By The Coffee Shops™. 

ARMA recognized outstanding roofing projects that demonstrate the versatility and performance of asphalt systems. 

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) is recognizing top-tier craftsmanship across the industry with the 2026 Excellence in Asphalt Roofing Awards. The awards were presented during the 2026 International Roofing Expo in Las Vegas, highlighting standout low- and steep-slope projects from across North America. 

The annual program honors roofing contractors for excellence in design, installation and performance using asphalt roofing systems. According to ARMA, this year’s winners demonstrate the material’s versatility across a range of applications, from historic restoration to complex commercial structures.  

Top honors included Gold, Silver and Bronze awards, along with a Best-in-Class recognition. Winning contractors received cash prizes, national exposure and industry recognition for their work.  

The Gold Award went to HER Roofing Co. Inc. for its restoration of the historic Settlemier House in Portland, Oregon. The project required balancing preservation with modern performance, including a technically demanding cone roof and custom fabrication work, and utilized Malarkey Roofing Products® Legacy® Shingles with Scotchgard™.  

Silver honors were awarded to Wedge Roofing for a complex mid-century church project in California, where asphalt shingles were used to navigate a unique curved roof design. Meanwhile, Priddy Roofing and Exteriors earned Bronze for a highly intricate geodesic dome structure in Pennsylvania, featuring hundreds of unique facets. Both Silver and Bronze projects used Owens Corning® TruDefinition® Duration® Shingles to achieve their end result. 

The Best-in-Class Award went to KPost Roofing & Waterproofing for its work on the National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas. Using SOPREMA SBS-modified bitumen, KPost completed the complex low-slope roofing project while preserving the architectural intent of the culturally significant building.  

“These projects showcase the extraordinary range of what asphalt roofing can achieve,” said ARMA Executive Vice President Reed Hitchcock, emphasizing the material’s reliability and adaptability across diverse project demands.  

For contractors, the awards program underscores the importance of technical skill, material selection and attention to detail in delivering high-performing roofing systems. 

To explore the full list of winners and detailed project highlights, read the full press release.

By Malarkey Roofing Products. 

Malarkey Roofing Products delivers durability and value for a large alpine reroofing project. 

In the heart of Canmore, Alberta, where elevation, heavy snowfall and dramatic freeze-thaw cycles test every roofing system, performance is not optional. Roofing materials installed here must withstand rapid temperature swings, intense sun exposure and prolonged winter conditions year after year. 

That reality made the Eagle Ridge reroofing project a true showcase for Malarkey Roofing Products®. Located at more than 4,400 feet in the Canadian Rockies, Canmore presents an environment where standard asphalt shingles can fall short. For this large-scale community reroof, Epic Roofing & Exteriors, the company contracted for the project, knew that durability, impact resistance and cold-weather flexibility were critical. Malarkey’s NEX® polymer-modified asphalt technology offered a proven solution designed to maintain performance in extreme climates, making it a strong fit for a project where reliability matters as much as appearance. 

Why Malarkey? 

“The customer chose Malarkey Vista® for its Class 4 benefits in cooler weather. Canmore goes through significant freeze/thaw cycles, and having a shingle that retained its performance through these cycles was important. They were looking for a shingle that would perform longer than a non-SBS shingle,” said Allan Lambie, sales manager at Epic Roofing & Exteriors, which has installed Malarkey roofing products since 2003. 

“In our market, we typically see clients choosing a Class 4 shingle for impact resistance considerations, but for this client, it was the continued performance through the freeze/thaw cycles. We recommended this shingle because it met their performance needs while giving great value from a pricing perspective,” he added. 

Allan’s team installed Vista® roofing shingles in the Antique Brown color blend. They also used Malarkey accessories including Smart Start® starter shingles, EZ-Ridge® hip and ridge shingles and Secure Start® Lite Underlayment. 

Secure Start® Lite is Malarkey’s most economical underlayment. It is a lightweight, synthetic underlayment providing a layer of moisture protection over the entire roof and is suitable for use under fire-rated, code-compliant roof coverings. Secure Start® Lite works well under asphalt shingles, wood shakes/shingles, metal, slate and mechanically fastened roof tiles. Secure Start® Lite’s non-woven surface layer provides a slip-resistant walking surface and makes steep slope roofing installations safer in all weather conditions. 

Challenges 

In addition to the travel from Calgary, where Epic is based, to Canmore, an hour’s drive away, planning for on-site management and material deliveries had to be confidently secured, according to Allan.  

