By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Fire resistance, durability and design innovation are driving new demand. 

Metal siding is experiencing significant growth across residential and light commercial construction, and the reasons go far beyond aesthetics. In 2026, homeowners and contractors are increasingly choosing metal wall systems because they solve some of the biggest challenges facing building exteriors today: fire, pests and rot. What is especially notable is that this shift is not just anecdotal; it is backed by steady market growth and changing homeowner priorities. 

Globally, the metal siding market is growing at an estimated five to six percent annually, with steady expansion expected over the next decade. In the United States, growth is more measured, reflecting a mature market, but the real momentum is happening in higher-end residential applications where metal siding is gaining share due to performance, longevity and design flexibility. 

Unlike traditional materials, metal siding is non-combustible, making it an important option in areas where fire risk is increasing. It also resists insects and pests and eliminates the risk of rot caused by moisture exposure. These performance advantages are aligning with a market that is prioritizing long-term durability and reduced maintenance, especially among homeowners investing in remodels and “forever homes.” 

At the same time, the broader siding market continues to grow at approximately four to five percent annually, driven largely by residential remodeling and exterior upgrades. Within that growth, metal siding is carving out a larger role, particularly in premium segments where homeowners are willing to invest more upfront for lower lifetime costs and better performance. 

Equally important is what is happening on the roofing side of the metal market. Metal roofing is not only growing; it is outperforming many traditional roofing materials and is projected to exceed five billion square feet of volume by 2029, with residential applications representing the majority of that demand. This growth is driven by the same factors influencing siding, including durability, sustainability, insurance considerations and long-term value. 

What is accelerating adoption across both roofing and siding is the rapid evolution of color, coatings and profiles. Contractors and homeowners are no longer limited to basic painted panels. Today’s metal systems offer an expanding range of matte finishes, textured coatings and nature-inspired colors such as charcoals, slate grays, greens and patina-style metallics that are seeing the fastest growth in demand. Matte and low-gloss finishes in particular are gaining popularity because they reduce glare, hide handling marks and elevate the perceived quality of both roofing and siding systems. 

Advanced coating technologies are playing a central role in this transformation. Modern coil coating processes create highly durable, factory-applied finishes that bond tightly to the metal surface, improving corrosion resistance and long-term performance. These coatings also enable printed and textured designs that realistically replicate wood grain, stone, tile and even traditional siding profiles, allowing metal to deliver both performance and aesthetics. 

Companies like Sherwin-Williams are leading this innovation with advanced coil coating systems that provide UV resistance, fade protection and long-term color retention while supporting a wide range of architectural finishes. At the same time, manufacturers such as Central States Manufacturing are bringing these innovations to market through finished metal siding and roofing panels that incorporate these new colors, textures and profiles into complete building envelope systems. 

This is an important distinction. While some companies in the supply chain focus on coated coil, manufacturers like Central States are delivering ready-to-install siding and roofing systems that allow contractors and homeowners to take full advantage of these design advancements in real-world applications. 

For contractors and homeowners, metal siding represents a shift in thinking. It is no longer a niche or purely commercial solution. It is a high-performance, design-forward option that meets the demands of modern construction while delivering resilience against fire, pests and moisture-related deterioration. 

As fire resilience, durability and long-term value continue to shape building decisions, metal siding and roofing are positioned to play an even larger role in the future of exterior design. The data supports what many contractors are already seeing in the field. This is not a short-term trend; it is a long-term shift toward better-performing materials that also meet the growing expectations for design and aesthetics. 

To learn more about these innovations, visit the directories for Sherwin-Williams and Central States Manufacturing on MetalCoffeeShop.com and RoofersCoffeeShop.com. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

New Workforce Pell Grants could help roofing contractors recruit, train and grow the next generation of skilled workers. 

