By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Industry recognition creates credibility, strengthens marketing efforts and helps contractors stand out in a world where customers and AI tools are constantly searching for proof of expertise. 

Every day, roofing contractors complete exceptional projects, solve complex building challenges and develop innovative solutions for their customers. They invest in skilled craftsmanship, advanced technologies and highly trained teams to deliver results that protect buildings and communities. Unfortunately, many of those accomplishments remain known only to the people directly involved, limiting opportunities to build awareness and showcase expertise. 

That is why applying for industry awards is one of the smartest marketing investments a contractor can make. The National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) is currently accepting nominations for its Gold Circle Awards, which recognize outstanding roofing-related projects and services completed between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2025. Contractors can be recognized in four categories:

1. Outstanding workmanship
2. Innovative solutions
3. Artisan workmanship
4. Wall panels and facades

Entering any of these categories is a huge opportunity for roofing professionals — and not just for the chance to win an exciting award. The application process for this contest is an often overlooked part of the award process, but it is very valuable for contractors.

Preparing a nomination requires contractors to document what made a project successful, gather photography, organize project details and tell the story behind the work. In many cases, that information becomes some of the most valuable marketing content a company will create all year. What starts as an award submission can quickly become:

• Case studies that demonstrate expertise.
• Photo catalogs that support sales efforts and marketing campaigns.
• Newsletter stories that help customers understand how a contractor solves problems and delivers value.
• Material for customer presentations and social media posts. 

Ultimately, every nomination creates an opportunity to tell a story that reinforces a company's reputation and differentiates it from competitors in an increasingly crowded marketplace. 

That visibility has become even more important as artificial intelligence changes how customers search for information. Today’s customers frequently use search engines and AI-powered tools to research contractors before making buying decisions. These systems look for evidence of expertise, credibility and trust.

Award nominations and recognition contribute directly to that visibility. Every published project profile, news announcement or industry article creates another piece of content that customers and AI tools can discover. Contractors who consistently share accomplishments, publish project profiles and promote industry recognition create a stronger digital footprint that helps them stand out online and increases the likelihood that prospective customers will encounter their expertise during the research process.

In many ways, recognition has become one of the most powerful forms of third-party validation available. And by leveraging it properly, contractors can create future opportunities for themselves, whether that's drawing in a new client through marketing efforts or improving company culture through recognition of hard work and talent. The NRCA Gold Circle Awards provides an outstanding opportunity to do this, to celebrate excellence and create content that supports business growth long after the awards presentation is over.

If you know an NRCA member who completed an exceptional roofing project or service between June 1, 2023, and May 31, 2025, consider submitting a nomination before the September 18 deadline. Past Gold Circle winners can be found on RoofersCoffeeShop, offering strong examples of how award-winning projects can build visibility, strengthen credibility and showcase expertise for years to come. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Funding quality craftsmanship and building the future workforce. 

One of the biggest challenges facing the construction industry today is finding and developing skilled workers. For metal building contractors, investing in training is essential not only for workforce development but also for maintaining quality standards and meeting accreditation requirements. A new funding opportunity from the Ketenbrink Education Foundation (KEF) is making that investment easier by helping companies offset the cost of training their teams.

The foundation is currently offering immediate mini grants for companies that enroll employees in the Metal Building Institute (MBI) Quality and Craftsmanship (Q&C) 101 training series. According to information shared by Jacqueline Meiluta, companies can receive $250 in grant funding for each employee who successfully completes and passes the testing portion of the training program, with grants available for up to five employees per company. 

The financial benefit is significant. While the Q&C 101 testing costs $110 per participant, contractors can receive $250 per employee through the grant program, creating a positive return on their training investment while strengthening workforce capabilities. 

The opportunity comes at a critical time as the industry continues to focus on workforce development, safety and installation quality. The Q&C training program is designed to help workers better understand metal building construction standards and best practices. In fact, completion of MBI Quality and Craftsmanship training is a required component of AC478 accreditation, making the program especially valuable for contractors pursuing or maintaining accreditation status. 

The grant funding is being provided through the Ketenbrink Education Foundation, whose mission is to help metal building construction workers and aspiring industry professionals acquire the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field. The foundation also works to improve the availability of technical and practical training throughout the metal building industry. 