Narrow access to the site also proved challenging, and the close quarters of the units required additional safety considerations. This meant there were many entry points for the Epic team to protect.  

“With many client vehicles on site, we needed to be flexible with material deliveries and bin placements for debris removal,” said Allan.  

“Protecting the site with tarps, fencing and signage kept everyone safe. Communication with the property manager and the relatively high number of residents can always be tricky. Having a clear process for critical communication distribution made sure all parties were well informed as the project progressed,” he added. 

The Epic crew also updated all the venting for each unit and replaced the 20-year-old sun-tunnels in addition to re-roofing. 

Eco-offset 

In such a stunning natural environment, making sustainable material choices is also important. 3M™ Smog-Reducing Granules on Malarkey roofing shingles help keep mountain air fresh from pollutants. Given the scale of this project, the Eco-Offset stats are especially notable: 

• 89 approximate rubber tires diverted from the landfill. 
• 56.6K approximate plastic bags diverted from the landfill (tires and plastic bags are upcycled into the formula for Malarkey’s SBS rubberized asphalt shingles). 
• 35 approximate trees ‘planted’ to help clean the air (with smog-reducing shingles, each roof has the smog-fighting capacity of two to three trees). 

Now, months after the reroofing project was completed, these roofs are combating freeze and thaw cycles between periods of cold storms and bright alpine sun. Regardless of the conditions, Eagle Ridge residents can rest assured that Malarkey’s Vista® shingles and accessories, installed by local, experienced professional roofing contractors, were the right choice. 

Original article and photos source: Malarkey Roofing Products

Industry Leader of the Year, Associate of the Year and Golden Hammer Award winners honored at the 25th Annual NTRCA Rondi Perry Awards Banquet.

The North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA) – a regional association whose mission is to serve roofing professional members promoting ethical standards, insights, innovation and education – hosted its annual NTRCA Awards Banquet on February 28, 2026, at The Statler Hotel in Dallas, marking the 25th year of celebrating the North Texas roofing community. During the event, the association announced its 2026 Board of Directors and recognized this year’s award recipients.

The winners of the annual Industry Leader of the Year and Associate of the Year were announced and honored for their significant contributions to the North Texas roofing industry. Past award recipients meet annually to select each year’s new honorees, continuing a tradition of peer recognition and industry excellence.

The Industry Leader of the Year honor, the association's most prestigious recognition, was awarded to Tina Hall, chief executive officer of Joe Hall Roofing & Contracting. The Associate of the Year honor was awarded to Karen Ensley, partner with Ensley Benitez Law PC.

In a special tribute during the evening, several board members from 25 years ago, led by then-president Sandra McGlothlin of Empire Holdings, raised a toast to the late Rondi Perry, who established the Awards Banquet to recognize and celebrate excellence in the North Texas roofing industry.

The 2026 NTRCA board members were also sworn in during the NTRCA Awards Banquet. The 2026 board members include:

• President: Chris Arrington – Arrington Roofing Co. Inc.
• Past President: Bret Foster – Bret Foster Roofing Inc.
• President-Elect: Jimmy Porch – Myriad Roofing & Waterproofing
• Treasurer: Chase Walker – GAF
• Anthony Applegate – Banner Roofing & Construction LLC
• Ida Buttarazzi-Meals – CertainTeed
• Evan Fitts – IKO
• Randy Hurtado – DT Roofing
• Travis Jones – Smart Roof Texas LLC
• Miranda Lisman – ABC supply
• Justin Minor – QXO
• Renee Urso – Roof Technology Partners
• Jeremiah Valentine – Malarkey Roofing Products
• Kirk Scott – Scott Exteriors
• Karen Ensley – Ensley Benitez Law PC
• Kristin Lonergan – Champion Commercial Insurance

Additionally, Golden Hammer Award winners were recognized. Contractor members submit top projects in a variety of residential and commercial roofing categories in the Fall. The applications are then reviewed by experts in each category who identify the top projects to receive Golden Hammer Awards.

