The survey is an industrywide effort to collect information about the reroofing market spearheaded by a coalition of trade associations.

The National Roofing Contractors Association encourages roofing professionals to join industry trade associations representing contractors, consultants and manufacturers in the U.S. and Canada in taking part in the latest Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing to evaluate business conditions during the first quarter of 2026.

For more than two years, the survey has taken the pulse of the reroofing industry and continues to serve as a regular barometer of the industry’s business conditions. By asking a handful of business questions and measuring responses across several demographics, the survey helps indicate the reroofing market’s strength and trajectory. Your response provides valuable insight.

The results of the Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing are made available to all survey participants via an online dashboard that enables users to filter results by region and other metrics.

For the previous survey that measured business activity during the fourth quarter of 2025, 75% of responses came from roofing contractors and 25% came from roof consultants.

The survey is an industrywide effort to collect information about the reroofing market spearheaded by a coalition of trade associations, including the Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association, Canadian Roofing Contractors Association, Chemical Fabrics & Film Association Inc., EPDM Roofing Association, International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants, Metal Construction Association, Metal Roofing Alliance, National Roofing Contractors Association, National Women in Roofing, Polyisocyanurate Insulation Manufacturers Association, Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association and Single Ply Roofing Industry.

The Quarterly Market Index Survey for Reroofing is available at bit.ly/RoofingSurvey. Survey responses may be submitted through April 20.

About National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)

Since 1886, the National Roofing Contractors Association has been the home for generations of entrepreneurial craftsmen and enterprises who shelter and protect America’s families and businesses and each other. Our vision is the recognition of our members as professionals and to unite the industry to that purpose. NRCA is one of the construction industry’s most respected trade associations and the voice of roofing professionals and leading authority in the roofing industry for information, education, technology and advocacy. It represents all segments of the roofing industry, including contractors; manufacturers; distributors; architects; consultants; engineers; building owners; and city, state and government agencies. For information about NRCA and its services and offerings, visit www.nrca.net.

By Dani Sheehan. 

This is advocacy in action. See what Mississippi’s House Bill 1730 means for commercial contractors. 

Earlier this year, a piece of legislation in Mississippi quietly gained momentum, but its impact would have been anything but quiet for roofing contractors. Mississippi House Bill 1730 (HB 1730) proposed a seemingly straightforward requirement: all new publicly funded buildings must have a minimum roof slope of 3:12. This would have reshaped how public buildings are designed and roofed for Mississippi and potentially elsewhere. 

A simple requirement with complex consequences 

For anyone in commercial roofing, the implications of this bill are clear. A 3:12 minimum slope would have effectively eliminated low-slope roofing systems from publicly funded projects like schools, hospitals and government buildings. What made the proposal especially challenging wasn’t just the restriction itself, but what it overlooked. Low-slope systems have a long, proven track record. They’re widely used because they work – both from a performance standpoint and a cost perspective. 

By introducing a one-size-fits-all requirement, the bill risked creating a ripple effect: limiting design flexibility, conflicting with established building codes and potentially increasing costs without delivering measurable benefits. 

When the industry comes together 

As the bill moved through the Mississippi House, the response from the roofing industry was swift and unified. The Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) joined forces with the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC), working alongside the Coalition for Sustainable Roofing to present a clear message to lawmakers.  

Roofing systems, they explained, aren’t interchangeable. The right solution depends on the building, the environment and the intended use. Mandating a single approach ignores the realities contractors and designers navigate every day. By backing that perspective with technical data, real-world performance history and practical cost considerations, the coalition helped to reframe the conversation. 

After passing the House, HB1730 ultimately failed to advance in the Senate, halting the mandate before it could take effect. This is a huge win for contractors in Mississippi, whose projects can continue to be designed with the flexibility they require, using systems that make sense for each building. Just as importantly, it avoids introducing unnecessary cost pressures on publicly funded construction, where budgets already face scrutiny. 

Why this moment matters beyond Mississippi 

It would be easy to see this as a localized issue and move on, but the broader implications tell a different story. At its core, this was a question of who gets to shape roofing decisions. When policies are created without input from the people doing the work, they risk missing the mark in ways that might easily be overlooked. This outcome reinforces the value of contractor expertise in those conversations. It also protects something fundamental to our industry: the ability to choose the right system for the job. 

There’s also a bigger takeaway in how this unfolded. No single company or organization drove the result. It was the alignment of manufacturers, contractors, consultants and associations speaking with a consistent, fact-based message. 

Legislation like HB 1730 often starts with good intentions. But as this situation shows, even well-meaning proposals can have unintended consequences when they don’t fully account for real-world applications. The impact of these decisions shapes the systems you can install, costs you have to manage and the way projects come together from start to finish. 