A long-supported workforce initiative championed by the roofing industry is moving closer to reality and it could provide meaningful opportunities for contractors looking to build stronger crews for the future. On March 6, the Department of Education announced the publication of a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking to implement the Workforce Pell Grant Program approved by Congress in 2025 as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, also known as the Working Families Tax Cuts Act. The new program expands Pell Grant eligibility to students enrolled in short-term, career-oriented workforce training programs, helping put workforce education on a more equal footing with traditional college degree pathways. 

For years, Pell Grants have largely been limited to students enrolled in longer-term college degree programs. While traditional higher education received federal support, many students pursuing careers in the skilled trades often faced limited financial assistance for technical and workforce training. Workforce Pell Grants are designed to help change that by creating greater access to career-focused education for students interested in hands-on professions such as roofing.

This development is especially important to the roofing industry. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has long supported Workforce Pell legislation and advocated for its approval over many years. Expanding access to workforce education funding has also been a recurring priority during Roofing Day in D.C., where industry leaders regularly meet with lawmakers to discuss workforce shortages, training needs and policies that strengthen the skilled trades. 

The timeline

Beginning July 1, 2026, eligible students who meet the standard financial need criteria for traditional Pell Grants may qualify for assistance while enrolled in approved workforce training programs. To qualify, programs must be offered through accredited institutions that participate in federal financial aid and must meet several requirements. Eligible training programs must:

• Be between eight and 15 weeks in length
• Prepare students for employment in high-skill, high-wage or in-demand careers
• Lead to portable, industry-recognized credentials

Credentials also must count toward an associate or bachelor’s degree pathway while meeting performance standards.

The big picture

For roofing contractors, this could become an important workforce development tool at a time when labor shortages continue to challenge businesses across the country. By opening financial aid opportunities for shorter-term workforce education, more students, veterans, career changers and young workers may see skilled trades such as roofing as a realistic and affordable career path. Contractors who partner with accredited technical schools, trade programs and workforce development organizations may gain access to a stronger pipeline of trained workers who already have foundational knowledge in safety, roofing systems and construction practices. 

The timing aligns with broader workforce efforts already underway across roofing. NRCA continues investing in workforce development, technical education and initiatives such as SkillsUSA, where the association will support a record number of roofing competitors during the 2026 national competition in Atlanta. These efforts, combined with Workforce Pell Grants, have the potential to strengthen roofing’s talent pipeline and create more opportunities for the next generation of skilled workers. 

As implementation moves forward, NRCA remains optimistic about the impact Workforce Pell Grants can have on the skilled trades. For roofing contractors, this program may offer more than educational access. It may help create a stronger future workforce while making roofing careers more attainable and affordable for those interested in joining the trades. 

For more information on workforce development, advocacy initiatives and how the roofing industry is supporting future workforce solutions, visit NRCA and the NRCA ROOFPAC directory on RoofersCoffeeShop. 

By Jenny Yu.  

The honor highlights Heidi's leadership in advancing the roofing and outdoor industries. 

The Coffee Shops™ are proud to share that our President, Heidi J. Ellsworth, was recently recognized by Women We Admire as one of the Top Women Leaders of Oregon for 2026. The annual list honors accomplished women leaders who are making significant contributions across industries while demonstrating leadership, innovation and a commitment to advancing their professions. 

Women We Admire is a membership organization and professional network comprised of women executives and leaders across the United States and Canada. Through its annual recognition programs, the organization celebrates women who are driving growth, fostering innovation and creating positive impact within their industries and communities. 

Heidi was recognized for her decades-long leadership in the roofing and building industries and for her role in helping grow The Coffee Shops into some of the industry's most influential media and community platforms. Heidi has spent more than 30 years advancing roofing sales, marketing, business development and industry engagement and is also widely known for her advocacy of workforce development, industry inclusion and education. 

Under Heidi’s leadership, The Coffee Shops have continued to expand their reach and influence. Over the past year, they've launched OutdoorCoffeeShop™, a digital community dedicated to the outdoor living and exterior construction markets. The new platform extends The Coffee Shops’ mission of connecting contractors, manufacturers and industry professionals through education, networking and business resources. 

