By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Inside a visit to Schulte Building Systems with Sherwin-Williams showcasing innovation, people and performance.

My recent visit to Schulte Building Systems alongside Sherwin-Williams offered a firsthand look at what happens when advanced manufacturing meets deep-rooted craftsmanship and an exceptional company culture. It was more than a plant tour; it was an inside view of how innovation and people work together to drive the metal building industry forward. 

Walking through the facility, the scale of automation immediately stands out. Overhead cranes move massive steel components seamlessly across the plant while robotics and advanced machinery handle precise fabrication with efficiency and consistency. With three state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities serving the Midwest and Southeast, Schulte continues to invest in advanced technologies that drive precision and quality. The integration of coil coatings from Sherwin-Williams plays a critical role in ensuring durability, performance and long-term protection for metal roofing and building systems. These coatings are engineered to deliver corrosion resistance, color consistency and long-term performance across a wide range of building applications. This level of automation is not just about speed, it is about delivering consistent, high-quality products that meet the demands of modern construction across commercial buildings, metal roofing systems and the fast-growing barndominium market. 

What truly sets Schulte apart is how technology and human expertise work side by side. While robotics handle repetition and scale, the craftsmanship of skilled welders brings precision and integrity to every component. Watching these professionals work in tandem with advanced machinery reinforces an important truth, innovation does not replace people, it elevates them. The welders’ attention to detail ensures that each structural element performs as intended, contributing to the overall strength and reliability of complete metal building systems. 

Beyond the technology and production, the culture at Schulte Building Systems is what makes the company truly special. As a generational, family-owned business, their commitment to employees is evident in everything they do. One of the most memorable highlights was learning about their Easter weekend celebration, where the company hosts a massive gathering featuring more than 750 pounds of crawfish along with catfish, hushpuppies and all the traditional favorites. This is not just an event; it is a reflection of a culture that values people, connection and appreciation. That kind of environment builds loyalty, pride and a workforce that is deeply invested in the success of the company and the quality of its products. 

Schulte Building Systems serves a wide range of industries, from large-scale commercial buildings to agricultural structures, barndominiums and metal roofing and siding systems. Their role as a manufacturer of pre-engineered metal buildings and components supports architects, builders and contractors across multiple sectors. By combining advanced manufacturing, premium coatings from Sherwin-Williams and a workforce grounded in craftsmanship and culture, Schulte is helping to build more than structures, they are helping to build stronger communities. This visit was a powerful reminder that the future of construction is not just about technology. It is about the people behind it, the partnerships that support it and the culture that sustains it. 

To learn more about high-performance metal coatings and building solutions, visit Sherwin-Williams on the MetalCoffeeShop directory. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth, The Coffee Shops. 

From culture to career growth, students share what matters most as they prepare to enter the roofing workforce. 

At the International Roofing Expo (IRE), the Roofing Alliance Student Competition showcased more than the technical skills of construction management students. It provided a powerful look into the mindset of the next generation entering the roofing industry. 

Through a series of interviews conducted by RoofersCoffeeShop with teams from Bradley University, the University of Florida, Auburn University, Colorado State University and Clemson University, a clear and consistent message emerged about what these future professionals are looking for as they begin their careers: Company culture.  

Students consistently emphasized the importance of working in an environment built on respect, collaboration and connection. They are not simply looking for a job. They are looking for a workplace where they feel valued, supported and part of a team. Many described wanting to work for companies where leadership is approachable and where success is shared, not dictated by hierarchy. 

That emphasis on culture naturally extends to relationships. Students spoke about the importance of camaraderie, open communication and trust among coworkers and leadership. In an industry known for its fast pace and demanding schedules, having a strong team environment is not just a benefit, it is essential. 

Work-life balance also emerged as a key priority. While these students understand the commitment required in construction, they are looking for flexibility and employers who respect their time. They recognize that balance leads to better performance and long-term career satisfaction. 

Opportunities for growth and advancement are equally important. Students want to join organizations that invest in their development, offer mentorship and provide clear pathways for career progression. They are eager to learn, take on responsibilityand build their careers, but they expect support and guidance along the way. 