As noted in the foundation's materials, industry leader Bob Ketenbrink emphasized the importance of proper training, stating that one of the most important needs in the metal construction industry is ensuring workers are trained to safely and correctly install materials so building owners receive the highest quality results from their investment. 

To encourage participation, KEF has allocated $50,000 to the program, enough to support approximately 200 newly trained craftsmen across the industry. The grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis and will close once funding has been exhausted. Each company is eligible for up to $1,250 in total grant funding. 

Programs like this demonstrate how industry associations and foundations continue to invest in the future of construction. By helping contractors reduce training costs while improving workforce competency, the KEF grant program creates a win-win opportunity for employers, employees and the customers who depend on quality construction. 

Contractors interested in taking advantage of the funding should act quickly while grants remain available. Applications can be submitted through the foundation's online application process. 

Learn more about the grant opportunity and apply today through the KEF application portal. Investing in training today can help strengthen your workforce, support accreditation goals and position your company for long-term success. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Traditional slate craftsmanship and master leadwork are preserving one of Britain's most iconic landmarks for generations to come. 

For most visitors to London, Admiralty Arch is recognized as the grand ceremonial gateway linking Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square. For more than a century, the landmark has stood at the heart of royal processions, historic celebrations and national events.  

Originally commissioned by King Edward VII in memory of Queen Victoria, Admiralty Arch was completed in 1912 and designed by renowned architect Sir Aston Webb. After serving as a government building for decades, the Grade I-listed structure is being transformed into a luxury Waldorf Astoria hotel while preserving a defining part of London's skyline. 

During this transformation, the restoration team has worked carefully to honor the building's architectural heritage while adapting it for a new generation of guests. And while much of the public attention has focused on the luxury hotel and residences taking shape behind the landmark façade, we wanted to take some time to learn about one of the project’s most remarkable elements: The restoration happening on the roof. 

During a special visit arranged by National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) member EWN Lead Work Specialists, who is helping lead the project, industry leaders from the National Slate Association (NSA), the Slate Roofing Contractors Association of North America (SRCA) and RoofersCoffeeShop® received an exclusive look at the conservation work taking place high above one of London's most recognizable landmarks. The roof is rarely accessible to the public, making the opportunity especially significant for roofing professionals passionate about preservation and craftsmanship. 

What makes the roofing restoration particularly impressive is the commitment to traditional methods and materials. According to project information shared during the roof tour, the restoration includes the installation of Westmorland green slate using a historic diminishing-course pattern. This traditional approach places larger slates at the lower sections of the roof and progressively smaller slates toward the ridge, reflecting techniques used on many of Britain's most significant heritage structures. 

The slate installation is only one part of the story. The project also involves extensive leadwork restoration across numerous architectural features, including dormers, bays, cornices and complex roof details. Thousands of individually crafted lead components are being fabricated and installed to replicate historic profiles while providing long-term weather protection. Also of note is the extensive low-slope roofing using modified bitumen granule felts. The result is a roof system that maintains the building’s original appearance while serving modern performance expectations. 

Helping lead that effort is EWN Lead Work Specialists Ltd., a company that has built its reputation on heritage leadwork and conservation projects. Founded by Elliot Newman in 2008, the company specializes exclusively in leadwork and has contributed to some of the United Kingdom's most important historic structures, including the Tower of London, Canterbury Cathedral, Somerset House and Lincoln's Inn. That level of expertise makes EWN a natural fit for a landmark as significant as Admiralty Arch. 

The project serves as a powerful reminder that roofing is often one of the most critical aspects of historic preservation. While visitors admire stonework, sculptures and grand interiors, the roof is what ultimately protects those investments. In this case, the roof will also be used for rooftop activities, creating new spaces for hotel guests. Preserving a building of this scale requires professionals who understand not only modern roofing performance but also centuries-old installation techniques and conservation principles. The tradespeople working on Admiralty Arch are carrying forward skills that have been passed down through generations. 

The restoration also highlights the growing importance of adaptive reuse projects around the world. Rather than allowing historic structures to deteriorate or lose their identity, owners and developers are investing in restorations that preserve architectural heritage while creating economically viable futures. At Admiralty Arch, that vision includes transforming a former government building into a world-class hospitality destination while retaining the character that has made it a London icon for more than 100 years. 

