By Emma Peterson. 

This IIBEC education session is a great opportunity for contractors and other professionals interested in the legal landscape of construction. 

In just a couple weeks, March 12-15, 2026, over 1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other professionals working in the building envelope industry will convene in Sacramento, California for the 2026 International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) Convention and Tradeshow.  

This event is not only a great opportunity to network with your peers in the industry and explore an extensive expo hall full of the latest advancements in building science technology, but it is also an opportunity for you to learn from industry leaders in education sessions designed to help you grow professionally! One such session is the “State of the Industry: A Look at Contract Provisions and Other Emerging Trends” led by Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese. 

Trent is one of the leading construction lawyers in the field. With over 25 years of legal experience, Trent is licensed in nine different states and serves as general counsel for more than 10 trade associations and organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association (FRSA), Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) and Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA). 

In his IIBEC education session, which will be hosted Friday, March 13, 2026 from 9:15 a.m. to 10:30 a.m., Trent will share an up-to-date overview of the industry’s legal landscape and guide attendees through an exploration of “how recent legal developments, regulatory changesand market conditions are reshaping risk allocation, project delivery and compliance strategies.” Participants will walk away with actionable strategies that equip them to:  

• Navigate contract provisions confidently: Whether it’s scope of work, indemnification, payment terms or dispute resolution provisions, Trent’s session will help attendees recognize and navigate these key elements of a contract.  
• Analyze and respond to emerging trends: You will walk away with a better understanding of current and anticipated policy trends, such as those related to labor and immigration.  
• Evaluate risk management options: Attendees of the session will learn about evolving contract language as related to risk management for owners, general contractors and subcontractors. 
• Adapt their businesses to new market realities: Ultimately, this session will give you the skills needed to adapt your business to reflect new market realities. 

Not only is this a great opportunity for you to get a better understanding of your industry and boost your career, but Trent’s session has been approved for 1.25 IIBEC CEH and 1.25 AIA LU/Elective!  

If you haven’t already, make sure you are registered to attend the 2026 IIBEC Convention and Expo! And if you’re interested in learning more about Trent’s session or any of the other education opportunities at the show, check out the full schedule online.

By Emma Peterson. 

We sat down with roofing industry leaders to hear their thoughts about 2025 and predictions for 2026.  

For the last Coffee Conversations® of 2025, we hosted a panel of professionals from all sides of the roofing industry to reflect on 2025 and look ahead to 2026. This powerful conversation, sponsored by SRS Distribution, is a great resource for any professional moving forward in the roofing world this year. Keep reading to hear some insights from each professional.  

Trent Cotney 

Trent is the construction team lead at Adams and Reese, as well as the general counsel for industry associations such as the National Roofing Contractors Association, Western States Roofing Contractors Association and Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association.  

When asked about the roofing industry in 2025, Trent highlighted the importance of preparation in relation to challenges like immigration and tariffs. He explained, “What you're starting to see coming out of 2025 and moving into 2026 is contractors embracing the idea that preparation is key.” Whether that looks like organizing tax forms or adding supply clauses to contracts, contractors are improving when it comes to preparation in the last year according to Trent. 

This is a testament to the resilience of roofers, which Trent sees as a key force in the new year. He explained, “There's nothing more resilient than roofing... There will always be issues, struggles and hardships, but we’ve proven this year that we can course correct as they crop up. I see nothing but positivity for 2026.” 

Elizabeth Hurst 

In her role at Sherwin-Williams, Elizabeth examines external market indicators in order to help the Sherwin-Williams sales team stay competitive. She talked about the larger economic picture of the roofing industry sharing what she saw in 2025: “There a lot of uncertainty around things like tariffs that changed the game... But in response I saw a lot of leaders in the industry fall back on the adage of control what you can control.”  

In other words, Elizabeth shared about the same resilience that Trent was talking about. She explained, “A lot of leaders were investing in a growth mindset because they trusted that it was all going to work out. Their perspective was, ‘It's going to shake out, as long as I do what I need to be doing and focus on what I need to focus on.’” And that perspective is what will carry our industry through whatever 2026 throws at us and beyond. 

