By Jenny Yu.  

The National Women in Roofing’s Central Oregon Council’s first reroof event gifted a local veteran with a free new roof. 

For their first reroof event, The National Women in Roofing’s Central Oregon Council gave a local veteran a new roof in Redmond, Oregon.  

The event, titled “Raise the Roof for a Hero,” gathered more than a dozen businesses that donated their time, materials and labor to support veteran Larry Moyer.  

“The National Women in Roofing is a giving group,” Larry told KTVZ News. “They’re a wonderful bunch of people from all different businesses. It’s really something.” 

The NWIR is a volunteer-based organization that supports and advances the careers of women roofing professionals. Its Central Oregon chapter launched early 2025, and this reroof showcased its core value of impact: seeking to make a difference and contributing positively to the lives of others.  

“We are able to do something really special just by coming together and volunteering whatever it is that our strength is, and this is the result,” Amy Cashman, NWIR social media manager, stated. 

Another NWIR core value is connection — building and maintaining meaningful relationships — and the event brought to the forefront the power of bringing many different people and companies coming together for a shared cause.  

“CertainTeed and I are more than happy to support Oregon Band of Brothers, NWIR and, of course, the veteran we have here today,” said Jack McDonnell, territory manager of CertainTeed. “My grandfather is a veteran. He was a Marine in Vietnam, so that motivates me to a significant extent.” 

Other sponsors of the NWIR Central Oregon chapter and the Raise the Roof event included SRS Distribution, GAF, RESISTO by SOPREMA and RoofersCoffeeShop®.  

For Larry, this experience served as an affirmation and a reminder about how to live. “They’re trying to give back to the community, and that’s what I do a lot,” Larry stated, emphasizing the duty we all have to one another. “It’s an important thing for all of us — I don’t care who you are or where you’re from. Take care of each other.” 

Photo source: National Women in Roofing

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

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

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

Growing into new roles and new confidence 

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

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

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

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

Stay tuned for all the En Español interviews coming soon! 

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

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

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

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

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

Celebrating milestones and making space for belonging 

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

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

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

Relationships are the foundation of the industry 

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

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

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

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

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

Storytelling as a service to the industry 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Through an interactive booth experience, the brand will showcase how its integrated building solutions are engineered to perform against wind, impact, heat and moisture.

CertainTeed, a leading North American manufacturer of sustainable building materials, is debuting its latest resilient building solutions across its interior and exterior portfolio, as well as new colorways across its residential offerings, at the International Builders' Show in Orlando, Florida (February 17 - February 19, 2026).

Through an interactive booth experience, the brand will showcase how its integrated building solutions are engineered to perform against wind, impact, heat and moisture. It will highlight how these solutions address regional climate challenges and support long-term durability across residential building systems. Rooted in building science, each CertainTeed product is rigorously tested for strength and engineered for endurance, resulting in systems that balance performance and design. Homeowners get beauty and resilience; contractors get speed, consistency and fewer call-backs.

"CertainTeed's building solutions are engineered to perform in even the most demanding climates," said Tom Yeager, vice president of product management siding products group. "Every product is designed and tested with both homeowners and contractors in mind. The solutions deliver the durability needed to withstand the elements, the aesthetics homeowners expect for curb appeal and the ease of installation contractors rely on to work efficiently on the job site."

In addition to its latest resilient solutions, CertainTeed is introducing various colorways within its residential siding and roofing product lineup, including RISE®, STONEfaçade and Landmark® Solaris®, furthering its commitment to providing solutions that are not only durable and resilient, but also design-driven to increase curb appeal. The brand's first-ever 2026 Home Color Palette of the Year: Coastal Current, will also be on display in the booth to serve as both a trend forecast and aesthetic inspiration. The palette was designed to help homeowners, builders and design professionals bring cohesive, timeless color to every part of the home.

Booth spotlights:

Contractor's Edge - NEW!

