In 1989, the domestic asphalt shingle manufacturers in Canada met and formed the Canadian Asphalt Shingle Manufacturers' Association (CASMA). A core list of seven objectives was adopted, the first of which was "To ensure that the production and distribution of asphalt shingles in Canada occurs at the highest plane of efficiency, effectiveness and public service." Over the years, membership has also included associate members involved in the manufacture and supply of raw materials used in the production of shingles.
Over the past 30+ years, CASMA has provided excellent service to the Canadian shingle industry in fulfilling its core objectives. Canadian homeowners, and roofing professionals routinely submitted technical questions to the CASMA web site seeking objective and accurate roofing information. Technical staff from CASMA member companies developed over 30 technical bulletins addressing a wide range of roofing topics, which have been viewed and downloaded by thousands of people both within and outside Canada.
The North American marketplace has become almost 'borderless', as asphalt shingles continue to be the most popular steep slope roofing option not only for Canadians, but for North Americans. Canadian consumers can choose from a wide variety of domestic or foreign-produced shingles which comply with consensus industry standards and building code requirements. A sister association, ARMA (Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (in which the Canadian manufacturers are members)) provides leadership in achieving common North American industry goals. ARMA has many additional members who are manufacturers, is involved with both residential (sloped roofing) and commercial (flat roofing) asphalt products, and addresses the needs of the North American industry, rather than just one geographic area.
Given all of the foregoing, CASMA's Board recently met and determined that it is time for the Association to end. The formal steps required to dissolve CASMA are proceeding immediately. There is confidence that the needs of the roofing industry and Canadian shingle consumers will continue to be met by individual producers, in concert with affiliated industry organizations.