Donde la comunidad, la confianza y la conexión fueron protagonistas 

Desde momentos de crecimiento personal hasta poderosos recordatorios de por qué las relaciones importan, nuestro equipo vivió IRE como una celebración del progreso, tanto individual como colectivo. 

Las ferias del roofing a menudo se miden por los pies cuadrados, los números de asistencia y los nuevos lanzamientos de productos. Pero para el equipo de The Coffee Shops™, la International Roofing Expo (IRE) nos recordó que el corazón de esta industria siempre ha sido su gente. 

Aquí está IRE 2026, contada a través de las voces de nuestro equipo. 

Crecer en nuevos roles y con nueva confianza 

Jessica Bravo, nuestra coordinadora del programa En Español, reflexionó sobre cuánto puede cambiar en solo un año cuando la oportunidad se encuentra con el valor: 

IRE 2026 fue inolvidable. Para mí, fue una oportunidad para salir de mi zona de confort. El año pasado yo estaba detrás de la cámara; este año, fui yo quien hizo las entrevistas. Significa mucho reflexionar sobre dónde estoy ahora comparado con dónde estaba hace un año. 

Me encanta IRE porque crea un espacio para conectar con la comunidad hispanohablante y tener interacción directa con los contratistas. Es un ambiente increíble para conectar, establecer relaciones y aprender. 

Alberto y yo tuvimos la oportunidad de recorrer el piso de exhibición y conectar con muchos de nuestros socios, incluidos QXO, MuleHide, TAMKO® y SRS Distribution. También conectamos con los socios, proveedores, embajadores y ganadores de premios de SRS Para Latinos.

¡Estén atentos para todas las entrevistas En Español que vienen pronto!

Alberto Torres, coordinador de contenido en español y el miembro más nuevo del equipo, comparte el mismo sentimiento de crecimiento al vivir IRE desde una perspectiva completamente diferente este año. 

En años anteriores asistí como invitado, pero esta vez estuve trabajando en el evento. 

Como IRE es el evento más grande de la industria de techos, al principio se sintió un poco intimidante. Pero una vez que llegué, todo comenzó a fluir. Me encontré con Jessica en el lounge de SRS Para Latinos, y la confianza que ella tenía en mí era mayor que la que yo tenía en mí mismo. Me entregó la cámara y me dijo que comenzara a grabar como si fuera lo más natural del mundo. Yo era el nuevo integrante del equipo, rodeado de tantos profesionales hispanos — personas que han construido carreras sólidas en la industria — esperando para ver a otros líderes recibir sus reconocimientos. Y honestamente, sabes lo intimidante que eso puede ser. Pero respiré profundo y comencé a grabar. 

El evento fue increíble, y no podría haberlo logrado sin el apoyo y el ánimo de mis compañeros en RoofersCoffeeShop®. Lo que más me impactó no fue el tamaño del piso de exhibición, sino el sentido de comunidad. IRE realmente se siente como más que un evento: se siente como una reunión familiar. Tanto dentro del centro de convenciones como afuera, la gente estaba genuinamente feliz de verse, conectar y pasar tiempo juntos. 

Esta experiencia me recordó que la industria del techado está construida sobre relaciones, y que todos tenemos un lugar para crecer, contribuir y ser vistos. 

Celebrando logros y creando espacios de inclusión  

El evento de este año marcó un logro importante para los NWIR Days de National Women in Roofing’s que precedieron a IRE. Megan Ellsworth, nuestra directora de multimedia, capturó el peso emocional del momento:

Lo más destacado para mí durante la semana de IRE fueron los National Women in Roofing Days. Celebramos los 10 años de la asociación, y fueron dos días emocionantes y profundamente significativos llenos de conexión, aprendizaje y crecimiento. Algunas de mis sesiones favoritas fueron la clase con temática de Survivor sobre resiliencia, la clase de Mandy McIntyre sobre confianza y el discurso principal de las fundadoras por la mañana. 

Haber visto la creación de NWIR desde que tenía 17 años hasta ahora ha sido un honor y un privilegio. Ver a mi mamá, Heidi J. Ellsworth, y a las otras tres mujeres fundadoras hablar sobre las luchas, alegrías y triunfos de iniciar NWIR fue conmovedor y demuestra no solo lo lejos que han llegado, sino también lo que aún falta por avanzar. 

Las relaciones son la base de la industria 

Una y otra vez, nuestro equipo llegó a la misma conclusión: IRE se mueve gracias a las relaciones. 