To further solidify the brand's dedication to its network of contractors, CertainTeed has recently announced the revamped tiers for its Credentialed Contractor Program, Contractor's Edge. Each tier — Premier, Pro and Master — includes expanded training, technical resources and business-support tools, and is designed to help contractors confidently specify, install and support high-performance building systems while strengthening long-term partnerships. Additionally, the updated MyEdge platform serves as a one-stop shop for contractors' digital needs — enhancing partnerships, driving loyalty and providing seamless access to tools, insights and resources.

CERTAplank® PRO - NEW!

CERTAplank® PRO delivers a combination of curb appeal and high performance, helping contractors install confidently and provide homeowners with peace of mind. Made from a next-generation rigid composite material with an innovative Resilient Composite Reinforcement backer (RCR™), it offers durability, ease of installation and long-term performance for residential projects. 

Landmark® Solaris® - NEW! Dark color offerings in Sand Dune, Moonstone, Redwood Canyon

The cool-roof version of CertainTeed's popular Landmark® shingle, Landmark® Solaris®, is ideal for sunny climates. This wood shake-inspired, solar-reflective asphalt shingle reflects solar energy and radiant heat far better than traditional roofing shingles, allowing homes to stay cooler during those hotter months.

STONEfacade® - NEW! Color offerings in Acadia Breeze and Shenandoah Ridge

STONEfacade® is a manufactured stone veneer that combines the look of natural stone with contractor-friendly installation. It features the industry's only fully integrated rainscreen, offering superior moisture management and structural support. New colors, Acadia Breeze and Shenandoah Ridge, provide greater design flexibility for residential and light-commercial applications.

RISE® - NEW! More than 20 colors now available nationwide

RISE® is a high-performance synthetic siding product engineered to look and perform like real wood. Available in 160" lengths, in smooth or wood-grain finishes, and primed or pre-finished in a range of colors, it withstands heavy rain, snow, freeze/thaw cycles and rot, providing contractors with a durable, low-maintenance exterior solution. RISE will now also be available through the brand's 2026 Home Color Palette of the Year: Coastal Current, offering coordinated color options for cohesive, timeless exterior designs.

ONE PRECISION ASSEMBLIES™

A scaled version of a model home built with CertainTeed's offsite construction solution, ONE PRECISION ASSEMBLIES™, will be on display in the booth. This installation will give visitors a first-hand look at what this building innovation can accomplish, showcasing the ins and outs of the customized panel building system. The model structure will highlight how the building system is optimized for durability, energy efficiency and low-maintenance style. Moreover, it will showcase how the solutions are engineered to work together to provide lasting comfort, beauty and protection for any region.

SunStyle® certification

SunStyle's building-integrated solar roofing has achieved full High Velocity Hurricane Zone (HVHZ) compliance, meeting Florida's most stringent wind and impact standards (TAS 201, 202, 203). With its newly secured Miami‑Dade Notice of Acceptance (NOA)/Florida Product Approval, SunStyle enables architects to incorporate renewable energy directly into the roof system without compromising aesthetics or hurricane‑grade resilience.

To learn more about CertainTeed's resilient building products and expansive color offerings, visit certainteed.com. 

About CertainTeed

With innovative building solutions made possible through its comprehensive offering of interior and exterior products, CertainTeed is transforming how the industry builds. As leaders in building science and sustainable construction, CertainTeed makes it easier than ever to create high-performance, energy-efficient places to live, work and play, so that together we can make the world a better home. 

A subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, one of the world's largest and oldest building products companies, CertainTeed has more than 6,900 employees and more than 60 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and Canada. www.certainteed.com 

About Saint-Gobain

Worldwide leader in light and sustainable construction, Saint-Gobain designs, manufactures and distributes materials and services for the construction and industrial markets. Its integrated solutions for the renovation of public and private buildings, light construction and the decarbonization of construction and industry are developed through a continuous innovation process and provide sustainability and performance. The Group, celebrating its 360th anniversary in 2025, remains more committed than ever to its purpose "MAKING THE WORLD A BETTER HOME".

€46.6 billion in sales in 2024

More than 161,000 employees, locations in 80 countries

Committed to achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about when and where a coating can be used to extend the lifespan of a roof. 

