By Ali Turner, S-5! 

R-panels are a reliable, budget-friendly metal roofing choice — but how you attach accessories matters.

R-panel is a durable and economical metal roofing profile commonly installed on commercial facilities, metal buildings, agricultural structures and barndominiums. However, as many roofing contractors have found when troubleshooting leaks or panel distortion due to thermal movement, the real challenge lies beyond the panel itself — it’s in the attachment method. Incorrect fastening approaches or incompatible substrates can limit natural expansion and contraction, jeopardize weathertightness and ultimately turn an otherwise dependable roofing system into a source of problems. 

If R-panels are part of your offering, understanding the fastening technology is not optional — it’s a must. Getting it right helps protect your margins and boost your credibility. 

This blog will explain: 

• What an R-panel roof is 
• Why watertightness testing matters 
• How engineered attachment systems help reduce risk, prevent callbacks and ensure long-term roof performance 

What is an R-panel roof? 

A commercial building with an R-Panel metal roof, featuring solar panels mounted directly to the ribs using engineered brackets and a rail-less solar mounting system. 

An R-panel is an exposed-fastened metal panel commonly used for roof and wall applications on commercial, industrial and agricultural buildings. The “R” stands for “ribbed” since the inception of the term. And the ribs are trapezoidal in cross-sectional shape. A later variant is the “PBR,” which stands for “purlin-bearing rib.” 

“R-panels are very different from standing seam or corrugated systems and serve a distinct market, particularly in the Southwest U.S.,” explained Lane Haddock, S-5! application engineer. “If a homeowner wants a reliable metal roof but doesn’t have the budget for a standing seam system, an R-panel is often the practical choice. It delivers durability and performance without the higher price point.” 

Key features of R-panels: 

• Ribbed profile for strength and water shedding 
• Raised major ribs and smaller intermediate ribs for rigidity 
• Exposed-fastened system for direct attachment to the structure 

“They’re also ideal for agricultural use, where performance often matters more than aesthetics,” Haddock added. “The goal is installing a roof that’s durable, dependable and built to last.” 

Reliable R-panel attachments: Engineered brackets tested for water intrusion 

Today’s roofing contractors are more than installers — you’re consultants, problem-solvers and risk managers. Every roof penetration, whether for snow retention, solar mounting or rooftop utilities, introduces waterproofing risk. How those attachments are engineered and tested determines whether the roof performs for decades or generates costly callbacks. 

When roof penetrations are required on an exposed-fastened profile, such as an R-panel, the roof's long-term performance depends on how well each attachment resists water intrusion. Field-applied sealants can degrade, compress unevenly or fail over time, so engineered brackets with factory-applied sealant technology are critical. These sealants are designed to maintain consistent compression and performance, even as the roof undergoes thermal expansion and contraction. 

Engineered bracket with snow retention system securely installed on an R-panel metal roof, designed to reduce the risk of snow slides while maintaining roof integrity and performance. 

ASTM E2140 testing determines the resistance of an attachment to water penetration when subjected to 6 inches of static water pressure. Brackets that pass this rigorous standard are independently validated to maintain a secure, leak-resistant interface under conditions that closely replicate real-world roof exposure. This testing, conducted in a certified third-party lab, shows exactly which attachment systems can reliably help protect your roof against water intrusion over the long term. 

Brackets undergoing ASTM E2140 testing, demonstrating water resistance with a marked 6-inch water line to ensure reliable performance under simulated static water pressure conditions. 

The bottom line for roofing contractors 

R-panels are a reliable, budget-friendly metal roofing choice — but how you attach accessories matters. Whether you’re installing snow guards, solar panels or utilities, the guidance is clear: 

• Choose engineered attachment systems designed for metal roof profiles and backed by testing and documentation. 
• Do not use products that compromise the roof’s weatherproofing. Use brackets and fasteners with factory-applied, integrated sealant technology to help prevent water from penetrating the panel surface. 
• Choose metal roof attachments with industry-leading lifetime warranties to ensure long-term performance, reliability and peace of mind for your roof system. 

When a fastening strategy is engineered rather than improvised, you’re not just installing accessories. You’re protecting your reputation, minimizing liability and delivering a roof system built for long-term performance. 