They also expanded internationally with the launch of RoofersCoffeeShop.uk, bringing its established model of industry news, education and community engagement to roofing professionals across the United Kingdom. The expansion reflects the growing demand for accessible industry resources and opportunities to connect roofing professionals around the globe. 

In addition to leading The Coffee Shops, Heidi remains active throughout the industry through speaking engagements, board service and mentorship initiatives. Her work with organizations such as National Women in Roofing, National Roofing Contractors Association and Roofing Alliance has helped strengthen opportunities for professionals throughout the roofing sector. 

To learn more about the women recognized on this year’s list, visit Women We Admire’s Top Women Leaders of Oregon for the 2026 feature. You can also learn more about Heidi’s ongoing impact on the industry at her RoofersCoffeeShop directory! 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

The policies shaping the future of roofing. 

As I begin my service on the board of directors for the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), one of the most valuable parts of the onboarding process has been gaining a deeper understanding of the association’s government affairs efforts. While many roofing professionals immediately think of technical education, workforce development or industry networking when they think of NRCA, the reality is that advocacy plays an equally important role in protecting and advancing the roofing industry.

During a recent onboarding session, NRCA Vice President of Government Affairs Duane Musser provided an update on the legislative and regulatory issues that continue to impact roofing contractors, manufacturers, distributors and construction professionals across the country. The presentation reinforced just how important it is for roofing professionals to understand the policies being debated in Washington, D.C. and how those decisions directly affect businesses, jobs and long-term industry growth.

One of the key takeaways from the presentation was that government policy is not an abstract issue. It directly affects profitability, workforce availability, tax planning, energy incentives and training opportunities. NRCA continues to advocate for tax policies that support roofing businesses, including maintaining the Section 199A deduction for pass-through businesses, preserving the 21% corporate tax rate, maintaining estate tax exemptions and restoring full deductions for research and development costs. The association also continues to support provisions that allow full expensing for nonresidential roof improvements under Section 179.

These tax policies matter because they influence investment decisions, business growth and succession planning for roofing companies of every size. For many contractors, these policies can determine whether they purchase new equipment, expand operations or invest in additional employees. Tax issues have also been a major focus of Roofing Day in Washington, D.C. for several years, demonstrating how important these policies are to the future success of roofing businesses.

At the same time, NRCA is closely monitoring changes to federal energy efficiency incentives. Several energy-related tax credits and deductions are being phased out over the next one to two years, including incentives tied to commercial building energy efficiency, residential energy-efficient construction and renewable energy investments. While future opportunities may emerge, the current landscape highlights the need for roofing professionals to stay informed as energy policy continues to evolve and impact project opportunities.

Workforce development remains another critical priority for the roofing industry. The update included discussions around the reauthorization of the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), which provides funding and support for workforce training programs across the country. NRCA supports reforms that would streamline administrative requirements, expand access to competency-based training and certification programs and increase employer representation on workforce development boards. These efforts align directly with the roofing industry's ongoing need to recruit, train and retain skilled workers.

The association is also continuing its advocacy efforts around Career and Technical Education (CTE) funding. Through support of Perkins Career and Technical Education grants and other workforce initiatives, NRCA is helping expand opportunities for students and future trades professionals to pursue careers in roofing and construction. The association has successfully advocated for increased funding over the years and continues working to expand career and technical education opportunities that help build the industry's future workforce.

As someone who has spent decades advocating for workforce development through industry media, associations and educational initiatives, it was encouraging to see how much focus NRCA continues to place on creating pathways into the roofing profession. Developing the next generation of roofing professionals remains one of the most important challenges and opportunities facing our industry.

Another important topic discussed during the onboarding session was immigration legislation and workforce availability. NRCA continues to support efforts that improve access to legal workforce programs, including maximizing the effectiveness of the H-2B seasonal visa program. The presentation also highlighted legislative proposals that could create additional workforce opportunities through expanded visa programs designed to address labor shortages in critical industries.

