Asphalt roofing facilities across North America recognized for workplace safety.

The Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) has completed its annual Accident Prevention Contest and is proud to recognize 82 asphalt roofing manufacturing facilities for their workplace safety, specifically low incident rates among workers.

Facilities that entered the 2025 Accident Prevention Contest were judged based on ARMA criteria derived from the standards set by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). This information is gathered through quarterly safety data reports from the past calendar year.

“We are proud of the commitment that ARMA members have to a safe work environment for all employees,” said ARMA’s executive vice president Reed Hitchcock. “These facilities continue to maintain high standards in plant health and safety.”

Every year, ARMA’s manufacturer members are invited to participate in the Accident Prevention Contest by submitting data from their entire company, a specific division or an individual plant or mill in North America. Winners are honored in four different categories with a “perfect” score, meaning that zero safety incidents were recorded.

President’s Award: Recognizing the plant in each contest category with the best score over a two-year period.

• Group A: GAF (Shingle) – Shafter, California – 5 stars
• Group B: Atlas Roofing Corporation – Daingerfield, Texas – 3 stars
• Group C: Amrize – Beech Grove, Indiana – 1 star
• Group D: SOPREMA – Chilliwack, British Columbia – 1 star

Award of Excellence: Recognizing plants with three consecutive years of a “perfect” score (that are not recipients of the President’s Award).

• Owens Corning – Compton, California
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Denver, Colorado
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Kearny, New Jersey
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Linnton, Oregon
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Medina, Ohio
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Memphis, Tennessee
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• TAMKO Building Products – Ennis, Texas
• TAMKO Building Products – Green Cove Springs, Florida
• Tarco Roofing – North Little Rock, Arkansas

Perfect Employee Safety Certificate: Recognizing plants with a “perfect” score for the reporting year.

• Atlas Roofing Corporation – Clinton, Iowa
• Building Products of Canada – LaSalle, Quebec, Canada
• CertainTeed – Jonesburg, Missouri
• GAF – Ennis, Texas (Shingle)
• GAF – Fontana, California
• Johns Manville – Plattsburgh, New York
• Johns Manville – South Gate, California
• Malarkey Roofing Products – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Owens Corning – Compton, California
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Compton, California
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Denver, Colorado
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Irving, Texas
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Kearny, New Jersey
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Linnton, Oregon
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Medina, Ohio
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Memphis, Tennessee
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Polyglass USA – Phoenix, Arizona
• Polyglass USA – Waco, Texas
• SOPREMA – Walsworth, Ohio
• TAMKO Building Products – Ennis, Texas
• TAMKO Building Products – Green Cove Springs, Florida
• TAMKO Building Products – Phillipsburg, Kansas
• Tarco Roofing – North Little Rock, Arkansas

Certificate of Safety Improvement: Recognizing plants that demonstrated an improvement of at least 25% over their previous year’s performance.

• Atlas Roofing Corporation – Meridian, Mississippi
• Building Products of Canada – Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
• Building Products of Canada – LaSalle, Quebec, Canada
• CertainTeed – Fremont, California
• CertainTeed – Jonesburg, Missouri
• CertainTeed – Little Rock, Arkansas
• CertainTeed – Norwood, Massachusetts
• CertainTeed – Oxford, North Carolina
• GAF – Baltimore, Maryland
• GAF – Dallas, Texas
• GAF – Ennis, Texas (Shingle)
• GAF – Michigan City, Indiana
• GAF – Mt. Vernon, Indiana
• GAF – Savannah, Georgia
• GAF – Tuscaloosa, Alabama
• Johns Manville – Plattsburgh, New York
• Johns Manville – South Gate, California
•  IKO Midwest – Kankakee, Illinois
•  IKO Pacific – Sumas, Washington
• IKO Southeast – Sylacauga, Alabama
• IKO Southwest – Hillsboro, Texas
• Malarkey Roofing Products – Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
• Malarkey Roofing Products – Portland, Oregon
•  Malarkey Roofing Products – Southgate, California
• Owens Corning – Atlanta, Georgia
• Owens Corning – Brentwood, New Hampshire
• Owens Corning – Denver, Colorado
•  Owens Corning – Houston, Texas
• Owens Corning – Memphis, Tennessee
• Owens Corning – Minneapolis, Minnesota
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Compton, California
• Owens Corning (Asphalt) – Irving, Texas
• Polyglass USA – Fernley, Nevada
• Polyglass USA – Waco, Texas
• SOPREMA – Gulfport, Mississippi
• SOPREMA – Wadsworth, Ohio
• TAMKO Building Products – Columbus, Kansas
• TAMKO Building Products – Frederick, Maryland
• TAMKO Building Products – Joplin, Missouri – High
• TAMKO Building Products – Knoxville, Tennessee
• TAMKO Building Products – Phillipsburg, Kansas
• TAMKO Building Products – Tuscaloosa, Alabama