Questions? Reach out to support@s-5.com for help with your R-panel metal roofing project! 

Texas manufacturing facility recognized for continued commitment to safety excellence.

S-5!, the industry leader in metal roof attachment solutions, has earned the Metal Building Manufacturers Association Safety Award for the fifth time, recognizing the company’s exceptional workplace safety performance and zero recordable incidents at its Iowa Park, Texas, manufacturing facility during the calendar year 2025.

Each year, MBMA recognizes member companies that demonstrate exceptional commitment to safety in the workplace over the past calendar year. The 2025 award was presented during the combined Metal Building Contractors and Erectors Association (MBCEA) Conference and MBMA Spring Association Meeting in Colorado Springs, Colorado, held April 22-24, 2026. Rob Haddock, CEO and founder of S-5!, together with Shawn Haddock, vice president of operations at S-5!, accepted the honor on behalf of their entire team.

The achievement reflects ongoing safety training, proactive hazard identification and a team-wide commitment to maintaining a clean, compliant and accountable manufacturing environment.

“This recognition is meaningful because it reflects what happens in our facility every day: employees looking out for one another, following disciplined processes and taking ownership of safety,” said Shawn Haddock. “We are especially grateful to Randy Crumpton, our safety manager, whose leadership has helped strengthen a safety-first culture through training, clear policies and proactive hazard prevention.”

Through its annual Safety Awards, MBMA highlights member companies that make safe operations a consistent business priority and model responsible manufacturing practices across the metal building industry. “A year with zero recordable incidents requires more than compliance; it reflects everyday attention, communication and accountability across the organization,” said Tony Bouquot, MBMA general manager. “S-5!’s continued performance at its Iowa Park facility demonstrates the kind of safety leadership we are proud to recognize among MBMA members.”

At S-5!’s ISO 9001: 2015-certified Iowa Park manufacturing facility, advanced automation and equipment support both product quality and a disciplined operating environment. Following a 20,000+ square foot expansion that doubled production capacity, the team continues to pair growth with safety practices, training and facility improvements that support employees, customers and ongoing manufacturing operations.

About S-5! 

Founded by a renowned metal roof expert, S-5! has been the leading authority on metal roof attachment solutions since 1992. S-5!’s zero-penetration clamps and lifetime brackets attach virtually anything to most metal roof types, while maintaining roof integrity and warranties. S-5! solutions are engineered for a variety of roof-mounted applications and are now installed on more than 3 million roofs worldwide, including 10+ gigawatts of roof-mounted solar, providing strength and longevity never before seen. For more information, visit www.s-5.com.

By Fiona Maguire-O'Shea, S-5! 

A conversation with Ricardo Barroso, head of engineering at S-5! 

As solar applications continue to expand across carports, canopies and ground mount structures, greater attention is being placed on solar mounting and attachment systems. From retail carports and gas stations to large-scale ground mount installations, contractors need corrosion-resistant, non-penetrating solutions that remain compatible with structural steel and deliver reliable, long-term performance in demanding environments. 

Ricardo Barroso, head of engineering at S-5!, has spent years helping guide the development of solutions designed specifically for these evolving needs. In this conversation, he shares how the S-5-CPTM clamp for carports came to market, what differentiates it and where he sees the industry heading next. 

Built in response to real-world demand 

The story of the CP clamp begins not in a lab, but in the field. 

“We were seeing an increase in solar over carports — at convenience stores, office buildings, gas stations and shopping centers — many in regions with demanding environmental conditions,” Ricardo says. “We knew we could bring meaningful savings and performance improvements to those projects.” 

In high-wind regions such as Florida, engineered structural performance is non-negotiable. Many of these carport structures rely on Cee or Zee purlins, and attaching solar modules to those members has historically required complexities. “One effective method for those structures is a racking system,” Ricardo explains. “But traditional approaches created challenges that made it clear a better solution was needed.” 

Contractors typically relied on two primary methods: perforating the purlin with screws or fastening substructures with bolts and nuts. Both approaches introduced concerns. “Perforation with screws was common. The other option was using bolts and nuts to secure the solar system,” he says. “Both presented long-term corrosion risks, escalated costs and potential corrosion issues. Material compatibility is crucial in these environments.” 

