BY KAREN KNAPSTEIN

Fall means falling leaves throughout much of the country. I’ll bet many of you roofers notice the leaves that pile up on roofs late in the year, in which case, you’ll find our cover story of interest. Jacob Prater, who is a natural science professor at the University of Wisconsin—Stevens Point, gives us a lesson in the science behind asphalt shingle decay. His lesson on asphalt begins on page 12.

You’ll also find a pair of articles about cold-weather installations. The first is a guide from the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturing Association (ARMA). It’s a technical guide of best practices for the installation of asphalt shingles during cold weather. Who better to address topics like this than the manufacturers themselves?

The second cold-weather installation article pertains to self-adhesive underlayment. We received guidance from several manufacturers; products vary, and so do the installation guidelines, so be sure to consult manufacturer guides and technical resources when executing your cold-weather roofing projects.

We’re rounding out this issue with some post-show coverage of the Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Expo. The Shield Wall Media Director of Sales, Missy Beyer, and I traveled to Daytona Beach to attend. It was my first visit to this Expo, and my first visit to Florida. The atmosphere was energizing … although this Wisconsin gal is definitely NOT used to Florida’s mid-summer heat and humidity. I had a wonderful time visiting with reps who I’ve met over the last three years. It’s also exciting that I was able to meet so many representatives of companies with which I have no history.

As a result, you’ll be “meeting” them, too … within the pages of Roofing Elements Magazine over the course of the next year. We’re wrapping up our editorial schedule for 2023, but if there are topics you’d like to see covered in our pages and on our website, be sure to send your suggestions my way!