When the industry stays informed, participates through trusted associations and brings field experience to the conversation, it can influence outcomes in meaningful ways. Mississippi is a clear example of that. 

And it’s a reminder that protecting the integrity of our industry doesn’t happen passively – it happens when we choose to show up.

From packed aisles and live demonstrations to soundstage interviews and meaningful conversations, WOC 2026 showcased the innovation and heart of the industry. 

World of Concrete (WOC) 2026 defined the scale and energy of the construction trades coming together this year. Our crew had the unique opportunity to be present at both the International Roofing Expo (IRE) and World of Concrete, moving between two massive shows, two soundstages and countless conversations. Here’s a closer look at how it went and what it means to capture the stories that matter most to the industry. 

For Heidi J. Ellsworth, president and CEO of The Coffee Shops™, the week was all about participation: 

We were able to really tell the stories of those in this industry through interviews on the floor, live conversations on our soundstage and just through all the activities that we participated in, from National Women in Roofing Day to Roof Coating Manufacturers Association (RCMA) meeting, ROOFPAC, Roofing Alliance Student Competition and RT3 panel. I feel that we not only told the stories, but we participated in a way that really helps to elevate the industry.  

It was a truly spectacular week, and big shout out to Informa and NRCA for everything that they do to make this show such a success.  

Experiencing the scale and energy 

Moving between both shows gave the crew a front-row seat to the size, diversity and momentum of the construction and coatings industries. Dani Sheehan, content strategist, described the experience of opening day at WOC: 

Day one, when everything opened, Camden and I had the chance to walk the show floor and people were literally shoulder to shoulder. You couldn’t move; it felt like a school of fish just moving through the crowd, but the energy was palpable. It was so cool to see it, to witness it and to watch as that energy carried into conversations and demonstrations with our partners. 

World of Concrete offered the opportunity to explore new dimensions of familiar brands. Dani and Camden highlighted time spent with manufacturers and coatings experts: 

Our first interview of the day was Sika. Learning about all their wall coatings and the trainings they lead was really interesting – it was a part of their business I was unfamiliar with. Then, we got to hang out in the outdoor demonstration area with our friends from ICP Group. APF Polymer Surfaces and Pli-Dek were there showing us some amazing decorative floor coatings. It was almost hard to get to the interview because so many people were at the demo. We loved engaging in these conversations and having the chance to ask them questions in real time. 

Bringing the industry together 

While much of her week centered around IRE, Karen Edwards, COO of The Coffee Shops, had some time to experience WOC firsthand, emphasizing that whether our crew is on the soundstage or walking the show floor, the mission remained the same: 

In the last two hours of the show, I was able to go over to WOC with Heidi, visit some existing customers, talk to some new customers and really see the size and breadth of the show. It’s really impressive and incredible. We’ve been using the tagline recently, ‘Your industry, Your stories,’ and that’s our goal, really, is to focus on the industry, telling the stories, having those conversations, sharing those interviews and uplifting the entire industry. 

For Karol Weyman, product and business development director, WOC was unlike anything she had experienced before: 

World of Concrete did not disappoint — it was the largest show I’ve attended in my career. CoatingsCoffeeShop™ was located right in the lobby, and we had an incredible number of people stop by to share their stories. The passion across the industry was contagious. My role at the show was to oversee the booth and serve as a soundstage host, which gave me the opportunity to connect with contractors who have been in the industry for over 40 years, as well as manufacturers, distributors and service providers who are truly committed to supporting and advancing the industry. We also attended several outstanding charity-focused events, which reinforced one clear takeaway: this is an industry that genuinely values giving back and paying it forward. 

Evelyn Witterholt, content developer, shared a similar sentiment: 

World of Concrete lives up to its name, both in size and impact. It was our first time exhibiting at WOC and being positioned in the lobby meant we got to be on the frontlines of this incredible show. We got to meet people from all sectors of the industry, many of which were excited to talk to us about their businesses. With three indoor halls and two outdoor exhibits, there was plenty of exploring to do at the show. I particularly enjoyed watching the concrete double disc trowel agility course competition. I can't wait to see what WOC 2027 has in store! 

Training, competition and innovation 

From outdoor exhibits to emerging technology, innovation was everywhere. Megan Ellsworth, multimedia director, was struck by how much hands-on learning and competition took place throughout the event: 

There was the brick layer competition, and that was super fun to watch all the brick laying teams competing out in the bronze lot exhibit area working so hard to get every brick laid right.

