April 2016

NRCA's 129th Annual Convention and the 2016 International Roofing Expo,® held Feb. 15-19 in Orlando, Fla., attracted the second-highest attendance. More than 9,490 visitors from around the world took advantage of opportunities to learn about the roofing industry, network with peers, and participate in service and fundraising events throughout the week.

Built in 1872, The Cathedral of St. Paul, Birmingham, Ala., has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years. During November 2013 to October 2014, Midland Engineering Co. Inc., South Bend, Ind., renovated the cathedral's roof system, taking great care to replicate banding patterns and architectural copper features to preserve the building's original Neo-Gothic design.

Some historical buildings have metal roof systems in place that have lasted for decades while some newer metal roof systems have failed in as little as five years. The key to any long-lasting residential metal roof system is the ability to accommodate thermal movement. Before installing metal roof systems, roofing contractors should understand the direction and effect of thermal movement on various metal types.

As part of its initiative to promote careers in the roofing industry, The Roofing Industry Alliance for Progress held its second annual construction management student competition during NRCA's 129th Annual Convention and the 2016 International Roofing Expo® in Orlando, Fla. Three teams of college students were tasked with preparing and presenting a qualified bid package for installing a new roof system on the Orange County Convention Center.