Regardless of individual political viewpoints, one fact remains clear: roofing companies across the country continue to face workforce shortages. Industry leaders need to understand the policy discussions surrounding workforce availability because these decisions directly impact the ability of contractors to meet customer demand, complete projects and grow their businesses.

One of the reasons I have always valued industry associations is their ability to serve as the collective voice of the industry. Individual roofing companies often do not have the time or resources to monitor every legislative proposal, regulatory change or policy debate occurring at the federal level. NRCA's government affairs team provides tremendous value by staying engaged in these discussions and ensuring the roofing industry's perspective is represented.

The issues discussed during this onboarding session are not future concerns. They are current issues affecting contractors today. Tax policy influences business investments, workforce legislation impacts hiring, career and technical education affect the future labor pipeline and energy policies shape product demand and project opportunities. Understanding these issues helps roofing professionals make better business decisions while ensuring our industry continues to have a strong voice in the policymaking process.

As I begin my service on the NRCA Board of Directors, I am even more convinced that advocacy is one of the most important services our industry association provides. The work happening behind the scenes in Washington, D.C. may not always make headlines, but it has a profound impact on the future of roofing. I am particularly honored to be serving on the PAC Advisory Committee, which helps raise funds to support ROOFPAC, NRCA’s political action committee, which helps ensure that bipartisan lawmakers understand the issues affecting roofing contractors, manufacturers, distributors and workers across the country. Supporting advocacy through NRCA and ROOFPAC helps strengthen our industry's voice and protect the future of roofing for generations to come.

For roofing professionals who want to make a difference, there has never been a better time to get involved. I encourage contractors and industry leaders to become members of NRCA and learn more about supporting ROOFPAC. Together, we can help ensure the roofing industry remains represented on critical issues including workforce development, tax policy, career and technical education, energy incentives and regulatory reform. To learn more, visit NRCA's ROOFPAC program and consider becoming an active participant in shaping the future of our industry.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Experiencing the craftsmanship, durability and history of slate roofing firsthand across the United Kingdom. 

To truly understand the beauty, durability and craftsmanship of roofing and especially slate roofing, you have to experience it firsthand. For me, that is exactly what happened when RoofersCoffeeShop® joined the National Slate Association (NSA) and the Slate Roofing Contractors Association (SRCA) for their recent educational tour through the United Kingdom focused on slate roofing, history and best practices. 

Alongside Megan Ellsworth, multimedia director for The Coffee Shops™, I had the incredible opportunity to travel with contractors, association leaders and slate professionals to experience the rich history and extraordinary performance of natural slate roofing firsthand. From visiting historic installations and award-winning projects to learning directly from industry experts, one message became very clear to me throughout the trip: Slate remains one of the most durable, sustainable and high-performing roofing materials available today. 

Throughout the journey, RoofersCoffeeShop worked closely with NSA and SRCA to document and share the experience in real time through social media and online coverage, helping bring the story of UK slate roofing to contractors and roofing professionals back home. From centuries-old slate roofs still protecting structures today to hands-on learning about quarrying, installation and craftsmanship, I was reminded again and again why slate continues to stand the test of time. 

After arriving in London and getting settled in, one of the first truly memorable experiences of the tour was the opportunity to visit the rooftop of the historic Admiralty Arch. This exceptional rooftop tour would not have been possible without the support and coordination of National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) and EWN Leadwork Specialists. Standing atop one of London’s most iconic landmarks offered an incredible perspective on both historic roofing craftsmanship and modern restoration efforts. 

Located at the western end of The Mall near Trafalgar Square, Admiralty Arch serves as the ceremonial gateway toward Buckingham Palace and has long stood as one of London’s most recognizable landmarks. Known for its impressive Edwardian architecture, intricate stonework and ceremonial significance during royal events and parades, the structure carries both architectural and cultural importance.