Steve Little 

As for Steve, he is not only the owner/head coach of K-Post Roofing and Waterproofing, but also a founding partner of National Roofing Partners, which includes over 200 contractors across the United States.  

In both these ventures, Steve has seen firsthand how contractors have risen to the challenges that Trent, Elizabeth and Patrick mentioned. He shared an example: “It's very challenging right now, but we’re seeing a lot of contractors adapt. For example, capital projects were down. In response, a lot of contractors invested in the service side of the business with coatings and other options that extend the life of the roof.”  

Additionally, as we continue to face labor challenges, whether that comes from the pre-existing shortages or more recent immigration policy changes, Steve has seen the industry come together to adapt. He explained, “The Roofing Alliance and NRCA have really come together through SkillsUSA to introduce young people to roofing. There’s also the program at Clemson’s Center for Roofing and the Merit Shop apprenticeship will launch soon...On the immigration side, Congress is working on a Dignity Bill that would allow for a seven-year work permit, which would be huge for our economy and immigrant workers... So there’s a lot to be hopeful about in the new year.”  

Patrick Garcia 

And last but not least, Patrick is responsible for “digital engineering, AI and innovation” for both SRS and Heritage. He had similar insights to Elizabeth, sharing, “This year had a variety of challenges, from labor shortages to cost pressures, but these challenges also offered opportunities.” The main opportunity? A chance to step back and truly think about and improve the collaboration between manufacturers, distributors and contractors. 

Looking ahead at 2026, Patrick hopes this collaboration continues to develop and grow. He shared, “Today, we have a more connected, data-driven ecosystem across distribution contractors and manufacturers. And as we face challenges, this connection is driving deeper conversations about creating a win-win-win mindset wherein, if the manufacturers win, the distributor wins and the contractors win... If we can achieve that, we move the whole industry forward to a more connected, inclusive and resilient future.” 

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording to hear more expert insights as we move into the new year.

By Emma Peterson. 

Enter for a chance to win a free book from industry leader and expert Trent Cotney! 

Being a roofing contractor often means wearing many hats, whether it’s the hard hat at the job site or a baseball cap while working on sales and marketing in the office. But one of the most challenging hats to wear is that of a legal expert. From contracts and invoices to warranties and insurance, it can be very overwhelming to start a roofing project.  

This is something that Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese is very familiar with. Trent is a lawyer with a specialization in roofing litigation and arbitration. He has almost three decades of experience “defending roofers on construction defect claims, prosecuting lien and bond law claims, defending OSHA citations, contractor licensing defense and bid protests.” Further, he is the general legal counsel for several industry associations including the West Coast Roofing Contractors Association (WCRCA); Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA); and National Women in Roofing (NWIR).  

And his expert insights and advice are available to you through his new book, Roofing Law: Contracts. In this book he dives into the process of starting a roofing project from a legal perspective. As he puts it, “Getting payment from customers has always been an issue, but the need for contracts and written documents was not as important as it is today. I always say that roofers’ policies, procedures and contracts are like wills; they don’t want to look at them until it’s too late.” This book was designed to be accessible to professionals working in the field. In other words, it was “written for contractors, not lawyers.”  

Enter for a chance to win a free copy of Trent’s new construction law book today! 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Fluid-applied systems offer a smart path forward to extend the life of a roof without a costly tear off. 

With record-breaking attendance at the 2025 Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) Annual Convention and Roofing Expo, roofing professionals gathered to explore the latest solutions for weathering Florida’s demanding climate. In a live interview during the show, Heidi J. Ellsworth sat down with Todd Farr, national sales manager for General Coating’s roof restoration division EVEROOF, to discuss insights on fluid-applied systems that are gaining traction across the state. 

“Roof restoration is hot, especially in Florida where it rains pretty much every day around 3 p.m.,” Todd said. “Our high solid silicone coating does excellent in this market – moisture-cured, seamless, energy efficient and fire resistant.” 