Dani Sheehan, estratega de contenido para The Coffee Shops, explicó: 

Pasé los tres días recorriendo el piso de exhibición con Camden durante las entrevistas, y fue un recordatorio poderoso del impacto que tiene esta industria. Estar allí hizo posible no solo ver el evento, sino realmente experimentarlo: escuchando las diferentes historias de nuestros socios y conociendo aspectos de sus negocios que no siempre vemos. 

Encontrarse con rostros conocidos del año pasado, reconectar con amigos y pasar tiempo con socios como CertainTeed fue sin duda uno de los puntos más altos de la semana. Fue positivo, energizante y genuinamente divertido.

James Ellsworth, nuestro CFO, sintió que ese sentido de comunidad se manifestó en formas sorprendentes: 

Fue una semana muy buena y positiva. El escenario de grabación en IRE hizo 89 entrevistas en tres días, y Karen manejó la mayor parte. Tuvimos expertos de toda la industria queriendo participar. La sala de espera para invitados que teníamos fue todo un punto de encuentro. Todos querían convivir y relajarse ahí. Y fue muy divertido esta mañana ver a Alberto y Jessica entregar nuestras mochilas. Hasta los niños pequeños las estaban usando, lo cual fue adorable. The Coffee Shops estuvo en todas partes. Fue una semana increíble, muy ocupada y exitosa. 

Contando historias como servicio para la industria 

En el centro de todo estuvo un propósito compartido: contar las historias de la industria y asegurarnos de que nadie se quede fuera. Karen Edwards, COO de The Coffee Shops, dejó su huella entrevistando a contactos de la industria en el escenario: 

Estar en el escenario y entrevistar a nuestros socios, proveedores y fabricantes de todo el evento fue increíblemente gratificante. Es muy especial poder llevar un pedacito de IRE a las personas que no pueden asistir. 

Nuestro objetivo es enfocarnos en la industria: contando historias, teniendo conversaciones y compartiendo esas entrevistas — y como dice Heidi, elevando y amplificando a toda la industria. Fue una semana fabulosa. 

Lauren White, nuestra editora en jefe, lo resumió mejor al reflexionar sobre lo que significa presentarse con intención: 

Siempre es tan divertido ver los mismos rostros año tras año… poder ir al piso de exhibición y resaltar esos stands, preguntarles ‘¿Qué quieren mostrar?’ La gente apreciaba mucho que viniéramos, que mostráramos sus stands y conversáramos con ellos. 2026 es el año del crecimiento. 

IRE 2026 reforzó algo que ya sabemos pero que nunca debemos dar por sentado: esta industria está construida por personas que se muestran para apoyarse mutuamente. Ya sea tomando un nuevo rol, celebrando un logro, reconectando con viejos amigos o creando espacio para nuevas voces, IRE demostró una vez más que el techado es una comunidad unida e increíble. 

Y para nuestro equipo, fue un honor ser parte de ello. 

¡No te pierdas nuestra lista de videos en YouTube para más ideas de expertos de la industria! 

The shingles that are “built for hail.”

Just ahead of storm season, TAMKO Building Products, a leading manufacturer of residential roofing solutions, today announced the launch of HailGuard™ shingles, the industry’s first and only asphalt shingle with an Extended Hail Warranty‡ — setting a new benchmark for confidence-driven roof protection.

As spring and summer thunderstorms loom, 12.6 million homes are at high risk for hail-related roof damage, translating to more than $189 billion in potential roof replacement exposure. In 2024 alone, wind and hail-driven incidents cost over $31 billion in residential roof insurance claims. Hail damage is a significant pain point that ripples across multiple stakeholders: homeowners grappling with unexpected repair costs and property devaluation, contractors managing surging demand and supply chain challenges, and insurance companies navigating escalating claim volumes and financial exposure. As severe weather events intensify, the convergence of these factors underscores an urgent need for a product Built for Hail.™

Designed to go Beyond Class 4,† HailGuard™ shingles combine advanced material engineering, refined aesthetics and system-based performance to help homeowners and contractors better prepare for the realities of severe weather. While UL testing currently caps impact classifications at Class 4, HailGuard™ shingles have demonstrated performance beyond traditional Class 4 impact standards through advanced testing protocols — because protection shouldn’t stop at a rating.

“Homeowners hear ‘Class 4’ all the time, but that rating alone doesn’t always answer the question of what happens after the storm,” said Alex Hines, vice president of sales and chief revenue officer at TAMKO Building Products. “With HailGuard™ shingles, we focused on building a system that not only demonstrates advanced impact performance but is also supported by a hail warranty designed to help reduce uncertainty when it matters most. That combination of engineering and coverage is what makes HailGuard™ shingles such a critical advancement for homeowners. These are shingles that are literally ‘Built for Hail.’”

Built for impact. Backed with confidence.

