flash off and when the adhesive no longer has any tack. In cooler weather, the working time of solvent-based spray adhesives can diminish significantly. As such, always store these products in warmer temperatures and leave them stored until ready to use. Make sure to bring them up to and maintain the manufacturer's recommended temperature using heat boxes or heat blankets before use and during use, if necessary. 
• Fasteners. When installing EverGuard® TPO and PVC in temperatures below 40°F using fasteners, wrinkles may form due to the expansion and contraction caused by temperature fluctuations. GAF advises that wrinkles less than one inch high when pressed together typically won't affect the integrity of the system. It's recommended to perform test welds throughout the day to ensure the settings on your RhinoBond® induction tool are correct. 

Learn more about best practices for installing single-ply roofing systems safely and effectively in cool weather conditions!

Por Jessica Bravo. 

Las historias, entrevistas y recursos más leídos por la comunidad de roofing este mes.  

Uno de los contenidos destacados fue un episodio de La Voz de los Ruferos, en el que Alejandra Mahecha Bader, de MuleHide, comparte cómo es un día en su rutina como representante e inspectora de techos. Este rol resulta clave para asegurar que cada proyecto cumpla con los estándares establecidos por la empresa antes de poder emitir el proceso de garantías. 

Se invita a escuchar el episodio o leer el artículo para comprender la importancia de no omitir pasos durante el proceso de instalación, ya que esto puede generar problemas que no siempre son visibles de inmediato. 

Mientras trabajamos para ampliar nuestras ofertas de R-Club en español, “Capacitaciones de seguridad del R-Club Educación bilingüe que fortalece a las cuadrillas” fue uno de los artículos más leídos en el mes de marzo. Entre los puntos más relevantes se encuentran: 

• John Kenney aporta liderazgo probado en campo a la educación en seguridad  
• Por qué son importantes las capacitaciones en español  
• Por qué es importante para los contratistas  

Asimismo, se invita a quienes no forman parte del R-Club a inscribirse en esta membresía para obtener acceso a ecapacitaciones exclusivas tanto en español como en inglés. 

Por otro lado, aún existe la oportunidad de participar en una experiencia deportiva VIP y obtener herramientas de alto valor. QXO, en colaboración con los patrocinadores IKO, GAF, TAMKO, Owens Corning y TRI-BUILT, está llevando a cabo una promoción en la que 22 contratistas podrán ganar una experiencia deportiva VIP. Además, al ordenar suministros a través de una cuenta QXO, se puede participar para ganar un kit de clavadora de bobina M18 FUEL de Milwaukee. La promoción estará vigente hasta el 10 de abril. 

Otro artículo que captó la atención de los lectores destacó cómo el evento World of Concrete (WOC) 2026 reflejó la innovación y el espíritu de la industria. Este evento es evidencia de la magnitud y la energía de los oficios de la construcción que se reunieron este año. El equipo tuvo la oportunidad de asistir tanto a la International Roofing Expo (IRE) como a World of Concrete, participando en dos grandes ferias y generando múltiples conversaciones clave. 

Finalmente, el mes no estaría completo sin una destacada conversación con SRS Para Latinos, una iniciativa reconocida en la industria por su enfoque en la comunidad. Su valor radica en crear espacios para conectar, colaborar y crecer en conjunto. Como afirmó Julissa Chavez, “La unión hace la fuerza. Necesitamos unirnos para seguir creciendo y colaborar.” 

Esta conversación también resaltó el papel fundamental de la mujer en la industria. El patrocinio a Conexión Hispana representa un compromiso sólido para brindar mayor visibilidad, oportunidades y espacios de crecimiento para las mujeres dentro del sector. 

Hay mucho más para leer y escuchar en nuestro sitio web. No te pierdas los artículos más leídos de marzo y prepárate para lo que viene en abril, porque será otro mes lleno de éxitos. 

5 – Una líder reconocida en la industria 

4 – Compartiendo las historias de la industria y sintiendo el impulso 

3 – Gana en grande con el Sorteo VIP Deportivo 2026 de QXO 

2 – Capacitaciones de seguridad del R-Club: Educación bilingüe que fortalece a las cuadrillas 

1 – Todo es una cadena durante el proceso de instalación - Parte 1

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how a new color collection and proven technologies  give homeowners and contractors more design flexibility with Timberline HDZ® shingles. 

The Timberline HDZ® shingle continues to anchor the GAF residential roofing portfolio as its best-selling product, reflecting the company’s ongoing emphasis on both visual design and long-term performance. With the introduction of the new Bold Definition color collection, the product line now offers homeowners more ways to enhance curb appeal while maintaining the durability and reliability associated with the Timberline HDZ ® name. 