The Golden Hammer Awards celebrate exceptional projects that exemplify craftsmanship, innovation, safety and solutions to unique logistical challenges. This year’s recipients were:

Residential Project Winners

• Infinite Roofing: The Justice Residence Project
• Infinite Roofing: The Fudge Project
• Tom Drake Roofing: The Pulp Fiction Project

Commercial Project Winners

• Anchor Roofing Systems: The DFW Area Psychiatric Hospital
• KPost Roofing & Waterproofing: The National Medal of Honor Museum
• Supreme Roofing: DFW Terminal A Roof Replacement

Residential Community Service Winners

• Brettco Roofing: St. Barbara’s Catholic Church
• PROCO Roofing: Trinity Habitat
• PROCO Roofing: Sandy Lake Project

Commercial Community Service Winner

• Paradigm Roof+Shield: Red, White and Roof Veterans Giveaway

Residential Metal Winners

• Absolute Construction: Absolute Excellence on Cedar Creek Lake
• PROCO Roofing: The Mount Gilead Project
• Scott Exteriors: The Lake Highlands Standing Seam Project

Commercial Metal Winners

• Anchor Roofing Systems: Deloitte University NW 1 Building
• Texas Roof Management: Frisco Central Fire Station
• Zenith Roofing & Waterproofing: 8080 North Central Expressway

Residential Tile Winners

• Joe Hall Roofing and Contracting: The Spanish Style Home
• Ramon Roofing: The Canterbury Project
• The Velco Group: Cressman Chateau Du Lac

Specialty Residential Winners

• Absolute Construction: 15-Year Davinci Anniversary Home
• Joe Hall Roofing and Contracting: EDCO ArrowLine Slate Estate
• Paradigm Roof+Shield: Pecan Island Brava Shake Job

Residential Innovations Winners

• Bert Roofing: Park Lane Dilbeck Cedar Roof Restoration
• D. Bassett Roofing & Renovation: The Fordyce Project
• Greenleaf Roofing: Tour 18 Estates Euroshield Hail Proof System
• Paradigm Roof+Shield: Project Solstice Savannah: A CertainTeed Solar Innovation

Commercial Innovations Winners

• Arrington Roofing Co. Inc.: St. Paul United Methodist Church
• Joe Hall Roofing & Contracting: Arborlawn United Methodist Church

The NTRCA continues to celebrate innovation and craftsmanship, setting the standard for roofing excellence across North Texas. Congratulations to all winners and honorees for their outstanding contributions to the roofing industry!

Sponsors for this year’s Annual NTRCA Awards Banquet included: SRS Building Products as lead sponsor, and specialty sponsors QXO, GAF, Supreme Roofing, RCAT, IB Roof Systems, CertainTeed, Springtree Restoration, IKO, Unity Insurance Partners, Owens Corning Sales, Empire Holdings, Polyglass USA, Boyd Shackelford Barnett & Dixon, Ensley Benitez Law PC, Roofers Going Digital, Georgia-Pacific, Malarkey Roofing Products and TAMKO Building Products.

About North Texas Roofing Contractors Association

The North Texas Roofing Contractors Association (NTRCA) is a resource for professional roofing contractors and associates working and doing business in North Texas. NTRCA also serves as a resource for individuals and businesses looking for qualified and competent roofing contractors. Roofing professionals must meet NTRCA eligibility requirements and agree to adhere to the NTRCA code of ethics to be members of the organization. NTRCA provides educational training sessions, mentoring, networking and community service opportunities for its members. For more information, please visit www.ntrca.com.

By Emma Peterson. 

Join The Coffee Shops™ crew and our industry partners in Sacramento for four days of education, innovation and industry connection. 

The Coffee Shops™ crew is putting the finishing touches on our travel plans to get to Sacramento, California March 12–15, 2026 for the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC)’s International Convention and we want to see you at our booth and soundstage, sponsored by Western Colloid!  

This year’s show is predicted to host “1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other experts” for four days of learning, networking and more! With national sponsors like Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, IB Roof Systems™, Johns Manville, Polyglass USA Inc., Sika Corporation, SOPREMA and Versico, this show is a must-attend for professionals in all parts of the roofing world.  

Expert-led education  

This show gives attendees a chance to learn from a variety of industry leaders and experts through their cutting-edge education sessions. Here are some of the incredible presenters that will be at this year’s show:  

• Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese will be hosting a “State of the Industry” session that will explore contract provisions and other emerging regulatory trends.  
• Darren Perry of SOPREMA has a session that discusses how low slope roofing can be enhanced in response to severe climate risks. 
• Amrize’s National Technical Manager Victor Rosenthal and Project Manager Rachael DeMeio will be teaching about trends in roof re-cover applications this year. 
• Jennifer Stephan from Benchmark’s session will dive into the world of Refrigerated Processing and Cold Storage Operations in relation to industrial roofing projects.  

