RCMA Spring Meeting signals strong momentum for the roof coatings industry

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.