When guests begin arriving at the Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch, many will be captivated by its history, luxury accommodation and unrivaled location across from Buckingham Palace. Few will realize the extraordinary level of roofing craftsmanship protecting the structure from above. Yet for roofing professionals, that work may be the most inspiring aspect of the entire transformation. 

The restoration of Admiralty Arch demonstrates what is possible when heritage preservation, skilled craftsmanship and modern construction expertise come together. Through traditional slate roofing, master-level leadwork, flat roofing expertise and a deep respect for history, roofing professionals are helping ensure that one of Britain’s most cherished landmarks remains a symbol of excellence for generations to come. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Why industry associations matter more than ever in spray foam.

The spray foam industry continues to gain momentum across North America, and if there is one lesson I've learned through decades of working with roofing, coatings and building envelope professionals, it is this: the companies that stay engaged with their industry associations are often the companies best positioned to grow, adapt and lead.

Associations play a critical role in every segment of construction. They provide education, advocacy, safety resources, technical expertise and, perhaps most importantly, a way for professionals to connect with one another. As markets evolve and technologies advance, those relationships often become just as valuable as the products and services we provide.

The rise of spray foam

Today, spray foam is experiencing growing interest as building owners, architects and contractors continue to seek high-performance solutions that improve energy efficiency, building durability and overall performance. As demand increases, so does the need for consistent training, certification and professional standards. That is why organizations like the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) are so important. The association's ongoing focus on installer training, certification and professional development helps ensure the industry can continue to meet growing market expectations with confidence and credibility.

Reading the latest update from SPFA, I was impresseed by the tremendous progress being made across the spray foam sector. One of the most encouraging themes was the emphasis on member engagement. The association continues to offer opportunities through committees, networking events, leadership development and educational programs that bring professionals together to solve challenges and share best practices. Whether it is the Roofing Committee, Building Envelope Committee or the NextGen Workgroup, these groups help create a stronger and more connected industry.

This type of engagement matters because no contractor, manufacturer or consultant succeeds in isolation. The challenges facing our industries today — workforce development, regulatory changes, economic uncertainty and evolving customer expectations — require collective expertise. Associations create a forum where professionals can learn from one another, stay ahead of changing trends and move the industry forward together.

Additionally, the recent leadership transition from Ken Wells to Corey Poepping also highlights the importance of volunteer leadership and succession planning within trade organizations. The success that SPFA has experienced over the past two years is a direct reflection of dedicated industry professionals giving back to the community that supports their businesses every day.

As someone who spends a great deal of time working with industry associations across roofing, metal, coatings and construction, I continue to see firsthand how engaged members benefit from stronger professional networks, earlier access to industry information and greater opportunities for business growth. The professionals who regularly participate in their associations are often the first to understand changes in the market, emerging technologies and new opportunities that can help them better serve customers.

Beyond one association

At CoatingsCoffeeShop®, we are committed to covering the spray foam industry across the board because we recognize the growing impact spray foam is having throughout the construction industry. While many people associate spray foam primarily with insulation, its influence extends into roofing, waterproofing, air barriers, building envelope performance, energy efficiency and protective coatings. As these systems become increasingly integrated, staying informed is more important than ever.

Through news coverage, industry interviews, educational content and partnerships with organizations such as SPFA, CoatingsCoffeeShop helps contractors, manufacturers, consultants and facility professionals stay connected to the people, products and innovations shaping the future of spray foam. Our goal is to provide a trusted resource where industry professionals can find the information they need to make smart business decisions and stay engaged with the broader industry community.

Strong associations, strong industry

The continued growth highlighted in the latest SPFA update is a reminder that strong associations create strong industries. Whether you are a contractor looking to expand your business, a manufacturer developing innovative products or a young professional entering the market, staying involved with your association can provide insights, relationships and opportunities that simply cannot be found anywhere else. And as spray foam continues its rise as a preferred building solution, those connections will become even more valuable.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Economic indicators reveal resilience in construction while highlighting the trends contractors should watch closely. 

It is important across all our Coffee Shop audiences to understand what is happening in the larger construction markets to help make strong business decisions. Having listened to Ken Simonson, chief economist for the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC), speak several times, I wanted to share some of his recent insights. His latest economic analysis presents a nuanced picture of today's construction economy. Drawing on newly released data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Census Bureau, Dodge Construction Network, Institute for Supply Management (ISM) and freight industry analysts, Simonson's report shows that while construction spending faces headwinds, employment growth and future planning activity continue to signal strength for much of the industry. 

