By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Join RCMA this October in Atlanta for the 2026 Fall Meeting.

At The Coffee Shops™, we are committed to sharing timely industry information while supporting the associations that move roofing forward. Organizations like the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) play a vital role in advancing education, advocacy and innovation, and we are proud to help promote their work and encourage membership across the industry. 

That momentum is clear in 2026. Under the leadership of President Josh Poole, RCMA continues to expand its impact through growing contractor engagement, strong technical initiatives and new leadership guiding the association forward. 

RCMA recently welcomed new board leadership, including George Daisey of Dow Chemical Company as supplier vice president, along with Brent Crenshaw of EPS Materials and Jayne Rollason of Polyglass USA, Inc. as directors. Their experience and commitment reflect the strength of leadership shaping the future of roof coatings. 

A key focus continues to be RCMA’s growing Contractor Membership, bringing applicators into the conversation around codes, standards and best practices. This inclusion ensures that real-world insights are helping guide the industry while giving contractors access to technical resources, education and valuable industry connections. 

RCMA is also advancing technical excellence with resources like Coatings Tech Note 6 on white roof coatings, providing practical guidance on performance, application and energy efficiency. At the same time, member companies are driving innovation across the industry, with SOPREMA USA and Fluid Applied Roofing (FAR) recognized at the 2026 International Roofing Expo (IRE) for their award-winning technologies. Collaboration remains at the core of RCMA’s success, with new members like BITEC® and AB Specialty Silicones strengthening the association’s network and expertise. 

Looking ahead, the RCMA 2026 Fall Meeting, taking place October 7–8 in Atlanta, Georgia, will bring together industry leaders, technical experts and decision-makers for two days of collaboration and forward-thinking discussion. For contractors, manufacturers and suppliers, this is the time to get involved.

Plan to attend the Fall Meeting and be part of the conversations shaping the future of roof coatings. 

By Jenny Yu. 

Polyglass’s Polyschool demonstrates the power of hands-on roofing training. 

Hands-on training continues to play a critical role in the strengthening of the roofing workforce, as highlighted in this special edition of CoatingsTalk™, hosted live from the Polyglass Polyschool facility in Winter Haven, Florida. The session brought together technical experts to discuss and demo how education and training initiatives are improving installation quality, workforce retention and overall business performance.  

Polyglass offers many forms of education, including on-site demos and lunch-and-learns, but the heart of their offerings is Polyschool, Polyglass’s training program designed to provide classroom instruction and real-world application. “Training is our passion,” said Marie Ferrer, national technical training manager for Polyglass. “We want to make sure that everything is translated into you being able to apply what you're doing.” 

Polyschool’s approach emphasizes active participation through a “tell, show, do, apply” methodology, allowing attendees to participate in technique demonstrations, practice opportunities and immediate feedback. This hands-on model reflects how adult learners retain information and helps crews bring best practices back to the jobsite. “You’re never bored,” Marie stated.  

For Allie Spangler, district sales manager for the Southwest Florida region, the in-person experience is a key differentiator. “For the sales team, this has become an extension of us,” Allie said. “There are so many modes of communication now, but ultimately, face-to-face is still authentic. That's what we want to do here at Polyschool.” 

That said, Allie also noted Polyglass’s online, virtual training sessions on their YouTube channel, PolyFlix: “Highly recommend it. It offers a lot of installation tips, how-to videos and time trials.” 

During the webinar, Gianluca Venturin, technical services representative of Polyglass, and Henry Rives, national technical services manager for Polyglass, led live demonstrations focused on installation best practices. One best practice Gianluca wanted to highlight was the importance of attention to detail in critical areas.  

“We touched on many products, but one thing every crew should take back from this demo is the importance of T-joints,” Gianluca said. “I do many on-site observations, and sometimes I find that T-joints are the weakest point. So, maybe spend two minutes more on a T-joint, and this will prevent leaks.” 

Henry agreed. “A half-second procedure that can save you an hour later,” Henry said. “And, it makes for better roofing. It’s the way it should be done.” 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to see Polyschool training in action!

By Dani Sheehan. 

Whether contractors need a fast-turn waterproofing solution or a fully built traffic coating, this system offers options without overcomplicating installation. 

