CCS Influencer Joe Sorrentino shares what coating innovations will impact 2026.

The coatings industry is expected to be significantly impacted by the following trends in innovation: 

• Sustainability: The industry is increasingly focusing on environmentally friendly and sustainable products, with a growing demand for lower VOC content and eco-friendly formulations.  
• “Smart” coatings: The integration of smart technologies in coatings, such as self-healing and anti-microbial coatings, is gaining traction, offering functionalities beyond traditional protective and decorative purposes. 
• Self-cleaning coatings: Using nano-materials, these coatings can clean themselves with rainwater, enhancing durability and maintenance.  
• Advanced protective coatings: These coatings offer extreme durability and reliability in sectors like aerospace and marine engineering.  
• Energy-saving coatings: Heat-reflective and insulating coatings are designed to reduce energy consumption in buildings, especially in hot climates. 
• Advanced formulations: Ongoing research and development are focused on creating coatings with improved performance characteristics, such as better adhesion and resistance to harsh environments.  
• Intelligent responsive coatings: These coatings can change color or properties in response to temperature, humidity or an electric field, indicating a long-term future of innovation. 
• Bio-based materials: The use of bio-based raw materials in paint and coating formulations is on the rise, contributing to the overall sustainability of the products. The industry is moving towards bio-based materials to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower carbon footprints. 
• Pursuit of extreme performance: The industry is pushing for continuous advancement in special resins, new additives and sophisticated formulation design. 

These trends are expected to have a significant impact on the coatings industry, driving innovation and changing the landscape of the industry. These trends reflect the industry's commitment to sustainability, innovation and performance, setting the stage for a transformative year in coatings.

There is no set definition of a “smart coating” but generally a coating that reacts to its environment in such a way as to increase its own durability or enhance protection of the substrate could be called a smart coating. Dr. Erik Sapper says that end users will “continue to seek out exotic coatings systems” which offer attributes beyond decoration and protection. There are countless ways coatings can be “smart” many of which we haven’t even conceived yet. Some examples include self-healing coatings which react to and repair damage, antimicrobial coatings which eliminate surface contamination and color and/or phase change coatings which react to alterations in light and temperature.

One trend that is just waiting for the right combination of factors coming together to have its’ moment is the widespread use of plant based raw materials. Regulations such as the European Green Deal might mandate the use of renewable ingredients in many products including paints, market forces will decide when critical mass is reached for this trend. While the term biobased is often used to describe renewable raw materials, focus group research has shown that consumers can better relate to the term plant based. These materials will really take off when the consumer demand drives market forces towards the adoption of these sustainability enabling ingredients.

Of course, there are no rules which limit any of these developing trends to a single purpose coating formulation. The possibilities are limitless, from a self-healing coating made from plant based raw materials to a biocide free architectural paint whose properties have been optimized through the use of  an AI driven product development process. Trends can be thought of as ideas that are starting to catch on, so anyone’s next great idea could become the next big trend. 

_{Reference: Trends in the Coatings Industry by Wally Kesler} 

By Emma Peterson. 

From tools to training courses, The Coffee Shops™ crew wraps up the perfect presents for roofing pros in this guide to giving this holiday season. 

If your year has been anything like ours here at The Coffee Shops™, it’s going by faster than you can flip the months on the calendar! We’re shocked, too, but the gift-giving season is just around the corner, and it’s time to start planning what to get for your friends, family and coworkers. To make things a little easier if this season caught you off guard like it did us, our team has created the ultimate gift giving guide perfect for any contractor or professional in your life.  

1 – Yule be sad if you miss out on this R-Club discount  

Do you have a contractor in your life looking for a network of support or learning opportunities? Look no further than R-Club! R-Club is a Coffee Shops program created to make an exclusive space for roofing professionals where they can learn and socialize with other professionals from across the industry. Gifting the roofing professional in your life with a membership is a great way not only to give them a present but also to uplift their business savvy! 

And for a Black Friday special, we are thrilled to offer a 50% off discount for R-Club memberships using code HOLLYJOLLY50!

