By Emma Peterson. 

Join TRA Snow and Sun's Mindy Dahlquist as she explores the technologies and design strategies helping roofing professionals improve performance, longevity and safety in snow-prone regions. 

Every year, Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) brings together leaders and experts from across the industry to hos education sessions at the Western Roofing Expo (WRE). These expert sessions cover everything from political and regulatory updates to technical installation trainings. 

One such technical session at this year’s WRE will be hosted by TRA Snow and Sun’s Mindy Dahlquist. In her session, which will be on Tuesday, 9/29 at 10:15 a.m., Mindy will dive into “Designing Durable Cold-Climate Roofs Across the Western U.S.”  

During this session, Mindy will explore the role of “snow retention systems and ventilated roof assemblies in improving roof performance, safety and longevity in cold and mixed-climate regions of the Western United States.” She will not only guide attendees through the different snow retention solutions and systems available, but also use real-world examples to highlight design and installation best practices.  

Perfect for all professionals, from roofing contractors and architects to facility managers and inspectors, attendees will walk away knowing:  

• How climate- and region-specific risks relate to snow build up, ice dams and freeze-thaw cycles. 
• Why snow retention systems are beneficial to steep-slope roofing applications. 
• Best practice design strategies and the basic principles of snow retention systems. 
• Strategies for evaluating ventilated roof assemblies and their role in moisture control and thermal performance 
• How to recognize common snow retention installation errors and how to avoid them. 

Want to attend Mindy’s presentation? Make sure you’re registered for the 2026 Western Roofing Expo and block your calendar on Tuesday, 9/29 from 10:15 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. 

By Alex Tolle, The Coffee Shops®.

Explore education focused on everything from roof performance and evolving codes to building-envelope design and business management at this year's show.

Continuing education gives roofing professionals an opportunity to step away from daily demands and take a closer look at the systems, materials, requirements and economic forces shaping their work. At the Western Roofing Expo 2026, hosted by Western States Roofing Contractors Association, attendees can explore a broad seminar lineup designed to strengthen roofing knowledge, connect technical decisions to better-performing buildings and help them make better business deciscions. 

The program starts with the evolution of core roofing systems. Ken Klein will examine four decades of single-ply roofing, including changes in materials, attachment methods and detailing driven by jobsite experience. Trent Cotney and John Kenney will offer a wider industry perspective by tracing how roofing materials, craftsmanship, codes and technology have developed over time.

Fire resilience is another important focus. Marco Sieber and Maury Alpert will discuss roof coverings and underlayments that can help mitigate the effects of flame and embers in the wildland-urban interface. Building on that conversation, Jess Grandy will review developing ventilation regulations and fire-resistant vent options intended to help homeowners prepare their properties and meet applicable codes. 

Attendees can also deepen their understanding of moisture and climate-related performance. Phil Dregger will share findings from a three-year study involving water accumulation and wood decay below reflective roofing. Mindy Dahlquist will explore how snow retention, ventilation, roof geometry and material selection affect roof performance in cold and mixed climates across the western United States. 

Several sessions turn attention to design responsibilities and changing building requirements. Brian Chamberlain will clarify the differences between design expectations and manufacturers’ published warranty coverage. Matt Braun will examine emerging air-barrier requirements for reroofing and explain how air, moisture and thermal-control layers interact. Brian will also lead a session on roof-to-wall connections, addressing air leakage, wind resistance, product compatibility and trade coordination at one of the building envelope’s most important junctions.

In addition to the technically focused sessions, there are sessions that focus on business management. One such session will be taught by our President and CEO, Heidi J. Ellsworth! In the session, Roofing Trends That Matter, Heidi will share about the RoofersCoffeeShop 2025 Trends Report, which collected contractor survey data from more than 200 roofing professionals representing residential, commercial and mixed contractors of all sizes. Attendees of this presentation will "gain insight into how contractors are adapting through technology, digital marketing and operational changes" and get practical tips for using "marketing, technology and community involvement to build trust, increase visibility and strengthen long-term business stability."

Together, these seminars offer practical education for professionals working to improve installation, design, compliance and long-term roof performance. Select sessions also provide continuing education opportunities through the American Institute of Architects and the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants.

Learn more about the education available at the Western Roofing Expo 2026.

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Alberto Torres. 

Desde el campo de golf hasta el piso de exhibición, la WRE 2026 ofrece a los profesionales del roofing innumerables oportunidades para aprender, conectar y hacer crecer sus negocios. 

¡Estamos a menos de dos meses de la Western Roofing Expo (WRE)! Este evento, que se llevará a cabo del domingo 27 de septiembre de 2026 al martes 29 de septiembre de 2026 en el Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino en Nevada, es el encuentro más importante de la Western States Roofing Contractors Association’s (WSRCA). Con una exposición comercial de dos días, más de 30 seminarios educativos, demostraciones de productos y una gran variedad de eventos especiales, este es el lugar ideal para estar este otoño. 