Today, the building is being thoughtfully transformed into a luxury hotel and private residences while preserving its remarkable historic character. Being able to tour the rooftop and better understand the restoration work taking place gave me a unique appreciation for the specialized craftsmanship required to preserve historic structures while adapting them for future generations. For roofing professionals, it was an extraordinary opportunity to see how restoration, waterproofing and historical preservation come together on one of the United Kingdom’s most significant buildings. 

The educational opportunities continued throughout the tour with another exceptional experience, visiting the quarry and production facilities at Burlington Stone in Northern England.  Seeing natural slate extracted directly from the quarry and following the process through preparation for roofing applications gave me an entirely new appreciation for the craftsmanship, engineering and precision behind premium slate systems. From the careful quarrying methods to the grading, splitting and preparation of slate for roofing, the visit offered a rare behind-the-scenes look at how one of the industry’s most respected roofing materials begins its journey. Watching slate move from the mountainside to a finished roofing product was not only educational but truly exceptional. It reinforced for me the incredible quality control, natural performance characteristics and legacy behind slate roofing. 

Equally impressive was seeing the incredible longevity and resilience of slate roofs across the UK. Many of the buildings we visited showcased roofing systems that have performed for generations, proving slate’s unmatched durability and long-term value. Natural slate’s low water absorption, resistance to harsh weather and remarkable life expectancy continue to make it a premium roofing choice around the world. 

The trip also showcased the artistry behind slate roofing. The precision, craftsmanship and technical expertise required to install and maintain slate systems were on full display throughout the experience. For me, it served as an important reminder of how specialized roofing trades preserve both performance and architectural history while creating roofs designed to last for decades, and often centuries. 

This experience was truly amazing. Being able to see the history, craftsmanship and long-term performance of slate up close was incredibly educational. I was honoured that RoofersCoffeeShop could help share the story through social media and online coverage, helping show the roofing industry why slate continues to be one of the highest-performing roofing systems available. 

The trip also underscored the importance of industry collaboration and ongoing education. By joining NSA and SRCA abroad, I was reminded how valuable it is when associations, contractors and manufacturers come together to share best practices, preserve craftsmanship and continue advancing roofing excellence. 

To learn more about the UK slate tour and upcoming slate initiatives, visit the National Slate Association and explore the NSA and SRCA directories on RoofersCoffeeShop.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

NFRC president turns personal passion into powerful industry giving during his tenure. 

Leadership in roofing is often defined by technical expertise, advocacy and service to the industry. But for Colin McCorquodale, current president of National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), leadership is also deeply personal. 

During his tenure as NFRC president, Colin has chosen to champion the Cystic Fibrosis Trust as his official charity, dedicating his presidency to raising awareness and critical funding for this disease. The Cystic Fibrosis Trust plays a critical role in supporting individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis through research, advocacy, clinical care support and education. More than 10,500 people in the U.K. are living with cystic fibrosis, a life-limiting genetic condition that affects the lungs and digestive system. Through groundbreaking research and patient support, the trust continues to improve lives while working toward a cure.

Through fundraising efforts across NFRC events and the support of the U.K. roofing community, Colin has already helped raise more than £50,000 for the charity, including an incredible £10,000 raised during the 2026 U.K. Roofing Awards evening. Held annually to celebrate excellence across the roofing and cladding industries, the U.K. Roofing Awards bring together contractors, manufacturers and roofing professionals from across the country. This year, alongside recognizing exceptional craftsmanshipand innovation, attendees rallied behind a cause that has become deeply meaningful through Colin’s leadership. 

In a personal message shared with roofing professionals, Colin explained why this mission matters so deeply to him. “This charity is fighting a condition with no cure and one which has had an impact on my wider family,” he shared, noting that throughout his presidency he hopes to raise both awareness and funds for the organization. 

