Training and support shape success with polyurethane coatings

By Jesse Sanchez. 

UNIFLEX® emphasizes education, safety and hands-on guidance as contractors expand into urethane systems. 

UNIFLEX® and Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions are reinforcing the role of training and jobsite support as polyurethane coatings become a more prominent part of commercial roofing strategies. During this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth spoke with Chris Underwood, product manager for UNIFLEX and CoolSeal, and Jamie Atkins, assistant product manager for UNIFLEX, about how education, safety and hands-on guidance support the successful use of urethane systems such as Urethane 88. 

Chris said polyurethane coatings demand a higher level of preparation than more familiar coating types, particularly when it comes to safety. He noted, “You want to make sure you have the proper equipment when you’re handling it.” He emphasized that crews must take protective measures seriously, stating that “any exposed flesh should be covered” and that the materials “can be very dangerous if you don’t use them properly.” 

From an application perspective, Chris said urethane systems are flexible and familiar for experienced crews. “It can be sprayed or it can be rolled on,” he said, adding that application methods are “almost in the same manner as you would apply a silicone coating.” That similarity can help ease the transition for contractors who are expanding into polyurethane systems for the first time. 

To ensure contractors are prepared, UNIFLEX has integrated formal education into its product strategy. “We call it UNIFLEX University,” Chris shared. He explained that the program introduces contractors to UNIFLEX products while providing the training needed to qualify for warranties. He added, “The urethane is a part of that course, and you’ll get trained on that.” 

Training support extends beyond formal programs and into how contractors access products and guidance in the field. Jamie pointed to UNIFLEX’s distribution model as part of that hands-on support structure. “UNIFLEX products are sold exclusively through Sherwin-Williams stores,” he said, noting that local access helps contractors get the resources and assistance they need as they apply polyurethane systems on active jobsites and evaluate roof conditions before installation. 

After installation, UNIFLEX emphasizes continuity and reduced ongoing burden for contractors and building owners alike. Jamie framed post-application value in terms of long-term performance and fewer return visits. “You’re going to apply a product that is going to last for a long time and you’re not going to need to worry about getting back up there for a while,” he said, focusing how durability and proper application help minimize follow-up issues after the job is complete. 

By pairing structured training with jobsite and post-installation assistance, UNIFLEX aims to help contractors adopt polyurethane coatings with confidence while delivering long-term value to building owners. 

Learn more about UNIFLEX training resources and contractor support for polyurethane coating systems!