As insurance pressures continue to complicate roofing options, Todd emphasized the benefits of restoration for aging commercial roofs. He shared, “There’s always an ongoing battle with the insurance companies. It’s a very fluid environment. But a lot of our applications for flat roofs on shopping centers and hotels have not been affected. Roof restoration is still an excellent, economical solution to extend a roof’s life by 10,15, even 20 years.” 

EVEROOF encourages contractors to start with a thorough inspection to determine if the roof qualifies for a fluid-applied system. “How old is the roof? How many surfaces are on it?” Todd asked. “Then, get in touch with us or your manufacturer’s rep. We’re here to help guide you to the right system.” 

Building that manufacturer relationship is so important, not just for choosing the right system, but for ensuring it’s installed correctly. “We see roofs across the nation. We have the bandwidth and the know-how. We usually know pretty quickly what the best application is,” Todd explained. Similarly, your manufacturer rep often serves as an extension of your crew, offering site visits, product training and technical documentation to ensure the system performs as intended. With the right support, contractors can avoid costly missteps, improve installation efficiency and boost long-term customer satisfaction. Whether it’s understanding cure times, substrate requirements or warranty details, tapping into your manufacturer’s expertise is one of the smartest moves you can make on a restoration job. 

CCS Influencer John Kenney says the roofing industry is not standing still, nor can today's contractors.

The roofing industry is evolving faster than ever. From solar-ready membranes and self-adhering systems to advanced coatings, vapor control products, and robotic application tools, the pace of innovation is no longer measured in decades; it's happening year by year. For contractors, staying current on new roofing technologies and application techniques isn't just about curiosity. It's essential for maintaining quality, ensuring compatibility with modern systems, and remaining competitive in a market where informed clients expect top-tier performance. Fortunately, a growing number of resources are available to help contractors stay educated and ahead of the curve. 

One of the most direct and valuable resources is manufacturer training. Most major roofing material manufacturers offer formal education programs designed specifically for contractors. These trainings range from hands-on application training to certification courses on specific product lines. Many of these sessions are in-person at training facilities or job sites. Others are now available on-demand through online platforms, making participation easier than ever, regardless of location or schedule. 

In addition to technical installation guidance, manufacturers frequently offer webinars or whitepapers on emerging product trends, sustainability features and code compliance. These resources can benefit contractors managing commercial projects where specifications are tight, and documentation is required. By aligning with manufacturer training programs, you gain more knowledge and enhance your credibility with specifiers, consultants and building owners. 

Another valuable outlet is trade associations. Organizations like the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA) and Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) regularly publish technical bulletins, offer continuing education credits and host annual conventions where new systems and innovations are front and center. These groups play a vital role in advocacy and professional development, and they often work closely with manufacturers, engineers and regulatory bodies to ensure their materials reflect the latest standards and best practices. 

Contractors should also be tapping into digital trade media and online communities. Platforms like RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop and CoatingsCoffeeShop regularly feature updates on new technologies, product launches, field-tested application techniques and interviews with industry leaders. Subscribing to newsletters or following their content streams can give you bite-sized, practical insights you can immediately apply to your business. In an industry that often learns by example, these real-world applications provide clarity and context you can't always get from a spec sheet. 

Trade shows and expos remain an indispensable resource for keeping up with innovation. These events allow contractors to see new systems up close, ask manufacturers questions directly and even demo tools and materials. These events are also prime networking grounds where contractors can share techniques, discuss challenges, and discover how others are adopting new technologies. Attending at least one major trade event per year is a wise investment in your team's growth and your company's competitiveness. 

Contractors should also consider building partnerships with local suppliers and distributors. Many distributors host "lunch and learn," product showcases, and seasonal workshops that bring manufacturers and applicators together for live demonstrations and Q&A sessions. These local events are often low-cost or free and provide immediate hands-on experience with new products entering the market. Suppliers can also provide access to regional technical reps who serve as valuable resources for job site support and problem-solving. 

Lastly, creating a company culture that supports continuous learning is essential. Encourage team members to pursue certifications, bring back insights from training events and share best practices during safety meetings or morning huddles. Building a crew that values knowledge and growth leads to better installs, fewer callbacks and stronger client relationships. 