According to Simonson's analysis of BLS data, construction employment reached 8.331 million workers in June, increasing by 11,000 jobs from May and adding 64,000 positions year-over-year. The growth was driven primarily by nonresidential construction hiring, a positive indicator for contractors and companies serving commercial roofing, building envelope, restoration, metal and related construction markets. His findings suggest that many contractors continue to see enough future work to justify expanding their workforce. 

For The Coffee Shop industries, construction employment is one of the clearest indicators of confidence. Contractors do not hire ahead of uncertainty. When employment rises, it generally reflects active backlogs, growing project pipelines and owner investment in maintaining and improving facilities. That confidence reaches across the trades and reinforces the importance of watching workforce trends as a signal for what may be coming next. 

At the same time, Simonson highlighted a softer spending environment using data from the U.S. Census Bureau. Total construction spending reached $2.21 trillion in May, rising slightly from April but falling 1.5% compared with May 2025. While the decline does not signal a downturn, it does indicate that higher financing costs and ongoing economic caution continue to influence project timing and investment decisions. 

This trend is particularly relevant to roofing and building envelope professionals because it reinforces the importance of diversification and value-driven solutions. Contractors are increasingly responding through maintenance programs, restoration, protective coating systems, energy-efficient retrofits and phased project strategies that help owners maximize existing assets rather than postpone critical work altogether. It also points to the growing role of practical, long-term solutions that support smarter capital planning. 

Looking ahead, one of the most encouraging indicators in Simonson's report comes from the Dodge Momentum Index (DMI), published by Dodge Construction Network. The DMI, which tracks nonresidential projects entering the planning phase and often serves as a leading indicator of future construction spending, declined 1.9% in May but remained strong overall. That planning activity matters because today's planned projects will become tomorrow's opportunities for all construction professionals and companies. Continued planning strength can be an important signal for future demand, especially for companies tied to commercial and institutional construction. 

Simonson's report also referenced economic data from the Institute for Supply Management, which found that the service sector continued to expand for the 24th consecutive month despite ongoing cost pressures. Simultaneously, freight data reported through the Wall Street Journal's Logistics Report showed average flatbed trucking rates reached a record $3.69 per mile in June, based on information from DAT Freight & Analytics.  

These freight costs affect construction broadly because materials and equipment depend on reliable transportation networks. Rising costs can influence estimating, inventory planning, project scheduling and customer expectations, making logistics another important indicator for contractors and suppliers to watch closely. 

Perhaps the most important takeaway from Simonson's report is that construction professionals need to monitor multiple leading indicators rather than focusing on a single economic statistic. Employment growth, spending trends, future project planning, service sector expansion and transportation costs all influence business decisions throughout the industry. Collectively, they provide a more complete understanding of where the market is headed. 

As construction continues to evolve, staying informed on the broader economic picture will remain essential. While the latest numbers reveal both opportunities and challenges, the overall message is one of resilience. Hiring continues, planning remains active and professionals who understand the market indicators driving the industry will be best positioned for success. 

Source transparency: Ken Simonson, chief economist for AGC, is analyzing data from primary sources including the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Census Bureau, Dodge Construction Network, Institute for Supply Management and DAT Freight & Analytics as reported by AGC. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This upcoming webinar promisese to share insightful and impactful career lessons with the next generation.

Recently, the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Emerging Professionals Committee has been hosting a series, Blueprints of an Enclosure Career, that gives a stage to industry veterans to share their experiences and advice for other professionals. With more than 150 registrants attending recent Blueprints webinars, the series has established itself as a valuable resource for professional development and career exploration.

Why is this series so valuable? The opportunity to hear firsthand from respected industry leaders about their career paths, lessons learned from industry leadership, the importance of volunteering and practical advice for those building careers is not only helpful for existing professionals but also a great way to engage newcomers. 

And at a time when the industry is working hard to cultivate future leaders, these conversations can be game changers. For example, IIBEC reports that after a recent session in the series, an engineer who was not yet a member reached out to learn more about entering the profession, available training opportunities and ways to become more involved in the industry. This is just one example of how career-focused discussions can connect experienced professionals with those seeking new opportunities and a clearer career path.