What makes Colin’s efforts especially meaningful is the way he has brought the roofing community together around a cause that extends beyond business. Roofing has always been an industry built on relationships, family and helping others and Colin’s presidency reflects those values in a powerful way. From regional events to national celebrations like the U.K. Roofing Awards, the generosity of the roofing industry continues to shine through. 

As Colin concludes his term as NFRC president, his commitment to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust serves as a reminder that true industry leadership is about more than business success. It is about using your platform to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Through the generosity of the U.K. roofing industry, Colin’s passion project has not only raised significant funds but also increased awareness for families affected by cystic fibrosis across the country. 

To support Colin’s fundraising efforts and help make a difference for individuals and families living with cystic fibrosis, visit the Cystic Fibrosis Trust at www.cysticfibrosis.org.uk and make a donation today. 

This distinguished leadership group represents some of the industry’s most respected and forward-thinking professionals, whose collective leadership continues to drive meaningful progress across the roofing industry.

The Roofing Alliance proudly announces their Board of Trustees for 2026-2027. Sherri Miles of J.D. Miles & Sons Inc., Chesapeake, Virginia, will serve as president and John Campbell of Eagle Roofing Products, Rialto, California will serve as vice president.

The volunteer-based leadership of the Roofing Alliance is composed of 210 dedicated, diverse and thoughtful roofing contractors, manufacturers, suppliers and distributors, service providers and industry professionals united in their commitment to shape, strengthen and advance the roofing industry. This distinguished leadership group represents some of the industry’s most respected and forward-thinking professionals, whose collective leadership continues to drive meaningful progress across the roofing industry.

The Roofing Alliance thanks the following officers and trustees for their commitment to the roofing industry; terms are effective June 1, 2026 – May 31, 2027.

• Sherri Miles, J.D. Miles & Sons Inc. – president
• John Campbell, Eagle Roofing Products – vice president
• Jason Dark, Duro-Last Inc. – secretary-treasurer
• Greg Hudson, Duro-Last Inc. – immediate past president
• Piers Dormeyer, EagleView – trustee
• Heidi Ellsworth, The Coffee Shops – trustee
• Paige Harvill, Nations Roof – trustee
• Alex Hernandez, Clark Roofing Co. – trustee
• Beth Kegley, QXO – trustee
• Scott Keith, Jobba Trade Technologies  – trustee
• John Kiesel, Division 7 Roofing – trustee
• Michael Kruger, L.E. Schwartz & Son Inc. – trustee
• Craig Rainey, Supreme Roofing – trustee
• Natalia Rizzatti, All Weather Insulated Panels – trustee
• Jason Stanley, IB Roof Systems – trustee
• John Yuko, GSM Roofing – trustee

About the Roofing Alliance

The Roofing Alliance unites a powerful network of more than 210 forward-thinking industry leaders committed to advancing and shaping the future of the roofing industry. Through strategic investments, collaboration and industry partnerships, the Roofing Alliance funds high-impact initiatives focused on education, cutting-edge research, workforce development and philanthropic outreach that strengthens communities across the country. From supporting the next generation of roofing professionals through scholarships, university partnerships and career development programs to driving innovation through industry research its Center for Roofing Innovation and Leadership, the Roofing Alliance serves as a catalyst for long-term growth, leadership and excellence across the roofing industry. For more information, please contact Alison L. LaValley, Executive Director, at alavalley@nrca.net.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

RoofersCoffeeShop.uk joined roofing professionals from across the U.K. to celebrate award-winning craftsmanship, innovation and community.

The U.K. roofing industry came together in spectacular fashion at the 2026 U.K. Roofing Awards, recognizing the projects, companies and individuals who continue to raise the bar for excellence across roofing and cladding. Hosted by National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC), the annual event welcomed more than 900 industry professionals to celebrate outstanding workmanship, safety and innovation from across the United Kingdom. 