2 – Don't fir-get a pipe collar 

The last thing anyone wants when getting ready for the holidays is a leaky roof ruining the festivities. That’s what the Wil-Mar Products’ pipe collar helps avoid! These products are made out of an EPDM rubber that provides long-lasting waterproof counterflashing for vent pipes and is a must-have for any roofing professional’s toolkit.  

Eliminating a variety of tape and mastic leaking problems, a case of these can help the roofer in your life avoid an avalanche of problems later.

3 – Jingle and mingle at IRE 2026 

From innovative solutions and hands-on demos to a dynamic education program and unmatched networking opportunities, the International Roofing Expo (IRE) is the place to be for anyone in the roofing world. The next show will be hosted in Las Vegas, Nevada from January 20 – 22, 2026. Have a contractor or installer in your life looking to level up their knowledge and relationships? Consider giving them an IRE pass!  

If you register using The Coffee Shops’ promo code (INVITES492) for a free expo hall admission or 10% off a conference pass!

4 – Malco’s rotary sheer is snow special 

Combining high-performance with a reasonable sales tag, Malco’s TurboShear is a special accessory that saves professionals time and labor. It can easily be used with the chuck of a standard 1200 rpm A/C or cordless drill and cuts precisely enough to navigate tight curved patterns and squares.  

TurboShear is a great addition to the toolbag of anyone working with metal on the jobsite.

5 – John Kenney's contractor training is always a sleigh 

John Kenney is the CEO of Cotney Consulting Group and a household name in the roofing industry. With over 45 years of experience, he helps contractors around the country scale knowledge across topics such as estimating, field leadership and project operations. No matter the role of the person you’re shopping for, he has a training program that will help them get the job done. 

Learn more about his classes so you can find the perfect match for your loved one!

6 – The KARNAK 671 shines bright 

This amazing product is a single-component, silicone roof sealant from KARNAK. Not only does it resist weathering, hardening, chalking and cracking (making it a well-rounded, high-performance solution), it has been proven to stick to a roof in a variety of conditions, including when it’s wet. And the best part about this product? KARNAK offers it in three different forms – buckets, caulk tubes and pouches! This makes it easier for contractors to bring KARNAK 671 with them to every job site.  

KARNAK 671 is the perfect way to level up any applicator’s toolbox.

7 – Light up someone's life with a cordless Leister hand welder!  

Leister is known for their wide range of plastic welders and heat guns that make contractors' lives easier in the field. A great gift option from their collection is the NEXTHEAT overlap welding kit. This kit is a complete solution for wireless welding. The kit not only includes the NEXHEAT 300 A-LP, which is known for consistent and reliable welds, but also an eight-amp battery from Bosch and a matching charger. 

Learn more about this handy kit!

8 – Gelt them a Kool Seal product! 

Kool Seal has been a leader in the roofing products industry for over a century. Their products reliably deliver exceptional durability, weather resistance and ease of application.  You can help a contractor in your life elevate their roofing projects with Kool Seal products by connecting them with a Sherwin-Williams sales representative to get samples of their premium roof coatings. 

Contact a representative today!

9 - Flurry up and get one of Wryker’s contractor bags 

For the contractor on-the-go, Wryker’s branded contractor bags will put a smile on your loved one’s face every time they use it! These are hyper-tough bags perfect for everything from metal scraps and drywall to packaging and shingle scraps. Designed out of 3-mil film, these bags hold 43 gallons and give Santa’s sack of toys a run for its money in functionality.  

Learn more about Wryker’s contractor bags!

10 – Brrrrr-ing on the savings with Instant Roofer 

Designed by roofers, for roofers, Instant Roofer connects professionals with AI-powered sales tools that help their businesses grow. These tools include their high-quality roofing leads, instant measure reports and the built-in roofing calculator. And the best part? There is a special deal on a bundle of the measure reports and roofing calculator that would make a great gift! 

Get the AI Sales Tool Bundle and get 30 days free!

11 – CIDAN is not elfing around with their portable break 

New this year, CIDAN Machinery Group launched ONROLL, a revolutionary portable roll former, to the U.S. market! This roll former is designed to operate on urban rooftops and at remote installs through wind and rain without a problem. Combined with a 90 FPM speed and center-driven pinch-roller drive, ONROLL is perfect for the installer that needs accurate, smooth and efficient seams on site.  