ARMA extends congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients.

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 TAMKO®.

Real-world reactions that help you sell smarter, close faster and stand stronger after the storm.

When hail hits a neighborhood, the roof isn’t the only thing on the line — so is your reputation.

That’s why more contractors are paying attention to how HailGuard™ shingles are performing — not just in testing, but in real conversations with homeowners and on real jobsites.

From jobsite confidence to post-storm peace of mind, contractor feedback is pointing to one thing: performance isn’t just about the product — it’s about the value it delivers to the homeowner.

Turn performance into a stronger sales conversation

You don’t have to rely on price alone to win the job.

HailGuard™ shingles give you a way to lead with performance, so you can focus the conversation on the things that truly matter to homeowners.

It’s not just about what you install — it’s how you position it. And when the story is stronger, the closing gets easier.*

Where insurance conversations start

When the conversation turns to insurance, you need more than a standard answer — you need an advantage.

That’s where Mike Nguyen, co-owner of Apex Premier Roofing, sees the difference.††

Working in Texas — one of the most hail-active states in the country — Mike has seen firsthand how often the conversation comes back to what happens after the storm. Homeowners aren’t just thinking about shingles — they’re thinking about deductibles, claims and what happens after the next storm. When you bring HailGuard™ shingles into the conversation, you’re giving them a reason to look beyond a basic replacement.

Now you can:

• Talk through potential insurance-related benefits** with confidence
• Reframe the roof as a long-term decision — not a short-term fix
• Separate yourself from the same Class 4† impact rating conversation everyone else is having

You’re not promising outcomes — you’re giving homeowners a smarter way to evaluate their options.

Options you can confidently stand behind. “If I was doing my roof today,” Mike said, “HailGuard™ would be on my house.”

Why this helps you close

When severe weather is part of someone’s story, the conversation about roofing takes on a different weight.

That’s a reality contractors in storm-prone communities understand well.

As one homeowner in Joplin, Missouri shared: “I was in the Joplin tornado… and I feel like being able to buy a product like this — and to have that asphalt shingle system warranty‡ — it is really valuable, especially for this community.”

That’s not a hypothetical. That’s real-world perspective shaping a real decision.

When that mindset clicks, everything changes:

• Decisions happen faster at the kitchen table
• Estimates turn into signed contracts with less back-and-forth*
• Jobs turn into referrals because the experience sticks*

Because when someone has lived through it, they’re not just buying a roof — they’re choosing what helps them feel more prepared next time.

Performance that Protects™ more than the roof

At the end of the day, HailGuard™ shingles aren’t just about impact resistance — they’re about what that performance supports:

• Your roofs — engineered impact performance with hail warranty protection†
• Your business — warranty options contractors can confidently stand behind††
• Your reputation — long-term coverage that reinforces trust after the job is done

That’s where contractor feedback matters most — because it reflects what actually happens after the ladder comes down.

†“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.

*TAMKO does not guarantee any sales, markups, margins or profits.

** Insurance discounts are not guaranteed. If available, discounts vary by state and insurance company. Contact your insurance agent for information before installing a new roof.

†† TAMKO Pro Certified Contractors are not employees, agents or representatives of TAMKO; however, they may receive certain benefits, such as marketing support, product rebates, access to third-party discounts and the ability to offer Enhanced Limited System Warranties.

By Jenny Yu.  

Contractors will gain practical insights from leading experts while connecting with top manufacturers and suppliers. 

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) is hosting its 104th Convention & Expo from June 10-12, 2026, at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center in in Kissimmee, Florida. With a strong lineup of sponsors and an educational program packed with timely topics, this year’s event is set to provide contractors with practical insights and valuable networking opportunities. 