The breakthrough came after S-5!’s international team brought forward several project opportunities, including gas station canopy applications. “They came to us with real projects that required a purpose-built solution,” Ricardo recalls. “At that point, it was clear the market didn’t need a small improvement — it needed something designed specifically for the application.” 

The result was a non-penetrating clamp engineered to fit Cee and Zee purlins while improving installation speed and long-term durability. “The S-5-CP clamp does not perforate the purlin,” he emphasizes. “Instead of fastening through the steel, the clamp secures to the purlin using S-5!’s proprietary setscrews, which are engineered for compatibility with the base material and designed to resist corrosion over the life of the structure.”

Designing for strength, compatibility and longevity 

From an engineering standpoint, defining the dimensional range of commonly used Cee purlins was foundational. “There is a wide variation in purlin dimensions across markets,” Ricardo explains. “One of the most important inputs was understanding the most common profiles so we could design a product that would fit the majority of applications.” 

Rather than tailoring the product to niche variations, the team focused on developing a solution that addresses the most prevalent structural configurations without sacrificing strength and while streamlining installation. 

High wind resistance was also central to the design brief. “We needed a solution suitable for high-velocity wind zones,” he says. “Reliability in those environments was critical.” 

But performance wasn’t the only consideration. Aesthetic consistency and cable management were also part of the equation. “When you’re talking about direct attachment on carports, you don’t want wires hanging randomly.” Ricardo notes. “With the CP clamp, we developed a complete environment solution that includes wire management and accessories.” 

Water management was another factor in certain applications. “In many cases, reducing water intrusion under the carports is important, such as in the Port of Bilbao in Spain, where perishable food has been unloaded from cargo ships and loaded on trucks for local distribution in the North of Spain. We incorporated features to address that as well.” 

As with other S-5! product launches, the engineering team surveyed our global sales team to gather market intelligence about regional applications and structural trends. “That input helps us design for real-world conditions. It is what we call ‘listening to the voice of our customers and the industry,’” he says. 

More than a clamp 

While the clamp itself solves a specific attachment challenge, Ricardo believes the broader value lies in the complete system and support behind it. “What makes it different is not just the clamp,” he says. “It’s the full engineering package, which easily incorporates either traditional rail systems or the S-5! PVKIT.” 

The product is engineered and tested to meet rigorous standards, including Florida Product Approval for the clamp and UL 2703 compliance for the PVKIT system. 

Equally important, Ricardo says, is the company’s engineering support. “We have application engineers who answer questions around the clock and go to the field to train and support installations. Customers value that support — it often helps win projects.” 

Expanding beyond the original vision 

Although initially developed for carports and canopies, the CP clamp has proven adaptable. “When we developed it, the focus was carports and canopies,” Ricardo says. “Ground mount was not initially in sight. Now we’re seeing strong opportunities there.” 

A recent ground mount solar farm in the South used more than 20,000 CP clamps — a signal that the product’s applicability extends beyond its original intent. Any contractor working in solar carports, canopies or compatible ground mount structures can benefit. 

Where does it create the greatest impact? 

“Speed and labor efficiency matter, of course,” Ricardo says. “But the real impact is long-term reliability.” 

He explains that the value goes beyond faster installation. “When you eliminate penetration, address material compatibility and engineer for corrosion resistance, you’re protecting the structure for its entire service life. That’s where owners see the real return — in durability and performance that doesn’t degrade over time. 

“It’s about compatibility and holding strength that lasts for the lifetime of the structure. No maintenance. No corrosion.” 

Shifting expectations in solar mounting 

Ricardo sees the CP clamp as part of a broader industry shift. “The main shift is toward reliability,” he says. “The industry is demanding products that don’t degrade in performance over time.” 

As project owners increasingly evaluate systems based on multi-decade performance, attachment systems must align with that expectation. S-5! is continuing to pursue additional certifications, including submission for International Code Council (ICC) listing, further reinforcing its commitment to engineering rigor and compliance. 

Looking ahead, Ricardo does not expect major changes in the way steel support structures are built. “Carports, canopies and many ground mount systems use structural forms that have been standard for a long time,” he explains. “The opportunity is in improving the attachment, simplifying installation and enhancing long-term reliability.” 