Many also expressed a desire to stay engaged and challenged in their roles. They are drawn to dynamic environments where they can contribute across multiple aspects of a project, gaining hands-on experience and diversifying their skill sets. 

Representation and inclusion were also part of the conversation, particularly among women entering construction. Feeling supported, represented and included in the workplace is an important factor as they evaluate potential employers and long-term career paths.  Students are looking for companies that care about their people, their projects and their impact. Whether through safety, innovation or community involvement, they want to be part of organizations that stand for something meaningful. 

Perhaps most encouraging for the industry is the growing enthusiasm for roofing itself. Many students entered the competition with limited exposure to roofing, but through hands-on experience, mentorship and engagement at IRE, they developed a more genuine interest in pursuing careers in the field. 

The Roofing Alliance Student Competition continues to play a vital role in building a strong and motivated workforce for the future. 

To hear directly from these students, watch the interviews: 

• Bradley University: www.youtube.com/live/xfZ_pOO1UYk 
• University of Florida: www.youtube.com/live/SIEy9ofUUuo 
• Auburn University: www.youtube.com/live/E2nYV7TRhAY 
• Colorado State University: www.youtube.com/live/aSD9TeF-b94 
• Clemson University: www.youtube.com/live/RV1wsnO5qyk 

To learn more about the Roofing Alliance and its workforce development initiatives, visit roofingalliance.net. 

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!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This educational session in Salt Lake City focuses on protecting people, property and roofing professionals in high snow regions. 

RoofersCoffeeShop® and MetalCoffeeShop® recently attended a powerful and eye-opening snow retention training hosted by TRA Snow and Sun at the AGC of Utah Training Center in Salt Lake City. Roofing contractors from across Utah and the western United States gathered to better understand one of the most dangerous and often underestimated risks in roofing, the weight and movement of snow. 

The reality is simple and sobering. Snow is heavy. When it releases from a roof, it does not gently slide away, it can avalanche with devastating force. The training shared a striking example showing how quickly that weight adds up. In a 100 pound per square foot snow load scenario, just a small section of snow coming off a roof can weigh thousands of pounds. When that mass hits a person, the results can be catastrophic and often fatal. 

But the danger does not stop with human safety. Uncontrolled snow movement can rip gutters from the structure, tear off rooftop accessories, crush landscaping, destroy outdoor furniture and cause significant structural damage. For building owners, this means unexpected costs and liability. For contractors, it introduces a serious level of risk that cannot be ignored. 

Leading the training were Ben Anderson and Mindy Dahlquist, along with TRA teammates including Terry Anderson, founder and CEO, who shared the company’s history and answered questions. Their passion for engineered snow retention systems was evident throughout the day. They emphasized that snow retention is not an accessory, it is a critical part of a complete roofing system in any region that experiences significant snowfall. 

The training also featured Brava Roof Tile, who demonstrated how snow retention systems integrate with their premium roofing products. Their participation highlighted the importance of designing snow retention solutions that work seamlessly with different roofing materials, ensuring both performance and aesthetics. Seeing how snow retention interacts with synthetic roofing systems reinforced the need for a customized, engineered approach for every roof type. 

Also in attendance were leaders from key industry associations, including the Utah Roofing Contractors Association (URCA) and the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), represented by Kris Hitesman of Capitol Roofing Service. Their presence reinforced the importance of collaboration across the industry to promote best practices, safety and ongoing education. 

A key part of the training focused on specific product applications, including the proper use and installation of snow brackets and snow fences. Attendees learned when each system is appropriate, how they perform under load and how to correctly install them to maximize effectiveness. The TRA team also demonstrated the use of their specialized clamp systems for installing snow fences without compromising roof integrity. Another major takeaway was TRA’s deep commitment to testing. The team shared how they rigorously test their systems to ensure the highest levels of performance in real-world conditions. Their approach goes beyond standard requirements, with a focus on making sure every product meets and exceeds building codes and delivers reliable, engineered protection. This dedication to testing reinforces confidence for contractors, architects and building owners alike. 

