This company’s history dates back to a 69-year-old E.L. Craig opened a business known as TAMKO Asphalt Products. It was 1944, and an old streetcar barn in Joplin, Missouri was the site of his latest business venture. Craig had many years of experience as an entrepreneur, and the roofing business seemed to be a promising enterprise.

Craig’s wife, Mary Ethel Craig, came up with the name TAMKO. Each letter represented the first letter of a state where the company intended to do business. Those states were Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Kansas, and Oklahoma. Mrs. Craig took over for her husband in 1954 due to his health issues.

The firm has gone through several name changes, but it can best be identified as TAMKO shingles. That represents what this roofing firm does. It has always been at the forefront of the roofing business. Its products continue to be cutting edge.

Craig’s daughter, Ethelmae and her husband J.P. Humphreys, took the mantle of leadership throughout the 1950s and up to the death of Mr. Humphreys in 1993. Their son, David Craig Humphreys took over from there and led the business expansion which is part and parcel of TAMKO shingles.

One innovation was the creation of an online store for roofing contractors. The site provides numerous wearables such as hats and shirts. It also provides contractors with access to TAMKO logos. There are also programs available that provide incentives for contractors to take their business to the company.

Another leap forward for the roofing industry was the introduction of the Titan XT shingle. They were honored in 2021 for their innovative features. They are easier and quicker to install which is a vital concern for contractors. In addition, the Titan XT is manufactured to withstand extreme weather conditions.

After more than 75 years, TAMKO shingles remains dedicated to new products and is not content to rest upon its laurels. That continues the path begun in 1944 in that barn in Joplin.