Para ayudarte a planear tu agenda durante la WRE, aquí te compartimos algunos de los eventos más destacados. 

Torneo de Golf Bob Porter 

La WRE dará inicio oficialmente el domingo 27 de septiembre a las 5:30 p.m. con la fiesta de bienvenida. Sin embargo, antes del arranque el evento oficialmente, tendrás la oportunidad de salir al campo de golf a las 7:30 a.m. junto a tus colegas en él Davis Memorial Foundation Bob Porter Golf Tournament!  

Patrocinado por QXO, este torneo te permite disfrutar del recorrido de 18 hoyos del Revere Golf Club, de 7,143 yardas y par 72, mientras apoyas una buena causa. Todos los fondos recaudados benefician al Fondo de Becas de la Davis Memorial Foundation, que ofrece apoyo económico a estudiantes de preparatoria, licenciatura y posgrado vinculados con la industria del roofing. 

¿Te interesa poner a prueba tus habilidades en el campo de golf, convivir con colegas y apoyar una gran causa? Regístrate hoy mismo.

Torneo de Tiro al Plato 

Si el golf no es lo tuyo, pero buscas una forma divertida de convivir y apoyar a la  Davis Memorial Foundation antes del inicio oficial de la WRE, también podrás participar en el Sporting Clays Tournament que se realizará la mañana del domingo 27 de septiembre a partir de las 9:00 a.m.

El evento se llevará a cabo en el Pro Gun Club de Boulder City y también es patrocinado por QXO. Está diseñado tanto para principiantes como para expertos, ya que las estaciones cambian constantemente para ofrecer nuevos desafíos durante toda la competencia.

Al igual que el torneo de golf, todos los ingresos se destinarán al Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund, que ha ayudado a cientos de estudiantes relacionados con la industria del roofing a alcanzar sus metas educativas.

Inscríbete hoy mismo.

Almuerzo legislativo 

Durante el primer día completo de la WRE, la National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) ofrecerá un evento que no te puedes perder: un almuerzo legislativo. Esta será una excelente oportunidad para que los profesionales se mantengan al día sobre los desarrollos políticos y regulatorios que impactan a la industria del roofing.

El almuerzo se llevará a cabo de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. y contará con la participación de Craig Brightup (The Brightup Group) y Chad Collins (NRCA). Además de presentar un resumen anual de los acontecimientos más importantes del sector, durante el evento se anunciarán los nominados para la Junta Directiva de la WSRCA y se reconocerá a los beneficiarios de las Becas Davis Memorial 2026.

Si planeas asistir a la WRE, asegúrate de agregar este almuerzo al registrarte.

The Roofing Games™ 

Patrocinados por Malarkey Roofing Products®, The Roofing Games son la primera serie oficial de competencias avaladas por una asociación de roofing y producidas en conjunto con la Western Roofing Expo. Estos juegos se han convertido en una de las tradiciones más emblemáticas de la WRE y destacan el conocimiento técnico, las habilidades y la calidad artesanal de los participantes. ¿Quieres competir? Visita el stand de Malarkey Roofing Products (#429) antes de que comiencen las competencias. 

Ya sea que participes o simplemente observes, no te pierdas la competencia el lunes 28 de septiembre de 4:00 p.m. a 5:00 p.m. en el escenario de demostraciones. 

Conferencista principal 

El martes 29 de septiembre se llevará a cabo otro almuerzo especial, programado de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. Patrocinado por Malarkey Roofing Products, este evento contará con la presentación de Shereen Thor, conferencista principal de la WRE 2026. Shereen es comediante y coach profesional que trabaja con personas en todos los niveles de una organización, desde colaboradores de inicio de carrera hasta ejecutivos de alta dirección. Su misión es ayudarlos a desarrollar su máximo potencial y alcanzar sus objetivos.

Conoce más sobre su presentación.

Capacitación de IIBEC 

Después de concluir la expo, el miércoles 30 de septiembre de 2026, el International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) ofrecerá una jornada especial de capacitación. El programa se desarrollará de 9:00 a.m. a 2:30 p.m. e incluirá dos presentaciones diseñadas para fortalecer los conocimientos de los profesionales de la industria de envolventes de edificios. 

La primera sesión será sobre los fundamentos de los sistemas de techado y otorgará 3.0 CEH de IIBEC. La segunda analizará las actualizaciones 2027 al International Building Code y al International Energy Conservation Code, otorgando 1.5 CEH de IIBEC. Ambas sesiones han sido enviadas para aprobación ante AIA CES. 

El costo es de $295 USD para miembros de IIBEC y $450 USD para no miembros. Regístrate aquí.

Eventos adicionales 

¡Y eso no es todo! La WRE 2026 está llena de oportunidades para aprender, hacer networking y desarrollar relaciones de negocio. Aquí te compartimos algunos eventos adicionales. 