Get the CIDAN ONROLL today!

12 – A Geocel sealant is always a n-ice gift!  

Looking for a versatile gift that will definitely be used? Geocel’s 4600™ Hybrid Structural Adhesive Sealant is a jack-of-all-trades sealant that combines powerful performance with amazing adaptability. It can be used on a variety of materials (metal, masonry, wood, foam, glass, etc.) and can be applied in conditions as harsh as 0° Fahrenheit.  

Get them a multi-tasking product that works as hard as they do.

13 – Santa's elves work hard, but the Catch-All Nail Catch works harder 

The Catch-All was founded on the goal of keeping roofing construction sites clean – far from an easy goal. But their products rise to the challenge every time, using chute nets, reinforced ground nets, collapsible support poles and more to keep roofing debris from hitting the ground. As a part of their extensive protection system, they also designed the Nail Catch, which is a filter system that collects debris in the first few weeks after the job.    

The Nail-Catch is the perfect size for a stocking stuffer! Use code “RCS” to get a 5% discount on your purchase.

14 - Make a fa-la-la-la-lasting impression with the Roofing Alliance Clemson Training Program 

Looking for a gift for the roofer in your life who’s always looking to learn new skills? Consider gifting them one of Roofing Alliance and Clemson University’s self-paced online courses tailored to the roofing industry! There are three different courses to choose from: roofing fundamentals, roofing management and roofing business and leadership. Each course is 60 days long and if a contractor finishes all three, they can earn a Roofing Professional Management Certificate! 

If you want to give the gift that keeps giving, look into the Roofing Alliance Clemson Training Program.

Stay up to date with the latest industry news when you sign up for the Coffee Shop eNews. 

CCS Influencer Joe Sorrentino shares his thoughts on what  construction coating applications contractors should add to differentiate and expand their business.

As the saying goes, “If you do not innovate, you evaporate!” Diversification and innovation are powerful words. What do they mean for you and your firm? The trends in architectural design and the use of emissive, reflective and decorative coatings for roof surfaces, pavement areas, above and below grade waterproofing continue to rise in specification and popularity. Many roof areas are also being utilized for solar energy systems, which is an additional plus for coatings contractors.

New construction homes are a key market niche for waterproofing decorative planters, entertainment and exercise surfaces, roof areas for solar energy systems, as well as balconies. Roof top duct work has been proven to increase efficiency with the application of ceramic coatings. Reduction of Urban Heat Island Effects are being addressed with highly emissive coating systems.

To develop a strong reputation for delivering solutions and quality installations of any new market niche, education and training must come first. Understanding the application techniques through research and education from manufacturers combined with the guidance and education of the field technicians is the key to success. “People make things happen! (For BETTER or WORSE)."

Entering new markets is not a quick process. To make a strong impact many look for cost savings/cutting to make a presence known. This is the fast track to failure. Aligning with key partners in the design and construction segments as well as discussing with key building owners/managers will assist in a more effective and profitable entry into new markets.

The adage, “Plan your work, work your plan” is a great rule to live by in the construction industry. Keeping sales/estimating, production crews and office personnel all involved and informed is critical. Teamwork makes the dream work! And remember: SAFETY FIRST!  

I have also included a guide to "the 7 most common coating application method types" as provided by the Coatings Directory.

“Navigating the intricate world of coating application methods is akin to mastering the art of painting on a vast, ever-changing canvas. The importance of selecting the right coating application method cannot be overstated. It directly influences the durability, efficiency and overall success of the protective or decorative layer being applied. Each method comes with its own set of challenges and nuances, making the choice a pivotal decision in any coating process. 