Check out the full speaker list online!

An expo floor route 

The Coffee Shops crew will be on the expo floor hosting a soundstage at booth #1113! Here’s just a few of the other Coffee Shops friends and partners that can be found on IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention expo floor:  

• All Weather Insulated Panels (booth #1216) 
• Anchor Products (booth #907)  
• ATAS International (booth #728)  
• BITEC Inc. (booth #1023) 
• Brava Tile (booth #208) 
• CertainTeed (booth #227)  
• General Coatings Manufacturing (booth #926) 
• H.B. Fuller (booth #113) 
• ICP Building Solutions Group (booth #133) 
• IKO Industries (booth #426) 
• Leister (booth #619) 
• Malarkey Roofing Products (booth #213) 
• MuleHide (booth #814) 
• Roof Hugger (booth #707) 
• S-5! (booth #1019) 
• Sheffield Metals International (booth #625) 
• Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions (booth #422) 
• Tremco (booth #321) 
• USG Securock (booth #401) 
• Western Colloid (booth #923) 
• Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions (booth #433) 

Explore the full expo floor map!

Register today and make sure you stop by to say hi to us and our industry friends at the IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention!

The annual awards program recognizes the top low- and steep-slope asphalt roofing projects across North America, celebrating the craftsmanship, durability and aesthetic excellence that asphalt roofing provides.

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) honored the winners of the 2026 Excellence in Asphalt Roofing Awards at the International Roofing Expo (IRE), held January 20-22 in Las Vegas, Nevada. 

The annual awards program recognizes the top low- and steep-slope asphalt roofing projects across North America, celebrating the craftsmanship, durability and aesthetic excellence that asphalt roofing provides.

During the event, ARMA presented large ceremonial checks to this year's Gold, Silver and Bronze Award Winners and an official certificate to the Best-in-Class Award Winner. Each medal-winning company received a monetary prize (Gold – $2,000; Silver – $1,000; Bronze – $500), along with recognition on ARMA’s website and social media platforms, industry authority-boosting materials and national and local trade media exposure.

“These projects showcase the extraordinary range of what asphalt roofing can achieve,” stated Reed Hitchcock, ARMA executive vice president. “Whether addressing historic preservation, complex geometry or large-scale commercial performance demands, this year’s winners demonstrated why asphalt remains a trusted, reliable roofing solution.”

2026 Excellence in Asphalt Roofing Awards winners

Gold Award winner: HER Roofing Co. Inc. – The Settlemier House (Portland, Oregon)

Project overview: When it came time to restore the roof of the historic 1892 Settlemier House, HER Roofing Co. Inc. delivered a solution that balanced preservation, performance and architectural integrity. The project included a full shake tear-off and re-roof of a steep-slope system, highlighted by a technically demanding cone roof. Asphalt shingles were chosen for their fire resistance, durability and flexibility. Malarkey Legacy® Shingles with Scotchgard™ in Black Oak provided a historically appropriate aesthetic suited to the Pacific Northwest’s climate. The cone required custom vertical plywood installation more than 50 feet in the air, completed safely with an 80-foot lift. Rotted curved wooden gutters were custom fabricated and installed, and the restored copper spire returned to the top. 

Silver Award winner: Wedge Roofing – California Mid-Century Gothic (Sebastopol, California)

Project overview: The California Mid-Century Gothic project presented San Francisco Bay Area’s Wedge Roofing with one of Northern California’s most architecturally complex steep-slope projects. The mid-1960s church features a rare hyperbolic paraboloid roof rising from a 6/12 pitch to vertical, making the roof both its most striking feature and its greatest challenge. Asphalt shingles were capable of meeting the building’s geometric and structural demands. Owens Corning® TruDefinition® Duration® Shingles in Brownwood flexed to follow the compound curves while allowing secure fastening on near-vertical surfaces, preserving the sculptural form without overloading the original structure. The project required rebuilding the ridge with Douglas fir decking and structural plywood, integrating solar-powered and fixed Velux skylights, and installing shingles over steep slopes using toe-jacks and fall protection. Two-ply modified bitumen and silicone-coated flat areas completed the system. 