Domingo 27 de septiembre de 2026 

• La Davis Memorial Foundation celebrará su fiesta anual de bienvenida y subasta de 5:30 p.m. a 7:30 p.m. Este año el evento es patrocinado por GAF. Al igual que los torneos, los fondos recaudados se destinarán al programa de becas.

Lunes 28 de septiembre de 2026 

• Se llevará a cabo un Spanish Lunch and Learn de 11:45 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. Esta primera sesión estará enfocada en maximizar reclamaciones comerciales. Es patrocinada por SRS Distribution y GAF, contará con Victor Maya, de Advantage Roofing, como presentador invitado.
• Polyglass realizará una demostración en el piso de exhibición de 1:30 p.m. a 2:00 p.m.
• A las 2:30 p.m., TAMKO Building Products tomará el escenario de demostraciones.
• Posteriormente, de 3:30 p.m. a 4:00 p.m., el equipo de Johns Manville realizará otra demostración en el área de exhibición.

Martes 29 de septiembre de 2026 

• El segundo Spanish Lunch and Learn se llevará a cabo de 11:45 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. Esta sesión será patrocinada por National Women in Roofing (NWIR). El evento inicia a las 7:00 a.m. y ofrecerá una hora y media de conversaciones dinámicas en formato rotativo. La inscripción cuesta $55 USD e incluye desayuno.
• El segundo Spanish Lunch and Learn se llevará a cabo de 11:45 a.m. a 1:00 p.m. Esta sesión será patrocinada por CertainTeed y contará con Imelda Pérez, quien abordará el concepto de "bueno, mejor y excelente". 
• También habrá más demostraciones en el piso de exhibición. La primera comenzará a las 2:30 p.m. y será patrocinada por nosotros en RoofersCoffeeShop. En ella participarán el presidente entrante y el presidente saliente de la WSRCA Ron Lloyd y Stan Robinson, respectivamente.

Obtén más información sobre estos eventos y el resto del programa en el calendario oficial de la WRE. Y si aún no lo has hecho, asegura tu lugar en la WRE 2026. 

By Alex Tolle, The Coffee Shops®.

Industry professionals can learn practical strategies for strengthening communication, mentorship and collaboration across generations.

An upcoming webinar from the Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA), “Young Roofing Professionals: Bridging the Age Gap in Roofing,” will explore how professionals from different generations can collaborate to build stronger teams, improve communication and support long-term success. This session, which will be held Thursday, August 20, 2026, at 10 a.m. PT, is designed for emerging professionals interested in learning from experienced industry leaders as well as managers looking for ways to better engage the next generation of roofing talent.

The webinar will examine how companies can turn generational differences into competitive advantages through collaboration and mentorship. Attendees will learn about strengthening communication, building knowledge-sharing opportunities and embracing technology while preserving proven industry practices. The discussion will also explore how collaboration can contribute to a culture of growth and leadership.

Presenting the session will be Mindy Dahlquist, business development manager at TRA Snow and Sun, and Megan Ellsworth, multimedia director at RoofersCoffeeShop®. The two will use their own experience and perspectives to shine a light on the value of bridging the age gap to help valuable knowledge move between generations while giving newer professionals room to contribute and grow.

Overall, this session promises to leave attendees with strategies for bringing different perspectives together in order to create stronger connections among employees and prepare teams to move forward together.

Learn more about bridging generational differences in roofing and register for the webinar.

By Emma Peterson. 

From the fairway to the expo floor, WRE 2026 offers roofing professionals countless ways to learn, connect and grow. 

We’re less than two months away from the 2026 Western Roofing Expo (WRE)! This show, which will be hosted from Sunday, September 27, 2026, to Tuesday, September 29, 2026, at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino in Nevada, is Western States Roofing Contractors Association’s (WSRCA) premier event! With a two-day trade show, 30+ education seminars, product demonstrations and countless exciting events, this is the place to be this fall. 

To help you plan out your days at WRE, here are some of the events to look forward to!  

Bob Porter Golf Tournament 

WRE officially kicks off Sunday, September 27 at 5:30 p.m. with the welcome party. But, before the official kick off of the show, you have the chance to tee off at 7:30 a.m. with your peers in the Davis Memorial Foundation Bob Porter Golf Tournament!  

Sponsored by QXO, this tournament gives you the opportunity to explore Revere Golf Club’s 7,143-yard, par-72 layout in the name of charity. All proceeds of the tournament “benefit the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund. These scholarships are made available to aspiring high school, undergraduate and graduate students involved in the roofing industry.” 

Interested in a day testing your shot-making capabilities, spending quality time with your peers and supporting a great cause? Register today!

Sporting Clays Tournament 

If golf isn't your thing but you’re still looking for a fun way to bond and support the Davis Memorial Foundation before WRE officially kicks off, there will also be a Sporting Clays Tournament hosted the morning of Sunday, September 27 (start time is 9:00 a.m.)!  