The outdoor exhibits were my favorite – it was really cool to see big name brands like DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee and even more! One thing that I love that is growing in the trades right now is women joining crews. There weren't many out there, but there were more than I have ever seen before, and I loved seeing that. I spoke to so many companies that were exploring the world of 3D printing, especially with concrete and that fascinated me. Quikrete was a standout in their capabilities of 3D printing with concrete, and the creations they had on display were somewhat mind-blowing. It is brilliant to see the innovations and what will be taken back home with contractors from the show and how the building trades industry grows after shows like World of Concrete. 

For our crew, World of Concrete was inspiring to participate in – listening, learning and amplifying the voices shaping what comes next. 

Check out our YouTube playlist for more insights from industry experts!

Desde pasillos llenos y demostraciones en vivo hasta entrevistas en el set y conversaciones significativas, WOC 2026 mostró la innovación y el corazón de la industria.  

World of Concrete (WOC) 2026 definió la escala y energía de los oficios de la construcción que se reunieron este año. Nuestro equipo tuvo la oportunidad única de estar presente tanto en la International Roofing Expo (IRE) como en World of Concrete, moviéndose entre dos enormes ferias, dos escenarios y un sinfín de conversaciones. Aquí tienes un vistazo más de cerca de cómo nos fue y lo que significa capturar las historias que más importan para la industria. 

Para Heidi J. Ellsworth, presidenta y directora ejecutiva de The Coffee Shops™, la semana se centró en la participación: 

Pudimos realmente contar las historias de quienes forman esta industria a través de entrevistas en el piso, conversaciones en vivo en nuestro escenario y todas las actividades en las que participamos, desde el National Women in Roofing Day hasta la reunión de Roof Coating Manufacturers Association (RCMA), ROOFPAC, la competencia estudiantil de Roofing Alliance y el panel de RT3. Siento que no solo contamos las historias, sino que participamos de una manera que realmente ayuda a elevar la industria. 

Fue una semana verdaderamente espectacular y un gran agradecimiento a Informa y NRCA por todo lo que hacen para hacer de este evento un éxito. 

Experimentando la escala y la energía 

Moverse entre ambas ferias le dio al equipo una vista privilegiada del tamaño, la diversidad y el impulso de las industrias de la construcción y recubrimientos. Dani Sheehan, estratega de contenido, describió la experiencia del día de apertura en WOC: 

El primer día, cuando todo abrió, Camden y yo tuvimos la oportunidad de caminar por el piso de la feria y la gente literalmente estaba hombro con hombro. No podías moverte; se sentía como una escuela de peces moviéndose entre la multitud, pero la energía era palpable. Fue muy genial verlo, presenciarlo y observar cómo esa energía fluía hacia las conversaciones y demostraciones con nuestros socios. 

World of Concrete ofreció la oportunidad de explorar nuevas dimensiones de marcas conocidas. Dani y Camden destacaron el tiempo que pasaron con fabricantes y expertos en recubrimientos: 

Nuestra primera entrevista del día fue con Sika. Aprender sobre todos sus recubrimientos para paredes y las capacitaciones que ofrecen fue realmente interesante; era una parte de su negocio que yo no conocía. Luego, estuvimos en el área de demostraciones al aire libre con nuestros amigos de ICP Group. APF Polymer Surfaces y Pli-Dek estaban allí mostrándonos increíbles recubrimientos decorativos para pisos. Casi fue difícil llegar a la entrevista porque había tanta gente en la demostración. Nos encantó participar en estas conversaciones y tener la oportunidad de hacer preguntas en tiempo real.

Uniendo a la industria 

Aunque gran parte de su semana estuvo centrada en IRE, Karen Edwards, directora de operaciones de The Coffee Shops, tuvo tiempo para experimentar WOC de primera mano, enfatizando que ya sea en el escenario o caminando por la feria, la misión seguía siendo la misma: 

En las últimas dos horas del evento, pude ir a WOC con Heidi, visitar algunos clientes existentes, hablar con nuevos clientes y realmente ver el tamaño y la amplitud de la feria. Es realmente impresionante e increíble. Hemos estado usando el lema recientemente, ‘Tu industria, Tus historias’ y ese es realmente nuestro objetivo: enfocarnos en la industria, contar las historias, tener esas conversaciones, compartir esas entrevistas y elevar a toda la industria. 