A wide range of industry leaders are lending their support for the event, underscoring its importance across the roofing and metal construction sectors. Platinum sponsors include Eagle Roofing Products, ABC Supply and TAMKO®; while gold sponsors CertainTeed LLC, Polyglass and SOPREMA further highlight the depth of industry participation. Additional support from emerald sponsor Adams & Reese LLP; sapphire sponsors BITEC, Drexel Metals, MetalForming LLC and Sika Corporation; silver sponsor SRS Building Products; bronze sponsors Duro-Last®, IB Roof Systems™, PAC-CLAD Petersen and Roof Hugger; and affiliate sponsor, Roofing Contractors Association of South Florida (RCASF), reinforce the event’s focus on innovation, performance and contractor success. 

Educational sessions 

Education remains the cornerstone of the convention, with sessions designed to address today’s most pressing challenges in the industry while providing attendees with opportunities to earn CE credits. Legal and compliance topics are a hot topic with multiple sessions led by Trent Cotney, RoofersCoffeeShop® Influencer and partner at Adams & Reese LLP, including: 

• “Building an OSHA Inspection SOP” - Wednesday, June 10, 8:00 a.m. 
• “Roofing Legal, Labor and Policy Trends” - Wednesday, June 10, 12:30 p.m. and Friday, June 12, 7:00 a.m. 
• “Artificial Intelligence in Roofing” - Thursday, June 11, 7:00 a.m. 
• “ICE Raids and I-9 Audit Defense” - Thursday, June 11, 8:15 a.m. and Friday, June 12, 8:15 a.m. 

These sessions will provide contractors with actionable guidance on navigating regulations, mitigating risk and adapting to emerging technologies.  

Business operations are also a key focus. John Kenney, Influencer of The Coffee Shops™ and CEO of Cotney Consulting Group, will lead “Estimating for Small Business” on Wednesday, June 10, at 9:15 a.m. and Thursday, June 11, at 7:00 a.m., offering practical strategies to improve accuracy and profitability for contractors of all sizes. Meanwhile, Chad Westbrook, founder of Service Alignment, will present “Documenting a Roofing Project” on Thursday, June 11, at 9:30 a.m. and Friday, June 12, at 7:00 a.m., helping attendees strengthen processes that support accountability, communication and long-term project success. 

Additional sessions cover critical issues including Florida Building Code updates, metal roofing best practices and safety topics such as heat illness prevention. The “SkillsUSA: Build a Workforce Pipeline” session on Thursday, June 11, at 9:30 a.m., will also highlight strategies for developing the next generation of roofers, a growing priority for contractors facing ongoing workforce shortages. Together, these seminars provide well-rounded education opportunities tailored to both roofing and sheet metal professionals.  

Register to reserve your spot and take full advantage of everything the 104th FRSA Convention & Expo has to offer!

Together, TAMKO and RSRA are building the Alliance to deliver expanded training, resources and greater value for contractors.

TAMKO Building Products, a leading independent manufacturer of residential roofing shingles and waterproofing products, acquired the assets of Roofing & Solar Reform Alliance (RSRA), an industry-leading contractor community built on collaboration, education and service. Together, RSRA and TAMKO will relaunch as The Roofing STRONG Alliance by TAMKO™ community, with the RSRA team remaining intact.

This milestone builds on TAMKO’s previously announced alignment with RSRA and reflects a shared focus on serving contractors, strengthening communities and advancing the roofing industry through integrity, transparency and collaboration. The decision to come together was driven by a shared belief in doing things the right way, with a focus on collaboration, integrity and raising the standard for contractors across the industry.

“Contractors are at the center of everything we do,” said Alex Hines, TAMKO’s vice president of sales and chief revenue officer. “RSRA has built a strong and respected community by prioritizing quality, accountability and real value for contractors. We’re proud to welcome RSRA into the TAMKO family and continue building on that momentum as we strengthen relationships and deliver solutions that support our partners’ growth.”

Adam Bensman, founder of RSRA, echoed that sentiment. "I feel like I found my people. TAMKO is building something special, and how we do business is wholly aligned. I am over the moon excited about joining forces to create an industry-leading contractor community. That starts by helping create STRONG people, teams and relationships. Because your company is only as STRONG as you are.”