The training focused on three key areas, proper engineering, correct installation and effective communication with building owners. Contractors learned that every roof in a high snow area should be evaluated for snow retention and that systems must be designed based on load calculations, roof design and site conditions. Guesswork is not acceptable when lives and property are at stake. Equally important was the discussion around liability. Contractors were reminded that when snow avalanches off a roof, building owners often pursue legal action against everyone involved in the project. This includes manufacturers, designers and especially the installing contractor. One of the strongest takeaways was the need to include snow retention in every proposal and contract. If an owner chooses not to include it, contractors should require a formal sign-off acknowledging the risk. This step is critical for protecting roofing professionals from future claims. Beyond risk mitigation, the training also highlighted the opportunity for contractors to build stronger relationships with their customers. By educating owners on the importance of snow retention, contractors position themselves as trusted advisors, not just installers. This creates ongoing sales opportunities and reinforces the value of quality roofing systems that perform in real-world conditions.

Adding a bit of fun to the day, the TRA team also handed out custom trucker hats with unique branded badges, a small but memorable touch that reflected their strong culture and connection to the contractor community. Demonstrating a strong commitment to education and safety for the entire industry, the training was live streamed through TRA’s YouTube channel and will be available on demand through both MetalCoffeeShop and RoofersCoffeeShop YouTube channels as well as within TRA’s directories. This extended access ensures that contractors across the country can benefit from the training, reinforcing TRA’s dedication to making critical safety education widely available. For contractors working in snow-prone regions, the message is clear. Snow retention is not optional. It is essential. By understanding the risks, specifying engineered systems and educating customers, roofing professionals can protect their businesses while delivering roofs that truly perform. 

To learn more about engineered snow retention systems and how to integrate them into your roofing projects, visit TRA Snow and Sun or explore their directories on RoofersCoffeeShop® and MetalCoffeeShop® and view the full training on demand. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Join RCMA this October in Atlanta for the 2026 Fall Meeting.

At The Coffee Shops™, we are committed to sharing timely industry information while supporting the associations that move roofing forward. Organizations like the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) play a vital role in advancing education, advocacy and innovation, and we are proud to help promote their work and encourage membership across the industry. 

That momentum is clear in 2026. Under the leadership of President Josh Poole, RCMA continues to expand its impact through growing contractor engagement, strong technical initiatives and new leadership guiding the association forward. 

RCMA recently welcomed new board leadership, including George Daisey of Dow Chemical Company as supplier vice president, along with Brent Crenshaw of EPS Materials and Jayne Rollason of Polyglass USA, Inc. as directors. Their experience and commitment reflect the strength of leadership shaping the future of roof coatings. 

A key focus continues to be RCMA’s growing Contractor Membership, bringing applicators into the conversation around codes, standards and best practices. This inclusion ensures that real-world insights are helping guide the industry while giving contractors access to technical resources, education and valuable industry connections. 

RCMA is also advancing technical excellence with resources like Coatings Tech Note 6 on white roof coatings, providing practical guidance on performance, application and energy efficiency. At the same time, member companies are driving innovation across the industry, with SOPREMA USA and Fluid Applied Roofing (FAR) recognized at the 2026 International Roofing Expo (IRE) for their award-winning technologies. Collaboration remains at the core of RCMA’s success, with new members like BITEC® and AB Specialty Silicones strengthening the association’s network and expertise. 

Looking ahead, the RCMA 2026 Fall Meeting, taking place October 7–8 in Atlanta, Georgia, will bring together industry leaders, technical experts and decision-makers for two days of collaboration and forward-thinking discussion. For contractors, manufacturers and suppliers, this is the time to get involved.

Plan to attend the Fall Meeting and be part of the conversations shaping the future of roof coatings. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.  

From above the rooftops of New York’s Financial District, Eagleview Horizon ™ introduces a new era of geospatial intelligence.  

From 60 floors above Manhattan, with sweeping views of rooftops stretching toward the skyline’s endless horizon, Eagleview introduced a product designed to change how the industry sees and works with property data. The setting at the Roebling Room at Manhatta was more than symbolic. It perfectly reflected the vision behind Eagleview Horizon™; a new way to look across properties, portfolios and entire regions with clarity, speed and intelligence.  