For S-5!, that means continued focus on practical innovation. “We’re always looking at what we can do better,” Ricardo says. “It’s about improving the customer experience and finding better ways to serve evolving applications.” 

Bottom line 

As solar deployment accelerates across diverse project types and geographies, solutions like the CP clamp underscore a simple yet powerful principle: when small components are engineered with precision and purpose, they can make a lasting impact on the performance and longevity of the entire system. 

By Ali Turner, S-5! 

This course explores how the PVKIT rail-less solar mounting solution is uniquely suited for snow-prone regions.

Designing solar for snow-heavy regions comes with a unique set of challenges. From increased structural loads to installation complexities on metal roofs, engineers and installers must account for conditions that can significantly impact system performance and longevity. 

That’s why we’re excited to introduce a new course on S-5-University — our FREE online learning platform: PVKIT® in Snow Country. 

Led by Michal Sida, application engineer for the U.S. and Canada at S-5!®, this course dives into smarter, more efficient ways to design solar mounting systems for harsh winter environments. 

Meet the presenter 

Sida brings deep technical expertise to the conversation. He holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from the Slovak University of Technology in Bratislava and began his S-5! career in Research and Development, specializing in the testing of snow retention systems. 

Today, Sida specializes in: 

• Engineering calculations 
• System design 
• Technical support for solar mounting and snow retention 

What you’ll learn 

This course explores how the PVKIT rail-less solar mounting solution is uniquely suited for snow-prone regions. 

You’ll learn how a rail-less approach can: 

• Reduce the overall system weight on the roof 
• Decrease rotational forces on attachments 
• Distribute loads more evenly across the roof structure 
• Maximize usable roof space 

In addition, the course highlights how the PVKIT can help: 

• Lower material and installation costs 
• Simplify transportation and on-site handling 
• Improve installation efficiency 
• Make solar more practical and effective in harsh winter climates 

Learn more with S-5-University 

S-5-University is a free, on-demand online training platform built specifically for roofing contractors and industry professionals who want to stay ahead in a competitive market. 

Developed by the industry leader in metal roof attachment solutions, S-5-University delivers real-world, contractor-focused education you can immediately apply on the job. Unlike generic training programs, every course is designed by roofing experts to help you work more efficiently, safely and profitably. 

With S-5-University, you can: 

• Learn at your own pace — anytime, anywhere 
• Access in-depth courses, expert-led webinars and technical training 
• Gain practical skills with step-by-step demonstrations and troubleshooting tips 
• Earn certificates to showcase your expertise 
• Strengthen your credibility with clients and stand out in competitive bids 

The platform covers a wide range of topics, including: 

• Metal roof attachment systems 
• Snow retention solutions 
• Solar mounting systems like PVKIT 
• And much more! 

Best of all, it’s 100% free — no subscriptions, no hidden fees, just valuable education from the most trusted name in the industry. 

Explore all available courses: https://www.s-5-university.com/courses?utm_campaign=S-5-University&utm_source=RoofersCoffeeShop&utm_medium=PVKIT%20in%20Snow%20Country%20Webinar 

By S-5! 

See how S-5! provided an impressive snow retention solution for an event space in Colorado Springs. 

The BrookHouse is a spacious barndominium venue located in beautiful Colorado Springs, Colorado, available for all types of special events: holiday parties, business meetings, seminars, retreats, weddings, bridal showers, baby showers and more. Its mountainous backdrop, however, makes it prone to harsh weather conditions, including snow, ice and wind. The property’s ETAS R-Panel metal roof needed a fully engineered, aesthetically pleasing snow retention solution that would match the venue's aesthetics while also outlasting harsh weather conditions for years to come.  

The owner, Nikki Upchurch, enlisted our help, and our team at S-5!® was happy to deliver. ColorGard 2.0 was custom engineered for this project to mitigate potential rooftop avalanches, which could pose a serious threat to pedestrians and property below. The project  

The BrookHouse is a unique 3,200-square-foot barndominium nestled on 5.5 scenic acres, just outside of Colorado Springs. Offering panoramic views of the Rocky Mountains, it serves as both a versatile event venue and a model for integrated rural living and sustainable design.  

Located on the west end of the barndominium are two fully equipped short-term vacation rentals, each featuring a private entrance. On the south side, a private entrance opens to an Integrative Wellness Center that provides advanced BioScan health assessments and personalized supplement protocols based on European research and holistic care practices.  