At the core of HailGuard™ shingles is TAMKO’s new ImpactCore™ technology, a next-generation asphalt formulation paired with advanced fiberglass mat engineering that work together at the material level to withstand hail impacts and enhance storm resistance. By managing impact stress across the shingle, ImpactCore™ technology helps reduce damage from severe weather — delivering dependable performance homeowners can trust and contractors can stand behind.

Key performance attributes include:

• Extended hail warranty protection supported by the HailGuard™ Extended Limited System Warranty‡
• Class 4 Impact rating as verified by UL 2218 testing
• 160 MPH wind warranty** when installed as part of a qualifying TAMKO Complete® roofing system
• Installation temperatures down to 25°,†† offering added flexibility for crews
• Advanced color technology delivering dimensional beauty designed to last

When installed with qualifying components of the TAMKO Complete® roofing system, HailGuard™ shingles become part of an integrated approach designed to help maximize roof performance from the deck up.

Designed for today’s homes — and tomorrow’s storms

Beyond performance, HailGuard™ shingles offer a curated palette of proprietary color blends that complement a wide range of architectural styles — from modern to traditional — without compromising durability. This balance of design and protection reflects TAMKO’s belief that homeowners shouldn’t have to choose between beauty and resilience.

What truly sets HailGuard™ shingles apart, however, is the confidence behind the product. As the first and only asphalt shingle backed by an Extended Hail Warranty‡, HailGuard™ shingles move beyond impact ratings alone — offering homeowners warranty-backed reassurance designed to address one of the most common and costly causes of roof damage.

From an innovation standpoint, the development of HailGuard™ shingles represents a significant step forward in material engineering and real-world performance testing.

“At TAMKO, innovation starts with identifying real-world challenges and designing solutions that help reduce uncertainty,” said Chris Freeborg, VP and chief marketing, communications & product development officer at TAMKO Building Products. “HailGuard™ shingles reflect our commitment to Performance that Protects™ — not just homes, but the reputations of the contractors who install them and the communities that rely on them. By rethinking how asphalt shingles respond to impact and applying cutting-edge materials and next-generation engineering through ImpactCore™ technology, we designed a system that absorbs impact energy differently than traditional options. It’s rewarding to bring this level of innovation to market with a product we truly believe in.”

With HailGuard™ shingles, TAMKO continues to expand its portfolio of high-performance roofing solutions built on rigorous testing, advanced material science and a system-based approach to protection.

HailGuard™ shingles are available now in select regions. To learn more, visit tamko.com/hailguard.

About TAMKO Building Products

For more than 80 years, TAMKO Building Products has been a trusted name in roofing, manufacturing America’s Shingle® with a proud legacy of U.S. craftsmanship and family-owned values. At TAMKO, innovation and material science drive the development of high-performance roofing solutions that contractors can stand behind and homeowners can trust. From shingles to complete roofing systems, TAMKO is committed to delivering Performance that Protects™ homes, reputations and communities.

‡As of March 2026. See TAMKO’s HailGuard™ Extended Limited System Warranty for complete terms and details.

†“Beyond Class 4” is a marketing term and does not refer to any official UL impact rating. HailGuard™ shingles are classified by UL for compliance with UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance. UL 2218 utilizes a dropped steel ball which may not correlate with real world rooftop experience with the impact of storm driven hail or other objects. Currently, UL testing does not include classifications higher than Class 4; however, TAMKO has successfully tested HailGuard™ shingles at impact energies exceeding UL 2218 Class 4. See TAMKO’s HailGuard™ Extended Limited System Warranty for complete terms and details.

*HailGuard™ shingles are classified by UL for compliance with UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance. UL 2218 utilizes a dropped steel ball which may not correlate with real world rooftop experience with the impact of storm driven hail or other objects.

**160 MPH wind warranty requires TAMKO® starter and TAMKO® hip and ridge. See TAMKO's full High Wind Application Instructions for all requirements and restrictions.

††Please consult TAMKO’s Limited Warranty and Application Instructions for requirements.

Por Jessica Bravo. 

¡Descubre los temas más leídos durante el mes más corto! 

