Metal Roofing Certification That Pays Off
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In this episode of Roofing Road Trips, host Heidi Ellsworth explores the growing trend of metal roofing with Ray Kimball, General Manager of Western States Metal Roofing. Ray shares how metal roofing is rapidly expanding across the U.S., driven by homeowner demand, architectural innovation, and sustainability goals. He emphasizes that while metal roofing is not inherently difficult, it requires precision and specialized knowledge—making training and certification essential for contractors transitioning from traditional roofing systems like asphalt. Western States Metal Roofing’s comprehensive certification program includes hands-on workshops, real-world job site visits, and in-depth education on panel systems, installation techniques, and value-based selling. The company also positions itself as a one-stop resource, offering custom panel profiles, 150+ color options, and extensive digital content to support contractors. Ray stresses that learning on the job is risky and costly, and that working with a supportive, experienced manufacturer is key to long-term success. The episode concludes with a strong call to action for contractors to invest in certification to stay competitive and meet rising market demand.
Metal roofing is growing rapidly due to demand from homeowners, architects, and builders, making certification essential for contractors.
Training should include both technical installation skills and value-based selling to help contractors communicate long-term benefits like durability and energy efficiency.
Avoid learning on the job—certification programs like Western States’ offer hands-on, real-world training to prevent costly mistakes.
A strong manufacturer partnership provides critical support, including on-site visits, custom design capabilities, and marketing resources.
Customization and aesthetics are major trends, with demand for concealed fasten systems, modern profiles, and unique colors driving innovation.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction to the Metal Roofing Boom
Heidi Ellsworth introduces the rising trend of metal roofing and sets the stage for a conversation with Ray Kimball from Western States Metal Roofing about the importance of training and certification in this growing sector.
Ray Kimball’s Journey and Western States Metal Roofing
Ray shares his background in the Marines and consulting, his transition into the metal roofing industry, and the family-owned culture and rapid growth of Western States Metal Roofing since 1996.
Why Training and Certification Are Critical
“It's not complicated, but it's just very precise. And it has to be done right, especially if you want the end user to be happy with the way it looks at the end.”
The Western States Certification Program in Action
“We actually have a dog house internally—it's basically just a shell—and we'll actually go out and put pieces of the roof on the siding and things like that.”
Selling Metal Roofing: Beyond Installation
“If the contractor doesn't understand the value and can't convey that, then that's going to just hinder them anyway.”
“If you can think of it, we can pretty much make it here.”
“Don't learn on the roof. That's number one.”
“It's not complicated, but it's just very precise. And it has to be done right, especially if you want the end user to be happy with the way it looks at the end.”
Host
Guest
Western States Metal Roofing
organization
Ray Kimball
person
Heidi Ellsworth
person
Mike and Stacey
person
Stacy Rubio
person
Roofing Road Trips
media
Phoenix
place
Marines
organization
Arizona
place
Roofer's Coffee Shop
organization
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