Para Karol Weyman, directora de desarrollo de productos y negocios, WOC fue algo como nunca antes había experimentado: 

World of Concrete no decepcionó: fue la feria más grande a la que he asistido en mi carrera. CoatingsCoffeeShop™ estaba ubicado justo en el lobby y tuvimos un número increíble de personas que se acercaron para compartir sus historias. La pasión en toda la industria era contagiosa. Mi rol en el evento fue supervisar el stand y servir como presentadora del escenario, lo que me dio la oportunidad de conectar con contratistas con más de 40 años en la industria, así como con fabricantes, distribuidores y proveedores de servicios verdaderamente comprometidos con apoyar y avanzar la industria. También asistimos a varios eventos benéficos excepcionales, que reforzaron una conclusión clara: esta es una industria que genuinamente valora retribuir y apoyar a los demás. 

Evelyn Witterholt, desarrolladora de contenido, compartió un sentimiento similar: 

World of Concrete hace honor a su nombre, tanto en tamaño como en impacto. Fue nuestra primera vez exhibiendo en WOC y estar ubicados en el lobby significó que estuvimos en primera línea de este increíble evento. Conocimos a personas de todos los sectores de la industria, muchos de los cuales estaban emocionados de hablar con nosotros sobre sus negocios. Con tres salas interiores y dos exhibiciones al aire libre, hubo mucho por explorar. Particularmente disfruté ver la competencia de agilidad con la llana de doble disco para concreto. ¡No puedo esperar para ver lo que WOC 2027 tiene preparado! 

Capacitación, competencia e innovación 

Desde exhibiciones al aire libre hasta tecnología emergente, la innovación estaba en todas partes. Megan Ellsworth, directora de multimedia, quedó impactada por la cantidad de aprendizaje práctico y competencia presente durante el evento: 

Hubo la competencia de albañiles y fue muy divertido ver a todos los equipos compitiendo en el área de exhibición “Bronze Lot,” trabajando tan duro para colocar cada ladrillo correctamente.

Las exhibiciones al aire libre fueron mis favoritas: fue genial ver marcas tan grandes como DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee y ¡muchas más! Algo que amo y que está creciendo en los oficios es que más mujeres se unen a los equipos. No había muchas, pero sí más de las que he visto antes y me encantó verlo. Hablé con muchas empresas que estaban explorando el mundo de la impresión 3D, especialmente con concreto y eso me fascinó. Quikrete se destacó por sus capacidades de impresión 3D con concreto y las creaciones que tenían en exhibición eran realmente impresionantes. Es brillante ver las innovaciones y lo que los contratistas llevarán de vuelta a casa después del evento y cómo la industria de la construcción sigue creciendo gracias a ferias como World of Concrete. 

Para nuestro equipo, World of Concrete fue inspirador de principio a fin: escuchar, aprender y amplificar las voces que están dando forma a lo que viene. 

¡Explora nuestra lista de videos en YouTube para obtener más información y consejos de expertos de la industria!

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn how roofing associations are able to strengthen the industry by uniting our voices. 

Looking at the news today, it is impossible to ignore the continuous fluctuation of immigration policies in the United States. This nebulous environment has had a devastating impact on the roofing and construction industries where it is estimated that one in three workers are foreign-born. Here at The Coffee Shops™, we have heard stories from across the industry of raids and other harsh policy implementations that are harming crews and industry professionals who are just trying to do their jobs.  

But there are ways that we as an industry can come together to create a better future where borders are secure and our hardworking roofers are protected. To learn how industry leaders and associations are working towards this goal, we sat down with Will Lorenz of General Coatings for an episode of Roofing Road Trips®. 

The importance of associations 

Will is the president of General Coatings and an active member of many industry associations, such as the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) and National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). In each of these different facets of his professional life, immigration policy has been a huge topic of discussion, and one he has taken seriously. He shared, “The big thing is that these aren’t just local issues, they’re federal. So, to figure out how to navigate them, associations are key.”  

Why are associations so important for issues like this? As Will explained, they have the ability and resources to listen to each individual member and turn those concerns and opinions into cohesive, group action. As Will puts it, “Associations bring together contractors and manufacturers from every area to share what's important to them and what can help the economy grow so we can all work towards getting more people roofs that keep them clean and dry.” 

NRCA and the Dignity Act 

A great example of a roofing association unifying industry voices is the NRCA’s support of the Dignity Act. The Dignity Act is a bipartisan effort to create legal paths for foreign-born workers in the U.S. The bill was brought to the House of Representatives by Veronica Escobar (D-TX) and Maria Salazar (R-FL). Representative Salazar explained the goal of the Act:  

The Dignity Act of 2025 is a revolutionary bill that offers the solution to our immigration crisis: Secure the border, stop illegal immigration and provide an earned opportunity for long-term immigrants to stay here and work. No amnesty. No handouts. No citizenship. Just accountability and a path to stability for our economy and our future. 