Here are some key safety considerations to keep in mind: 

• Personal protective equipment: Always wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, safety glasses and a respirator, to protect yourself from chemicals and fumes when preparatory to mixing, preparing or repairing paint. 
• Hazardous materials handling: Handle all coating materials, including solvents and paints, with care. Follow proper storage, handling and disposal procedures to avoid spills and contamination. 
• Fire safety: Be aware of the flammability of certain coatings and solvents. Keep fire extinguishers nearby and avoid smoking or open flames in the work area. 
• Equipment maintenance: Regularly inspect and maintain all equipment used in coating application, such as roller coaters, flow coaters and spin coating equipment, to ensure they are in good working order and reduce the risk of accidents. 
• Training: Provide training to all workers involved in the coating application process. Ensure they understand the hazards associated with the materials used and know how to work safely. 
• Emergency preparedness: Have a plan in place for dealing with spills, leaks and other emergencies. Ensure all workers know the procedures to follow in case of an emergency. 
• Environmental considerations: Consider the environmental impact of the coatings used. Use environmentally friendly products whenever possible and follow all local regulations regarding the disposal of hazardous materials.” 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Discover how Geocel helps you overcome common roof repair challenges with ease. 

In a recent episode of MetalCast™, Megan Ellsworth sat down with Jeff Hung from Geocel to talk about one of the most critical components of any roofing repair project: sealants. From patching a leak in the rain or sealing around solar panels, Jeff showed how choosing the right product can make or break the job. 

Here are three common sealing challenges contractors face and how Geocel products are built to solve them. 

1 – Sealing in tough weather conditions 

Roofing repairs don’t wait for perfect weather. Contractors often find themselves sealing leaks in the rain, wind and other extreme conditions. “Even on a sunny day, it could be hot, it could be windy... But mostly when people are trying to fix something, it’s a leak,” Jeff explained. “Typically, that’s happening when it’s raining out. So, you need a product that can not only withstand moisture but also fully function as a sealant – adhere and cure – in those conditions.” Geocel’s sealants are designed to adhere and cure even in wet conditions, giving you confidence in any weather. 

2 – Adhering to dissimilar materials 

Roofing projects often involve sealing between materials like metal, glass, concrete, brick and shingles, which can make it challenging to find the right solution. Jeff emphasized, “You need something that can perform on all surfaces and be able to adhere to dislike surfaces.” He gave the example of sealing around a shingle flashing that comes up to a concrete or brick wall. Geocel offers hybrid products that have this capability, offering strong and lasting adhesion across a wide range of materials, including glass and copper. 

3 – Matching the right product to the job 

With so many systems and materials, you need to be sure you’re using the right sealant for the job. Jeff encouraged contractors to reach out to your distributor or call Geocel to help. “The questions we typically ask are: where are you using it and what do you need it to do?” he shared. “Geocel has a plethora of products with overlapping uses, but there’s usually one that’s the best fit as long as we know what you need.” 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about Geocel’s specific products and how they can help you finish the job right the first time. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Get powerful waterproof performance for nearly all your bonding and sealing needs with a structural sealant that works across a wide range of materials. 

When you’re racing afternoon thunderstorms, juggling substates or on a tight timeline, you need a product that won’t let you down. Geocel® 4600™ Hybrid Structural Adhesive Sealant is the multi-purpose workhorse contractors trust to bond, seal and flex through the toughest conditions. Whether you’re sealing skylights or bonding flashing, 4600 delivers reliable performance on a wide range of building materials – even in damp, cold weather down to 0° Fahrenheit. 

Why contractors choose Geocel 4600 

Geocel 4600 is a high-performance hybrid sealant, combining the elasticity and durability of silicone with the paintability and surface adhesion of polyurethane, all in a low-VOC, solvent-free formula. Key benefits include: 

• Heavy-bodied, no slump formula: Applies easily to vertical or overhead surfaces without sagging. 
• All weather application: Bonds in wet, dry and freezing conditions year-round. 
• Long-lasting flexibility: Meets ASTM C920 Class 35 for movement capability and crack resistance. 
• Exceptional surface compatibility: Bonds to metal flashing, masonry, wood, foam, glass, aluminum, fiber cement and most roofing materials. 
• UV resistant and paintable: Tough enough for full sun exposure, with the ability to blend into painted finishes using latex-based paints. 
• Available in jobsite-ready colors: Choose from white, tan, gray, limestone, black or bronze to match your project needs. 