This year’s celebration also highlighted the strong international relationships within roofing, as representatives from the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), National Slate Association (NSA) and Slate Roofing Contractors Association (SRCA) travelled from the United States to attend the event and celebrate alongside U.K. roofing professionals. Their presence underscored the global respect for the craftsmanship, technical expertise and industry leadership recognized through the U.K. Roofing Awards. 

From historic restoration projects and complex waterproofing systems to cutting-edge solar installations and community leadership, this year’s awards showcased the incredible breadth of talent across the roofing sector. RoofersCoffeeShop.uk was proud to be in the audience celebrating all the competitors, finalists and winners who demonstrate the professionalism and craftsmanship that define the U.K. roofing industry. 

One of the most celebrated recognitions of the evening was Project of the Year, awarded to Staick House by Rowlands Roofing, a project that also earned top honours in the Heritage Roofing category. The Industry Choice Award, voted on by the sector, went to Little Eversden, Cambridgeshire, completed by Roof Brothers Ltd working with CUPA PIZARRAS S.A., reflecting strong industry support for exceptional craftsmanship. 

Winners represented excellence across every roofing discipline. Major category winners included One Leadenhall by Lindner Prater Ltd for Bituminous Hot Applied Liquid Waterproofing, The Library, Murray Edwards College by Millane Contract Services Ltd for Cold Applied Liquid Waterproofing and Chester Zoo by Safeseal Roofing Ltd for Green Roofing. In metal roofing, Rockmount by Install Zinc Ltd took top honours in Fully Supported Metal while Robin House by Aim Developments Ltd working with Sika Ltd won the Single Ply Roofing category. Solar innovation was also recognized with St Nicholas Leisure Centre by Stace Roofing Ltd receiving the Solar award. 

The evening also celebrated the people who make roofing stronger. Sean Lynden of Blackpool Industrial Roofing was recognized with the Local Hero Award for going above and beyond in his community. Edward Radley of Marksman Roofing & Cladding earned the Individual Health & Safety Award and Corey Dowell of Progressive Systems Ltd was named Young Roofer of the Year, highlighting the next generation of roofing talent. 

At RoofersCoffeeShop.uk, we are proud to share the stories behind these award-winning projects and celebrate the contractors, manufacturers and teams that continue to elevate roofing excellence. The U.K. Roofing Awards are a powerful reminder that roofing is built on craftsmanship, innovation and people who care deeply about the work they do every day. 

To see the full list of 2026 U.K. Roofing Award winners and learn more about the incredible projects recognized this year, visit NFRC U.K. Roofing Awards Winners 2026 page at www.nfrc.co.uk/events/uk-roofing-awards/winners-2026.html. Interviews are also available from award winners on the RoofersCoffeeShop YouTube channel. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Catch up on the biggest industry stories from May 2026. 

This last May, The Coffee Shops™ crew has been working hard to keep up with all the news and developments of the industry, whether it’s new events, evolving technology, shifting regulations or something else! To help readers like you keep up with everything, we like to put together a list of the top articles each month so you can see what the industry has been talking about.  

This month, we saw multiple articles about artificial intelligence (AI) on our top ten list. In eighth spot was “Cutting through the noise around AI,” which highlights Patrick Garcia of SRS Distribution and Fred Castonguay of Reworked.ai’s insights into how business can use AI effectively. The other article, in the fifth spot on our list, explores the common fear of AI taking human jobs with Denver Riggleman, the co-founder and CEO of Hootl. 

This month’s top list also saw articles from Coffee Shops’ President Heidi J. Ellsworth and our friends at Cotney Consulting Group. In her article, Heidi shares how Thomas Roofing delivers both quality craftsmanship and community support. As for the Cotney Consulting Group article, it dives into the difference between business and profitability, emphasizing how successful contractors are the ones who operate with better habits.  

And in the top spot for the month is one of my articles about “how the Farnsworth Group fosters business growth by helping contractors and other professionals better understand the market around them.” 