The roofing industry is not standing still, nor can today's contractors. Staying current on product technology and application techniques is no longer optional. It's a strategic advantage that drives better performance, reduces risk and strengthens your reputation in the marketplace. By leveraging various resources, from manufacturer programs and trade associations to digital content and peer networking, contractors can remain informed, confident and future-ready in a rapidly evolving industry. 

You won't want to miss this special Coffee Conversations, sponsored by QXO, coming to you LIVE from the 2025 Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association (FRSA) tradeshow! Join us on the first day of the show as we meet with Florida roofing leaders and experts. Guests include contractors, service providers, manufacturers and distributors who will share their insights and wisdom straight from the trade show floor. You can watch from the comfort of your home, on your mobile device or in person from outside our lobby soundstage at the Gaylord Palms in Kissimmee, Florida. The topics will center around what's hot across Florida and the country. Join us for this great Coffee Conversations LIVE from this year’s FRSA show in Kissimmee, Florida on Thursday, June 5 at 2 pm ET.  

Get notified when we go live on YouTube!

By Emma Peterson.

Don’t miss your chance to get insights and advice from industry leaders like Trent Cotney at the 103rd FRSA Convention and Expo.

The Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Association (FRSA) annual convention and expo is just around the corner! Hosted at the Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, Kissimmee, Florida, the show kicks off on June 4, 2025, and runs until June 6. This is a great opportunity to explore the largest regional show in the U.S. and network with over 4,800 of your peers in the industry. Whether you are a building official, a contractor, an architect, a supplier or another type of professional in the metal industry, this is the place to be!

The Coffee Shops crew will be hanging out in the lobby, so make sure to say hi to us as you prepare to enter the exhibit floor (which hosts over 245 companies). We will also be around the show attending networking events, catching up with friends on the show floor and attending engaging educational sessions. One friend that we are particularly excited to catch up with and hear speak is Trent Cotney from Adams and Reese (booth #407 on the exhibit floor).  

You’ve probably heard Trent’s name in the industry, but if not, he is a board-certified construction lawyer who is based out of Florida who holds licensure in nine different states. His practice focuses on construction litigation and arbitration, and he is well-known as an expert in a variety of topics including OSHA defense, lien law, bond law, bid protests and construction document review. All of his work in construction law stems from his dedication to serving the roofing industry. Trent and his work have been recognized many times with awards such as the National Roofing Contractors Association’s Gold Circle Award, Western States Hall of Fame Award and FRSA’s Bob Campanella Award for lifetime achievement.  

At this year’s FRSA, he will be featured in a variety of speaking sessions:

• June 4, 2025, 10:15 a.m. – 12:15 p.m.  – Licensing Issues & Contracts
  This session covers Chapter 489 licensing and regulations. This is a great opportunity to refresh your overall knowledge (exemptions, consequences, etc.) as well as dive deeper into creating the right contract terms.  
• June 5, 2025, 9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. – Construction Law Updates
  As laws and regulations continue to develop and shift, it’s important to make sure you stay up-to-date and compliant. This session will cover some of the key industry legal issues that have changed in the last year (such as marijuana usage, OSHA and case laws).
• June 6, 2025, 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. – Licensing Issues & Contracts
  This session covers Chapter 489 licensing and regulations. This is a great opportunity to refresh your overall knowledge (exemptions, consequences, etc.) as well as dive deeper in creating the right contract terms.

If you haven’t already, get your ticket to the FRSA Expo and Convention today and make sure to attend one or more of Trent’s informative sessions!

Visit Polyglass at Booth #1003 to explore product insights, attend live demos and see their newest roofing and waterproofing solutions.

Polyglass USA, a leading manufacturer of roofing and waterproofing systems, returns as a Gold Sponsor at FRSA’s 103rd Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Expo, taking place June 4 – 6, 2025, in Kissimmee, Florida. Attendees are invited to explore Polyglass’ innovative product line and attend live demonstrations at Booth #1003.

With a strong reputation for performance-driven roofing solutions, Polyglass will spotlight a wide range of systems and product technologies tailored to meet the demands of contractors, architects and commercial property stakeholders alike.