Where it works best 

Contractors need products that can adapt to unpredictable conditions and multiple materials. Use Geocel 4600 to: 

• Seal copings and flashing 
• Bond skylights and HVAC curbs 
• Patch and reinforce penetrations or joints 
• Create watertight seals on foam board or fiber cement 
• Tackle unexpected repairs in cold or damp weather 

Backed by Geocel’s decades of innovation in sealant technology, 4600 Hybrid Structural Adhesive Sealant is designed to be durable, versatile and ready for any condition. Don’t settle for a single-purpose product – choose a hybrid that works as hard as you do.

CCS Influencer Joe Sorrentino says roofing companiess can differentiate by emphasizing value propositions and operational efficiency to gain a competitive edge.

“To succeed in today’s construction industry, companies must actively differentiate themselves through niche specialization, outstanding service and smart technology adoption. By implementing these strategies, your business can attract more clients, increase profitability and build a strong market presence.” SmartBuild 2023 

To remain competitive and differentiate in the roofing market experiencing mergers and acquisitions, roofing contractors should consider the following:

Reputation

Reputation is everything in the construction industry. Prioritizing craftsmanship, using high-quality materials and maintaining strong relationships with suppliers and building owners/managers, as well as your competition, will contribute to your long-term success. Work hard to build and develop relationships within your area and the construction industry to gain insights and opportunities.

Technology

To survive in today’s markets, a professional website, active social media accounts and positive online reviews increase credibility and attract new clients. Highlight your past projects, ask for referrals and advertise customer testimonials. Highlight and profile unique company expertise to showcase your niche and strengths. 

Construction companies that leverage technology gain a significant competitive edge. There are many reputable entities that provide solutions to streamline project management, optimize scheduling and improve financial tracking, ensuring efficiency and enhancing profitability. 

Service-oriented approach

Remember: Clients choose companies that communicate well, meet deadlines and provide a seamless experience. They do business with people/firms that make them feel comfortable and confident when approving a proposal for work. 

Key components for a strong service-oriented approach includes: 

• Clear and timely communication about project timelines and costs. 
• A transparent bidding and invoicing process to build trust. 
• Follow-up services to ensure customer satisfaction and encourage referrals. 

Specialize in a “niche market”

Rather than simply being known as a roofing contractor, focus on a niche where you can build from the company’s strength and expertise.  

Identify growing niche areas in your area to build on the culture and reputation of the company. 

Embrace sustainability

Focus on sustainable practices to attract environmentally conscious clients. Sustainability is no longer just a trend — it’s a competitive advantage. The demand for eco-friendly construction is rising, with clients and investors prioritizing sustainable practices.  

Sustainable construction refers to practices that minimize environmental impact while maintaining efficiency and durability. By leveraging recycled materials, energy-efficient designs and waste reduction techniques, businesses can create structures that are both cost-effective and environmentally responsible. 

Focus on value

Differentiate by emphasizing value propositions and operational efficiency to gain a competitive edge. 

Embrace and don’t look back!

CCS Influencer Joe Sorrentino says that clear and concise communication is the key to efficient and effective project delivery to the building owner. 

Teamwork makes the dream work! Clear and concise communication/information is the key to efficient and effective project delivery to the building owner. Just as the delivery team is the last impression the material supplier (distributor) has with the roofing company, the installation crew is the last impression the building owner has with the contracting firm!

Typically, those that are involved in the original project site visit for the measurements and “personality” of the roof in place, and those who approve the project funds are not involved with the construction phase of the project. These factors, regardless of how the roof is measured, are part of the process that requires a clear understanding of who speaks to who during the roofing project. Since many low slope projects require a manufacturer warranty, keeping the local personnel (both sales and technical support) aware of the projects’ progress can provide “peace of mind” for the building owner.

With the technology available today for the estimating and production staff, maintaining pictorial progress, as well as, aerial ( drone) before and after videos are easily available for the project close out and historical reference. The practice of documenting the installation process as it progresses and submitted to the owner on a periodic basis allows for the building owner, contracting firm and manufacturer to have a “living document” for the service life of the roofing system.

Combining the installation process documentation with the initial project pictorials and proposal allows the owner to have a clear concise historical collection for those who may replace any personnel over the service life of the roof to maximize the assets provided in the roofing system which protects people and profits underneath! 