Hosted at the Pro Gun Club in Boulder City and sponsored by QXO, this tournament is perfect for both the masters and the beginners as “stations are changed frequently so shooters will never get bored at seeing the same targets over and over again.”  

And like the golf tournament, all proceeds will benefit the Davis Memorial Foundation Scholarship Fund, which has enabled hundreds of students involved in the roofing industry to pursue their education goals. 

Get registered today!

Legislative luncheon 

On the first full day of WRE, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) has planned a can’t miss event – a legislative luncheon! It promises to be a great opportunity for professionals to keep up to date on the latest political developments impacting roofing.  

The luncheon will be held from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and feature speakers Craig Brightup (The Brightup Group) and Chad Collins (NRCA). In addition to hearing the Year in Review from this duo, attendees will get to be in the room when the nominees for the WSRCA Board of Directors are announced and the 2026 Davis Memorial Scholarship recipients are recognized. 

Make sure to add a ticket to this luncheon when you register for WRE!

The Roofing Games™ 

Sponsored by Malarkey Roofing Products®, The Roofing Games “are the industry’s first official set of competitions sanctioned by a roofing association and are produced in conjunction with the Western Roofing Expo.” They are an iconic part of WRE and a great showcase of knowledge, skill and craftsmanship. Interested in entering the competition? Stop by the Malarkey Roofing Products booth (#429) before the competition.  

Whether you’re participating or watching, you’ll want to make sure you’re at the demo stage on Monday, September 28 from 4:00 p.m. to 5:00 pm. to watch the games!  

Keynote speaker 

For the second day, Tuesday, September 29, there will also be a luncheon event hosted from 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Sponsored by Malarkey Roofing Products, the luncheon will feature WRE 2026 keynote speaker Shereen Thor. Shereen is a comedian and coach who works with clients of all levels (from entry level to C-suite executives). Her goal? To help empower them to reach their full potential and goals.  

Learn more about her keynote.

IIBEC education 

And after the show, on Wednesday, September 30, 2026, the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) will be hosting a special education day! Running from 9:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. this day features two presentation designed to “elevate your expertise in the building enclosure industry.”  

The first presentation is all about the fundamentals of roof assemblies. Professionals can get 3.0 IIBVEC CEHs from attending. The second dives into the 2027 updates to the International Building Code and International Energy Conservation Code. This session gives participants 1.5 IIBEC CEHs. Both have been submitted to AIA CES for approval. 

Cost for attendance is $295.00 for IIBEC Member and $450.00 for non-members. Register now!

Additional events 

But wait, there’s more! There are so many opportunities to learn, network and grow at events during this year’s WRE that we don’t have time to dive into every single one of them! Here are some of the other events happening around the show:  

Sunday, September 27, 2026 

• The Davis Memorial Foundation will be hosting their annual welcome party and auction from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. This year the event is sponsored by GAF and, like the tournaments, auction proceeds support the scholarship fund!  

Monday, September 28, 2026 

• There will be a Spanish Lunch and Learn hosted from 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This is the first of two luncheons and will focus on maximizing commercial claims. It is sponsored by SRS Distribution and GAF and will feature Victor Maya of Advantage Roofing as a guest speaker.  
• Polyglass will be hosting a demonstration on the exhibit floor from 1:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. 
• At 2:30 p.m. TAMKO Building Products will take the demo stage. 
• Then from 3:30 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. the team from Johns Manville will be hosting a demonstration. 

Tuesday, September 29, 2026 

• Open the day with a table talks with National Women in Roofing (NWIR)! The event kicks off at 7:00 a.m. and promises attendees an hour and a half of engaging round-robin-style discussion. Registration is only $55 and includes breakfast.
• The second Spanish Lunch and Learn will be hosted from 11:45 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Day two is sponsored by CertainTeed and will see Imelda Pereze dive into the idea of good, better and best.  
• There will be more expo floor demos, kicking off at 2:30 p.m. with one sponsored b us here at RoofersCoffeeShop! This expo will feature a discussion between the incoming and outgoing WSRCA presidents, Ron Lloyd and Stan Robinson respectively.  

Learn more about these events and the rest of the show at westernroofingexpo.com/wsrca-western-states-commercial-residential-roofing-waterproofing-contractors-association-schedule-events/. And if you haven’t already, make sure to get your tickets for WRE 2026!

Por Jessica Bravo. 

Desde la preparación para el Western Roofing Expo 2026 hasta las tendencias que están dando forma a la industria del metal y consejos para fortalecer los equipos de trabajo. 

Con el Western Roofing Expo 2026 cada vez más cerca, uno de los artículos más populares fue nuestra guía del evento y el concurso para ganar un pase gracias a RoofersCoffeeShop y Western Colloid. El concurso cierra el 22 de agosto de 2026, así que todavía estás a tiempo de participar. Además, este año el WRE contará con cuatro seminarios y dos sesiones de almuerzo y aprendizaje en español. Entre los presentadores destacan Amparo Sancen, Monica Vornbrock e Imelda Perez. Si planeas asistir, no dejes de leer la guía completa para aprovechar al máximo el evento. 