At World of Concrete (WOC) 2026, Polyglass walked contractors through its polyurea traffic coating system step by step, highlighting not just how it’s installed, but how it performs in real jobsite conditions.  

Start with prep and the right primer 

Surface preparation sets the foundation for everything that follows. The team emphasized targeting a Concrete Surface Profile (CSP) of 3-5, which ensures proper adhesion of the coating without showing through after application. 

From there, they selected their Primer PUc-1050. Applied thin, it promotes strong adhesion without slowing down production, having a dry time of only three hours. It was also at this time that they reinforced joints with liquid membrane or embedding polyester fabric directly into the primer for added durability. 

Base layer drives performance 

Once primed, this demonstration showcased their hand-applied polyurea system, Polyglass Tecnocoat CP-2049. Installed at approximately 80 mils, this self-leveling material creates a seamless, fully bonded waterproofing membrane. With a 20–25-minute working time and the ability to be applied by roller, squeegee or trowel, it gives crews flexibility on the job site while maintaining efficiency in installation. They used a spike roller pass to help release trapped air and prevent defects in the surface, ensuring a clean finish as the material cures. Within 45-60 minutes, the surface is walkable. 

One of the biggest advantages of this system is its compatibility. Unlike traditional systems, Polyglass’ hand-applied and spray-applied polyureas can work together. That means repairs don’t require remobilizing a full spray rig. Instead, crews can address damage quickly with a bucket and basic tools. 

Finishing for traffic and durability 

If the goal is waterproofing, Tecnocoat CP-2049 can stand alone as the finished product. However, for exposed applications, the demonstration applied Tecnotop 2C to serve as their wear layer. Applied at roughly 7-10 mils, it adds: 

• UV and chemical resistance 
• Long-term weatherability 
• Durability for pedestrian and vehicular traffic 

Crews can customize the finish by broadcasting aggregate into the topcoat for slip resistance or aesthetics, then sealing it with a final coat. Options range from quartz systems to decorative flake finishes and tinted polyaspartic coatings.  

From primer to topcoat, Polyglass’ polyurea system is designed to balance speed, flexibility and durability. Watch the full video to see how the right products, and the right process, can help your crews work smarter.

Record-breaking exhibitor numbers, expanded programming to compliment growing verticals and innovation define the 2026 event.

The International Roofing Expo, (IRE) the leading destination for residential and commercial roofing and exteriors professionals, concluded its largest edition to date. Thousands of craftsmen gathered for three days of product discovery, access to the newest technological advancements and design innovations, solidifying the event’s position as the ultimate hub for advancing the roofing and exteriors industry.

A record-breaking year for IRE

The 2026 edition of IRE set a new benchmark as the largest show in the event’s history, spanning more than 230,000 net square feet and featuring 700+ exhibitors. The event attracted a strong international audience, with attendees from Canada, Mexico, China, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Colombia and beyond, eager to gain insights into the North American roofing market, which holds a major share of global revenue.

Innovative exhibitors and first-time features

This year’s event welcomed over 180 new exhibiting companies, introducing groundbreaking products and solutions to meet the growing demand for roofing materials. The debut of the First Look Area showcased a curated selection of startups and emerging companies, including RAM Companies, Cool Roof Distribution, Roofs In A Box, Zuper and more. Returning industry leaders such as ABC Supply, GAF, QXO, Atlas Roofing Corporation, Owens Corning, SRS Distribution and Polyglass USA Inc. reaffirmed their commitment to innovation and excellence.

Empowering professionals through education

IRE 2026 delivered a robust educational program with over 165 sessions including conference, expo hall education and hands-on demonstrations, covering critical topics such as workplace safety, financial management, legal and regulatory compliance, leadership, business strategies, sales and service techniques, technical skills and sustainability. These sessions provided actionable insights to empower attendees with the tools needed for personal and professional growth.

The General Session panel brought together industry leaders from Roofing Contractor, BNP Media, the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) and Adams and Reese LLP. Panelists including NRCA leadership and renowned legal expert Trent Cotney discussed the state of the roofing industry, offering perspectives on current challenges, future opportunities and the evolving market landscape.