In a new Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth sat down with Gabe Lane to talk about how coatings can aid in extending the lifespan of a roof. Gabe is a part of CertainTeed’s Commercial Building and Infrastructure group, supporting contractors working with commercial roofing solutions in the field.  

He opened the conversation by explaining why coatings are such a powerful product, sharing, “The biggest positive about coatings is that they eliminate the need to tear off what's there and throw it into a dumpster and getting rid of it at the landfill.” Instead, with a coating, you conduct some repairs on the roof, clean the surface and recoat it. Gabe gave an example, “At CertainTeed, our Smartcoat is a great example of the power of coatings. We can put that down in one pass, whether it's a 10-year warranty, a 15-year warranty or a 20-year warranty thickness, and then you’re good to go. So, not only is it versatile, it's also efficient. You can get done with a coating project a lot quicker than you can get done with any type of tear-off and re-roof.” 

With benefits like this, it can be tempting to default to coating a roof instead of doing a tear off. But a roof coating is not a miracle in a bucket. There will be some roofs you can’t coat. Gabe gave an example, explaining, “I was recently on a 14-year-old roof that was a 45 mil EPDM system. And every flashing that was either facing south or west was tented beyond a 45-degree angle onto the ballasted EPDM roof. That roof, you can’t coat it. The ballasted system makes it absolutely filthy, especially because this roof was on top of a factory, so there was byproduct that was getting off-gassed up onto the roof.”  

So, how do you determine whether a roof can be coated or not? The first thing to establish is the presence of a strong base. To put a coating down, you need something to coat. And if you’re working on a surface like that 14-year-old roof, it’s going to be a lot harder to find something that will perform properly. Gabe shared, “If you want to coat it, then you must find a way of giving yourself something to coat. I’ve seen guys use high-density boards or stainless-steel decking on difficult projects, but there’s not a book or guide on this. The best advice I have is to have conversations. Talk to us and we can help you figure out the details of your unique situation.”  

Listen to the whole episode to learn more about the process of coating a commercial roof.  

By Emma Peterson. 

How CertainTeed’s CoolStar line is helping combat rising urban temperatures.  

Rising temperatures around the world are causing issues for both individuals’ health and our communities as a whole. According the to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, between 2011 and 2023, 423 people had died due to workplace heat exposure and “an average of 2,700 cases involving heat illnesses lead to days lost at work.” Beyond the tragedy of loss of life and injury, it is estimated by that the U.S. loses $100 billion annually due to “heat-induced declines in labor productivity.” 

So, what can we do about that? One solution is to design cooler cities. 

Building a cooler city 

 A key to creating a more thermally resistant built environment is incorporating cool roofing. “Cool roofs” are roofing systems that reflect solar energy that comes from the sun and emit any remaining heat that is absorbed, leading to more energy efficient buildings and significantly cooler interiors. The Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) explains, “Cool roofs literally stay cooler and reduce the amount of heat conducted into the building below. If a building does not have air conditioning, this keeps the building cooler and a more constant temperature. If a building has air conditioning, the equipment does not have to work as hard.” 

How does one design a roof that reflects solar energy? To answer that question, we sat down with John Schultz, the commercial roofing district sales manager for CertainTeed.  

Designing a cool roof 

In his role at CertainTeed, John has worked a lot on the launch of a product line called CoolStar. He explained, “We’re building a family of products. Our first product is the Flintlastic® GTA CoolStar® and now we have our CoolStar® Ultra, both of which are torch-down products.” 

These products have existed in the CertainTeed portfolio for decades and have become contractor favorites. When released as a part of the CoolStar line, the products were improved to boost performance. John explained, “It's the exact same technology. We just changed the granules. So, if you’re a contractor using it, it is the same product you know and love. Your crews already know where to have their torch and how to apply it.”  

So, what changed with the granules? The CertainTeed team designed the CoolStar family of products with “Naturally occurring aggregate processed to bright white granules that are 100% opaque to UV radiation, protecting the asphaltic membrane from UV degradation while maintaining granule adhesion with superior solar reflectance.” 

