Metal Roofing Certification That Pays Off

RoofersCoffeeShop29mMarch 31, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

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.

Key Takeaways
1

Metal roofing is growing rapidly due to demand from homeowners, architects, and builders, making certification essential for contractors.

2

Training should include both technical installation skills and value-based selling to help contractors communicate long-term benefits like durability and energy efficiency.

3

Avoid learning on the job—certification programs like Western States’ offer hands-on, real-world training to prevent costly mistakes.

4

A strong manufacturer partnership provides critical support, including on-site visits, custom design capabilities, and marketing resources.

5

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

Chapters
0:00
2 min

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.

2:00
3 min

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.

5:00
5 min

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.

Highlight
10:00
7 min

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.

Highlight
17:00
7 min

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.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
If you can think of it, we can pretty much make it here.
Ray Kimball19:08
Viral: 90.0
Don't learn on the roof. That's number one.
Ray Kimball26:31
Viral: 88.0
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.
Ray Kimball14:35
Viral: 85.0
Speakers

Host

Heidi Ellsworth

Guest

Ray Kimball
Topics Discussed
Metal Roofing Certification95%Contractor Training and Education90%Manufacturer Support for Contractors88%Long-Term Value and Lifecycle Costs86%Value-Based Selling in Roofing85%Transitioning from Asphalt to Metal82%Metal Roofing Trends and Aesthetics80%Myths About Metal Roofing75%
People & Brands

Western States Metal Roofing

organization

22xNeutral

Ray Kimball

person

15xPositive

Heidi Ellsworth

person

10xPositive

Mike and Stacey

person

8xPositive

Stacy Rubio

person

6xPositive

Roofing Road Trips

media

5xPositive

Phoenix

place

4xNeutral

Marines

organization

3xNeutral

Arizona

place

3xNeutral

Roofer's Coffee Shop

organization

3xPositive

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