METALCON is offering the opportunity to obtain hands-on experience observing and installing metal roofing on the trade show floor in Atlanta from Oct. 30 to Nov. 1.
For people interested in learning how to install various types of metal roofing, METALCON will offer a variety of opportunities. New to the trade show in 2024 is the Metal Construction Association’s (MCA) Metal Mastery area.
Judy Geller, vice president at METALCON, says, “Metal’s growing popularity and market share requires that contractors and installers understand the nuances and proper techniques for forming panels and installing metal roofing systems. Understanding such factors leads to improved contractor efficiency and heightened building owner satisfaction.”
In the series of clinics, presenters from MCA and Metal Roofing Alliance (MRA) will discuss industry best practices for the installation of metal shingles, standing seam roofing panels, and retrofit systems, and demonstrate proper techniques for on-site roll forming and machine maintenance.
Jeff Henry, executive director at MCA and coordinator of the Metal Mastery area, says, “MCA is getting more and more inquiries about metal roofing. Contractors have shown great interest in learning more about the proper installation techniques for metal roofing systems. METALCON provides an excellent opportunity en masse.”
Renee Ramey, executive director at MRA, says, “It makes sense that homeowners who have lived through devastating climate disasters and have experienced costly repairs or the need to reroof completely, would choose stronger, longer lasting, and more durable materials designed to better withstand severe weather extremes. We are seeing this proven out in various market research studies covering the U.S. and Canada.”
Returning to the trade show floor is the METALCON Training Zone, where John Sheridan, of Sheridan Metal Resources LLC, based in Reading, Pa., will head up demonstrations and education using a variety of mock-ups and materials including painted steel, aluminum, zinc, and copper. Sheridan’s training will focus on proper detailing and tool usage.
“We’re excited about conducting the METALCON Training Zone again,” Sheridan says. “…Our hands-on training sessions will be in English and Spanish.”
Adjacent to the Training Zone is more metal training and certification offered by the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA).
Jared Ribble, vice president, certification, at NRCA, says, “NRCA PROCertification is the roofing industry’s official badge of excellence for roof system installers. With NRCA PROCertification, the standard for roof system installation has been set, proving certified installers have the skills and extensive experience required to deliver quality installations. PROCertification is designed to recognize and verify the expertise of experienced roofers, thereby promoting professionalism and ensuring high-quality workmanship across the industry.
“The certification not only benefits individual roofers by enhancing their credibility and career prospects but also serves as a mark of quality assurance for contractors and clients. Employees can confidently hire certified roofers, knowing they meet the industry’s highest standards, which helps in reducing the risk of installation errors and potential liabilities. NRCA PROCertification aims to foster a more skilled, reliable, and safety-conscious roofing workforce, which in turn contributes to the overall advancement and reputation of the roofing industry,” Ribble adds.