Whether you are exploring the profession for the first time or looking to take the next step in your career, make sure to register for the next webinar in this series. The webinar, which will take place on Thursday, July 23, 2026, from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. E.T., will feature industry leader and legend Scott Hinesley as he shares the experiences, lessons and insights that have shaped his career. As chief growth officer for REI Engineers Inc., Scott Hinesley has spent more than 25 years helping shape the building enclosure profession. His influence extends far beyond his day-to-day responsibilities, with a long history of volunteer leadership within IIBEC. Over the years, he has served as IIBEC president, region director and Carolinas Chapter president. Today, he continues his commitment to the organization as chair of the IIBEC Nominating Committee and a member of the IIBEC Education Committee.

The upcoming webinar offers a powerful opportunity to hear directly from a leader who has successfully navigated decades of industry change. Attendees are encouraged to bring questions about the years of dedication, continuous learning and willingness to serve both the industry and its professionals that have defined Scott's professional journey as there will be time for a live conversation. 

Interested in learning from one of the building enclosure industry's most respected leaders? Register through IIBEC and discover how leadership, service and continuous learning can help shape a successful career in the industry. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Why every contractor should nominate an employee for the Roofing Alliance MVP Awards.

Every year our industry talks about labor shortages. We discuss recruiting, training, wages and benefits, all of which are incredibly important. But after sitting in the audience at the Roofing Alliance Most Valuable Player Awards during the International Roofing Expo (IRE) this past year, I was reminded that one of the most powerful tools we have for retaining great employees isn’t a new program or a bigger paycheck. It is simply making people feel valued. 

As I watched the awards ceremony unfold, I found myself looking around the room as much as I watched the stage. Families were beaming with pride. Company owners were smiling ear to ear. Coworkers were cheering for one another. It wasn’t just another awards presentation. It was a celebration of the people who quietly make our industry stronger every single day. 

The roofing industry has always been built on hardworking individuals who show up before sunrise, solve problems when no one else can and take pride in doing the job right. They lead crews, mentor younger workers, protect their teammates and represent their companies with professionalism. Most of them never ask for recognition. In fact, many would probably rather avoid the spotlight altogether. That is exactly why the Roofing Alliance MVP Awards are so special. They shine a light on the people who rarely seek it but deserve it more than anyone. 

As contractors, we spend a great deal of time talking about company culture. We know it matters because today’s workforce has choices. Skilled employees want more than a paycheck. They want to work somewhere they feel respected, appreciated and connected to a team. They want to know that their contributions matter and that someone notices the effort they put in every day. Recognition is one of the simplest ways to build that kind of culture, yet it is often overlooked. 

Watching the MVP Awards made that crystal clear. Every person recognized on that stage represented much more than individual achievement. They represented companies that took the time to tell their employees, “You matter.” That message resonates far beyond one evening at the International Roofing Expo. It comes back to the office, the warehouse and the jobsite. It becomes part of the company’s story and reinforces the kind of culture every contractor hopes to build. 

One of the most memorable moments of the evening was watching the team from Wagner Roofing, who sat in front of our table, celebrate as foreman Ariel Lemus was recognized for Outstanding Performance and Leadership. You could feel the pride coming from everyone who was there to support him. After more than two decades with Wagner Roofing, Ariel has become known not only for his exceptional craftsmanship but also for mentoring the next generation of sheet metal roofers. It was obvious that his company wasn’t simply celebrating an employee. It was a celebration of someone who has helped shape their culture for years. 

Another inspiring story was Kenny Rodriguez, warehouse foreman for OMG Building Products, who received the Outstanding Community Involvement Award. Kenny’s leadership extends well beyond the workplace. Along with mentoring coworkers and helping drive operational excellence, he serves as a pastor and volunteers throughout his community. His story reminded everyone in the room that great employees don’t stop making a difference when they leave work each day. 

The evening culminated with the announcement of the Best of the Best Award, presented to Armando Landeros Solis, superintendent for Commercial Roofers Inc. After 25 years with the company, Armando has worked his way from apprentice to one of the organization’s most respected leaders. His humility, enthusiasm, commitment to mentoring his crew and dedication to both his company and his community made him a perfect example of what the MVP program represents. Watching his coworkers celebrate his accomplishment was every bit as inspiring as seeing him accept the award. 