Bronze Award winner: Priddy Roofing and Exteriors – The Double Dome (Mercer, Pennsylvania)

Project overview: Homeowners seeking to replace the roof on a highly unconventional residence turned to Priddy Roofing and Exteriors for a project defined by dual interconnected geodesic domes. With 238 unique facets, each with its own pitch, angle and drainage direction, the roof presented a highly complex asphalt roofing installation. Owens Corning® TruDefinition® Duration® Shingles in Williamsburg Gray provided the flexibility to follow the compound curves while maintaining strong fastening and sealant adhesion. Full-coverage ice and water shield created a redundant water-resistant barrier across the constantly changing planes. The team installed the roof one facet at a time, with each course measured, cut, aligned, hand-sealed and hand-nailed. Custom flashings accommodated triangular and irregularly shaped windows, while a perimeter intake and site-built circular ridge vent restored ventilation. 

Best-in-Class Award winner, Commercial/Mixed Use Category: KPost Roofing & Waterproofing - National Medal of Honor Museum (Arlington, Texas)

Project overview: The National Medal of Honor Museum in Arlington, Texas, designed by Rafael Viñoly Architects, challenged KPost Roofing & Waterproofing with a complex low-slope roofing project on a building of profound national significance. The roof spans multiple elevations, sloped planes and over 450 structural steel penetrations, requiring precision, durability and aesthetic excellence. SOPREMA SBS-modified bitumen, paired with Alsan RS liquid-applied detailing, provided long-term performance, while lightweight insulating concrete, metal panels and Kingspan insulated panels were integrated to ensure slope-to-drain functionality, continuity and water resistance across all areas. Careful sequencing and meticulous installation preserved the architectural intent, protected the building and supported the museum’s mission. 

The International Roofing Expo provided the perfect backdrop to celebrate these industry awards, with attendees engaging in networking opportunities, photo sessions and discussions on the latest advancements in asphalt roofing.

To learn more about the winners, visit asphaltroofing.org.

About ARMA

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) is a trade association representing North America’s asphalt roofing manufacturing companies and their raw material suppliers. The association includes the majority of North American manufacturers of asphalt shingles and asphalt low slope roof membrane systems. Committed to advances in the asphalt roofing industry, ARMA is proud of the role it plays in promoting asphalt roofing to those in the building industry and to the public. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This award-winning historic restoration showcases craftsmanship, leadership and the power of asphalt roofing.

HER Roofing Co. Inc. has earned the Gold Award in the 2026 Excellence in Asphalt Roofing Awards presented by the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA), standing out among the top asphalt roofing projects across North America. The award recognizes HER Roofing’s exceptional work on the historic Settlemier House, an iconic 1892 home in Oregon that required a careful balance of craftsmanship, performance and respect for architectural heritage.

The award-winning project included a full tear-off of the original wood shake roof and installation of a new steep-slope asphalt roofing system. One of the most complex elements was the home’s distinctive cone roof, which demanded detailed planning and precise execution. To meet both performance and aesthetic requirements, the HER Roofing team selected Malarkey Legacy® shingles with Scotchgard™ in Black Oak, chosen for their Class A fire resistance and ability to complement the historic character of the structure.

The challenges went far beyond materials alone. The cone roof’s original spaced sheathing required the crew to vertically score and install plywood more than 50 feet above ground to create a stable deck. An 80-foot lift was used to safely complete the work. The team also addressed rotted curved wood gutters wrapping the cone and coordinated custom fabrication to maintain the building’s original look. Once the roofing was complete, the home’s original copper spire was carefully reinstalled, preserving one of its most recognizable architectural features.

The project was completed in just two weeks by a seven-person crew and serves as a powerful example of how asphalt roofing can deliver durability, safety and beauty, even on highly detailed historic structures.

Behind the Gold Award is a company known for both technical expertise and strong values. Based in Portland, Oregon, HER Roofing Co. Inc. is a 100 percent woman-owned roofing and gutter contractor led by founder Jana Zavala. The company’s name reflects its core principles of Honesty, Equality and Respect, values that are evident in every project they take on.

Jana brings decades of roofing experience to HER Roofing, including leadership roles with major manufacturers and years spent training contractors across the country. She is also a founding member of National Women in Roofing and a well-respected voice in the industry.

HER Roofing is also a proud member of the R-Club, RoofersCoffeeShop’s exclusive contractor community that supports visibility, education, networking and digital growth for roofing professionals. R-Club contractors are committed to professionalism and ongoing improvement, qualities clearly reflected in this Gold Award-winning project.