Built into the north hillside, the barndominium takes advantage of natural earth berming to help regulate interior temperatures year-round. Passive solar design maximizes winter warmth, with generous southern windows heating the epoxy floor’s thermal mass.  

A sunroom on the east side features an overhead door that welcomes the morning light and houses a therapeutic mineral soak with ozone filtration, used in wellness treatments. The space also supports a working aquaponics system producing leafy greens, herbs, tomatoes and tilapia. Designed as a prototype, this system is slated for deployment in Ghana to assist rural communities in developing sustainable food sources. 

The challenge  

With a wide range of events hosted on the property — from seminars and receptions to parties, fitness sessions, music performances and meetings — and the area’s harsh weather conditions, including snow and ice, the homeowner required an effective snow retention system for her new metal roof.  

The buildup of snow and ice on any roof can produce significant sliding forces, resulting in its sudden release, dumping the fallout below the eaves in a matter of seconds, posing serious risks to both patrons and property below.  

A high-quality, long-lasting visually appealing solution was essential to ensure safety while preserving the integrity of the roof and maintaining the overall aesthetic of the barndominium.  

The solution  

The homeowner chose the all new and improved next-generation ColorGard® 2.0 snow retention system for her R-Panel Galvalume metal roof.  

Designed and upgraded with contractor feedback in mind, ColorGard 2.0 features a true lay-and-play design, with no pre-assembly required.  

The new VersaClip can now be installed at crossmember splice locations, eliminating the need to field cut at that instance. Cutting is now reduced to trimming only one section to length (if required) at the end of the assembly. With S-5!’s new enhancements, installation time has significantly decreased, allowing for faster and simpler installation!  

Extensively tested for load-to-failure, ColorGard 2.0 dramatically reduces the risks associated with rooftop avalanches, offering enhanced safety. Its sleek, seamless appearance not only perfectly matches the color of the roof but also elevates the overall aesthetic with a visually appealing look. 

How Did ColorGard 2.0 help?  

• No preassembly or field cutting required  
• True lay-and-play system that saves time and boosts efficiency 
• Provided safety measures to patrons and property below 
• Eliminated the risk of a voided roof manufacturer warranty  
• Provided the aesthetic low-profile solution the homeowner desired 
• Reduced the amount of product and cost required due to S-5! documented holding strength and engineered system capacity 

Long-term outlook  

The owner was able to achieve the quality look she wanted with a snow retention system that maintains the roof integrity, mitigates potential rooftop avalanches and complements the look of the roof, providing a clean appearance and perfect color- and finish matching, designed and engineered to last the life of the roof. 

Nikki shared, “I’ve been incredibly impressed with the S-5! ColorGard 2.0 snow retention system. I especially appreciate being able to confirm my own snow load calculations using the resources available on the S-5! website — it made determining proper bracket spacing straightforward and efficient. The system’s sleek lines reflect its excellent design, and I have full confidence in its performance, thanks to the third-party accreditations. It’s been a pleasure working with S-5!, a company with a stellar reputation and a true commitment to excellence.” 

Original article and photo source: S-5!

By Jenny Yu.  

S-5! calculators give contractors code-based guidance for snow retention and solar mounting. 

Digital tools are increasingly helping roofing contractors design more efficient systems, from sales pitch to jobsite clean up. In this Roofing Road Trips® episode, Megan Ellsworth spoke with Jesse Winternitz, application engineer and product support manager at S-5!, about how S-5! calculators help contractors plan snow retention and solar mounting systems with greater speed and accuracy. 

The calculators are designed to give contractors a clear starting point for projects involving metal roofing and solar systems. “Our snow retention in our PV kit systems are written to building code and utilize our testing, which is all certified” Jesse stated. “If you don't know where to start a project, you can jump right in. There's information about your roof: what kind of roof do you have, the dimensions of your roof, the slope of your roof, your application. It can really get you a good visual and a report on what you need.” 

One of the biggest advantages of using a calculator is the visual component. “If you run our PV kit calculator, it'll show you the roof. It'll show you where the solar panels are on the roof and it'll show you how many attachments are needed on different panels,” Jesse explained. “By having that visual to show your customer and sell them on the project, that’s the best way to simplify the sales and installation process.” 