By the numbers 

The results of this engineering and design feat are powerful coatings that not only deliver durable performance but also sustainability. When looking at cool roofing products, the CRRC highlights two characteristics that determine the roof’s sustainability – solar reflectance and thermal emittance. Solar reflectance is how much sunlight is reflected away from the roof, and thermal emittance is how much heat a roof can release. These properties are measured on a “scale from 0 to 1, where 1 is 100% reflective or emissive.” 

On this scale, CertainTeed’s CoolStar products perform very well. Their CoolStar Ultra is considered highly reflective with a score of 0.73 when installed (maintaining it to 0.68 over three years of on the roof aging) and highly emissive with a score above 0.90.  

The big picture 

Ultimately, CertainTeed’s CoolStar family of products is a huge step towards a more sustainable and healthier built environment. By building upon their existing quality products, they have created an efficient and sustainable way to reduce urban heat without sacrificing durability. The drive to do this all comes back to CertainTeed and their parent company Saint Gobain’s dedication to being a good steward of the environment. John explained, “One of our goals is to have a net 0 carbon target by 2050. How are we going to get there? By making our products more efficient with releases like the CoolStar line.” 

Learn more about CertainTeed’s Flintlastic® GTA CoolStar® and now we have our CoolStar® Ultra online. 

As technology advances and energy demands continue to rise, homeowners are feeling the pinch of increasing utility costs. Many are searching for ways to gain energy independence — creating a perfect opportunity for you to expand your offerings and deliver real value. Start by exploring CertainTeed’s innovative BIPV solar products and help your clients future proof their roof. 

CertainTeed offers a portfolio of solar solutions that are flexible to meet diverse aesthetic and performance needs, making solar accessible for homeowners at every level. From traditional solar panels to integrated solar shingles and premium SunStyle® tiles, these are perfect solutions for projects that require streamlined installation, high weather resistance and long-term ROI.

Learn more about CertainTeed’s solar solutions.

A collection of nature-inspired blue hues that brings a timeless curb appeal across every region.

Today, CertainTeed, a leading North American manufacturer of light and sustainable interior and exterior building solutions, launched its first-ever Home Color Palette of the Year: Coastal Current. Inspired by the calming essences of a coastal walk, the palette blends bluehues with warm neutrals to evoke balance and tranquility. This curated collection of hues is designed as an inspiration to help homeowners, builders and design professionals bring cohesive, timeless color to every part of the home.

With the widest selection of color options available in the industry, and an expansive product portfolio spanning multiple solutions both inside and outside of the home, CertainTeed has solidified itself as a leader in innovation and home design. Recognizing that color often takes center stage inside the home, the brand sought to showcase how color can transcend to the exterior as well to create a cohesive, design-forward look. CertainTeed’s Home Color Palette of the Year covers color selections across the full exterior of the home: Siding, roofing, trim and accent colors.

The CertainTeed colorways featured in CertainTeed’s Coastal Current Home Color Palette of the Year are Max Def Moiré Black, Midnight Blue, Pacific Blue, Coastal Storm, Colonial White and Sterling Gray. These colorways are available in the following collections, and more:

• Roofing: Max Def Moiré Black – Landmark®, Landmark® PRO, Landmark® ClimateFlex®, Landmark® Northgate® ClimateFlex®, Landmark Solaris®, Landmark® PROSolaris® and Landmark® TL Solaris
• Primary siding: Midnight Blue – RISE®, CERTAplank®, Monogram®
• Secondary siding: Pacific Blue - Cedar Impressions® Shakes & Shingles and Board & Batten
• Accent: Coastal Storm - STONEfacade®
• Trim: Colonial White – Restoration Millwork®
• Accessory: Sterling Gray

“This marks a new chapter in how we continue to help customers express their vision through color,” said Bill Furman, product marketing manager, siding at CertainTeed. “With so many options available, choosing the right combination can feel overwhelming. With the Coastal Current Home Color Palette, consumers can envision how to mix and match colors and materials to create the home of their dreams.”