Will added, “The Dignity Act is about people who are already here working, not people standing at the border...These are people who are good citizens, who have clean records, who are responsible and offer benefits to America because they have capabilities that we need here to keep our economy moving forward and our industry successful.”  

By publicly supporting the Dignity Act, NRCA is helping professionals like Will get their concerns heard by policymakers on a federal level. "What I really love about NRCA and the Roofing Alliance," Will stated, "is that they're committed to not only just putting on good roofs but building the industry long term with a payback mentality to help lift people up.”  

Listen to the full episode to learn more about how to make your voice heard through industry associations.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This year’s conversations reflected continued growth in roof coatings as building owners seek sustainable, cost-effective solutions and contractors look for ways to diversify their businesses.

CoatingsCoffeeShop® was proud to be a part of the Roof Coating Manufacturer Association (RCMA) 2026 meeting in Las Vegas. As an RCMA partner and sponsor, our team attended the event to connect with the industry, participate in educational sessions and continue our mission of supporting contractors through information, technology and collaboration. 

With Megan Ellsworth moderating a key panel discussion, CoatingsCoffeeShop had the opportunity to engage directly with roof coating manufacturers, material suppliers, contractors and consultants who are shaping the future of roof restoration. 

The RCMA annual meeting serves as an important gathering for the roof coating industry, providing a platform for open dialogue, education and reporting on the state of the market. The 2026 meeting was proudly sponsored by Western Colloid whose continued support helps make these important industry conversations possible. 

This year’s conversations reflected continued growth in roof coatings as building owners seek sustainable, cost-effective solutions and contractors look for ways to diversify their businesses. 

Throughout the day, attendees participated in educational sessions focused on sustainability, technology, safety and profitability. One session highlighted RCMA’s Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) initiatives and how industry-wide EPDs are helping manufacturers improve transparency and consistency while supporting long-term sustainability goals. 

Technology also played a central role in the discussions with sessions focused on roof diagnostics, measurement accuracy and tools that support smarter decision making. These conversations reinforced the importance of data and documentation in delivering successful coating projects. 

A highlight of the day was a presentation by Will Lorenz, president of General Coatings, who shared the story of using roof coatings on one of the most recognizable architectural focal points in Las Vegas. The project involved a complex sphere-shaped structure that required both spray foam and roof coatings to achieve performance, protection and long-term durability. 

Will walked attendees through the unique challenges of working on curved architecture, the importance of selecting the right materials and how application methods played a critical role in the project’s success. The presentation showcased real-world problem solving and emphasized how coatings can be used creatively and effectively on complex structures when paired with proper planning and expertise.  

Another highlight of the meeting was the panel discussion titled The Competitive Edge, moderated by Megan Ellsworth of CoatingsCoffeeShop. Panelists included Josh Poole with Tremco Construction Products Group and RCMA president, Ryan Blad with 838 Coatings, Chris Huettig with KARNAK Corporation and Cody Wilson with Unicoat Industrial Roofing Corp. 

The panel explored how coatings are helping contractors grow their businesses while providing effective solutions for building owners. Panelists shared how restoration systems extend roof life, reduce disruption and offer owners alternatives to full replacement. 

A strong theme throughout the discussion was the growing number of residential roofing contractors entering the commercial market and finding roof coatings to be a natural starting point. Coatings allow contractors to expand into commercial work without the same level of labor demands, equipment investment or jobsite disruption required for full reroofing. 

As more contractors make this transition, training was emphasized as essential. Onsite training supports proper application, improves crew confidence and ensures contractors get the most from both materials and equipment. Well-trained crews deliver better performance and stronger outcomes for customers. 

The panel also addressed how coatings create opportunities for recurring revenue through maintenance programs, helping contractors build long-term relationships with building owners while stabilizing workflow. 

Equipment selection was another key topic with discussion around spray rigs, rollers and application strategies. Contractors shared the importance of aligning equipment choices with business goals and gradually introducing spraying into operations. One of the most common contractor requests discussed was the growing need for sprayable mastics to improve efficiency and consistency. 

Labor savings were identified as one of the strongest business drivers behind coatings. Compared to full replacement, coating systems can reduce crew size, shorten project timelines and improve overall productivity. 

Panelists also emphasized the importance of evaluating roof conditions honestly before recommending a coating system. Moisture testing and clear communication with building owners are essential. Coatings are not the right solution for every roofand transparency builds long-term trust. 

Cody in particular highlighted the value of working closely with manufacturer representatives during roof walks and evaluations. When contractors and manufacturers collaborate onsite, stronger diagnostics are achieved and better recommendations can be made. This partnership ultimately leads to better outcomes for building owners. 