To achieve these results, S-5! calculators pull from extensive product and roof testing. This data allows the system to match roof type, manufacturer profiles and materials with appropriate attachment systems.  

“S-5! has hundreds of different tests,” Jesse said. “Our testing is not just specific to the S-5! product being used, but also the metal roof. Our calculators are good about pulling those tests and incorporating them into the calculation without you needing to do anything at all. Just by selecting the kind of roof you have, we can give you the accurate information that you need.” 

Jesse shared a recent example where the calculator helped correct a snow retention plan that originally called for excessive rows of snow retention. “They were able to cut the budget significantly. It was like a fifth of the material and a significant cut in labor as well,” Jesse recalled.  

For contractors newer to using digital tools, S-5! provides multiple avenues of support. “We can help you over the phone, over a Zoom call or just over email and help you design a system,” he said. “We also have resources on our website, blogs, FAQs and even YouTube videos walking through the process.” 

Read the first article in this series and Listen to the podcast to learn more about how S-5! calculators help contractors design safer, more efficient roof attachment systems. 

By S-5!

This workshop is designed to help contractors improve efficiency, expand solar expertise and connect with fellow professionals.

S-5!® is bringing a hands-on solar mounting workshop to Arlington, Texas, built specifically for installers and roofing professionals ready to sharpen their skills and stay ahead of the curve. 

As many installers begin pivoting toward C&I projects in 2026, this workshop will also help attendees better understand how to navigate that shift. In addition to hands-on training, you’ll hear insights on commercial project considerations, with Enphase and Silfab covering key topics like C&I trends, domestic content, FEOC, Safe Harbor rules and important upcoming deadlines. 

This interactive afternoon goes beyond presentations, giving attendees real-world experience with rooftop solar mounting systems, plus an inside look at how leading solar technology is manufactured. 

What to expect: 

• Live, hands-on rooftop mounting demos with S-5! solutions 
• Guided tour of the Enphase manufacturing facility 
• Practical installation insights you can apply immediately 
• Food, drinks and networking with industry peers 

Bonus giveaway: 

Attendees will have the chance to win a Milwaukee M18 Lithium-Ion PACKOUT Radio and Charger (must be present to win). 

Location: Enphase Manufacturing Facility, Arlington, Texas 

Date and time: April 23 | 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. 

Whether you're looking to improve efficiency, expand your solar expertise or connect with fellow professionals, this workshop delivers valuable, jobsite-ready takeaways. 

Space is limited — reserve your spot today.

By Jenny Yu.  

From hosting a pre-conference tour to sponsoring on-site engagement, S-5! is creating opportunities for connection and learning. 

As the 57th annual MBCEA Conference and Spring Meeting approaches, occurring April 22-24, 2026, S-5! is taking an active role in shaping the attendee experience through educational opportunities and industry engagement.  

Kicking off the week, S-5! will host a pre-conference S-5! Global Headquarters Tour in Black Forest, Colorado, on April 21, 2026, offering attendees a behind-the-scenes look at the development of their metal roofing attachment solutions. The guided tour provides a firsthand view of the company’s operations and product innovation, including the engineering and testing that support modern metal roofing systems. After the tour, contractors, manufacturers and industry professionals will have the chance to connect with peers during a happy hour. Transportation to and from the event will be provided, making it a convenient, valuable and fun addition to the conference agenda.  

The best part? The S-5! Global Headquarters Tour is free! However, there are limited spots available, so be sure to sign up early to be part of this opportunity to engage with S-5! experts while building relationships ahead of the MBCEA Conference!  

During the conference itself, S-5! is also acting as the official sponsor for the RoofersCoffeeShop® sound stage, where attendees will have the opportunity to share their experiences and perspectives from the event. Through live interviews, the sound stage will capture insights from across the metal construction industry, highlighting key trends, challenges and innovations present at the conference.  

By hosting an interactive pre-conference experience and supporting on-site industry conversations, S-5! demonstrates its continued commitment to education, collaboration and advancing the metal construction sector.  

Learn more about S-5! and register for the 57th Annual MBCEA Conference and Spring Meeting and S-5! Global Headquarters Tour!

By Ali Turner, S-5!