Otro de los artículos más leídos explicó cómo las elecciones intermedias de este año podrían impactar a la industria de la construcción metálica. Durante la Reunión de Verano de Metal Construction Association (MCA), John Kelly analizó cómo los cambios en el Congreso pueden influir en las políticas que afectan al sector y recordó la importancia de la participación ciudadana. El contenido sobre metal también sigue creciendo. Nuestro artículo sobre METALCON 2026 destacó las nuevas experiencias, el crecimiento del evento y la visión para su 35.º aniversario. Y esto es solo el comienzo: muy pronto llegará MetalCoffeeShop En Español y también estaremos compartiendo contenido de Central States. Si asistirás a METALCON, no olvides visitar al equipo de The Coffee Shops para conocer nuestro contenido en español. 

Finalmente, otro tema que despertó mucho interés fue el artículo sobre “los beneficios de contar con un socio estratégico de reclutamiento”. Aunque el episodio de Roofing Road Trips® está disponible en inglés, el artículo explica cómo una mejor estrategia de contratación puede ayudar a las empresas de roofing a encontrar y retener al mejor talento en un mercado cada vez más competitivo. 

Hay mucho más para leer y escuchar en nuestro sitio web. No te pierdas los artículos más leídos de julio y prepárate para lo que viene en agosto, porque será otro mes lleno de éxitos.  

5 – METALCON celebra 35 años: Más grande, más innovador y enfocado en generar negocios

4 – Los beneficios de contar con un socio estratégico de reclutamiento

3 – Analizando las elecciones intermedias durante la Reunión de Verano de la MCA

2 – La guía del roofer para WRE 2026

1 – ¡Gana tu pase para la Western Roofing Expo 2026!

By Eric K. Olson, P.E and Glynnis Flaum, Simpson Gumpertz & Heger Inc.

OSB used in roofing can both provide satisfactory performance and create additional risk when using used as compared to plywood.

Oriented Strand Board (OSB) is an engineered, structural wood panel formed from compressed wood rectangular wood strands bonded with adhesive resins under heat and pressure. It was developed to simulate plywood’s “directional strength” at a lower cost. By the early 2000s, OSB had become a dominant material, overtaking plywood in many applications, primarily due to lower cost and widespread availability. OSB is commonly used for roof decking and wall sheathing in building enclosures.

Despite widespread use of OSB panels, roofing contractors’ organizations (e.g., National Roofing Contractors Association [NRCA] and Western States Roofing Contractors Association [WSRCA]) have recently begun to caution and recommend against the use of OSB roof decking for most steep-slope and some low-slope applications. In our experience, OSB performs satisfactorily when kept dry. However, numerous conditions outside the control of the roofing contractor can introduce moisture that can adversely affect OSB sheathing, either during construction and prior to roof installation or in-service. Simply put, the use of OSB in roofing can increase the risk of performance problems.

NRCA’s 2025 Steep Slope Roofing Systems Manual recommends against the use of OSB in steep-slope roof systems, including those covered with asphalt and metal shingles, and clay and concrete tile, for reasons including “dimensional changes, ridging and fastener backout resulting from changing moisture conditions.” The NRCA also cites reports of “asphalt shingle systems over OSB experiencing edge swelling, warping and buckling.” Instead, NRCA recommends using plywood structural panels that comply with Voluntary Product Standard PS‑01 published by NIST.

In low-slope roofing systems, the WSRCA’s Tech Bulletin No. 2023-2, titled “Case Study – Cool Roof Effects on Sheathing and Framing,” raises concerns about OSB use in cool roof designs, where “white and light-colored roof membranes” are used to meet solar reflectance and thermal emittance standards. The study examined a roof assembly with a thermoplastic roof membrane that was mechanically attached to OSB sheathing. The sheathing was applied over tapered rafters set on a secondary OSB deck level, creating closed, unvented cavities between the sheathing and the deck. Discontinuous and poorly adhered closed-cell spray foam in the ceiling did not sufficiently control air and vapor movement, so moisture vapor entered the cavity and could access the underside of the roofing membrane, where it would condense during the cool evening hours, exacerbated by the high-reflective roof membrane.

In the roof studied in the WSRCA bulletin, the upper roof deck consisted primarily of OSB with some areas of plywood. “Within five years, the OSB sheathing had deteriorated. Sections covered with plywood were intact and not as deteriorated as the OSB sheathing, despite being wet from condensation” (Figures 1 and 2). The WSRCA bulletin recommends limiting OSB use in environments with below 80% relative humidity, ensuring the OSB moisture content is below 14% and requiring designers to consider adequate ventilation and vapor retarders.