In 2025, CertainTeed saw a notable increase in sales volume for blue and neutral exterior finishes across key regions including New England, Mid-Atlantic, and the Carolinas. The brand sees this continuing well into 2026 as homeowners across the United States are opting for color palettes inspired by nature, indicating a steady shift toward refined simplicity and enduring curb appeal. These preferences reflect growing design trends that emphasize timeless color pairings, low-maintenance materials and lasting curb appeal, which directly informed the development of CertainTeed’s Coastal Current Home Color Palette.

“For CertainTeed, it’s not just about building materials - it’s about creating beauty, longevity and resiliency in every home,” said Summer Swingle, senior product marketing manager, residential roofing, at CertainTeed. “Creating a durable home that can last generations doesn’t have to sacrifice aesthetics. Our first-ever Home Color Palette showcases the breadth of not only the brand’s exterior solutions, but also showcasing a range of colors and textures designed to inspire.”

To learn more about CertainTeed’s portfolio and to view additional color selections, visit the website here and the ColorCoach tool here.

About CertainTeed

With innovative building solutions made possible through its comprehensive offering of interior and exterior products, CertainTeed is transforming how the industry builds. As leaders in building science and sustainable construction, CertainTeed makes it easier than ever to create high-performance, energy-efficient places to live, work and play, so that together we can make the world a better home. A subsidiary of Saint-Gobain, one of the world's largest and oldest building products companies, CertainTeed has more than 6,900 employees and more than 60 manufacturing facilities throughout the United States and Canada. www.certainteed.com

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

Contractor programs power the future of the industry. 

Strong roofing companies know that success depends on people and process. The most reliable way to build a sustainable business is through consistent training and education that keeps teams skilled and motivated. Contractor programs have become the foundation for that success, providing roofers with structured opportunities to learn, grow and lead. In this 3-part series (read part 1 and part 2), we look at how contractor programs are helping roofing companies see excelled success. 

Programs like CertainTeed’s Master Craftsman™ Roofing Contractor certification are helping roofing businesses strengthen their operations from the inside out. By offering formal training and measurable standards, these programs create a clear path for team development and company growth. Crews that complete the program gain deeper technical knowledge, work more efficiently and deliver higher-quality installations that meet strict manufacturer guidelines. 

As contractors advance, they often become eligible for higher-tier programs like CertainTeed’s ShingleMaster™ and SELECT ShingleMaster™ designations. These levels bring new advantages, such as exclusive marketing tools, extended warranties and preferred partner benefits that support long-term business success. Each step of the certification ladder represents another opportunity for contractors to differentiate themselves and serve customers more effectively. 

The impact of training extends beyond immediate results. Companies that invest in education tend to experience lower turnover, stronger team morale and better customer satisfaction. A well-trained crew understands the importance of precision, safety and communication, which reduces risk and protects the company’s reputation. 

Contractor programs also help prepare businesses for the future. As materials, codes and technologies evolve, certified contractors stay informed and ready to adapt. By combining ongoing learning with proven installation practices, they build companies that can weather industry changes and maintain stability for years to come. 

In short, programs like CertainTeed Master Craftsman™ don’t just create better roofers — they create better businesses. The investment in training pays off in quality, trust and a stronger foundation for growth. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth. 

How contractor programs help you stand out in a crowded market.

The roofing industry is more competitive than ever, with contractors vying for attention in crowded markets. For many, certification is becoming the deciding factor that separates strong businesses from the rest. A recognized contractor program is more than a title — it’s a signal to customers that the company is reliable, skilled and committed to quality. In this 3-part series (check out part 1), we talk about the importance of contractors adopting and joining a strong manufacturer loyalty program.

Manufacturer-backed programs help roofers demonstrate credibility and professionalism. By completing the program, contractors show they have met rigorous training and installation standards. This achievement builds confidence with homeowners, who can see that their contractor has been educated directly by the manufacturer of the materials being installed.

CertainTeed’s Master Craftsman™ Roofing Contractor designation is a certification that strengthens a business. Contractors who earn credentials often gain access to exclusive warranties, ensuring that installations meet the standards required for manufacturer-backed protection. These warranties give homeowners peace of mind, while contractors benefit from reduced risk of callbacks and disputes.