Attending the launch, I was struck by how fitting it was to stand above the very rooftops that define so much of our industry. With New York City’s complex landscape below, Eagleview unveiled a technology built to simplify that complexity through advanced geospatial intelligence and agentic AI. With a room full of industry leaders, it was a proud moment for me personally to attend the launch, since I was also a part of the Eagleview startup. Horizon is truly a culmination of the hard work put in from the very beginning by many people throughout the last three decades who have been focused on empowering industries with highly precise data produced from aerial imagery.  

Eagleview Horizon is not just another tool. It represents the evolution of more than 25 years of verified property intelligence combined with cutting-edge artificial intelligence. Built on the foundation of Eagleview One™, the platform leverages one of the most comprehensive aerial imagery datasets in the country to deliver actionable insights across roofing, construction, insurance, government and property management.  

What makes Horizon stand out is its ability to act as an intelligent partner rather than a passive platform. Users can interact with AI agents to analyze properties, identify opportunities and make decisions faster than ever before. Whether it is a roofing contractor identifying storm-damaged areas or a property manager prioritizing maintenance across thousands of units, the system transforms workflows that once took hours into minutes.  

From a roofing perspective, the implications are significant. Contractors can now request detailed, color-coded maps showing aging roofs within a defined radius of a storm, filtered by critical data points such as roof type, size and condition. This level of targeting has the potential to redefine how contractors approach sales, inspections and long-term planning. It is truly a game changer.  

Today, the reach of Eagleview One and Eagleview Horizon extends far beyond roofing, addressing a much broader ecosystem. Insurance professionals can prioritize claims based on damage likelihood. Government agencies can better assess risk and plan infrastructure. Solar companies can refine prospecting and improve conversion. Across industries representing more than $1 trillion in economic activity, the common thread is the need for faster, more accurate decision-making driven by reliable data.  

What resonated throughout the launch was the emphasis on trust. Every insight delivered by Eagleview Horizon is backed by high-resolution imagery and verified property data. In an era where AI is often questioned for accuracy, this commitment to data integrity sets a new standard. The atmosphere at the launch reinforced that message. Looking out over the city, it was easy to see the scale of what Eagleview is addressing; millions of structures, each with their own story, condition and opportunity.  

The launch was just the beginning. Eagleview Horizon was featured in The Wall Street Journal and on video screens in Times Square. The full launch will take place in August of 2026.  This first step was not just memorable but a proud moment for the roofing industry overall.  

As the event concluded and the city's lights began to reflect off the rooftops below, one thing was clear; Eagleview Horizon is not just about seeing properties from above. It is about understanding them in entirely new ways and turning that understanding into real-world results.  

For contractors, manufacturers, insurers and property professionals, this launch signals a shift. The horizon is no longer a distant line. With the right technology, it is now a starting point for smarter decisions and stronger business outcomes.  

For more information on Eagleview Horizon and Eagleview One, visit the Eagleview directory on RoofersCoffeeShop. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Strategic growth, scale and cross-trade integration signal a new era for building products distribution. 

The pace of change across the building products industry continues to accelerate, and the latest announcement from QXO is one that should have every contractor, manufacturer and distributor paying close attention. In a move that underscores both confidence and long-term vision, QXO has announced its acquisition of TopBuild, the largest distributor and installer of insulation in North America, in a transaction valued at approximately $17 billion. This agreement was unanimously approved by both companies’ boards of directors.  

In less than a year, QXO has grown into the second largest publicly traded building products distributor in North America. Through the acquisitions of Beacon, Kodiak and now TopBuild, the company has built a combined platform generating more than $18 billion in revenue and over $2 billion in adjusted EBITDA.  

What makes this acquisition especially important is not just the size, but the positioning it creates. Upon closing, QXO will hold leadership positions across multiple critical categories, ranking number one in insulation and waterproofing and number two in roofing. It will also hold leading positions across key lumber and building materials markets. The focus is clear: not to dominate a single vertical, but to build strength across the entire building products distribution landscape.  