By developing a “living document” for each project allows the roofing contractor to provide clear and accurate information over the service life of the project. It also provides the building owner and manufacturer a better understanding of a critical and valuable asset of their facilty – THE ROOF! 

CCS Influencer Joe Sorrentino says that showing up for routine maintenance makes your business the local roof expert to all other building owners that your client talks to.

Renewable warranties offered by manufacturers allow building owners the opportunity to sustain their existing metal roofing and/or low slope roofing system. These warranties are a valuable tool for roof asset management programs. Be aware that some states have insurance issues that prevent this process from being available (Florida being one of them). The contractor also has the opportunity to offer a company warranty combined with a maintenance plan. Most building owners prefer to have the manufacturer of the materials involved. 

When an existing roofing assembly is thoroughly and properly evaluated, repaired and prepped, the performance of the properly selected technology of liquid roofing (water-based acrylics, silicones and polyurethanes to name a few) is off to a great start. Now, it is the observations and timely maintenance repairs that allow the benefits of the renewable warranty to be fully realized. 

When the building owner and the manufacturer are under a contractual agreement of the renewable warranty, there is no requirement for the original installer to be the applicator of the extension of the original warranty term. So, is a visual inspection by the original installer a cost or an investment? Establishing the discipline of making a site visit at the end of the first year of application, regardless of leaks being reported, is the start to the maintenance plan for that specific roof area and building owner. Staying in touch with the owner by being proactive is critical to building relationships. By informing the building owner that your firm will be back in one (1) year even if there is no request by the owner will be long forgotten! Especially when the project is done right the first time and no leaks occur!  

DWYSYWD – "Do What You Say You Will Do!”  

Following through and staying in contact with the building owner is the key to success. When the second year of successful performance is completed and you show up again, you now have the perfect opportunity to create a definitive preventative maintenance plan moving forward. Reminding the building owner that their renewable warranty is also transferable (not ALL manufacturers offer this feature) will allow the owner to understand that this will be a valuable selling tool in the event of the sale of the building.  

When you utilize this process through the initial two (2) year period, your firm also becomes the “local roof expert” to all other building owners that your client talks to. “My roofer shows up even if I don’t have leaks!” If you receive a call from a new prospect as a referral from YOUR client, your firm is now an expert and problem solver. So I ask again, “Is a roof observation on a non-leaking project a cost OR an investment?” Invest in your success!  

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). 

CCS Influencer Joe Sorrentino says that staying in contact with the local roofing association and their government affairs committee is a great way to stay informed locally

Navigating the complex insurance policies and state/local building codes and regulations is a challenge for many roofing contractors providing services in the high wind/rain event areas of the country. Although building codes and regulations along with the proven in place performance of the proposed/existing roof systems are allowed and exist, the insurance carrier has the right to deny coverage for the building owner. The useful service life and long term restoration solution is being dictated by the insurance industry in areas.

The state of Florida, along with other coastal states, have been affected by these actions. An article published in July of 2023 illustrates the dilemma which continues to exist in the state of Florida. Extensive communications with the state legislature are being conducted to help explain the cost effective and environmentally friendly benefits of roof restoration solutions. Many functioning roofing systems are being put in landfills prematurely. Many could have been restored and sustained. So be cautious in these states where high wind/rain events (aka hurricanes) exist.

A better understanding of the building owners coverage and policy renewal is critical to assist in the development of the proper selection of maintenance versus restoration. The year of the existing roofing assembly in place is a critical need to “know.” Restoration solutions currently functioning are being denied for insurance coverage forcing removal and roof replacements. The meter is ticking so to speak on many who are anticipating a much longer useful service life of their roof investment. When a roof hits the 15 year mark, it is being identified for replacement. These are harsh realities felt by many building owners who are/were under long term/renewable warranty programs between contractor and manufacturer. It is an awkward position to be in when proposing a sound solution from a different point of view. The proven useful service life expectancy versus the risk management side of the insurance carrier.

Staying in contact with the local roofing association and their government affairs committee is a great way to stay informed locally. Being aware of the numerous associations that meet quarterly/annually in the risk management/claims/legal side would be overwhelming but just know that it exists! 

Read more from Joe in his article “The Power Of NO-Know Roof Coatings” (page 34).