Visit the Polyglass booth to discover innovation in action

Visit Booth #1003 for live demos, product insights and a refreshing Bloody Mary Bar, plus a firsthand look at our newest solutions built for performance, protection and peace of mind.

Expo Day 1: Thursday, June 5 | 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

• 11:30 a.m. – Modifleece™
• 1 p.m. – PolyFlash® 1C & PG 50
• 2 p.m. – Tecnocoat Traffic Coatings
• 3 p.m. – New! Polystrip™ SA

Expo Day 2: Friday, June 6 | 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

• 11 a.m. – Tecnocoat Traffic Coatings
• 1 p.m. – PolyFlash® 1C & PG 50

Engineered for the real world: Tested, trusted, built to perform

Polyglass will showcase a full range of roofing and waterproofing solutions engineered to perform in Florida’s most demanding environments, including:

Kool Roof Solutions®

Engineered to reduce energy costs and extend roof life, Polyglass’ reflective systems help building owners meet sustainability goals while delivering standout performance in hot, sunny climates.

• Bright White System: Elastoflex SA V base + Polyflex® SA P cap sheet

Fire-resistant and high-performance products

Designed for demanding applications, these robust solutions offer benefits like exceptional fire resistance for steep-slope roofing to mechanical strength and wind uplift performance – ideal for low-slope commercial, industrial and critical infrastructure projects.

• Polystick® XFR
• Polyanchor® HV

Liquid-applied traffic coatings

Seamless, durable and fast-curing, Tecnocoat coatings provide high-performance waterproofing and traffic resistance for decks, walkways and other exposed surfaces.

• Tecnocoat

New and noteworthy

Explore the latest innovations from Polyglass designed to improve application efficiency, enhance system performance and provide added versatility across roofing and waterproofing projects.

• Just released: Polystrip™ SA
• Modifleece™

Restoration solutions

Extend the life of aging roofs with easy-to-apply restoration products that deliver long-lasting protection, helping contractors and building owners delay costly tear-offs.

• PolyFlash® 1C
• PolyPlus® 50
• PG 500

Connect with the Polyglass Team

Don’t miss your chance to connect with the experts behind Polyglass’ trusted roofing and waterproofing solutions. Whether you're looking to streamline installation, explore cutting-edge restoration products or discover new innovations like Polystrip™ SA, our team is ready to answer your questions and help you find the right system for your next project.

To learn more about Polyglass products and FRSA participation, visit polyglass.us or follow along on LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook.

About FRSA

Hosted by the Florida Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (FRSA), the Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Expo is one of the largest regional roofing trade shows in the country, bringing together contractors, architects, engineers and distributors for education, networking and product discovery.

About Polyglass U.S.A., Inc.

Polyglass U.S.A., Inc. is a leading manufacturer of roofing and waterproofing systems. Known for its self-adhered modified bitumen roofing systems based on the company’s patented ADESO® Technology and CURE Technology®, Polyglass also produces a full line of premium roof coatings and roof maintenance systems. An ISO 9001:2015 certified company, Polyglass provides quality products and adds value through innovation. For more information about the premium products and services offered by Polyglass, call 800.222.9782 or visit polyglass.us.

CCS Influencer Joe Sorrentino says that manufacturers are constantly testing and developing new technologies to balance global and national regulatory thresholds.

The biggest challenge the coatings industry faces is the size and growth projections for its’ use around the world! Over $150 billion and growing with Asia leading the pace internationally. The continued influences of regulatory and code issues are the driving forces for slowdown and/or confusion specifically the roof coating industry. Proven in place performance (see Florida insurance and building code) and the ability for an owner to select based on cost and proven useful service life goes out the window in the state of Florida. Insurance companies are disregarding the manufacturers warranty coverage and requiring removal and replacement based on a 15-year timeframe. In July of 2023 and again in October of 2024 articles published highlighted this scenario. See FRSA Florida Magazine July 2023, “The Power Of NO/Know For Roof Coatings” and FCPA Magazine October 2024 “Insurance and Code Changes Could Cost Florida Homeowners Big!” by Chris Salazar, KARNAK Corp. 