For contractors, this shift has real implications. The purchasing power across legacy Beacon and Kodiak product lines is now amplified by TopBuild’s insulation products, introducing a new level of efficiency and opportunity. Contractors working across roofing, insulation and waterproofing will increasingly see value in aligned supply chains that support multiple scopes of work. This kind of integration can drive productivity, improve timelines and ultimately strengthen margins.  

According to QXO, the acquisition will also open the door to larger and more complex projects. With TopBuild’s expertise and scale, QXO is expanding its reach into segments such as data centers and other large-scale developments where coordination across trades is critical.  

From a financial perspective, the deal is expected to be immediately and substantially accretive to earnings while also expanding QXO’s blended EBITDA margin. The purchase price reflects approximately 14.9 times 2025 EBITDA before synergies and 11.8 times post-synergies, supported by an estimated $300 million in expected synergies. These numbers reinforce that this is disciplined expansion designed to deliver long-term value.  

The acquisition also dramatically expands QXO’s addressable market to more than $300 billion. With over 450 additional branches from TopBuild, the combined organization will operate approximately 1,150 locations and employ around 28,000 people. That footprint matters, bringing deeper local presence, stronger relationships and an increased ability to serve contractors where they work every day.  

So, what does this mean for the industry overall? It means we are entering a new phase where consolidation is not just about size, but about capability. It is about bringing together distribution, installation and service in ways that better support contractors and building owners, while creating systems that can handle the growing complexity of modern construction.  

For those of us in roofing and across the broader building envelope, this is a development worth watching closely. The lines between trades are continuing to blur, and companies that can operate across multiple disciplines will have a clear competitive advantage. At the same time, TopBuild’s installer model introduces both opportunities and challenges in the field, while also offering a glimpse into where the industry is heading as companies explore new ways to deliver construction products and services. QXO is sure to address some of the concerns regarding those challenges in the coming weeks, with the TopBuild acquisition scheduled to close during the third quarter.  

The bottom line is this. QXO is not just growing; it is reshaping the landscape of building product distribution and installation. As this strategy continues to unfold, it will challenge every segment of our industry while also creating new opportunities.   

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

From digital models to real-world execution, Auburn University students demonstrate leadership, innovation and excellence in roofing.

The Roofing Alliance 2026 Student Competition brought together top construction management programs from across the country, challenging students to apply classroom knowledge to real-world roofing scenarios. Rising to the top, Auburn University earned first place after months of preparation, a comprehensive written proposal and a strong final presentation at the International Roofing Expo (IRE).  

Representing Auburn University were Madi Goodwin, Heather Henderson, Patrick Johnson, Graham Roh (team captain) and Ashwin Varadhan (team alternate). The team was guided by faculty advisor Dr. Kenneth Sands and mentored by Paige Harvill of Nations Roof. 

The Roofing Alliance Construction Management Student Competition is one of the industry’s premier workforce development initiatives. Each year, participating universities develop a complete bid package for a real project tied to the location of the International Roofing Expo. In 2026, the project focused on the Cannery Casino and Hotel in Las Vegas, requiring teams to prepare detailed estimates, logistics plans, safety protocols and deliver oral presentations to a panel of industry judges. Written proposal scores and oral presentation scores were combined to determine final rankings. 

The competition results highlighted the strength of roofing education programs nationwide, with Auburn University taking first place, the University of Florida earning second and Clemson University placing third. Individual presenter honors were awarded to Remi Nguyen of Clemson University and Sophia Petrandis of the University of Florida. 

During an interview with RoofersCoffeeShop® at the International Roofing Expo, the Auburn team shared insights into their experience, reflecting on the months of preparation that got them to the top spot and the opportunity to present on a national stage. 

Throughout the competition, the Auburn team operated as a mock roofing company, assigning leadership roles that mirrored real-world industry structure. Team members took ownership of key areas including estimating, project management, field operations and safety planning, working collaboratively to build a complete and competitive proposal. 