Bensman will continue to lead The Roofing STRONG Alliance™ while upholding the strict community standards and guidelines that have been in place since inception. He is also taking on a broader role with TAMKO, helping shape the future of the contractor community and driving continued innovation across the business. 

Following this announcement, The Roofing STRONG Alliance™ will continue to operate as an extension of The TAMKO Edge® program. This marks a significant milestone in TAMKO’s initiative to create an industry-leading contractor community. TAMKO will expand training, resources and contractor engagement opportunities through the Roofing STRONG Alliance™ community. 

Membership will be offered at no cost to The TAMKO Edge® contractors. As a privately held, independent manufacturer, TAMKO is focused on innovation, long-term relationships and delivering valuable products and education to contractors and homeowners. This announcement reflects TAMKO’s continued investment in programs, partnerships and people that move the industry forward.

By bringing these strengths together, TAMKO further reinforces its promise, Performance that Protects™ — delivered through products that perform as promised, programs that support contractor growth and leadership guided by integrity.

About TAMKO

TAMKO Building Products LLC is a leading independent manufacturer of residential roofing shingles and waterproofing products, proudly delivering high-performance roofing solutions for over 80 years, known as America’s Shingle®. Trusted by homeowners and contractors alike, TAMKO’s popular Heritage® shingle series and Proline® shingle series, including the award-winning Titan XT® shingles and StormFighter FLEX® shingles, offer innovative designs, performance and colors. The TAMKO Edge® Contractor Program is designed for roofing contractors to build stronger businesses and better serve homeowners. Rooted in a rich history and guided by core values of honesty, integrity and quality, TAMKO is a trusted authority among building professionals and a proud supporter of the communities it serves. For more information, visit www.tamko.com.

About Roofing STRONG Alliance by TAMKO™

Formerly the Roofing & Solar Reform Alliance (RSRA), Roofing STRONG Alliance by TAMKO™ (RSA) is a membership-based contractor community built on accountability, education and collaboration. RSA takes a people-first approach to building great roofing companies. The Roofing STRONG Alliance™ also serves as a contractor growth engine helping contractors adapt their businesses in today’s fast-changing times while providing top notch service to homeowners. Members get access to weekly live coaching and roundtable discussions, service-first sales training, marketing assets, AI coaching, homeowner education resources, a collaborative peer network and more. Members work together to raise the standards of the roofing industry through leadership, accountability and collaboration. To learn more, visit RSA.pro.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

TAMKO aims to help contractors extend seasons, boost performance and educate homeowners on risk and value. 

As colder temperatures arrive and storm activity shifts, TAMKO’s Director of Contractor Engagement Jon Abernathy* and veteran roofer Jon Broce** are using the brand’s contractor program to help roofing companies view the off-season as a period for growth rather than a forced slowdown. Abernathy explained, during this Read Listen Watch® (RLW), that he played “a key role in developing TAMKO's new contractor program that went to market early this year,” noting that his work now centers on “hearing from contractors, understanding what their needs are and helping educate them within their business.” Alongside him, Broce, a fourth-generation roofer who helped build and scale Day 41 Thrive, brings firsthand experience in operational efficiency and training to the initiative. 

This guidance comes at an important time for contractors navigating uneven demand. Abernathy acknowledged that the fourth quarter has been a little softer, particularly in markets where the new construction segment is slowing. He attributed that shift largely to high interest rates and inflation, which are making homebuilding more difficult for buyers to justify. Despite the slowdown, he pointed out that unusual late-season storms are still emerging in some regions, noting that seeing that kind of activity in Kansas is “kind of uncommon this time of year in the Midwest.” 

Those weather patterns reinforce the value of winter-ready systems, especially products designed for colder installation temperatures. Abernathy pointed to TAMKO’s StormFighter Flex® polymer-modified shingle as an example, calling it “the only one in the industry that can install down to 25 degrees.”*** He contrasted that capability with products that must be installed above 40 degrees to maintain warranty coverage. The added flexibility, he said, “adds a lot of opportunity for contractors to continue to install roofs through the winter season,” effectively helping them keep crews active and revenue flowing. 