As I left the ceremony, I couldn’t stop thinking about what those moments mean back at each of these companies. Imagine being the employee who returns home after receiving one of the roofing industry’s highest honors. Imagine the pride your coworkers feel knowing one of their own was recognized on a national stage. Those experiences strengthen culture in ways that no employee handbook or mission statement ever could. 

The Roofing Alliance is now accepting nominations for its next class of Most Valuable Player Awards, and I sincerely hope contractors across the industry take advantage of the opportunity. We all have exceptional people working within our organizations whose stories deserve to be told. Think about the individual everyone depends on, the person who mentors new employees, keeps the crew motivated and quietly leads by example. Taking the time to nominate them may be one of the most meaningful investments you make in your culture all year. 

Nominate someone today.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

By making suicide prevention training readily available, NRCA is helping companies create safer, healthier workplaces while fostering a culture of care and support. 

Mental health continues to be one of the most important conversations taking place across the roofing industry. Roofing professionals face unique pressures, including physically demanding work, economic uncertainty, labor shortages and the daily responsibilities that come with running successful businesses. As awareness that mental health is not simply a benefit but an essential part of building stronger teams and healthier organizations grow, industry leaders and professionals are increasingly looking for ways to strengthen their mental health programs and policies. 

It's this growing interest that inspired the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) to partner with LivingWorks so that it's easier than ever for their members to access online suicide prevention training for NRCA member companies. The free program from this partnership is specifically designed to equip individuals, teams and organizations with evidence-based tools to recognize when someone may be struggling and help connect them with the support they need. 

In addition to this free training, NRCA has worked to provide a variety of mental health resources that allow organizations to deepen their mental health initiatives and provide broader education throughout their workforce. Some of these offerings include a 60% discount to expanded LivingWorks trainings, free hard hat stickers promoting awareness, suicide prevention fact sheets available in English and Spanish and break room posters. 

All of this is designed to keep mental health conversations visible and accessible in the workplace while reinforcing the message that mental health is a critical component of workplace safety and employee wellbeing. Overall, for roofing companies looking to strengthen their mental health programs, the new partnership between NRCA and LivingWorks offers a valuable opportunity to access trusted, proven resources and further the industry's commitment to caring for its people. 

Learn more about NRCA's mental health resources, available training opportunities and growing collection of workforce wellness tool by visiting their website.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Why roof deck assessments are essential before any roofing project. 

Safety has always been one of the most important responsibilities in the roofing industry. Before a roofing crew ever steps onto a roof, contractors need confidence that the roof deck can support workers, materials and equipment. That is why the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) developed the Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool, a practical field guide designed to help roofing professionals evaluate the structural integrity and load-bearing capacity of roof decks before work begins. 

The tool serves as an important resource for roofing contractors, estimators, project managers and safety professionals who are responsible for assessing rooftop conditions during inspections, estimating and project planning. By providing a structured approach to evaluating roof decks, the assessment tool helps contractors identify potential hazards before they become serious safety incidents. 

One of the primary goals of the Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool is to support compliance with OSHA fall protection and structural safety requirements. Roof deck failures can result in severe injuries, fatalities, costly project delays and significant liability exposure. Conducting a thorough assessment before work begins helps reduce these risks while creating a safer environment for everyone involved on the project. 

The assessment tool includes guidance for evaluating a variety of roof deck conditions. For roof decks where the underside is visually accessible, inspectors can look for signs of water intrusion, staining, deterioration and structural concerns that may indicate compromised deck integrity. These visual indicators can provide valuable clues about hidden damage that could affect worker safety. 

The tool also addresses situations where the underside of the roof deck is inaccessible. In many commercial and industrial buildings, contractors may not have direct access to the deck structure below. The assessment guide provides criteria and procedures for evaluating these conditions and determining whether additional investigation or engineering review may be necessary before work proceeds. 

By documenting observations and following a consistent evaluation process, contractors can make more informed decisions about project planning, worker access and safety precautions. This proactive approach not only protects workers but can also help contractors avoid unexpected conditions that impact project schedules and budgets. 

The Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool is available as a downloadable PDF through the Stop Construction Falls Resource Page. Roofing professionals are encouraged to incorporate the assessment process into their standard pre-job planning and safety protocols. 