This national recognition reinforces what many in the industry already know: HER Roofing delivers outstanding craftsmanship, thoughtful leadership and roofs built to last.

By Jenny Yu.  

Heidi J. Ellsworth has been elected as one of the new NRCA directors. 

Here at The Coffee Shops™, we are proud to share that our president and CEO, Heidi J. Ellsworth, has been elected as one of the new National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) directors. The announcement was made as part of the NRCA's 139th Annual Convention, held from January 18 to 22, 2026, in Las Vegas.  

“It is a true honor to be nominated and selected to serve on the NRCA board of directors,” Heidi shared. “What the NRCA does for the roofing industry is critical to advancing professionalism, supporting contractors and protecting the long-term strength of our trade. The association’s leadership of technical services along with their commitment to career technical education and advocacy continues to move the industry forward. I am excited to contribute at a higher level.” 

With over 30 years of service to the industry, Heidi has developed the experience, connections and leadership skills that make her an invaluable voice and advocate for the roofing community. From holding positions with Malarkey Roofing Products®, Carlisle Construction Materials and Eagleview to serving on the boards of Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), National Women in Roofing (NWIR), METALCON and the International Roofing Expo (IRE), Heidi is more than ready to help guide NRCA through an evolving landscape. 

“Having been actively involved with NRCA for more than 20 years, I look forward to supporting not only the U.S. market but also the organization’s growing global initiatives,” Heidi said. “RoofersCoffeeShop® has a long history of supporting NRCA by amplifying its educational efforts, promoting workforce development and elevating the issues that matter most to roofing professionals.” 

NRCA’s board of directors focuses on strategy and accountability, keeping the interests of its members at the forefront of its work. Heidi will serve a three-year term from 2026 to 2029, starting June 1, alongside eleven other newly appointed board members.  

“By standing together as one voice, we can expand opportunities and build stronger businesses for our contracting community while also better serving the consumers,” Heidi expressed. “Everyone needs shelter, and I am proud to be part of an industry that provides the ultimate protection — the roof.” 

Learn more about the mission of the NRCA and its vision for the future of roofing.

The elected leadership will guide the association’s strategic initiatives, advocacy efforts and industry advancement on behalf of asphalt roofing manufacturers across North America.

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) has announced its newly appointed Executive Committee and Board of Directors for the 2026-2027 term. The elected leadership will guide the association’s strategic initiatives, advocacy efforts and industry advancement on behalf of asphalt roofing manufacturers across North America, effective January 1, 2026.

“The experience and leadership represented by this group will be instrumental as ARMA continues to address key industry priorities,” said Reed Hitchcock, ARMA executive vice president. “We look forward to working with this team on ARMA’s strategic priorities and to further strengthen the asphalt roofing industry.”

Ken Roberts, Atlas Roofing Corporation, will serve as ARMA’s president through December 31, 2027. Roberts has been president of Atlas Roofing Corporation for the past three years and brings more than 30 years of experience from Masco Corporation. During his tenure at Masco, he held numerous leadership roles, including president of Delta Faucet, president of Masco Canada, vice president of international sales, vice president of specifications and national accounts and vice president of Asian business, among other positions spanning purchasing and manufacturing.

“ARMA has a strong legacy of advocating for asphalt roofing as a high-performance, reliable and sustainable building material,” said Roberts. “I’m honored to serve as president and look forward to working with our members to strengthen industry collaboration and ensure asphalt roofing continues to deliver value to the construction industry.”

As ARMA president, Roberts will play a pivotal role in advancing asphalt roofing, supporting the industry's long-term sustainability and recycling objectives, and fostering innovation across the sector.

Members of the 2026 ARMA Executive Committee are as follows:

• Ken Roberts (Atlas Roofing Corporation) – ARMA president
• Tim Kersey (SOPREMA, Inc.) – ARMA vice president
• Nico Del Monaco (Owens Corning) – ARMA treasurer/secretary
• John Barkhouse (GAF) – ARMA executive committee at-large member
• David Humphreys (TAMKO Building Products LLC) – ARMA executive committee at-large member

Members of the ARMA Board of Directors are as follows:

• Robert Almon (Mid-States Asphalt) – ARMA director
• Betiana Acha (Polyglass USA, Inc.) – ARMA director
• DJ Damberger (CertainTeed Corporation) – ARMA director
• Katie Domenico (Henry a Carlisle Company) – ARMA director
• Julianna Grippa (American Hydrotech, Inc./Sika) – ARMA director
• Brian Hobdy (Pacific Coast Building Products, Inc.) – ARMA director
• David Koschitzky (IKO Production, Inc.) – ARMA director
• John Quante (Johns Manville) – ARMA director
• Steve Ratcliff (Tarco Roofing) – ARMA director
• Charles Collins (Malarkey Roofing Products) – ARMA director

For additional information concerning ARMA, its programming and resources, visit asphaltroofing.org. 