The advantages of winter-ready systems extend beyond scheduling. Broce emphasized that contractors who lean into premium products and documented performance can create clearer value for homeowners, especially when deductibles and out-of-pocket expenses are rising. He pointed out that roofers need to move beyond a transactional mindset and structure their conversations around risk and long-term outcomes rather than simply installation. As he put it, strong communication should help customers understand what it actually looks like to deliver value and teach contractors to focus on the details that move the needle in the business, rather than getting lost in volume alone. 

Maintenance programs are another area where Broce sees opportunity for contractors to separate themselves. He explained that recurring inspections and proactive documentation can protect both homeowners and contractors, because tracking conditions over time helps avoid disputes and clarifies responsibility when claims arise. Drawing from his experience, Broce stressed the importance of disciplined systems, comparing strong maintenance processes to the same operational structure needed for financial success. “Some simple numbers to know are just closing rates,” he said, emphasizing that contractors who measure and document consistently are better positioned to make informed decisions. By pairing stronger product performance with systematic maintenance and recordkeeping, contractors can create a more defensible position with insurers and a more trusted relationship with customers. 

Collectively, these strategies frame the off-season not as a slowdown but as a strategic window, one that allows contractors to extend their season, introduce higher-performing systems and reinforce long-term relationships built on protection, documentation and education. 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the conversation to learn more about how TAMKO’s winter-ready products and programs help contractors grow through the off-season! 

* The views and opinions expressed are based on the author’s long tenure and personal experiences as a roofing contractor prior to coming to TAMKO. As such, his views are intended for general informational purposes only and should not be considered professional advice regarding insurance, financing, legal matters, or business transactions. Readers are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals before making any decisions related to their business operations. 

** The individual featured is not an employee, agent, or representative of TAMKO; however, they may maintain a contractual relationship with TAMKO and receive certain benefits in connection with that relationship. The views and opinions expressed are based on their personal experience and are provided for general informational purposes only. TAMKO has not independently verified these statements, which may include inaccuracies, and they should not be relied upon for product, installation, warranty, or purchase decisions. Viewers are encouraged to consult with qualified professionals before making business or purchasing decisions 

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

By Jesse Sanchez. 

What contractors can expect from TAMKO® as storm season, technology and training converge. 

Storm season may still feel weeks away, but for roofing contractors, preparation often begins long before forecasts turn active. At the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2026 in Las Vegas, conversations on The Coffee Shops™ soundstage sponsored by SRS Distributions reflected that urgency as TAMKO® leaders outlined how performance, protection and contractor training are shaping their message for the year ahead. 

Jon Abernathy, director of contractor engagement at TAMKO® and Brian Dunn, director of sales enablement, joined the discussion before the show floor officially opened. Both emphasized that contractors visiting the booth would see a focus on tools and resources designed to help crews stay connected and better prepared as weather risks increase. 

One highlight they shared was a preview of their new contractor app, which Jon described as a way to simplify everyday tasks and keep contractors informed in real time. “You need an app. You got to stay connected. It works better than emails and logging into a website,” he said. The app is designed to support warranty registration, allow contractors to see how they rank among peers and help identify past customer locations when hailstorms occur. 

Brian connected that technology to a broader message centered on performance and protection. He noted that TAMKO®’s booth messaging emphasizes products that perform, innovation across systems and a commitment to protecting both homeowners and contractors. That focus builds on momentum from the company’s contractor program, which launched the previous year and has continued to expand. 

As storm season approaches, training remains a key component of that strategy. Brian said education now extends beyond products to include insurance considerations and installation practices. “The deductibles are going up for homeowners,” he said, adding that contractors are increasingly being asked to help customers understand long-term risk and consider higher-performing options that may reduce the need for future claims. 

Training efforts include in-person installation sessions, business-focused education and recurring virtual events designed to improve accessibility. TAMKO® has also partnered with several industry thought leaders to deliver additional value and insights throughout the year, placing an emphasis on preparation, protection and professionalism. 

As weather patterns grow more unpredictable and insurance pressures intensify, that integrated approach is becoming increasingly strategic. Contractors who align high-performing products with ongoing education and deliberate planning are entering storm season with a stronger position, both operationally and competitively. 

Watch the interview to learn more about preparing for storm season through performance-driven products, contractor training and technology designed to help crews plan ahead as weather risks increase!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

This upcoming webinar explores insights to helphow contractors can strengthen their roofing performance and business strategy in hail-prone markets. 