Como ya se sabía, RoofersCoffeeShop y SRS Para Latinos le dieron con todo en IRE 2026. Realizaron entrevistas con lideres de la industria, con personas que inspiran, presentadores que marcan el camino, embajadoras que trabajan con pasión y socios comprometidos a impulsar al contratista latino. Dos de los artículos más leídos del mes recordaron a los lectores de RoofersCoffeeShop En Español que SRS Para Latinos creó un espacio verdaderamente acogedor, lleno de cultura y apoyo. “Educación, nuevos productos y liderazgo latino marcaron la edición de este año” y “Las voces que dieron forma a un espacio que fue más que un evento de roofing” destacan al equipo de SRS y todo lo que hicieron, desde Julissa Chavez y Stephany Hernandez hasta cada persona que desempeñó un papel en ese booth. El apoyo que me brindaron no se puede explicar, había que vivirlo. Todos los que pasaron por el booth salieron con una pieza de conocimiento que pueden aplicar a su negocio o con una nueva conexión. El primer artículo dice, “Durante la exposición, se resaltó la creciente participación de la comunidad hispana y los esfuerzos por ampliar el acceso a educación y recursos en español.” Y finalmente, no se pierdan las entrevistas en el canal de YouTube. 

IRE no solo contó con SRS, sino también con otras compañías que estuvieron impulsando al contratista latino. Hubo booths que invitaron a la comunidad y ofrecieron conexiones y recursos en español. El equipo se conectó con QXO, MuleHide y TAMKO. Con todo lo que se vio y se vivió en este IRE, no queda más que leer los artículos, ver las entrevistas y recordar un gran evento. 

Pero eso no fue todo lo que estuvo sucediendo. Es responsabilidad de RoofersCoffeeShop En Español escuchar al contratista y se compartió que muchos “buscan opciones más rápidas y confiables para la reparación de techos.” Por eso, BITEC® explica cómo “l Los productos RepairBoss de BITEC están diseñados para las realidades del trabajo en campo, donde rara vez se puede esperar a que el clima o las condiciones sean ideales” Escucha lo que tiene que decir Santiago Garces sobre la línea RepairBoss. 

Otro tema important: SRS Distribution x InstaLILY AI Innovation Summit. SRS Distribution esta impulsando el futuro de la tecnología para rooferos con un marco basado en inteligencia artificial que transforma la innovación en acción para los contratistas. Patrick Garcia, director digital de SRS, compartió que el objetivo de la empresa era crear tecnología que no solo cubriera las necesidades actuales de los clientes, sino que también los preparara para el rumbo que tomarían sus negocios en el futuro. El artículo explica cómo estos avances estan “transformando la industria.” 

Marzo ya llegó y el equipo está listo para más contenido, conversaciones y más eventos 

¡Lee los artículos más leidos de febrero! 

5 – IRE 2026 en resumen

4 – Convirtiendo la experimentación en ejecución: Dentro del manual digital de SRS

3 – Contratistas buscan opciones más rápidas y confiables para la reparación de techos

2 – Las voces que dieron forma a un espacio que fue más que un evento de roofing

1 – IRE 2026 resalta el crecimiento del talento hispano en la industria del roofing

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.

From moments of personal growth to powerful reminders of why relationships matter, our crew experienced IRE as a celebration of progress, both individually and collectively. 

Trade shows are often measured by square footage, attendance numbers and new product launches. But for The Coffee Shops™ crew, the International Roofing Expo (IRE) reminded us that the heart of this industry has always been its people. 

Here’s IRE 2026, told through the voices of our crew. 

Growing into new roles and new confidence 

Jessica Bravo, our En Español program coordinator, reflected on how much can change in just one year when opportunity meets courage: 

IRE 2026 was one for the books. For me, it was an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone. Last year, I was running the camera; this year, I was the one doing the interviews. It means a lot to reflect on where I am now compared to where I was just a year ago. 

I love IRE because it creates space to connect with the Spanish-speaking community and get real face time with contractors. It’s an incredible environment to connect, network and learn.  

Alberto and I had the chance to walk the show floor and connect with many of our partners, including QXO, MuleHide, TAMKO® and SRS Distribution. We also connected with SRS Para Latinos partners, vendors, ambassadors and award winners. 

Stay tuned for all the En Español interviews coming soon! 

Alberto Torres, our Spanish content coordinator and newest crew member, echoed Jessica’s sense of growth as he experienced IRE from a completely new perspective this year. 

In previous years, I attended as a guest, but this time, I was working the show. 

Since IRE is the biggest event in the roofing industry, it felt a little intimidating at first. But once I arrived, everything started to fall into place. I met Jessica at the SRS Para Latinos lounge, and the confidence she had in me was bigger than the confidence I had in myself. She handed me the camera and told me to start recording like it was the most natural thing in the world. I was the new guy standing in the middle of so many Hispanic professionals – people who have built strong careers in the industry – waiting to watch other leaders receive their awards. And honestly, you know how intimidating that can feel. But I took a deep breath and started recording. 