Marketing advantages play a major role as well. Certified contractors can promote their credentials on websites, trucks and proposals. Many manufacturers also include them in “Find a Pro” directories that help connect homeowners with qualified installers. When customers search for a trusted roofer, being part of a recognized program gives certified professionals a clear edge.

The long-term benefits extend beyond marketing. Certified companies often see improved team performance, better customer relationships and stronger word-of-mouth referrals. Certification becomes a mark of pride and a commitment to doing things the right way every time. 

In a marketplace built on reputation, education and trust, certification through manufacturer loyalty programs like CertainTeed Master Craftsman™ certification offers contractors a proven way to rise above the competition while delivering better results for every customer. 

Read part 3 to learn how contractor programs power the future of the industry.

By Jenny Yu.  

From stricter reflectivity requirements to smarter energy use, CertainTeed is helping builders meet evolving codes and deliver sustainable solutions to create a more livable world.  

When it comes to sustainable building and roofing design, few states set the standard like California. But what exactly are Title 24 and Title 31, and why do they matter for contractors, building owners and manufacturers? This is what The Coffee Shops™ Senior Writer Dani Sheehan and I set out to learn when we spoke with Jonathan Schulz, district sales manager for commercial roofing at CertainTeed.   

Jonathan began by explaining that Title 24 is part of the California Building Standards Code, which sets minimum energy efficiency requirements along with other construction standards. The regulation first emerged in response to the energy crisis of the late 1970s. “We had the oil embargo with Iran, when energy costs were going through the roof,” Jonathan explained. “California looked at itself and said, ‘We have to somehow make energy more affordable.’ The best way we can do that is by enforcing energy efficiency when it comes to buildings.” 

To achieve that, California was divided into 16 climate zones, each with its own energy code requirements based on local temperature patterns and environmental conditions. This zoning ensures that a building in a desert climate in Southern California doesn’t have the same energy standards as one in the Bay Area.  

As energy demands evolve, so have California Green Building Standards. Title 31, also known as the cool roofs code established in 2018 in Los Angeles County, was built on the foundation of Title 24 by introducing more stringent energy efficient measures — particularly around a roof’s ability to reflect heat. Title 31 requires certain roofing materials to be more reflective to combat the urban heat island effect, where dark surfaces like asphalt and concrete absorb heat and increase surrounding temperatures by as much as 20 to 30 degrees.  

“Title 31 is Los Angeles County’s rulebook for building cooler, greener and cleaner buildings — especially roofs that reflect sunlight to save energy and fight city heat,” Jonathan said. “It made requirements stronger to bring down energy costs and cooling costs. They update it every three years. As technologies change and temperatures get warmer, code needs to be more stringent. We need to make buildings more efficient.” 

These codes don’t just benefit the environment; they improve the comfort and cost-efficiency of the spaces people live and work in. “The overall goal of California’s codes is to make buildings more efficient so that our communities are more livable,” Jonathan added. “If you can reflect heat off a roof, then you don't need as much insulation, you don't need to run your air conditioning unit as much and you're able to really cut down on your energy costs.”   

To help realize the goal making spaces more livable, CertainTeed has developed roofing products like their Flintlastic® GTA CoolStar® Ultra and Flintlastic GTA-FR CoolStar Ultra, both of which meet Title 24 and Title 31 requirements while providing a durable, reflective roofing solution that supports long-term energy savings. CertainTeed is further expanding the CoolStar Ultra family with the upcoming launch of Flintlastic SA Cap CoolStar Ultra and Flintlastic SA Cap FR CoolStar Ultra to give building owners and contractors even more choices to help their projects achieve code compliance.  

While Title 24 and Title 31 are specific to California, they are inspiring cities in other states, including Texas and Florida, to develop codes that require more energy-efficient buildings. CertainTeed and its parent company Saint-Gobain stand at the forefront of innovative technologies that demonstrate their commitment to building a more sustainable future and “making the world a better home.”  

Learn more about CertainTeed’s innovative advancements and energy-efficienct solutions.