In an upcoming Read Listen Watch® (RLW) on April 29, 2026, at 11 a.m. PT/2 p.m. ET, Megan Ellsworth meets with Brian Dunn, Jon Abernathy and Clayton Putman of TAMKO® to explore how contractors can better protect homes and strengthen their business in hail-prone markets using advanced solutions like HailGuard™ shingles. 

As hail events continue to challenge residential roofing performance, contractors are navigating increasing pressure to deliver durable systems while helping homeowners understand long-term value. This webinar addresses that need directly, focusing on how contractors can move beyond reactive repairs and begin positioning themselves as partners in storm preparedness. With insurance trends evolving and homeowner expectations rising, having a clear strategy is becoming essential to sustained success. 

TAMKO brings a strong foundation to this conversation, combining product innovation with ongoing research into impact resistance and real-world performance. Their work around technologies like ImpactCore™ and advanced testing methods reflects a broader commitment to improving how asphalt roofing systems perform under stress, particularly in hail-prone environments. 

Contractors attending the session will gain practical insights into how hail impacts roofing systems, what UL 2218 Class 4 ratings mean in application and how testing beyond standard benchmarks translates into performance in the field. The discussion will also explore how to communicate these benefits to homeowners, helping them better understand the financial and structural importance of long-term roof protection. 

For contractors looking to stay competitive, strengthen customer trust and deliver more resilient roofing systems, this is a conversation worth attending. 

Join Megan Ellsworth, Brian Dunn, Jon Abernathy and Clayton Putman from TAMKO on April 29, 2026, to learn more about preparing for hail in residential roofing. 

Register for this RLW and start applying strategies that support long-term performance and proactive storm protection!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Why performance-focused design matters when weather threatens schedules and installation success. 

Storm season rarely arrives on a precise schedule, leaving plenty of room for chance and the need for flexibility. For roofing contractors working with manufacturers like TAMKO, those discrepancies show up as shifting forecasts, narrower install windows and customers watching the sky with growing concern. In that environment, shingle performance is not just about specifications. It directly affects how well crews can plan work, protect active jobsites, and keep projects moving when conditions turn unpredictable. 

Performance-driven innovation plays a practical role in that reality. Shingles designed to handle temperature swings, wind and impact exposure can reduce jobsite uncertainty, stabilize schedules, and support clearer conversations with homeowners before storms arrive. 

Severe weather introduces friction into every phase of a roofing project. Lost production days, stop-and-start scheduling and exposed roof sections can quickly compound risk. When weather shifts mid-project, contractors are often forced to balance speed against protection, knowing call-backs and rework carry both financial and reputational costs. Homeowners feel that pressure as well, particularly when storms heighten anxiety around open roofs and long-term durability. 

In the field, performance-driven innovation is measured by outcomes. Contractors look for design choices that reduce job risk and protect the install as work progresses. That translates into fewer weather-related interruptions, fewer “what if” moments on the roof and more confidence when setting timelines and expectations. Shingles that maintain flexibility in colder temperatures, hold granules in place and resist wind and impact exposure allow crews to work more consistently as conditions fluctuate. 

At the core of TAMKO’s approach is its Performance That Protects™ philosophy — a commitment to engineering products that are built with the realities of weather in mind. Rather than developing features for the sake of differentiation alone, the focus is on delivering materials that help roofs withstand the elements and help contractors manage risk in the field. That mindset drives ongoing product development centered on durability, flexibility and system integrity, ensuring innovation translates into measurable protection when conditions are at their most demanding. 

HailGuard™ shingles from TAMKO extend that philosophy by focusing specifically on impact resistance and storm recovery confidence. Classified for compliance with UL 2218 Class 4 impact standards and tested at impact energies exceeding that benchmark,† the system is built with ImpactCore™ technology to help absorb and manage hail impact. As the first asphalt shingle system backed by a Hail Warranty,‡ HailGuard™ also introduces a layer of assurance that goes beyond testing alone. For contractors, that combination supports clearer positioning during the sales process and greater confidence in performance outcomes, while homeowners may benefit from reduced out-of-pocket costs and potential insurance premium considerations following hail events. 