Manufacturers shared how they continue to support contractors through onsite assistance, evaluations and technical diagnostics. This collaborative approach ensures coating systems are installed correctly and perform as intended. 

CoatingsCoffeeShop is proud to partner with RCMA and sponsor the association as part of our commitment to advancing education, communication and connection across the roof coating industry. Events like the RCMA meeting reinforce the importance of bringing the industry together to share knowledge and support contractor success. 

As the meeting concluded, one message stood out clearly, roof coatings are not simply a product category, they are a strategic solution helping contractors grow, diversify and deliver long-term value to building owners. 

For more information about the Roof Coating Manufacturer Association visit www.roofcoatings.org and for ongoing industry news, education and contractor resources visit CoatingsCoffeeShop.com. 

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Collaboration, innovation and contractor engagement highlight a strong start to the year.

The Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) started the year with energy and purpose, hosting a highly successful Spring Meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada, alongside its participation at the International Roofing Expo (IRE). The week brought together manufacturers, suppliers and contractors and industry leaders for meaningful conversations focused on innovation, collaboration and the future of roof coatings.

RCMA extended appreciation to the attendees, presenters, sponsors, exhibitors, committee chairs and members whose engagement helped shape a productive event. Their continued involvement is a testament to the association’s mission to advance the roof coatings industry through technical leadership, advocacy and education.

One of the most significant announcements from the meeting was the launch of RCMA’s new Contractor Membership category, expanding the association’s reach by formally welcoming roofing contractors into the community and strengthening alignment across the entire coatings value chain. The move reflects a growing recognition that collaboration between manufacturers and applicators is essential for driving best practices, quality standards and long-term performance.

Marking the occasion, Unicoat Industrial Roofing of Bradenton, Florida, was introduced as RCMA’s first contractor member. President Cody Wilson accepted the membership certificate from RCMA President Josh Poole during the meeting, symbolizing a new chapter for the association and increased contractor representation within the organization.

Education, innovation and real-world success stories

A highlight of the Spring Meeting was an engaging panel moderated by Megan Ellsworth of CoatingsCoffeeShop®. The session brought together suppliers and contractors to discuss how roofing companies can grow their businesses by adding roof coatings and liquid-applied systems to their offerings. Delivered in a dynamic Q&A format, the panel encouraged audience participation and provided practical insights on diversification, profitability and meeting evolving building owner needs.

Attendees also heard from Will Lorenz of General Coatings, who presented a compelling project spotlight featuring the application of spray polyurethane foam and coatings on a spherical centerpiece structure in Las Vegas. The presentation demonstrated how the combined system delivered an ideal balance of durability, energy performance and long-term protection, underscoring the versatility of spray foam and coatings for complex architectural designs.

The Spring Meeting was proudly sponsored by Western Colloid, whose support helped make the educational programming and industry collaboration possible.

Technical guidance supports growing metal roofing market

RCMA also unveiled Coatings Tech Note 5, a new resource dedicated to best practices for metal roof maintenance and coating applications. As metal roofing continues to gain traction for its durability and longevity, proper evaluation and coating strategies remain critical to maximizing system performance.

The tech note delivers expert recommendations on coating options such as acrylics, polyurethanes and modified asphalt, along with guidance on rust identification, seam and fastener inspections, priming, cleaning and recoat techniques. Whether addressing aging galvanized steel, Galvalume® panels or exposed fastener systems, the document is designed to help industry professionals extend roof life while improving energy efficiency.

Supplier spotlight: Innovation driving the market

The meeting also highlighted the contributions of supplier members helping move the industry forward.

H.B. Fuller, a global leader with more than 130 years of expertise in adhesives, sealants and specialty chemicals, continues to innovate across construction and clean energy markets while delivering responsive service and long-term customer partnerships.

Ravago Chemicals, serving more than 15,000 customers across 24 countries, brings creative technical solutions and a relationship-driven approach to the specialty chemical sector. With over 50 years in North America, the company remains focused on quality, sustainability and innovation.

Get involved and help shape the future of roof coatings

RCMA committees continue to address critical priorities including regulatory developments, environmental product declarations, field studies and technical standards while the Communications, Membership and Education Committee drives industry engagement and growth initiatives such as Roof Coatings Day. At the same time, RCMA’s industry-wide Environmental Product Declaration project is entering its final phase, built on the Product Category Rule published in November 2025 that establishes a 75-year expected service life, incorporates fabric systems and defines service life tiers based on dry film thickness. Draft industry-average EPDs are now in development with final data due February 28, 2026, followed by internal and external reviews.