About ARMA

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) is a trade association representing North America’s asphalt roofing manufacturing companies and their raw material suppliers. The association includes the majority of North American manufacturers of asphalt shingles and asphalt low slope roof membrane systems. Committed to advances in the asphalt roofing industry, ARMA is proud of the role it plays in promoting asphalt roofing to those in the building industry and to the public. 

By Gold Shield Exteriors.

For best protection, choose a trusted manufacturer, use SBS-modified options when possible and ensure professional installation. 

If you've shopped for roofing materials recently, you've probably seen claims about "Class 4 impact resistance" or "UL 2218 certified" shingles. Manufacturers promise these premium products will protect your home from hail damage, but do shingle hail-resistance ratings actually predict how your roof will perform in a real storm?

As contractors who have inspected hundreds of roofs after Pacific Northwest hail events, here is the honest breakdown of what the ratings get right, where they fall short and whether the upgrade is worthwhile for Vancouver homeowners.

What are shingle hail-resistance ratings?

Understanding UL 2218 and the class system

The most common hail-resistance standard is UL 2218, a steel ball drop test that assigns shingles a rating from Class 1 through Class 4.

To pass, shingles must show no visible cracking or fracturing after impacts in the same location.

In theory, Class 4 shingles should withstand severe hail. In practice, there are major limitations.

Lab testing versus real hailstorms

Problem 1: The test uses brand-new shingles

UL 2218 tests factory-fresh shingles. Real shingles experience:

• UV breakdown
• Granule loss
• Thermal cycling
• Weathering

According to the Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) aging studies, the flexibility of impact-rated shingles decreases significantly over time. A Class 4 shingle can perform closer to Class 2 after 10 to 15 years.

Source: https://ibhs.org/hail/

Problem 2: Temperature has a huge influence

UL 2218 testing occurs at room temperature. Real hailstorms often hit when shingles are:

• Cold and brittle in early spring
• Soft and pliable in summer

IBHS data shows identical shingles perform very differently at different temperatures.

Problem 3: Steel balls are not ice

Steel balls are denser and smoother than real hailstones. Real hail is irregular and often spiked, concentrating force on small points. A jagged 1.5-inch hailstone can cause more damage than a smooth 2-inch sphere.

Problem 4: Installation quality matters

Even the best-rated shingle fails when installed poorly. Common issues include:

• Misplaced nails
• Inconsistent deck support
• Insufficient underlayment
• Poor sealing conditions

Partnering with trusted roofing contractors is just as important as choosing the right material.

Real-world factors that affect hail performance

Roof age and condition

Older shingles lose flexibility and impact strength. Even impact-rated roofs weaken over time.

Roof slope and orientation

• Steeper slopes deflect hail and reduce impact force
• Low-slope roofs take more perpendicular hits
• Wind direction influences which roof planes get damaged

Hail characteristics

Real hail varies dramatically in:

• Size
• Density
• Hardness
• Shape
• Wind-driven speed

Two storms with the same hail size can produce radically different damage.

Hidden pre-existing damage

Micro-fractures from previous storms weaken shingles even if the roof looks fine on the surface.

Which impact-resistant shingles perform best?

Look for SBS-modified asphalt

SBS polymer modification helps shingles stay flexible and absorb impact energy. Malarkey Roofing Products is one of the leading manufacturers using advanced SBS blends.

Source: https://www.malarkeyroofing.com/

Thickness and material density

Thicker shingles absorb more impact and protect the fiberglass mat from cracking.

Superior granule adhesion

Many hail claims begin with granule loss. Shingles with strong adhesion protect the asphalt layer longer.

Warranty strength

Manufacturers confident in their products offer clearer hail clauses. Always read the fine print.

Should Vancouver homeowners upgrade to impact-rated shingles?

The Pacific Northwest hail reality

Clark County does not experience the frequent, baseball-size hailstorms seen in Texas or Colorado. However, hail events here are increasing, and insurance hail claims have risen noticeably over the past decade.