StormFighter FLEX® shingles from TAMKO are positioned for demanding conditions and storm-prone regions. StormFighter FLEX® shingles is built with enhanced asphalt, polymers and additives and is powered by proprietary ForceFX® and AnchorLock™ technologies. The shingles are classified by UL for compliance with UL 2218 Class 4 impact rating* and are designed to be installed in temperatures as low as 25°F** when application requirements are met. When installed with required starter and hip and ridge components, the product offers a 160-mph wind warranty.†† 

Performance-driven design also supports planning before storm season peaks. Materials that handle temperature swings more reliably can allow for steadier install schedules and clearer scope-setting with homeowners. During installation, maintaining sealant strength and system integrity helps contractors manage vulnerable areas such as edges, ridges, valleys, and penetrations as weather threatens. 

When crews can rely on materials that perform across a wider range of conditions, schedule volatility decreases. That reliability protects not only the roof, but the business behind it, reinforcing customer confidence when storms put preparation to the test. 

Learn more about how performance-driven shingles help contractors plan ahead and support steadier schedules, stronger installs and greater customer confidence when severe weather threatens jobs in progress!

†“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. 

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

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

††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. 

Por Jesse Sanchez, traducido por Jessica Bravo. 

Lo que el compromiso de larga data de TAMKO con National Women in Roofing revela sobre el crecimiento de la fuerza laboral y el liderazgo. 

Construir una fuerza laboral sólida depende de más que solo productos y procesos de calidad. Requiere una inversión intencional en las personas, el desarrollo del liderazgo y la creación de caminos inclusivos que se amplíen a todos los segmentos de la industria. Para muchos contratistas, esas prioridades coinciden con la misión de National Women in Roofing (NWIR), una organización enfocada en la educación, la mentoría y el crecimiento profesional de las mujeres en toda la cadena de suministro de la industria de techado. TAMKO Building Products se ha mantenido como patrocinador fundador y patrocinador Diamante de NWIR, un papel que la empresa describe como alineado con su visión a largo plazo del crecimiento de la industria. En lugar de limitar ese apoyo a un solo evento o temporada, TAMKO asegura que su participación sea un compromiso continuo para fortalecer la fuerza laboral de la que dependen los contratistas todos los días. 

“Apoyar a organizaciones como NWIR es una prioridad clave para nuestro equipo aquí en TAMKO. Es muy importante para nosotros como empresa comprometernos con el crecimiento de nuestra industria y eso incluye apoyar a organizaciones como NWIR,” dijo Konner McIntire, director de comunicaciones y relaciones comunitarias de TAMKO. 

Para los contratistas, el valor de ese apoyo se refleja de manera práctica. NWIR conecta a las mujeres con capacitación, certificaciones y desarrollo de liderazgo que pueden fortalecer las operaciones desde dentro de la empresa. La mentoría y el aprendizaje entre colegas ayudan a los empleados a desarrollar confianza y claridad en sus trayectorias profesionales, lo que a su vez favorece la retención y la colaboración tanto en obras como en oficinas. 

Los miembros del equipo de TAMKO que participan en eventos de NWIR suelen destacar el impacto de la comunidad. “Ser parte de NWIR es un recordatorio de lo poderoso que es cuando las mujeres se apoyan entre sí,” dijo Julie Weissenberger, gerente general de TAMKO en Tuscaloosa. “Cada vez que nos conectamos a través de la mentoría o la colaboración, estamos construyendo confianza y ampliando lo que es posible en esta industria. Me enorgullece ser parte de una empresa que valora esas conexiones e invierte en la próxima generación de mujeres líderes.” 

Ese énfasis en las personas se extiende a todos los roles. “Trabajar en el área de I+D de TAMKO me ha brindado un flujo constante de retos y oportunidades de aprendizaje que realmente he disfrutado,” comentó Gizem Reese, ingeniera en ciencia de materiales. “La variedad de proyectos y la colaboración entre equipos me han permitido conectar personas e ideas, construir relaciones y ayudar a impulsar el conocimiento que fortalece tanto la innovación como el crecimiento dentro de la empresa.” 

Para los contratistas que enfrentan escasez de mano de obra y la planeación de sucesión, estas experiencias son clave. El acceso a redes más amplias y al aprendizaje compartido puede traducirse en una mejor comunicación, equipos más comprometidos y una mayor capacidad de liderazgo que beneficia a toda la organización. 