After months of preparation, the team described a strong sense of accomplishment following their final presentation, having successfully translated their plan into a polished delivery that earned them the number one placement. One of the most impactful aspects of the experience was visiting the project site in person. After analyzing drawings, digital models and site logistics for months, stepping onto the roof of the Cannery Casino and Hotel brought a new level of understanding. 

Students noted that transitioning from two-dimensional plans to a full-scale structure reinforced the importance of accuracy, coordination and attention to detail. Elements that had only existed on paper became tangible, giving real-world context to their logistics plans and construction strategies. 

The experience also highlighted the growing role of technology in construction. The team incorporated digital modeling into their preparation, reflecting the increasing use of advanced tools in roofing and project planning. 

While not all team members had prior roofing experience, the competition sparked a strong interest in the industry. Through hands-on learning, research and mentorship, students gained a deeper appreciation for commercial roofing and the opportunities it offers. 

Walking the expo floor further expanded that perspective. From induction welding systems and material lift equipment to emerging AI-driven solutions, the team saw firsthand how the industry continues to evolve with innovation and technology. 

As these students prepare to enter the workforce, they emphasize the importance of company culture, work-life balance and opportunities for professional growth. They seek organizations that value teamwork, invest in their people and provide meaningful career development. 

The Auburn University team’s first-place finish reflects not only technical excellence but also strong collaboration, leadership and adaptability. This team perfectly demonstrates the caliber of students entering the roofing industry and the impact of programs like the Roofing Alliance Student Competition. 

For Auburn University, the experience was more than a competition. It was a launching point into an industry defined by innovation, teamwork and long-term opportunity. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Why balanced attic ventilation matters more than ever. 

When homeowners plan a new build or roof replacement, attic ventilation rarely tops the priority list.  While sometimes called out on architectural drawings, final attic ventilation decisions are often a low-engagement activities.  Shingles, color choices and warranties tend to dominate the conversation. But according to the experts at Roof Saver, overlooking airflow above the ceiling can quietly undermine a home’s energy efficiency, moisture control, long-term structural integrity, and the health of its occupants.  Contractors, often influenced by their suppliers, are important gate-keepers in many ventilation decisions, so it’s important those members of the construction team know the importance of their suggestions and choices. 

Blocksom & Co., the U.S. based manufacturer behind Roof Saver, brings decades of experience in natural fiber building materials and ventilation products. Along with its sister company, Fiber Bond, Blocksom has developed a reputation for durable, code compliant solutions designed to improve building performance. Roof Saver reflects that legacy, delivering a static ridge vent product engineered to protect the roofing assembly from the inside out. 

“Ventilation is one of the most overlooked components of a roofing system,” says Eric Pearman, sales development and digital marketing manager at Blocksom & Co. and Fiber Bond. “When you build smarter with balanced attic ventilation, you protect the roof deck, improve energy performance and create a healthier home environment. That’s exactly what Roof Saver is designed to do.” 

Proper attic ventilation is not just about meeting building code requirements. It is fundamental to temperature and moisture control. Research and extension guidance from Texas A&M University emphasize that attic ventilation plays a critical role in regulating both heat buildup and moisture accumulation. 

In summer, attic temperatures can soar to 150 to 160 degrees. Trapped heat radiates downward, forcing HVAC systems to work harder and increasing cooling costs. In winter, warm moist air from everyday activities like cooking, showering and laundry rises into the attic. Without adequate airflow, that moisture can condense on insulation and framing, leading to compromised insulation performance, mold growth, wood rot and poor indoor air quality. Balanced ventilation reduces these risks by allowing hot, moist air to escape naturally while drawing in fresh air from intake vents. 

There are two primary approaches to attic ventilation: static and dynamic systems. Static systems, such as ridge and soffit vents, rely on natural air movement. Installed along the roof peak, ridge vents work in combination with soffit vents to create continuous intake and exhaust airflow without electricity or mechanical parts. This passive design means fewer maintenance issues and no added ventilation energy consumption. 