Insurance discounts can make the math easy

Many carriers offer 5 to 25 percent annual discounts for verified Class 4 roofs. Over a 20-year lifespan, this can offset most of the added cost.

When it makes sense

Impact-resistant shingles are a smart upgrade if:

• You live in an exposed area with documented hail events
• Your insurance offers significant premium reductions
• You are already investing in a premium roofing system
• You want extra protection during unpredictable climate swings

When standard architectural shingles are enough

For typical Vancouver neighborhoods with limited hail risk, high-quality architectural shingles with strong wind ratings often provide sufficient protection.

The bottom line

Do hail-resistance ratings reflect real-world performance? Only partially. UL 2218 ratings offer a helpful baseline, but they do not account for:

• Real aging
• Temperature changes
• Installation quality
• Hail shape and density
• Prior roof wear

Think of the rating like a car’s EPA fuel estimate. It allows comparison, but your real results will vary.

For best protection, choose a trusted manufacturer, use SBS-modified options when possible and ensure professional installation. The National Roofing Contractors Association also recommends treating impact-resistant shingles as one part of a complete roofing system.

Source: https://www.nrca.net/

By Elevate. 

Find solutions for all parts of the building envelope at the IRE 2026 Amrize booths.

Amrize offers one of the most comprehensive building envelope portfolios in North America, bringing together solutions that span concrete and building materials through advanced roofing, insulation, waterproofing and wall systems.

Foundation to rooftop solutions on display include:

• High-performance roofing systems from Elevate, including  the new and innovative MAX PVC 
• Waterproofing and coatings solutions from Gaco
• Commercial roofing systems and contractor pathways from GenFlex
• Sustainable, high-performance residential roofing from Malarkey
• Custom-fabricated commercial roofing systems from Duro-Last

Guided International Roofing Expo (IRE) booth walkthroughs are available - just let us know what you’re interested in so we can ensure the proper representatives are available for you. 

New product highlights and live demonstrations

Brand representatives will be available to walk through key product areas, with emphasis on the following highlights:

Elevate: MAX PVC

Engineered for maximum durability and resilience in demanding environments, the new MAX PVC is a top choice for data centers, airports and manufacturing facilities. A MAX PVC system for data center applications will be featured in the Innovative Product Showcase and Awards area, and live puncture resistance testing will take place in the booth as part of Elevate’s product demonstration programming.

Elevate: In-booth product demonstrations

A dedicated demo stage within the Elevate booth footprint will host live demonstrations in English and Spanish throughout the show. Sessions include MAX PVC puncture resistance testing, Twin Jet Y spatter application, self-adhered systems, fleece recover solutions, metal retrofit systems and more. Please let us know if you’d like to see the specific schedule. 

Gaco: Waterproofing and coatings

Gaco will showcase its unified portfolio of silicone, urethane and acrylic systems, along with metal roof repair and waterproofing solutions. Reps can also explain Gaco’s licensed applicator program and contractor incentives that support consistent installation quality and system performance.

Additional product walkthroughs across the Amrize Building Envelope portfolio are available upon request.

Educational sessions and exhibitor presentations

Amrize Building Envelope and brand spokespeople will be leading several conference sessions and exhibitor presentations, offering high-level perspective and practical, jobsite-focused education. Please let us know if you’re interested in any of the following, and we’ll be happy to share the locations of the presentations. 

IRE conference presentations

• Beyond the Roof: Building Envelope Integration for Growth
  Tuesday, January 20 | 8:15–9:15 a.m. PT
  Presenters: Rachel Garcia and Stephanie Gssime
• Entendiendo el PVC: No escatime en la malla | Más malla, menos falla (Spanish-language session
  Wednesday, January 21 | 8:30–9:30 a.m. PT
  Presenter: Alan Diaz
• Best Practices in Commercial Roofing: Solutions for Common and Unique Applications
  Wednesday, January 21 | 9:45–10:45 a.m. PST
  Presenters: Jacqueline LaDuke and Charles Allen

IRE exhibitor presentation sessions

• EPDM: Low Slope Roofing Solutions for Solving Real World Challenges
  Wednesday, January 21 | 12:30–1:15 p.m. PT
  Presenter: Matt Michalski
• Reducing Roofing Labor with Innovative Products and Systems
  Wednesday, January 21 | 2:30–3:15 p.m. PT
  Presenters: Christian Hartwig and Chris Meyer