Why contractors are taking a fresh look at spray foam

By Dani Sheehan. 

As more contractors look for ways to differentiate themselves, spray foam roofing offers an opportunity to do more with less. 

Tight schedules, complex details and growing competition are pushing contractors to look for systems that simplify installation without sacrificing performance. During a recent conversation at Western Roofing Expo 2025, Will Lorenz, president of General Coatings Manufacturing Corp, shared insights into why more contractors are taking a serious look at spray polyurethane foam roofing to streamline work and stay competitive in the market. 

Ask any experienced roofer where projects slow down, and the answer is usually the same: details and seams. Penetrations, flashing and irregular roof shapes are often the most time-consuming and risk-prone parts of an installation. Spray foam is applied directly onto the roof deck, expanding to seal around penetrations and irregular surfaces without relying on multiple accessories, boots or welded seams. Will further explained, “If you can make a monolithic system across it, or seal it up around penetrations, air conditioning units, solar stanchions – suddenly your cost for installing is much more competitive.” By reducing the number of components and steps required to waterproof a roof, contractors can move faster while also lowering the risk of future callbacks tied to flashing failures. 

Insulate, waterproof and flash in one system 

“Typically, a spray foam roof is a composition of three materials,” Will shared. “You put a primer down, then the spray polyurethane foam and then a protective coating on top of it.” This combination allows you to insulate, waterproof and flash the roof in a single process. And because foam is fully adhered and seamless, it eliminates many of the extra materials required with traditional membrane systems. Will continued, “Foam sprays against [every penetration or pipe], expands and seals all the way around it. So, then there’s no mechanism for water to come into the building.” 

Spray foam systems are fire-classified, compatible with non-combustible and plywood decks, and are backed by industry listings such as FM and UL. Not only do these systems provide long-term durability, but as Will explained, “Foam is something that you can tailor to the roof. You can spray it so it pitches right into the drains or out to the gutters and get [the roof] to perform [the way you want it to without extensive structural changes].”  

As you focus this year on efficiency, labor savings and long-term value, spray foam roofing is a strategic addition to your offerings. Listen to the full interview below to learn more and become a certified spray foam applicator today!