The show was incredible, and I couldn't have done it without the support and encouragement from my crew members at RoofersCoffeeShop®. What stood out the most to me wasn't just the size of the show floor, but the sense of community. IRE truly feels like more than an event – it feels like a reunion. Not only inside the convention center, but outside of it too, people were genuinely happy to see each other, connect and spend quality time together. 

This experience reminded me that the roofing industry is built on relationships, and that there's a place for all of us to grow, contribute and be seen. 

Celebrating milestones and making space for belonging 

This year’s show marked a major milestone for the National Women in Roofing’s NWIR Days that preceded IRE. Megan Ellsworth, our multimedia director, captured the emotional weight of the moment: 

The biggest highlight for me the week of IRE was National Women in Roofing Days. We celebrated 10 years of the association, and it was an emotional and deeply meaningful two days full of connection, learning and growth. Some stand out moments from the day for me were the Survivor themed class about building resiliency, Mandy McIntyre's class on confidence and the founders' keynote talk in the morning.  

Having watched the creation of NWIR from the age of 17 to now has been an honor and a privilege. Getting to see my mom, Heidi J. Ellsworth, and the other three founding women talk about the struggles, the joys and the triumphs of starting NWIR was heartwarming and shows me truly how far we have come, and also how far we have yet to go. 

Relationships are the foundation of the industry 

Again and again, our crew came back to the same realization that IRE is powered by relationships. Dani Sheehan, content strategist for The Coffee Shops elaborated: 

I spent all three days walking the show floor with Camden during interviews, and it was such a powerful reminder of the impact this industry has. Being there made it possible not just to see the show, but to truly experience it, hearing the different stories of partners we work with every day and learning sides of their businesses we don’t always get to see. 

Running into familiar faces from last year, reconnecting with friends and spending time with partners like CertainTeed was easily one of the highlights of the week. It was positive, energizing and genuinely fun. 

James Ellsworth, our CFO, felt as if that sense of connection showed up in unexpected places: 

It was quite a good, positive week. The sound stage at IRE did 89 recordings over the course of three days, and Karen took on the bulk of those. We had experts from around the industry all wanting to get in on the booth and the sound stage. The green room that we had was quite the hot spot. All the people wanted to hang out there and relax. And it was a lot of fun this morning having Alberto and Jessica hand out our backpacks. We had little kids wearing them, which was really cute. We had The Coffee Shops everywhere, and it was really quite impressive. It was a great week, very busy and very successful. 

Storytelling as a service to the industry 

At the center of it all was a shared purpose: telling the industry’s stories and making sure no one feels left out. Karen Edwards, The Coffee Shops’ COO, made her mark interviewing industry connections on the soundstage: 

Being on the sound stage and interviewing our partners, vendors and manufacturers from across the show was incredibly rewarding. It’s so cool that we’re able to bring a little piece of IRE to the people who aren’t able to attend. 

Our goal is really to focus on the industry – telling the stories, having those conversations and sharing those interviews – and as Heidi says, uplifting and amplifying the entire industry. It was a fabulous week. 

Lauren White, our editor in chief, summed it up best when she reflected on what it means to show up with intention: 

It's always so fun to see the same faces year after year… for us to be able to go on to the show floor and to highlight those booths and ask them, 'What do you want to showcase?’ people were just very appreciative of us coming to their booths, showing off their booths and chatting with them. 2026 is the year of growth. 

IRE 2026 reinforced something we already know but never want to take for granted: this industry is built on people who show up for each other. Whether it was stepping into a new role, celebrating a milestone, reconnecting with old friends or creating space for new voices, IRE proved once again that roofing is a tight-knit, incredible community. 

And for our crew, it was an honor to be part of it. 

Check out our YouTube playlist for more insights from industry experts!

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Alberto Torres. 

¡Gana la oportunidad de vivir una experiencia deportiva VIP — y obtener una herramienta poderosa — al surtirte de suministros esta primavera! 

¡QXO quiere ofrecerte la oportunidad de vivir una experiencia única en la vida! En asociación con los patrocinadores IKO, GAF, TAMKO, Owens Corning y TRI-BUILT, QXO está organizando un evento promocional que otorgará a 22 contratistas afortunados una Experiencia Deportiva VIP. ¡Y eso no es todo! Esta promoción también incluye la oportunidad de ganar un Kit de Clavadora de Bobina M18 Fuel de Milwaukee cuando ordenes suministros a través de tu cuenta QXO. 

Los premios 

Los 22 ganadores del gran premio de este concurso recibirán “dos boletos de suite para una emocionante experiencia deportiva, transporte aéreo de ida y vuelta en clase económica hacia y desde la ciudad anfitriona, y dos noches de alojamiento en hotel.” 