Dynamic systems, including powered attic fans and roof mounted power vents, actively force air out of the attic. While they may appear to provide quick airflow, studies and field observations have raised concerns. Some systems can draw conditioned air from the living space into the attic, reducing energy efficiency. In certain cases, improperly balanced systems may create pressure differentials that negatively impact indoor air quality. Research from the Florida Solar Energy Center has shown that passive ridge and soffit ventilation systems can effectively exhaust solar heated air from attics, helping reduce heat transfer into the living space below. 

Roof Saver is designed specifically for steep slope roofing systems to promote consistent balanced airflow when used with adequate intake ventilation. Its low-profile design blends into the ridge line, preserving curb appeal while delivering performance. Unlike bulky gable vents, turbine vents, slant-back, or pot vents that interrupt roof aesthetics, ridge vents remain very inconspicuous once installed. 

Beyond appearance, Roof Saver is built for durability and long-term reliability. Independent ICC-ES testing, Miami-Dade acceptance, broad code compliance across the U.S., and a 40-year warranty support its performance claims. The product’s lightweight construction makes it easy to handle and ship, giving contractors flexibility whether ordering by the box or by the pallet. 

“Roof Saver is about performance without complexity,” Eric explains. “It’s a static system that works with natural airflow. No motors, no maintenance headaches, just dependable ventilation that’s affordable, easy to install, and contributes to a high-quality, trouble-free roofing assembly.” 

As energy efficiency standards tighten and homeowners become more aware of indoor air quality, ventilation is gaining the attention it deserves. A well-ventilated attic protects insulation, extends roof life and helps regulate interior comfort. For contractors, specifying a high-quality ridge vent is not just an accessory decision, it is a performance-driven system decision that directly impacts long term health of the building and its occupants. 

Learn more and connect directly with the manufacturer!

About the author 

Heidi J. Ellsworth

As CEO of The Coffee Shops, Heidi has been working and writing in the construction industry for over 30 years. She is active in many associations including founding National Women in Roofing and Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3). She is passionate about helping to shine a light on the construction industry and creating win-win-win scenarios!  

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Alberto Torres. 

IFD y The Coffee Shops™ esperan expandir y fortalecer juntos a la comunidad global de la industria del roofing. 

Recientemente, The Coffee Shops™ anunció nuestra asociación con la International Federation of the Roofing Trade (IFD). Para quienes no están familiarizados, IFD es una organización global que actúa como una plataforma para que asociaciones nacionales de techado, socios de la industria y profesionales trabajen en conjunto para promover y hacer crecer el oficio de techado. 

En nuestra alianza con IFD, nos enfocaremos en promover las iniciativas globales de IFD, como el Connection Forum y la IFD Young Roofers World Competition. Veamos más de cerca estos eventos: 

• El Connection Forum reúne a techadores de todo el mundo con el objetivo de compartir experiencias reales de proyectos, fomentar el intercambio entre países y reforzar las directrices técnicas. Programado para octubre de 2026 y con sede en Viena, Austria, el equipo de The Coffee Shops no solo ofrecerá cobertura en vivo del evento, sino que también presentará temas sobre marketing digital, tendencias de la industria y la globalización del sector de roofing. 
• La IFD Young Roofers World Competition se llevará a cabo en noviembre de 2027 en Budapest, Hungría. Al igual que en el Connection Forum, The Coffee Shops proporcionará cobertura en vivo del evento. Esta tampoco será la primera vez que asistimos a este evento, ya que participamos y cubrimos la Young Roofers World Competition junto con la National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) en 2024, cuando se llevó a cabo en Austria. 

Estos dos eventos son solo el comienzo de lo que esperamos sea una larga alianza entre IFD y The Coffee Shops. Como compartió nuestra CEO y presidenta, Heidi J. Ellsworth: “La conexión con las numerosas asociaciones nacionales que forman parte de IFD es importante para el futuro de la industria del techado. Están reuniendo a profesionales y jóvenes techadores para compartir las mejores prácticas y fomentar el desarrollo de la fuerza laboral... Estamos orgullosos de asociarnos con IFD para compartir su misión y promover sus eventos que unen a la industria de roofing a nivel global.”