In addition to the assessment tool itself, NRCA offers ongoing educational opportunities through its popular Power Hour webinar series. These webinars regularly address technical roofing issues, risk management topics, safety best practices and emerging industry challenges. Contractors can access both upcoming live events and on-demand recordings through the NRCA Education Center, making it easier than ever to stay informed on critical industry issues. 

For those focused specifically on worker safety, NRCA also provides a wide range of fall prevention resources, including webinars and educational materials covering both residential and commercial roofing applications. These resources are designed to help contractors build stronger safety cultures while reducing the risks associated with roofing work. 

As roofing projects continue to become more complex, taking the time to properly assess roof deck conditions before work begins is one of the smartest investments a contractor can make. Safe projects start with informed decisions, and the NRCA Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool provides a valuable framework for protecting workers, ensuring compliance and reducing risk across every jobsite. 

For more information about the Roof Deck Integrity Assessment Tool, educational webinars and fall prevention resources, visit the NRCA. NRCA members can also reach out directly to the association's Enterprise Risk Management team for additional guidance and support.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Building on more than 70 years of Congress tradition, IFD’s Connection Forum creates new opportunities for roofing and façade professionals to exchange ideas, strengthen relationships and collaborate across borders. 

Since its founding in the early 1950s, the International Federation of the Roofing Trade (IFD) has supported the exchange of knowledge and experience in roofing and façades while helping professionals build the trust needed for meaningful collaboration. One of the ways they have done this is by bringng the global roofing and façade community together through its Congress.

IFD's Congress create a space for technical knowledge, craftsmanship and relationship building across international borders and have helped establish IFD as a unifying voice for professionals, manufacturers and associations around the world while building a strong tradition of international exchange. In a recent Roofing Road Trips® conversation, IFD President Dirk Bollwerk reinforced that mission, noting that relationships are just as important as technical exchange because they create the environment where ideas can be openly shared and applied. That perspective helps explain why IFD is updating their event format to focus on connection while continuing to honour the strength of its Congress foundation.

Today, IFD is introducing the Connection Forum as an additional format that builds on the Congress tradition while creating a more interactive environment for attendees. This development builds on the collaboration and connection of the Congress while incorporating member feedback requesting more opportunities for exchange, interaction and practical discussion.

The Connection Forum is a setting where participants can move from listening into deeper engagement. Attendees will be able to discuss project experiences, explore regional challenges and share insights that contribute to technical understanding across borders. Instead of only receiving information, participants become part of the conversation, helping shape ideas in real time while strengthening the connections that have always been central to IFD. 

This approach also reflects the realities the roofing and façade sectors are facing today. Challenges such as sustainability, safety and workforce development are appearing across many regions, often with different solutions shaped by local conditions. One of IFD’s greatest strengths is its ability to connect these perspectives so professionals can learn from one another and adapt ideas in ways that work for their own businesses. The forum is intentionally designed to support that exchange by creating space for open dialogue while helping to bridge the gap between global insight and local application, turning shared knowledge into practical value for all attendees. 

What is happening now is continuity with a clear purpose. The Connection Forum builds on more than 70 years of successful Congress tradition and reflects the way IFD members and partners increasingly want to connect and collaborate today. As a new format for this year, it also creates an opportunity to identify and share best practices that can help shape the evolution of future congresses while keeping the organization’s mission rooted in practical international exchange. 

At the heart of that mission is IFD’s role as a neutral international platform where industry leaders, associations and professionals can meet on equal footing. By creating space for open dialogue, IFD helps participants exchange experience and knowledge in a way that moves beyond polite listening and into meaningful collaboration. Specialists gain access to current industry insight that can be applied both in the development of national standards and in everyday practical execution, making the forum a place where shared ideas can become useful tools back home. 

That collaborative spirit is also reflected in the organizations helping bring the new format to life. The IFD Connection Forum 2026 is hosted by Wienerberger and supported by IFD’s Supporting Partners VELUX, Murexin, Fakro and PREFA. Their commitment is an important part of making this new format possible and deserves recognition as the international roofing and façade community comes together to strengthen relationships and share knowledge. 

It is not a departure from the past, but an added opportunity to carry IFD’s mission forward in a format that feels more direct, practical and open to a wider community. The Connection Forum honours the foundation of the Congress while expanding how people connect, learn from one another and build relationships that support the roofing and façade industries across borders.