En cuanto a los contratistas que califiquen para el Kit de Clavadora de Bobina M18 Fuel de Milwaukee, recibirán una poderosa adición a su equipo de herramientas. El Kit de Clavadora de Bobina para Techado M18 FUEL™ es conocido por su versatilidad incomparable gracias a su diseño inalámbrico y su rendimiento líder en duración. 

Las reglas 

Esta promoción está abierta a contratistas profesionales que residan en los EE. UU. y tengan cuentas QXO. Para participar, debes confirmar tu interés entre el 20 de enero y el 10 de abril de 2026. 

Después de eso, todo lo que tienes que hacer es ordenar tus materiales de construcción a través de QXO en línea o un socio de integración de QXO. Una vez que compres $5,000 en materiales de construcción residenciales o comerciales que califiquen durante el período de la promoción, obtendrás un (1) crédito de consideración de entrada para la Experiencia Deportiva VIP. 

En cuanto al Kit de Clavadora de Bobina M18 Fuel de Milwaukee, “los clientes que compren $35,000 en productos que califiquen recibirán un Kit de Clavadora de Bobina M18 Fuel de Milwaukee. Límite de un kit por cliente durante el período promocional, hasta agotar existencias.” 

¡Obtén más información y confirma tu interés hoy mismo!

By Emma Peterson. 

Earn the chance to win a VIP sports experience — and get a powerful tool — when you stock up on supplies this spring!  

QXO wants to offer you the chance at a once-in-a-lifetime experience! In partnership with sponsors IKO, GAF, TAMKO, Owens Corning and TRI-BUILT, QXO is hosting a promotion event that will award 22 lucky contractors with a VIP Sports Experience. And that’s not all! This promotion also includes the chance to win a Milwaukee M18 Fuel Coil Nailer Kit when you order supplies through your QXO account. 

The prizes 

The 22 grand prize winners of this contest will win “two suite tickets to an exciting sports experience, round trip economy air transportation to and from the hosting city and two nights hotel accommodation.”  

As for the contractors who qualify for the Milwaukee Fuel Coil Nailer Kit, they will get a powerful addition to their arsenal tools. The M18 FUEL™ Coil Roofing Nailer Kit is known for unmatched versatility thanks to its cordless design and best-in-class runtime performance. 

The rules 

This promotion is open to professional contractors residing in the U.S. with QXO accounts. To enter, you must confirm your interest between January 20 and April 10, 2026.  

From there, all you have to do is order your building materials through QXO online or an integration partner of QXO. Once you purchase $5,000 of qualifying residential or commercial building materials during the promotion period, you’ll get your one (1) entry consideration credit for the VIP Sports Experience!  

As for the Milwaukee Fuel Coil Nailer Kit, “Customers who purchase $35,000 of qualifying products will receive a Milwaukee M18 Fuel Coil Nailer Kit. Limit one Milwaukee M18 Fuel Coil Nailer Kit per customer during the promotional period, while supplies last.” 

Learn more and confirm your interest today!

Northern Arizona Roof Services and SRS Building Products surprise local elderly couple with a donated roof.

In an effort to give back to the community that continues to support them, Northern Arizona Roof Services recently completed a full roof replacement, at no cost, for a deserving elderly couple facing ongoing health challenges while balancing opposite work schedules.

When the team learned that the homeowners were navigating medical concerns and the stress of maintaining their property on limited time and energy, they knew this was an opportunity to step in and make a meaningful difference.

“This was about more than shingles,” said Onnie Diaz, owner & COO. “It was about lifting a burden and giving them peace of mind.”

Project scope & donated materials

The existing roof consisted of two layers of aging shingles. The NARS team completed a comprehensive tear-off and replacement, including:

• Complete removal of two layers of existing shingles down to the plywood decking, with full debris haul-off
• Inspection of plywood decking and replacement where necessary
• Installation of Ice & Water Shield along perimeter, edges and eaves
• Installation of synthetic underlayment across remaining roof areas
• New white metal drip edge installed around the entire fascia
• Installation of TAMKO Building Products Oxford Gray, generously donated by SRS Building Products
• Sealing of all pipe penetrations
• Thorough job site clean-up
• Provision of all ladders, safety equipment, hoisting, labor and materials required

To ensure lasting confidence, Northern Arizona Roof Services is also providing a 2-Year No Leak Workmanship Warranty.

Community in action

The project was made possible through collaboration with SRS Building Products, whose donation of premium TAMKO Building Products Titan shingles helped transform the home with both durability and curb appeal.

The result? A secure, beautiful new roof and one less worry for a couple who already has enough on their plate.

“At the end of the day, roofing is about protection,” Jennifer George, owner & CEO, shared. “And sometimes the best projects are the ones that protect more than just a home.”

