At Jackson Global, we speak with commercial construction leaders daily. With firsthand insights into the challenges and strategies shaping the industry, we’ve gathered how top professionals are tackling rising material costs due to tariffs and how you can stay ahead.

It won’t come as a surprise that the commercial roofing industry is facing a major challenge: rising material costs. From steel and aluminum to asphalt and insulation, the cost of essential building materials has surged, putting pressure on roofing contractors and developers. But what’s driving these price increases, and what can the industry do to adapt?

One of the most interesting developments in the Facade industry this month is Saint-Gobain’s breakthrough in recycling solar panel glass into flat glass, in partnership with Maltha. Their pilot project, successfully completed this month, saw 75 tons of recycled solar panel glass repurposed for flat glass production. This shift towards a more circular economy has big implications for general contractors, project managers, and estimators involved in commercial construction and facade projects, as sustainable materials gain traction in the industry.

In 2025, the construction industry is shifting due to rising demand for sustainability, technological advancements, and demographic changes. Specialized qualifications and certifications are now crucial for enhancing employability and meeting future challenges.

The commercial roofing industry is undergoing a significant transformation, driven by the adoption of advanced technologies. Tools like drones, IoT-enabled systems, and project management software are no longer optional, they're essential for project managers, estimators, and operations teams looking to stay ahead in 2025.