Crystal Stone, gerente regional de ventas del suroeste de TAMKO, destacó el papel de los eventos educativos en la generación de este impulso. “Me encanta asistir a eventos educativos e inspiradores con profesionales afines. Es una oportunidad para ampliar la conciencia, crear conexiones y fortalecer la presencia de las mujeres en la industria de la techumbre.” 

A medida que NWIR continúa su labor a través de consejos locales e iniciativas nacionales, la participación de TAMKO representa un mensaje más amplio para la industria. Invertir en mentoría, educación e inclusión no está separado del desempeño del negocio; es su base. 

En esencia, el apoyo a organizaciones como NWIR refleja la creencia de que cuando las personas tienen oportunidades y herramientas para crecer, la industria avanza en conjunto. Para los contratistas, esto se traduce en acceso a una fuerza laboral mejor preparada, motivada y resiliente, construida a través de un compromiso compartido y no de esfuerzos a corto plazo. 

¡Descubre más sobre cómo apoyar a las mujeres fortalece la industria de la techumbre y cómo la inversión a largo plazo en educación, mentoría y desarrollo de liderazgo puede ayudar a los contratistas a construir equipos más sólidos y resilientes!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

What TAMKO’s long-standing commitment to National Women in Roofing reveals about workforce growth and leadership. 

Building a strong workforce depends on more than just quality products and processes. It requires intentional investment in people, leadership development and inclusive pathways that expand to all segments of the industry. For many contractors, those priorities intersect with the mission of National Women in Roofing (NWIR), an organization focused on education, mentorship and career advancement for women across the roofing supply chain. TAMKO Building Products has remained a founding and Diamond Sponsor of NWIR, a role the company describes as being aligned with its long-term view of industry growth. Rather than tying that support to a single event or season, TAMKO ensures its involvement is as an ongoing commitment to strengthening the workforce contractors rely on every day. 

“Supporting organizations like NWIR is a key focus for our team here at TAMKO. It’s very important to who we are as a company to commit to the growth of our industry — and that includes supporting organizations like NWIR,” said Konner McIntire, TAMKO’s Director of Communications & Community Relations. 

For contractors, the value of that support shows up in practical ways. NWIR connects women to training, certifications and leadership development that can strengthen operations from inside the company. Mentorship and peer learning help employees build confidence and clarity around career paths, which in turn supports retention and collaboration on jobsites and in offices. 

TAMKO team members who participate in NWIR events often point to the impact of community. “Being part of NWIR is a reminder of how powerful it is when women support each other,” said Julie Weissenberger, TAMKO Tuscaloosa General Manager. “Every time we connect through mentorship or collaboration, we’re building confidence and expanding what’s possible in this industry. I’m proud to be part of a company that values those connections and invests in the next generation of women leaders.” 

That emphasis on people extends across roles.  “Working in TAMKO’s R&D has brought a continuous stream of challenges and learning opportunities, which I’ve truly enjoyed,” said Gizem Reese, Material Science Engineer. “The variety of projects and collaboration across teams have allowed me to connect people and ideas, build relationships, and help bring forward knowledge that strengthens both innovation and growth within the company.” 

For contractors navigating labor shortages and succession planning, those experiences matter. Exposure to broader networks and shared learning can translate into stronger communication, more engaged teams and leadership capacity that benefits the entire organization. 

Crystal Stone, TAMKO’s Sales Southwest Regional Manager, pointed to the role educational gatherings play in building that momentum. She shared, “I love attending educational and inspirational events with like-minded professionals. It’s an opportunity to grow awareness, build connections and strengthen the presence of women in the roofing industry.” 

As NWIR continues its work through local councils and national initiatives, TAMKO’s involvement represents a broader industry message. Investing in mentorship, education and inclusion is not separate from business performance. It is a foundation for it. 

At its core, support for organizations like NWIR reflects a belief that when people are empowered, the industry moves forward together. For contractors, that translates into access to a more prepared, motivated and resilient workforce — one built through shared commitment rather than short-term attention. 

Learn more about how supporting women strengthens the roofing industry and how long-term investment in education, mentorship and leadership development can help contractors build stronger, more resilient teams!