For professionals looking to play a larger role in the industry, joining one of RCMA’s committees offers a direct path to influencing the future of roof coatings while collaborating with leading experts across the market. Now is the time to be a part of the organization advancing innovation, advocacy and technical excellence. Whether you are a manufacturer, supplier, contractor or industry professional, membership provides access to critical resources, research and a powerful network committed to elevating industry standards.

Learn more about the benefits of membership and how to join by visiting www.roofcoatings.org.

By Jenny Yu.  

By combining data transparency, advocacy and education, RCMA helps members lead innovation in the roof coatings industry. 

Since 2004, the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) has offered its members a unique resource to help them better understand market trends across the roof coatings industry: the RCMA Gallon Report. This quarterly report compiles production data from participating manufacturer members, providing an overview of the total volume of roof coatings produced and distributed by category. 

The Gallon Report serves as a benchmark for members, helping them gauge industry activity and assess shifts in production across various coating types. By contributing data to this confidential report, member companies gain access to an aggregated view of the market that is unavailable elsewhere. It’s one of RCMA’s most valued member benefits, offering insights that can help guide strategic planning and product development decisions. 

RCMA recently announced that the latest Gallon Report is now available for members to view and download through the RCMA Member Center. The organization notes that the report’s results reflect participation from its member manufacturers and may fluctuate due to changes in membership, acquisitions or other market factors. 

Each quarter, RCMA’s research partner, BRX Research, compiles and analyzes the submitted data to produce a consistent and reliable snapshot of industry production. Data requests for the third-quarter report were distributed October 7 by Eric Bourgeois of BRX Research. Members are encouraged to submit their data promptly to ensure timely publication of the report. Any updates to a company’s reporting contact should be shared with both Eric (ebourgeois@brxresearch.com) and Rock Miller (rmiller@roofcoatings.org). 

Beyond the Gallon Report, RCMA membership includes a wide range of benefits designed to support manufacturers and suppliers throughout the roof coatings industry. Members gain access to legislative and regulatory advocacy on issues such as volatile organic compound (VOC) regulations, federal legislation and environmental compliance. The association also offers technical education, research updates and opportunities to shape industry standards. 

Through initiatives like the Gallon Report, RCMA continues to deliver on its mission to advance the roof coatings industry through data-driven insights, advocacy and member collaboration. 

Access the latest Gallon Report or explore additional RCMA member benefits.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Roof coatings are a strategic solution helping contractors grow, diversify and deliver long-term value to building owners.

CoatingsCoffeeShop® was proud to be a part of the Roof Coating Manufacturer Association (RCMA) 2026 meeting in Las Vegas. As an RCMA partner and sponsor, our team attended the event to connect with the industry, participate in educational sessions and continue our mission of supporting contractors through information, technology and collaboration. 

With Megan Ellsworth moderating a key panel discussion, CoatingsCoffeeShop had the opportunity to engage directly with roof coating manufacturers, material suppliers, contractors and consultants who are shaping the future of roof restoration. 

The RCMA annual meeting serves as an important gathering for the roof coating industry, providing a platform for open dialogue, education and reporting on the state of the market. The 2026 meeting was proudly sponsored by Western Colloid, whose continued support helps make these important industry conversations possible. 

This year’s conversations reflected continued growth in roof coatings as building owners seek sustainable, cost-effective solutions and contractors look for ways to diversify their businesses. 

Throughout the day, attendees participated in educational sessions focused on sustainability, technology, safety and profitability. One session highlighted RCMA’s Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) initiatives and how industry-wide EPDs are helping manufacturers improve transparency and consistency while supporting long-term sustainability goals. 

Technology also played a central role in the discussions with sessions focused on roof diagnostics, measurement accuracy and tools that support smarter decision making. These conversations highlighted the importance of data and documentation in delivering successful coating projects. 

A highlight of the day was a presentation by Will Lorenz, president of General Coatings, who shared the story of using roof coatings on one of the most recognizable architectural focal points in Las Vegas. The project involved a complex sphere-shaped structure that required both spray foam and roof coatings to achieve performance, protection and long-term durability. 

Will walked attendees through the unique challenges of working on curved architecture, the importance of selecting the right materials and how application methods played a critical role in the project’s success. The presentation showcased real-world problem solving and emphasized how coatings can be used creatively and effectively on complex structures when paired with proper planning and expertise.  

Another highlight of the meeting was the panel discussion titled The Competitive Edge, moderated by Megan Ellsworth of CoatingsCoffeeShop. Panelists included Josh Poole with Tremco Construction Products Group, RCMA President Ryan Blad with 838 Coatings, Chris Huettig with KARNAK Corporation and Cody Wilson with Unicoat Industrial Roofing Corp. 