The Professional Roofer Magazine published an article in September of 2022 by Mark Graham of the NRCA. The title, “Roof Coatings and Code Compliance”. For decades roof coatings and liquid applied roofing membranes have been successfully installed and performed. Mr. Graham states: “Until the publication and adoption of the International Building Code® 2021 Edition, building code requirements for roof coating products and applications were somewhat vague and sometimes led to inconsistent interpretations. Beginning with IBC 2021, the code’s requirements for roof coatings became clearer and more streamlined, which means interpretations should now be more consistent and what is required of roof coating manufacturers and roofing contractors involved in roof coating applications should be better defined.” 

On a global and national scale, the regulations continue to create challenges for the manufacture of many products that have been successfully produced, installed and performed in the marketplace. Since paints and coatings are lumped together for the purpose of SIC codes and related regulations, manufacturers are constantly testing and developing new technologies to combat these regulatory thresholds. With all the advantages of the use of roof coatings to help the environment, the reduction of landfill waste, solar and emissive reflectance advantages, the list can go on! However, since these products do emit gases into the air, the gases are being regulated and forever change the makeup of products available to the installer.

Stay on top of these issues by networking and being involved in your local roofing association government affairs committee as well as the state legislature and national associations like Roof Coating Manufacturer Association (RCMA), National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and in Florida Roofing Sheet Metal Association (FRSA). 

By Adams and Reese, LLP. 

Trent Cotney is a leader in the roofing world not only for his legal expertise, but also for his dedication to helping people. 

Trent Cotney, who is Adams and Reese Construction Team’s co-leader and partner was just honored by Western States Roofing Contractors Association (WSRCA) with an induction into their Hall of Fame. Trent, who got his B.S. and J.D. from Vanderbilt University, is a board-certified construction lawyer who focuses his practice on all construction litigation and arbitration. His nearly 25 years of work have made him an expert in things such as OSHA defense, lien law, bond law, bid protests and construction document review and drafting. He is one of the leading attorneys in his field of practice and has published more than 1,000 articles in 100 different local, regional and national publications.  

Trent’s induction to WSRCA’s Hall of Fame was announced during a special ceremony held this week at the 2024 Western Roofing Expo. “Western States really means a lot to me,” said Trent. “From the first time I started coming to these expos many years ago I’ve been welcomed. And everyone here... we fight for the industry, and that’s what is important to me.” 

In addition to his work through Adams and Reese, Trent serves as WSRCA General Counsel, and as GC for more than a dozen trade associations and organizations, including the National Roofing Contractors Association, Florida Roofing & Sheet Metal Association, National Slate Association, Roofing Technology Think Tank and several other industry associations. 

WSRCA officials said awarding Trent with the group’s highest honor for his legal and strategic support over the years was a “no-brainer.” They added that he was even more deserving for his willingness to help, regardless of circumstances and staunch commitment to protect the roofing industry wherever possible. Outgoing WSRCA President Mike Wakerling compared Trent’s attitude to that of a “mama bear” protecting its cubs with unparalleled strength. “Anyone involved with Western States can tell you how important his contributions have been to our success,” Mike said. “It’s also a rare thing in life to meet an individual that not only makes a difference on a professional level, but on a personal level too. He really cares about us.” 

At Adams and Reese, Trent is a leading member of one of the largest construction practices in the country with a roster of more than 90 attorneys serving the construction industry. Working out of the Tampa, Florida office, Trent represents construction and infrastructure clients, including GCs, subcontractors, suppliers, manufacturers, architects, engineers, roofers, developers and other professionals. He is a board-certified construction lawyer licensed in eight states and Washington, DC. Trent is also an EU arbitrator for construction-related disputes. He is experienced in construction litigation and arbitration, including OSHA defense, lien law, bond law, bid protests and construction document review and drafting. 

Trent is ranked among the top construction attorneys in Florida by Chambers USA and ranked by Best Lawyers and Super Lawyers in Florida, Texas, Mid-South and Illinois. 

Original article and photo source: Adams and Reese, LLP