Staying informed shouldn’t slow you down and has never been more fun.

Let’s face it. Between early mornings, long days on the roof and keeping jobs on schedule, roofing contractors don’t always have time to sit down and read industry news. That’s where “The High Five with S-5!” comes in. This new podcast from S-5! delivers industry insight, practical knowledge and a little fun. Actually, it’s a lot of fun! It’s perfect for listening on the drive to the jobsite or while grabbing that first cup of coffee. 

Industry talk that doesn’t feel like homework 

S-5! is known for raising the bar in metal roof attachment solutions, and our new podcast does the same for industry conversations. “The High Five with S-5!” brings together experts, innovators and industry pros for relaxed, engaging discussions about the topics roofing contractors actually care about. 

No long lectures. No sales pitches. Just honest conversations about metal roofing, installation best practices, safety considerations and where the industry is headed. And it’s all delivered in a way that’s easy to follow and enjoyable to listen to. 

Five takeaways. Zero time wasted. 

Each episode of “The High Five with S-5!” is built around, you guessed it, five key takeaways. That means you get the good stuff fast. Whether you listen to the whole episode or catch part of it between calls, you’ll walk away with ideas you can actually use on your next project. 

It’s the perfect format for busy contractors who want to stay sharp without adding more to their to-do list. 

Learn on the go 

One of the best things about podcasts? You can listen just about anywhere. In the truck. At the shop. Between jobsites. “The High Five with S-5!” turns travel time into learning time, helping you stay connected to the industry without slowing you down. 

Already a fan of the free online training from S-5-University™? Think of the podcast as the perfect sidekick that reinforces what you know while introducing new perspectives and real-world insights from across the metal roofing world. 

Stay ahead in an evolving industry 

Keeping up with industry trends doesn’t just help you do better work. It helps you talk about it with confidence. The more you know, the easier it is to explain system choices, performance benefits and long-term value to customers. “The High Five with S-5!” gives you that extra edge, one episode at a time. 

Free, fun and worth the listen 

Best of all, “The High Five with S-5!” is free, easy to access and made with contractors in mind. It’s another way S-5! is supporting the industry by sharing knowledge, starting conversations and having a little fun along the way. 

Hit play and take five 

If you’re already spending time in the truck or want something to listen to in the office or on a jobsite, you might as well make that time work for you. Subscribe to “The High Five with S-5!” today and turn everyday moments into opportunities to learn, stay sharp and stay ahead of the competition. 

New episodes are easy to access and packed with insights you can use right away. No sign-ups. No cost. No fluff. Just five solid takeaways from people who know metal roofing. 

So grab your coffee and hit play on “The High Five with S-5!” Staying informed shouldn’t slow you down and has never been more fun.

By Jenny Yu.  

Explore how the solar market continues to evolve and expand in a time of regulatory challenges. 

Solar market dynamics continue to evolve as technology advances and policy shifts reshape the landscape. In this Roofing Road Trips® episode, Heidi J. Ellsworth spoke with Mark Gies, director of strategy and market development at S-5!, about emerging opportunities in solar.  

“One of the growing sectors has been community solar,” Mark stated. While environmental policies have been cut at the federal level, Mark foresees multiple parties motivated to fill the gaps. “One thing that I think is going to happen is that states and local areas may pick up the slack that the federal level is dropping. That may restore balance.” 

Energy storage is another major growth factor in the solar sector. “Batteries are really another thing that's driving growth, because people are now coupling more and more storage with solar so that you can make electricity during the day, store it and then use it at night when the sun's not there,” Mark shared. “That way, you can use more of what you make, which is better towards this distributed generation, where people are using it themselves and the grid is not so stressed.” 

In this time of environmental and economic uncertainty, Mark advises that companies prioritize a strategic mindset: “People should look at their business and say, ‘What's my best strategy to grow and survive in this environment?’” 

While policies and regulations may pose challenges for solar, Mark remains optimistic about the opportunities ahead. “Adversity drives more innovation,” Mark said. “A big thing with solar is the permitting process going through regulations. People are working on that, and the hurdles will go down. Despite what the environment is like, I think it will still work and grow. I'm confident.” 

Read the previous article in this series or Listen to the podcast to learn more about how current trends are shaping solar.