Figure 1 − Deteriorated OSB (WSRCA 2023)

Figure 2 − Deteriorated OSB alongside Wet, yet still Sound, Plywood Deck (WSRCA, 2023)

OSB used in roofing can provide satisfactory performance – if protected from moisture before roofing application and while in service. However, all else being equal, design and construction issues, including those beyond the control of the roofing installer, can create additional risk when using OSB as compared to plywood. These issues can include:

• Moisture introduced before roofing application, raising the moisture content of the OSB deck and causing greater swelling or warping than would occur with plywood
• Poor deck ventilation, lack of or inadequate air and vapor retarders that allow moisture to condense in the deck
• Water intrusion due to above-roof components such as rising walls, parapets or mechanical equipment, particularly in an unvented assembly, where moisture becomes trapped
• Unaddressed storm damage caused by hail or high wind
• Poor roofing maintenance, neglect or abuse

In addition, the use of code-mandated, highly reflective roof assemblies with high thermal emittance exacerbates the effects of trapped moisture by creating a cool surface during night hours, leading to a greater possibility of the trapped moisture vapor reaching its dew point and condensing on the OSB sheathing. Keeping the OSB deck sufficiently dry to ensure performance during construction and throughout the roof’s service life assumes providing satisfactory conditions beyond the control of the roofing installer. Given proper roofing design, selection and detailing, we believe it is better to use structural plywood meeting PS-1 for all steep- and low-slope roof decking, to reduce risk of moisture-induced damage and help ensure roof longevity.

References

• NRCA Steep Slope Roofing Systems Manual, 2025
• National Roofing Contractors Association. “NRCA Update on Roofing Industry Technical Issues.” Presentation by Mark S. Graham, Vice President of Technical Services. September 12, 2025.
• Western States Roofing Contractors Association, Technical Bulletin No. 2020-LSII-1ed: Design Considerations Related to White and Light-Colored Membrane Low-Slope Roofs (2020), https://wsrca.com/blogpost/1648950/353544/Design-Considerations-Related-to-White-and-Light-Colored-Membrane-Low-Slope-Roofs.
• Western States Roofing Contractors Association. Technical Bulletin No. 2023-2: Case Study – Cool Roof Effects on Sheathing and Framing. 2023. https://wsrca.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Cool-Roof-Case-Study.pdf.
• Voluntary Product Standard PS 1-22, “Structural Plywood,” National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), October 2023.
• Voluntary Product Standard PS 2-18, “Performance Standard for Wood Structural Panels,” NIST, March 2019.

Por Emma Peterson, traducido por Jessica Bravo.  

Descubre los eventos, seminarios y expositores que formarán parte del Western Roofing Expo 2026. 

Mantenerse al día en la industria del roofing puede ser todo un desafío. Ya sea enfrentando tormentas cada vez más intensas en el campo o lidiando con la escasez de mano de obra y materiales desde la oficina, contar con la información y las herramientas adecuadas es clave para seguir siendo competitivo. Afortunadamente, la Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) organiza cada año el Western Roofing Expo (WRE), un evento de dos días diseñado para ayudar a los profesionales del roofing a enfrentar estos retos y conocer las últimas tendencias de la industria. 

Considerado uno de los principales eventos regionales de roofing e impermeabilización, el WRE ofrece una exposición comercial de dos días, más de 30 seminarios educativos, almuerzos especializados, la competencia The Roofing Games™, torneos de golf y tiro deportivo (sporting clays), una subasta en vivo, demostraciones de productos y mucho más. Este año, el evento se llevará a cabo del 27 al 29 de septiembre de 2026 en el Paris Las Vegas, en Las Vegas, Nevada. 

El corazón del evento 

Las principales actividades se desarrollarán el lunes 28 y martes 29 de septiembre, con un programa que incluye 30 seminarios educativos, dos almuerzos especializados y un piso de exhibición con acceso gratuito para contratistas. 

Los seminarios del WRE son una excelente oportunidad para fortalecer conocimientos tanto técnicos como empresariales. Especialistas de toda la industria compartirán información sobre administración de negocios, tendencias del mercado, innovación y desarrollo técnico. Los asistentes también encontrarán rostros conocidos de la familia de The Coffee Shops™, entre ellos Trent Cotney de Adams and Reese, Amparo Sancen de Latinos En Roofing, John Kenney de Cotney Consulting Group y la presidenta de RoofersCoffeeShop®, Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

WSRCA ha preparado dos almuerzos especialmente pensados para los asistentes. El primero será el lunes, de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m., patrocinado por National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). Durante esta sesión, Craig Brightup, de The Brightup Group, y Chad Collins, de NRCA, analizarán las decisiones más recientes en Washington D.C. y cómo podrían afectar a la industria del roofing. 

El segundo almuerzo se realizará el martes, también de 11:30 a.m. a 1:00 p.m., con el patrocinio de Malarkey Roofing Products. En esta ocasión, los asistentes escucharán a la conferencista principal del WRE 2026, Shereen Thor, una comediante convertida en coach de liderazgo que ha trabajado con organizaciones como Google, Pandora, Slack, Safe Place for Youth y The Social Justice Learning Institute. Su conferencia ofrecerá herramientas útiles tanto para empresarios como para profesionales en cualquier etapa de su carrera. 