The panel explored how coatings are helping contractors grow their businesses while providing effective solutions for building owners. Panelists shared how restoration systems extend roof life, reduce disruption and offer owners alternatives to full replacement. 

A strong theme throughout the discussion was the growing number of residential roofing contractors entering the commercial market and finding roof coatings to be a natural starting point. Coatings allow contractors to expand into commercial work without the same level of labor demands, equipment investment or jobsite disruption required for full re-roofing. 

As more contractors make this transition, training was emphasized as essential. Onsite training supports proper application, improves crew confidence and ensures contractors get the most from both materials and equipment. Well-trained crews deliver better performance and stronger outcomes for customers. 

The panel also addressed how coatings create opportunities for recurring revenue through maintenance programs, helping contractors build long-term relationships with building owners while stabilizing workflow. 

Equipment selection was another key topic with discussion around spray rigs, rollers and application strategies. Contractors shared the importance of aligning equipment choices with business goals and gradually introducing spraying into operations. One of the most common contractor requests discussed was the growing need for sprayable mastics to improve efficiency and consistency. 

Labor savings were identified as one of the strongest business drivers behind coatings. Compared to full replacements, coating systems can reduce crew size, shorten project timelines and improve overall productivity. 

Panelists also emphasized the importance of evaluating roof conditions honestly before recommending a coating system. Moisture testing and clear communication with building owners are essential. Coatings are not the right solution for every roof and transparency builds long-term trust. 

Cody highlighted the value of working closely with manufacturer representatives during roof walks and evaluations. When contractors and manufacturers collaborate on the jobsite, stronger diagnostics are achieved and better recommendations can be made. This partnership ultimately leads to better outcomes for building owners. 

Manufacturers shared how they continue to support contractors through assistance, evaluations and technical diagnostics. This collaborative approach ensures coating systems are installed correctly and perform as intended. 

CoatingsCoffeeShop is proud to partner with RCMA and sponsor the association as part of our commitment to advancing education, communication and connection across the roof coating industry. Events like the RCMA meeting reinforce the importance of bringing the industry together to share knowledge and support contractor success. 

As the meeting concluded, one message stood out clearly. Roof coatings are not simply a product category, they are a strategic solution helping contractors grow, diversify and deliver long-term value to building owners. 

For more information about the Roof Coating Manufacturer Association visit www.roofcoatings.org and for ongoing industry news, education and contractor resources visit CoatingsCoffeeShop.com. 

By Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA).

Building sustainability: How Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association EPD initiatives help roof coatings manufacturers.

Sustainability continues to be a driving force across the construction industry and roof coatings manufacturers are increasingly being asked to provide transparent and credible environmental data. This educational session offers an in depth look at the industry wide initiative led by the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) to develop an industry average Environmental Product Declaration for roof coatings.

During the presentation attendees will gain a clear and current understanding of the goals behind the EPD initiative including why an industry average approach is critical for consistency credibility and accessibility across the market. The session will walk through the methodologies being used and the framework guiding the life cycle assessment process along with the how the project is progressing. By sharing the process openly this session reinforces trust in the data and the collaborative approach being taken across the industry.

Participants will also learn about the key milestones achieved to date along with the challenges encountered and the practical solutions that have been implemented to keep the initiative moving forward. The discussion will demonstrate how industry average EPDs support manufacturers designers and building owners by providing reliable data that aligns with green building programs sustainability reporting and evolving regulatory expectations.

The session will conclude with an overview of the current project status and the next steps required to bring the EPDs to completion helping manufacturers understand how they can prepare for and benefit from the final outcomes.

Contractors and manufacturers alike are encouraged to attend this full day of educational sessions. Contractor registration is free with a promo code so do not miss out.

Register today and explore the full session agenda.

About Jack Geibig

Jack Geibig is the founder and managing director of Ecoform LLC an organization of multidisciplinary professionals dedicated to the evaluation design and development of clean products. With more than 30 years of experience in sustainability management consulting and clean product engineering Jack brings deep expertise in product innovation environmental life cycle assessment and life cycle management greenhouse gas emissions methodologies and sustainable product design.

His work spans both private and public sector collaborations including projects with Steelcase Tennent Co. NSF International Rubbermaid the Natural Stone Council the Brick Industries Alliance and the United States Environmental Protection Agency.

Prior to founding Ecoform Jack served as director of the Center for Clean Products at the University of Tennessee where he led major initiatives in life cycle assessment and standards development. He holds degrees in Environmental Engineering and Chemical Engineering and is a licensed Professional Engineer.

This session provides essential insight for anyone looking to better understand how industry collaboration around EPDs is shaping the future of sustainability in roof coatings.