May 2026 top article list 

10 - Thomas Roofing and Supply builds a legacy through family, quality and community by Heidi J. Ellsworth 

9 - The operational habits that separate profitable contractors from busy ones by Cotney Consulting Group 

8 - Cutting through the noise around AI by Emma Peterson 

7 - Kick off the summer with the SRS XTV Soccer Tour! by Emma Peterson 

6 - Investing in people, not just positions by Emma Peterson 

5 - Is AI coming for our jobs? by Emma Peterson 

4 - When your company grows beyond you by Emma Peterson 

3 - Beyond the roof: Taking care of families in need by Emma Peterson 

2 - Training as the foundation of a stronger roofing industry by Emma Peterson 

1 - Seeing the big picture by Emma Peterson 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Understanding housing trends can help roofing contractors better prepare for what is coming next. 

One of the smartest things roofing contractors can do to better predict future business is to pay attention to what is happening in the housing market. While roofing often feels insulated from economic shifts because roofs eventually need to be repaired or replaced no matter what, the reality is that housing activity can provide valuable clues about where opportunities and slowdowns may be headed. 

Whether it is home sales, rental growth, mortgage rates or new housing starts, these economic indicators often act as an early warning system for contractors. Following housing trends can help roofing businesses better understand consumer confidence, predict shifts in residential reroofing demand and even anticipate labor and material needs. 

According to recent insights from Sage Economics, the 2026 spring housing market has been softer than many expected. Rising mortgage rates, which recently climbed to a nine-month high of 6.51% for a 30-year fixed mortgage, have significantly slowed buyer activity and reduced mortgage applications. Pending home sales have improved modestly but continue to face pressure from affordability concerns and limited housing supply. Sage economists have noted that the current housing market is experiencing another sluggish spring selling season as affordability challenges continue to impact buyer confidence. 

Why does this matter to roofing contractors? Because home sales often create roofing opportunities. When homes change ownership, inspections frequently uncover roofing concerns that need repair or replacement before a transaction closes. New homeowners also tend to invest in upgrades shortly after purchasing. Slower home sales can mean fewer immediate opportunities tied to real estate activity. 

But it is not time to panic. Contractors should not only focus on home ownership trends as housing-related indicators. Rental housing, especially the growth of build-to-rent communities and multifamily housing, is becoming increasingly important. In an economy where homeownership has become less affordable due to higher mortgage rates, more consumers stay in rental housing longer. This often increases demand for apartment construction and renovations while reducing movement in the traditional home buying cycle.  

Sage highlighted this in their report which found a continued rise of build-to-rent housing, showing how developers are responding to affordability challenges by expanding rental options instead of for-sale inventory. For roofing contractors, this trend could mean increased opportunities in multifamily reroofing, maintenance contracts and long-term relationships with property management companies. 

Housing starts and permitting are another important trend to monitor. Sage reported that while housing starts have remained relatively elevated recently, growth has largely been driven by multifamily projects, while single-family permitting remainsdown year over year. That distinction matters because it can shift where roofing demand develops geographically and by project type. Contractors focused solely on steep-slope residential work may experience different market conditions than those working in commercial or multifamily sectors. 

It is the roofing contractors who pay attention to and understand these shifts that will be better positioned to offer in-demand services. Because the good news is that roofing remains essential. Roofs age, storms happen and maintenance never stops. But at the same time, understanding market and business trends can help contractors make better hiring decisions, adjust marketing strategies and plan for future growth. 

At the end of the day, economic uncertainty does not mean contractors should panic. It means they should pay attention. As housing trends, mortgage rates and economic conditions continue to shift, staying informed has never been more important for roofing contractors.  

Follow RoofersCoffeeShop® as we continue reporting on the latest housing, economic and construction trends from trusted industry experts like Sage Economics. Visit Sage Policy Group to learn more about their economic forecasting and analysis and explore Dr. Anirban Basu on the RoofersCoffeeShop Speakers Bureau to learn more about one of the roofing industry’s leading economic voices and keynote speakers.