El piso de exhibición estará abierto el lunes y el martes. Esta será una excelente oportunidad para conocer las últimas innovaciones y tecnologías de la industria, ya que habrá demostraciones de productos cada hora. En ese mismo escenario de demostraciones también regresarán los esperados Roofing Games el martes. 

La exposición comercial también brinda la oportunidad de conversar con representantes de empresas líderes de la industria. ¿La mejor parte? ¡La entrada al piso de exhibición es GRATUITA para contratistas y roofers! Estaremos en el booth 12, así que no dejes de visitarnos para saludarnos. Además, muchos de nuestros amigos de la industria también estarán presentes, entre ellos Anchor Products (815), APOC (609), BITEC (151), Brava Roof Tile (840), Carlisle Architectural Metals (509), Drexel Metals (509), Equipter (826), Integrity Insurance & Bonding (360), Lakeside Construction Fasteners (154), New Tech Machinery (356), PABCO Roofing Products (703), Rocket Equipment (638), RoofScope (822), Sentry Building Innovations (150) and VELUX (361). 

Eventos adicionales y más 

Además de las actividades principales de los dos días, habrá eventos adicionales tanto antes (domingo 27 de septiembre) como después (miércoles 30 de septiembre). Davis Memorial Foundation organizará dos torneos, uno de tiro deportivo (sporting clays) y otro de golf. Los fondos recaudados en estos eventos se destinarán directamente al fondo de becas de Davis Memorial Foundation. Gracias a este programa, más de 195 estudiantes de preparatoria, licenciatura y posgrado han recibido apoyo para continuar con sus estudios. Estos eventos cuentan con un registro y una cuota de participación independientes. 

Miércoles 30 de septiembre, el International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) llevará a cabo una jornada especial de capacitación de 9:00 a.m. a 2:30 p.m. Este evento ayudará a los asistentes a fortalecer sus conocimientos sobre la industria de la envolvente del edificio (building enclosure). El programa incluye dos cursos: uno sobre los fundamentos de los sistemas de techado y otro enfocado en las actualizaciones más importantes de los códigos internacionales de construcción. El registro y la cuota para esta jornada de capacitación son independientes del registro general del evento. 

Regístrate y asegura tu lugar 

El registro para el WRE 2026 ya está abierto. Puedes registrarte en línea. El evento se llevará a cabo del 27 al 29 de septiembre de 2026 en el Paris Las Vegas, en Las Vegas, Nevada. Al celebrarse en el Paris Las Vegas, existen diversas opciones de hospedaje cercanas. WSRCA ha negociado tarifas preferenciales en el Paris Las Vegas, Planet Hollywood y Horseshoe Hotel, con habitaciones disponibles desde $91 dólares por noche. 

¿No estás seguro de que el costo del registro se ajuste a tu presupuesto? RoofersCoffeeShop®, en colaboración con Western Colloid, llevará a cinco profesionales al evento sin costo. Al participar en nuestro concurso, tendrás la oportunidad de ganar un pase con acceso a la exposición comercial, el almuerzo anual, el contenido en español, las sesiones educativas y el almuerzo legislativo. 

¡Conoce más sobre el WRE 2026!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Traditional slate craftsmanship and master leadwork are preserving one of Britain's most iconic landmarks for generations to come. 

For most visitors to London, Admiralty Arch is recognized as the grand ceremonial gateway linking Buckingham Palace to Trafalgar Square. For more than a century, the landmark has stood at the heart of royal processions, historic celebrations and national events.  

Originally commissioned by King Edward VII in memory of Queen Victoria, Admiralty Arch was completed in 1912 and designed by renowned architect Sir Aston Webb. After serving as a government building for decades, the Grade I-listed structure is being transformed into a luxury Waldorf Astoria hotel while preserving a defining part of London's skyline. 

During this transformation, the restoration team has worked carefully to honor the building's architectural heritage while adapting it for a new generation of guests. And while much of the public attention has focused on the luxury hotel and residences taking shape behind the landmark façade, we wanted to take some time to learn about one of the project’s most remarkable elements: The restoration happening on the roof. 

During a special visit arranged by National Federation of Roofing Contractors (NFRC) member EWN Lead Work Specialists, who is helping lead the project, industry leaders from the National Slate Association (NSA), the Slate Roofing Contractors Association of North America (SRCA) and RoofersCoffeeShop® received an exclusive look at the conservation work taking place high above one of London's most recognizable landmarks. The roof is rarely accessible to the public, making the opportunity especially significant for roofing professionals passionate about preservation and craftsmanship. 

