RCAW opens submissions for the 2026 Excellence in Roofing Awards Program

RCAW encourages contractors to submit all types of roofing projects for consideration, regardless of size or complexity.

The Roofing Contractors Association of Washington (RCAW) is now accepting submissions for its prestigious 2026 Excellence in Roofing Awards Program. Roofing contractors across Washington state can submit their best low- and steep-slope roofing projects at www.RCAW.com from this past year for a chance to win up to $1,000. Submissions are due by February 2, 2026.

“This awards program empowers roofing professionals to highlight their dedication, celebrate their craft and show the pride they bring to our industry.” stated Justin Shirley, RCAW president.

The highly competitive awards program covers the full spectrum of roofing systems. Winners must exhibit remarkable proficiency, demonstrate intricate workmanship and utilize superior-quality roofing products. RCAW encourages contractors to submit all types of roofing projects for consideration, regardless of size or complexity.

The application process on RCAW’s website, www.RCAW.com is free of charge, and interested RCAW contractors may submit multiple entries, provided the projects adhere to the specified criteria. Submissions must demonstrate exemplary skills in roofing and include detailed project write-ups and high-quality imagery. Please note you must be a current RCAW member to apply.

Contractors should take note of the judging criteria when submitting their project entries.

• Project challenges: Were there any technical, operational or environmental challenges successfully overcome through the innovative use of roofing materials? Does the project demonstrate the reliability, durability and overall system strength of roofing?
• Distinction: Why is this project different from its peers? Was the quality of the craftsmanship extraordinary, and were there any circumstances, pre-existing conditions or challenges that made it stand out? Can this project be considered a step above the rest?
• Beauty: Does the project showcase an aesthetic appeal or exhibit impressive technical complexity? Does it possess visual allure or intrigue, elevating the skyline, building use or design?

Once the submission period closes on February 2, 2026, a panel of esteemed judges convenes to evaluate and score the top roofing projects. This panel comprises a diverse group of roofing industry experts with vast knowledge and technical expertise.

The projects that score the highest according to the judges’ evaluations will receive a monetary prize of $1,000 1st place, $500 for 2nd place and $250 3rd place for each low slope and steep-slope project as recognition for their exceptional performance and achievement.

Aside from the medal winners, the judges may also propose specific projects for best-in-class categories at the end of the evaluation process. There will be only one winner per category, and annual acknowledgments are optional.

• In the neighborhood: This category showcases homes that combine affordability with style. It focuses on how color and design choices can elevate the appearance of a typical neighborhood home.
• Commercial/mixed use: This category focuses on the complexities of flat roof projects. These projects are multifaceted, involving numerous components that work together to create a waterproof roofing system found in commercial, industrial, educational, data centers, hospitals, retail and other non-pitched roof systems.
• Craftsmanship: Roofing is an art, and it takes a true craftsman to install roofing materials on complex structures such as steeples, turrets and geodesic designs or large flat roofing projects exceeding 1,000 squares. These projects blend skill and artistry, showcasing intricate designs and sheer sizes. This category is open to low- and steep-slope applications.
• Technical difficulty: This category emphasizes operational and installation challenges, including projects involving multiple penetrations, work during nighttime, skyscraper steeples and cold weather applications. Contractors share the challenges of orchestrating the job, ensuring a safe environment and addressing the various design aspects.

Winners will be announced on March 12, 2026, at the Muckleshoot Casino at the RCAW Industry Insider Event starting at 6 p.m. Winning companies will receive an official RCAW Excellence in Roofing Award, elite winner logo, statewide/local media exposure and promotions on RCAW’s social media platforms.

“If you aim to increase your visibility and reputation in the roofing industry, make sure to submit your finest work before the deadline,” Shirley added. RCAW’s 2025 EIR winners were 1st place, Valentine Roofing; 2nd place, Roofscapes NW; and 3rd place, Tru Colors Contracting.

About the Excellence in Roofing Awards

The RCAW Excellence in Roofing Awards celebrate the highest standards of craftsmanship, innovation and professionalism within Washington’s roofing industry. These awards honor projects that embody exceptional skill, creative problem-solving and dedication to quality in both steep- and low-slope applications. More than a competition, the program reflects RCAW’s commitment to elevating the roofing trade, recognizing companies that go above and beyond to deliver safe, beautiful and durable roofing systems. Each entry showcases the pride, precision and passion that define our industry, and the awards serve as a powerful reminder of the value and expertise Washington’s roofing professionals bring to their communities every day.

About RCAW

Established in 1965, the Roofing Contractors Association of Washington continues to bring the roofing industry together to increase success through advocacy, continuing education, professional collaboration and consumer awareness. The RCAW is committed to expanding a diverse and inclusive membership that promotes credibility and camaraderie within the roofing industry. RCAW is proud of the role it plays in promoting roofing to those in the building industry and to the public.