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!

Por Jenny Yu, traducido por Jessica Bravo.  

El Retiro de Florida 2026 de NWIR zarpa hacia las Bahamas del 10 al 13 de abril para una experiencia de networking con temática náutica. 

¡Es momento de dejar atrás el estrés y disfrutar del sol en el Retiro de Florida 2026 de NWIR! 

National Women in Roofing (NWIR) de Florida Central será la anfitriona de su retiro anual a bordo del Celebrity Reflection del 10 al 13 de abril de 2026. Saliendo desde Fort Lauderdale, Florida, este viaje de tres días a las Bahamas es una oportunidad para reunir a mujeres de toda la industria para hacer contactos, desarrollar liderazgo y fortalecer la comunidad mientras disfrutan de la brisa del mar. 

Con el tema “Ancladas en el propósito, unidas por una visión”, este fin de semana en el agua promete ser inolvidable. Su directora de crucero, Daphne Livingston, junto con su equipo, ha preparado un emocionante itinerario para que todas las participantes lo disfruten. A continuación, algunos eventos y excursiones marítimas que no querrán perderse.  

Viernes, 10 de abril – Fort Lauderdale, Florida 

• 4:00 p.m. - Recepción de zarpe 
• 6:00 p.m. - Cena de despedida 
• 9:30 p.m. - Fiesta “Tropic Like It’s Hot”  

Sábado, 11 de abril – Bimini, Bahamas 

• 7:15 – 9:00 a.m. - Sesión educativa “Seas of Knowledge” 
• 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. - Búsqueda del tesoro “Sea Queens & Shingle Kings” 
• 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. - Encuentro “Mermaid Mingle” 
• 8:00 p.m. - Mixer náutico de Women in Roofing 

Domingo, 12 de abril – CocoCay, Bahamas 

• 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. - Sesión educativa “Trust Factor” 
• 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. - Día perfecto en CocoCay,  playas, toboganes acuáticos y comida 
• 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. - Ceremonia de clausura “Built Different” 
• 9:00 p.m. - Evento final “Sail & Slay” 

Varios fabricantes y proveedores ya han confirmado su participación en el crucero. Entre los patrocinadores se encuentran Brava Roof Tile, Owens Corning®, TAMKO®, JobNimbus y DaVinci Roofscapes. 

Entonces, ¿qué estás esperando? ¡Empaca tus lentes de sol, protector solar y traje de baño y regístrate hoy mismo!

Para obtener más información sobre el Retiro de Florida 2026, visita su sitio web o contacta a Daphne en daphne@itsaboutjustice.law.

By Jenny Yu.  

The 2026 NWIR Florida Retreat sets sail for the Bahamas from April 10-13 for a nautical networking experience. 

It’s time to cast off your stress and soak up some sun at the 2026 NWIR Florida Retreat! 

National Women in Roofing (NWIR) of Central Florida is hosting its annual retreat aboard the Celebrity Reflection from April 10 to April 13, 2026. Departing from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, the three-day trip to the Bahamas is an opportunity to bring women from across the industry for networking, leadership development and community building while enjoying the ocean breeze.  

With the theme “Anchored in Purpose, United by Vision,” this weekend on the water is sure to make waves. Your Cruise Director, Daphne Livingston, and crew have assembled an exciting itinerary for all sailors to enjoy. Below are some sea-tastic events and excursions you won’t want to miss!  

Friday, April 10 – Fort Lauderdale, Florida 

• 4:00 p.m. - Sail Away Soirée 
• 6:00 p.m. - Bon Voyage Dinner 
• 9:30 p.m. - "Tropic Like It’s Hot” after hours party 

Saturday, April 11 – Bimini, Bahamas 

• 7:15 – 9:00 a.m. - Seas of Knowledge educational session 
• 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. - Sea Queens & Shingle Kings Scavenger Hunt  
• 1:00 - 3:00 p.m. - Mermaid Mingle  
• 8:00 p.m. - NAUTICAL Women in Roofing Mixer 

Sunday, April 12 – CocoCay, Bahamas 

• 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. - The Trust Factor educational session 
• 9:00 a.m. 4:00 p.m. - Perfect Day at CocoCay beaches, waterslides and dining 
• 8:00 – 9:00 p.m. Built Different Closing Ceremony  
• 9:00 p.m. - Final Sail & Slay 

Several manufacturers and suppliers are already confirmed to cruise. Sponsors so far include Brava Roof Tile, Owens Corning®, TAMKO®, JobNimbus and DaVinci Roofscapes. 

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your sunglasses, sunscreen and swimsuit, and register today! 

Learn more about the 2026 Florida Retreat by visiting their website or by contacting Daphne at daphne@itsaboutjustice.law. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Drawing in roofing pros with hands-on impact demos, cold-weather trials and a contractor program built to strengthen year-round performance. 

Under bright show lights and a chorus of radar-gun beeps, TAMKO® turned its Western Roofing Expo booth into a proving ground for impact resistance, cold-weather performance and contractor support. The company combined hands-on demonstrations with program updates to show roofing professionals how performance-focused solutions can help support job continuity and business stability — even when weather conditions create challenges. 

For Clayton Putman, the message starts at home. “I'm a territory manager for TAMKO and I live and work in Denver, Colorado,” he said, noting that his territory stretches from the Front Range to Grand Junction and down through southern Colorado. He calls it the “most beautiful territory out of all the TAMKO® regions” and has no intention of giving it up. 

The first thing many contractors notice at the booth is the baseball setup. Clayton shared, “If you have not stopped by the TAMKO® booth yet, we have a baseball throw.” Guests were invited to throw baseballs at Class 4 impact rated* shingles while a radar gun tracked pitch speed, creating an interactive demonstration designed to highlight durability and reinforce confidence in product performance under repeated impact. 

Behind the fun is a serious push around TAMKO’s Proline ®  - Titan XT ® and StormFighter FLEX ® shingles. The company is emphasizing reinforced nail zones, advanced sealant technology and SEBS additives designed to help support performance in real-world conditions. Clayton pointed out that “both of those shingles have 160 MPH wind warranty,”† a spec that matters in hurricane-prone regions as much as it does in high-elevation, high-wind markets like Colorado.‡ 

Cold weather is where the StormFighter FLEX ® shingle separates itself. As Clayton noted, “Standard install temps for shingles are 40° F and rising,” which traditionally shuts down roofing work for months across northern states. TAMKO’s Class 4 impact rated StormFighter FLEX ® shingle is warranted for installs down to 25° F** and in his words, “you can roof year-round.” Keeping production going in winter supports cash flow, helps retain crews and gives sales teams a reason to stay in front of customers instead of waiting for spring. 

From impact demonstrations to fire ratings and cold-weather installation discussions, TAMKO® used the Western Roofing Expo to introduce a broader set of tools and resources designed to help contractors stay active, supported and differentiated in the bid room, with deeper insights available through continued conversations and program materials. 

Watch the full interview to learn more about TAMKO’s Proline shingles, contractor program and regional support network!

* 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. 

†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.  

‡TAMKO’s Limited Warranty and High Wind Application covers properly installed Titan XT ® shingles up to 160 mph. Hurricane results generally demonstrate the performance of our products; however, our Limited Warranty does not cover hurricanes. Please consult TAMKO’s Limited Warranty and Application Instructions for all requirements. 

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

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.