What makes the roofing restoration particularly impressive is the commitment to traditional methods and materials. According to project information shared during the roof tour, the restoration includes the installation of Westmorland green slate using a historic diminishing-course pattern. This traditional approach places larger slates at the lower sections of the roof and progressively smaller slates toward the ridge, reflecting techniques used on many of Britain's most significant heritage structures. 

The slate installation is only one part of the story. The project also involves extensive leadwork restoration across numerous architectural features, including dormers, bays, cornices and complex roof details. Thousands of individually crafted lead components are being fabricated and installed to replicate historic profiles while providing long-term weather protection. Also of note is the extensive low-slope roofing using modified bitumen granule felts. The result is a roof system that maintains the building’s original appearance while serving modern performance expectations. 

Helping lead that effort is EWN Lead Work Specialists Ltd., a company that has built its reputation on heritage leadwork and conservation projects. Founded by Elliot Newman in 2008, the company specializes exclusively in leadwork and has contributed to some of the United Kingdom's most important historic structures, including the Tower of London, Canterbury Cathedral, Somerset House and Lincoln's Inn. That level of expertise makes EWN a natural fit for a landmark as significant as Admiralty Arch. 

The project serves as a powerful reminder that roofing is often one of the most critical aspects of historic preservation. While visitors admire stonework, sculptures and grand interiors, the roof is what ultimately protects those investments. In this case, the roof will also be used for rooftop activities, creating new spaces for hotel guests. Preserving a building of this scale requires professionals who understand not only modern roofing performance but also centuries-old installation techniques and conservation principles. The tradespeople working on Admiralty Arch are carrying forward skills that have been passed down through generations. 

The restoration also highlights the growing importance of adaptive reuse projects around the world. Rather than allowing historic structures to deteriorate or lose their identity, owners and developers are investing in restorations that preserve architectural heritage while creating economically viable futures. At Admiralty Arch, that vision includes transforming a former government building into a world-class hospitality destination while retaining the character that has made it a London icon for more than 100 years. 

When guests begin arriving at the Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch, many will be captivated by its history, luxury accommodation and unrivaled location across from Buckingham Palace. Few will realize the extraordinary level of roofing craftsmanship protecting the structure from above. Yet for roofing professionals, that work may be the most inspiring aspect of the entire transformation. 

The restoration of Admiralty Arch demonstrates what is possible when heritage preservation, skilled craftsmanship and modern construction expertise come together. Through traditional slate roofing, master-level leadwork, flat roofing expertise and a deep respect for history, roofing professionals are helping ensure that one of Britain’s most cherished landmarks remains a symbol of excellence for generations to come. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Advancing roofing knowledge through industry education. 

Trade shows are the best time for continuing education. This fall as roofing professionals head to Las Vegas, they will have an opportunity to sharpen their expertise and earn continuing education credits during IIBEC's Education Day at the Western Roofing Expo on September 30, 2026. 

Designed for roofing consultants, contractors, architects and other building enclosure professionals, the program offers a full day of education focused on roofing fundamentals and the future of building codes. The day begins with Roofing Practice Series: Roof Assemblies – Fundamentals, a comprehensive course covering the design, installation, inspection and maintenance of roof systems. Attendees will gain a stronger understanding of roofing terminologies along with the importance of common roof assemblies, water and vapor movement, heat transfer and the overall role that roof design plays in protecting buildings while supporting energy efficiency and code compliance. 

As building science continues to evolve and performance expectations increase, roofing professionals are expected to understand more than ever before. Today's projects require knowledge of how moisture management, thermal performance and material selection work together to create durable and resilient roof systems. This session helps attendees strengthen their technical foundation while earning 3.0 IIBEC Continuing Education Hours (CEHs) and 3.0 AIA Learning Units/Health, Safety and Welfare credits. 

The afternoon session, Changes to the I-Code 2027 Edition, focuses on significant updates coming to the International Code Council's 2027 codes. Participants will learn about evolving energy conservation requirements, key differences between ASHRAE 90.1-2025 and the 2027 International Energy Conservation Code, as well as broader trends influencing the code development process. The course also provides insight into how code changes are developed and adopted throughout the industry. 

For contractors, consultants and design professionals, staying ahead of regulatory changes is a key part of delivering successful projects. Understanding upcoming code requirements not only helps ensure compliance but also allows professionals to provide greater value to building owners seeking long-term performance, sustainability and resilience. The session provides 1.5 IIBEC CEHs and 1.5 AIA Learning Units. 

Opportunities like IIBEC's Education Day continue to be an important part of industry events such as the Western Roofing Expo. Beyond earning credits, attendees gain access to practical knowledge that can be applied immediately in the field while also preparing for changes that will shape roofing and building enclosure design for years to come. 

To learn more about IIBEC's Education Day and register for the program at the Western Roofing Expo, visit the IIBEC website and secure your place today.  Be sure to also enter the Western Colloid WRE contest for free registration at 2026 Western Roofing Expo Ticket Giveaway — RoofersCoffeeShop®.