Northern Arizona Roof Services remains committed to supporting homeowners and neighbors across Northern Arizona through dependable, safety-focused roofing services and when possible, through acts of service that truly make a difference.

For more information about Northern Arizona Roof Services, visit www.northernarizonaroofservices.com or call 928-366-3504.

About Arizona Roofing Contractors Association

Northern Arizona Roof Services, LLC mission is to provide quality roof service, repair and maintenance delivered with experienced customer service for the upmost customer experience. Northern Arizona Roof Services is dedicated to employee safety, healthy work environment and satisfied customer relations. Additional information regarding Northern Arizona Roof Services can be found online at www.northernarizonaroofservices.com.

About SRS Building Products, Flagstaff

SRS Building Products, Flagstaff branch, is a trusted resource for professional roofing contractors throughout Northern Arizona. Known for dependable service, quality materials and strong community partnerships, the Flagstaff team supports residential and commercial projects with leading products from top manufacturers. Additional information regarding SRS Building Products, Flagstaff can be found online at SRS Building Products.

The shingles that are: Built for Hail™.

Just ahead of storm season, TAMKO Building Products, a leading manufacturer of residential roofing solutions, today announced the launch of HailGuard^™ shingles, the industry’s first and only asphalt shingle system with a hail warranty^‡—setting a new benchmark for confidence-driven roof protection.

As spring and summer thunderstorms loom, 12.6 million homes are at high risk for hail-related roof damage, translating to more than $189 billion in potential roof replacement exposure. In 2024 alone, wind and hail-driven incidents cost over $31 billion in residential roof insurance claims.*** Hail damage is a significant pain point that ripples across multiple stakeholders: homeowners grappling with unexpected repair costs and property devaluation, contractors managing surging demand and supply chain challenges, and insurance companies navigating escalating claim volumes and financial exposure. As severe weather events intensify, the convergence of these factors underscores an urgent need for a product Built for Hail^™.

Designed to go Beyond Class 4,^† HailGuard^™ shingles combine advanced material engineering, refined aesthetics and system-based performance to help homeowners and contractors better prepare for the realities of severe weather. While UL testing currently caps impact classifications at Class 4, HailGuard^™ shingles have demonstrated performance beyond traditional Class 4 impact standards through advanced testing protocols^†—because protection shouldn’t stop at a rating.

“Homeowners hear ‘Class 4’ all the time, but that rating alone doesn’t always answer the question of what happens after the storm,” said Alex Hines, vice president of sales and chief revenue officer at TAMKO Building Products. “With HailGuard™ shingles, we focused on building a system that not only demonstrates advanced impact performance but is also supported by a hail warranty designed to help reduce uncertainty when it matters most. That combination of engineering and coverage is what makes the HailGuard^™ shingle system such a critical advancement for homeowners. This is a shingle system that is literally Built for Hail ^™.”

Built for impact. Backed with confidence.

At the core of HailGuard^™ shingles is TAMKO’s new ImpactCore^™ technology, a next-generation polymer modified asphalt formulation paired with advanced fiberglass mat engineering designed to work together at the material level to withstand hail impacts and enhance storm resistance. By managing impact stress across the shingle, ImpactCore^™ technology helps reduce damage from severe weather—delivering dependable performance homeowners can trust and contractors can stand behind.

Key performance attributes include:

• Hail Warranty protection supported by the HailGuard^™ Extended Limited System Warranty^†
• Class 4 Impact rating as verified by UL 2218 testing^†
• 160 MPH WindGuard® extended wind warranty^* when installed as part of a qualifying TAMKO Complete® roofing system
• Installation temperatures down to 25°** offering added flexibility for crews
• Advanced color technology delivering dimensional beauty designed to last

When installed with qualifying components of the TAMKO Complete® roofing system, HailGuard^™ shingles become part of an integrated approach designed to help maximize roof performance from the deck up.

Designed for today’s homes—and tomorrow’s storms

Beyond performance, HailGuard^™ shingles offer a curated palette of proprietary color blends that complement a wide range of architectural styles—from modern to traditional—without compromising durability. This balance of design and protection reflects TAMKO’s belief that homeowners shouldn’t have to choose between beauty and resilience.

What truly sets HailGuard™ shingles apart, however, is the confidence behind the product. As the first and only asphalt shingle system backed by a hail warranty,^‡ HailGuard™ shingles move beyond impact ratings alone—offering homeowners warranty-backed reassurance that may not only provide them insurance premium discounts but may also help them avoid paying a deductible after a hailstorm.

From an innovation standpoint, the development of HailGuard^™ shingles represents a significant step forward in material engineering and real-world performance testing.