According to Ashley Alfonso, Senior Residential Product Manager at GAF, the expanded color selection responds to growing interest from both homeowners and contractors seeking greater aesthetic flexibility. “We wanted to give both homeowners and contractors a real choice in aesthetics backed by the Timberline HDZ® name, which has stood the test of time after over a decade in development and over six on the market,” Ashley said. 

While the new colors broaden design possibilities, the product continues to prioritize performance. Timberline HDZ shingles are backed by the WindProven™ Limited Wind Warranty, which provides an industry-first 15-year infinite wind speed protection when the shingles are installed with four qualifying GAF accessories, starter strips, roof deck protection, ridge cap shingles and either a leak barrier or attic ventilation. Together, these components help strengthen the overall roofing system under severe weather conditions. 

Additional protection comes from the StainGuard Plus™ Algae Protection Limited Warranty, which uses time-release technology to guard against discoloration caused by blue-green algae. Ashley noted that the coverage helps preserve a roof’s appearance over time, describing the algae technhology as “important to homeowners, as it helps prevent algae-staining, so your roof will continue to look beautiful over time.” 

The shingles also carry a Lifetime† Limited Warranty against manufacturing defects and meet UL 2218 impact testing standards with a Class 3 impact rating, which can provide added protection in hail- and storm-prone regions. 

At the same time, GAF continues expanding the visual palette available to homeowners. The established High Definition® color collection includes nine widely available shades such as Barkwood, Charcoal, Hickory, Hunter Green, Mission Brown, Pewter Gray, Shakewood, Slate and Weathered Wood, with additional regional options offered in select markets. 

Building on that foundation, the new Bold Definition color collection introduces deeper tones and stronger contrasts designed to enhance roof visibility and architectural character. Available nationwide, the collection includes Chestnut Valley, Cliffside, Midnight Mesa and Sierra Sand. 

“The High Definition® look is what GAF is known for; the look homeowners and contractors know and love,” Ashley said. “We wanted to continue innovating to give homeowners that extra wow factor with the Bold Definition colors, allowing their roof to be the star of the home's curb appeal.” 

The shingles also incorporate LayerLock® Technology and the StrikeZone™ Nailing Area, which expand the fastening zone to support faster installation and improved nailing accuracy. 

Together, the expanded color collections and engineered installation features reflect a continued focus on helping homeowners choose roofing systems that combine visual appeal, installation efficiency and long-term protection. 

Learn more about how Timberline HDZ® shingles boost a home’s aesthetic while providing industry-leading technologies and strong warranties.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Learn how the event delivered strong networking, education and business opportunities for roofing professionals. 

The Colorado Roofing Association (CRA) show reinforced its position as a cornerstone regional event, bringing together contractors, manufacturers and industry organizations for one of its largest gatherings to date. This year’s show was defined by record attendance, an expanded trade floor and a steady pace of meaningful connections that translated into real business opportunities. 

That growth was immediately evident to attendees. The Coffee Shops™ (TCS) Multimedia Producer Zane Deluccie described the event as the biggest CRA show yet, emphasizing the value of reconnecting with industry partners such as TRA Snow & Sun and National Women in Roofing (NWIR). Even outdoor exhibits drew attention, with Rocket Equipment’s Trash Rocket standing out despite temperatures dropping below 40 degrees. Throughout the event, Zane noted, “We met plenty of great contractors who were interested in what we stood to offer. Our floor team talked to a number of existing clients and our booth wrangled a series of leads.” 

The scale of the show also shaped the experience on the floor. TCS Podcast Producer Adam Cabrera said, “It turned out to be much larger than I expected going in. There were a ton of exhibitors and the show had great turn out.” With a large number of exhibitors spread across multiple warehouse spaces the layout created continuous foot traffic, giving the team opportunities to introduce TCS to new audiences while building interest among contractors who were previously unfamiliar with the platform. 

For TCS Multimedia Manager Megan Ellsworth, the event’s momentum was most visible in both participation and energy. “It was the biggest year attendance wise that I've been to with about 2000 people in attendance,” as Megan described an environment that remained active from start to finish where she conducted interviews with companies including FlashCo, Brava Roof Tile, TRA Snow & Sun, Owens Corning® and GAF, along with organizations such as Duro-Last® and Latinos En Roofing. Her conversation with Amparo from Latinos En Roofing, attending for the first time, highlighted the growing influence of the Colorado market. 

Megan also supported the NWIR Denver/Northern Colorado chapter booth, which saw steady traffic and new member signups throughout the event. Alongside well-attended educational sessions and upcoming programming, including a March 18 Lunch and Learn, the show reflected continued growth and opportunity across the Colorado roofing industry. 

Learn more about how the CRA show is driving industry growth through connections, education and new business opportunities!