“At TAMKO, innovation starts with identifying real-world challenges and designing solutions that help reduce uncertainty,” said Chris Freeborg, VP and chief marketing, communications & product development officer at TAMKO Building Products. “HailGuard^™ shingles reflect our commitment to Performance that Protects^™—not just homes, but the reputations of the contractors who install them and the communities that rely on them. By reimagining how asphalt shingles respond to hail impact and applying cutting-edge materials and next-generation engineering through ImpactCore™ technology, we designed a system that absorbs impact differently than traditional options. We’re proud to bring this level of innovation to market with a product we truly believe in.”

With HailGuard^™ shingles, TAMKO continues to expand its portfolio of high-performance roofing solutions built on rigorous testing, advanced material science and a system-based approach to protection.                                                                                                            

HailGuard^™ shingles are available now in select regions. To learn more, visit //tamko.com/hailguard.

^†"Beyond Class 4" is a marketing term and does not refer to any official UL impact rating. HailGuard™ shingles are classified by UL for compliance with UL 2218 Class 4 impact resistance. UL 2218 utilizes a dropped steel ball which may not correlate with real world rooftop experience with the impact of storm driven hail or other objects. Currently, UL testing does not include classifications higher than Class 4; however, TAMKO has successfully tested HailGuard™ shingles at impact energies exceeding UL 2218 Class 4. See TAMKO's HailGuard™ Extended Limited System Warranty for complete terms and details.
^‡As of March 2026. See TAMKO's HailGuard™ Extended Limited System Warranty for complete terms and details.
^*160 MPH wind warranty requires TAMKO® starter and TAMKO® hip and ridge. See TAMKO's full High Wind Application Instructions for all requirements and restrictions.
^**Please consult TAMKO's Limited Warranty and Application Instructions for requirements.
^***Sources: Verisk via Carrier Management; Insurance Advocate, 2025

About TAMKO Building Products

For more than 80 years, TAMKO Building Products has been a trusted name in roofing, manufacturing America’s Shingle® with a proud legacy of U.S. craftsmanship and family-owned values. At TAMKO, innovation and material science drive the development of high-performance roofing solutions that contractors can stand behind and homeowners can trust. From shingles to complete roofing systems, TAMKO is committed to delivering Performance that Protects™ homes, reputations and communities.

Por Jessica Bravo. 

Un recorrido por uno de los pisos de exhibición más grandes de la industria.  

Del 20 al 22 de enero, RoofersCoffeeShop En Español estuvo presente en International Roofing Expo (IRE), recorriendo el piso de exhibición y conversando con amigos y líderes de la industria. Fue un evento esperado durante todo el año, reconocido como uno de los más grandes dentro del sector de roofing y como el tradeshow con más recursos y ofertas en español para los asistentes hispanohablantes. 

IRE fue diseñado para cubrir las necesidades de todos los profesionales de la industria. A lo largo de los años, el evento se ha asegurado de ampliar su enfoque hacia la comunidad hispana, incluyendo sesiones educativas en español y espacios dedicados al crecimiento profesional. Este año no fue la excepción. 

Hubo mucho por ver y hacer, pero a continuación se presentan algunas de las paradas más destacadas. 

QXO 

QXO contó con un stand grande y ubicado justo frente a una de las entradas principales. Desde las primeras horas del día, el flujo de asistentes fue constante.  

El equipo de RoofersCoffeeShop En Español tuvo la oportunidad de conversar con Bernal Fernández sobre cómo la empresa estuvo liderando esfuerzos para apoyar a los contratistas hispanos.  

Pero para una conversación más profunda, se recomienda ver el episodio en nuestro sitio web.  

TAMKO® 

En el stand de TAMKO®, Anthony Valtierra converso con nosotros sobre cómo los contratistas pueden vender con confianza sistemas de tejas de alto rendimiento centrándose en el valor, la formación y la confianza. No se pierdan esta conversación, pronto disponible en el canal de Youtube. 

Por lo tanto, TAMKO® nos deja con esto: “Tú eres más que un número para nosotros.” 

MuleHide 

MuleHide también estuvo presente en el IRE con un stand muy ocupado. La empresa demostró estar preparada para cualquier reto, mostrando energía y enfoque desde el primer día del evento. 

Aunque IRE ya quedó atrás, los interesados pueden escuchar el episodio de La Voz de los Ruferos con Alejandra Mahecha Bader, donde se abordaron claves del éxito para representantes técnicos, así como estrategias para destacarse y crecer dentro de la industria. 

IRE 2026 ofreció mucho más de lo que se pudo cubrir en un solo recorrido. Vean todas las entrevistas de este gran evento en el canal de YouTube.