Strengthening the roofing community

IRE continues to champion initiatives that foster inclusivity and community engagement within the roofing industry: The Hispanic Contractors Program, providing networking and educational opportunities to empower Hispanic professionals in the sector. Roofers in Recovery returned for its second year, contributing vital mental health resources and support to industry professionals. The 17th annual Community Service Day, sponsored by Sika, Atlas, Roofing Contractor, Centimark, Reliable Onsite Services, Western Elite, Farrell Roofing and in partnership with Rebuilding Together Southern Nevada, saw volunteers repair homes for local residents, with materials generously donated by GAF.

“This year’s International Roofing Expo was a testament to the strength and growth of the roofing and home improvement industry,” says Rich Russo, show director, International Roofing Expo. “With record-breaking exhibitor participation, new initiatives and a strong presence of decision-makers, IRE 2026 proved to be the centerpiece of the innovation and collaboration that drive this industry forward.”

Expanding the exteriors segment

The Pro Contractors Pavilion returned as a key feature on the show floor, serving as a dedicated space for collaboration between home improvement professionals and roofing contractors. This expansion fostered new business opportunities and strengthened industry partnerships.

“If you are in the roofing industry, IRE is a great place to make connections, meet new people and learn about new products. If you [have] a business and want to understand what your market is doing, it is a great place to check...out [the landscape], check out what your competition is up to and learn more,” remarks Danielle Wells, president, Progressive Materials.

Looking ahead to 2027

The International Roofing Expo will return to Las Vegas, February 16-18, 2027, at the Las Vegas Convention Center. For updates and information on next year’s event, visit www.theroofingexpo.com.

About International Roofing Expo

The International Roofing Expo® is the premier event for both the commercial and residential roofing and exterior construction industries. The IRE brings the professional community together to help them stay current on trending knowledge and to see the largest selection of products and services. The event helps professionals improve their business through education, exhibitions and networking. The International Roofing Expo is owned and operated by Informa Markets. The official show sponsor is NRCA and the official show publication is Roofing Contractor. For more information, please visit www.theroofingexpo.com.

About Informa Markets

Informa Markets, a subsidiary of Informa plc (LON:INF), creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow. Our portfolio comprises more than 550 international B2B events and brands in markets including Engineering, Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals, Infrastructure, Construction & Real Estate, Fashion & Apparel, Hospitality, Food & Beverage and Health & Nutrition, among others. We provide customers and partners around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to-face exhibitions, specialist digital content and actionable data solutions. As the world's leading exhibitions organizer, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year. For more information, visit www.informamarkets.com.

Portfolio debuts at Western Roofing Expo, featuring Polyglass HRA and new partnerships with DuPont™ Styrofoam™ Brand insulation & Belgard Commercial pavers and pedestals.

Polyglass U.S.A., Inc., a leading manufacturer of roofing and waterproofing systems, today announced the launch of Drizone™ Commercial Systems, a new way of delivering complete waterproofing assemblies for commercial construction. By organizing both proven and new products into application-specific portfolios, Drizone helps architects, specifiers and contractors simplify complex building design challenges.

A portfolio approach to complex designs

Drizone Commercial Systems is structured as a portfolio organized by application type, giving specifiers and contractors clarity in selecting the right waterproofing approach for each condition. The three system families are:

• Drizone™ Dek — Horizontal deck waterproofing for plaza, amenity, green and blue roofs. Drizone Dek systems emphasize durability, versatility and long-term moisture management performance on exposed horizontal surfaces.
• Drizone™ Trak — High-performance surfacing systems for pedestrian and vehicular traffic. From stadium seating and balconies to parking garages, Drizone Trak systems combine primers, base coats, reinforcement layers and wear coats into monolithic, traffic-rated assemblies built for durability and slip resistance.
• Drizone™ Hydrix — Next-generation systems for horizontal and vertical below-grade structures and water-containment. Drizone Hydrix resists hydrostatic pressure, water migration and chemical exposure, protecting foundations, pits, vaults and cisterns with watertight performance where failure is not an option.

Spotlight on Drizone Dek

The launch highlights Drizone Dek assemblies featuring the new Polyglass Hot-Applied Rubberized Asphalt (HRA) membrane. Already a trusted technology in the industry, Polyglass now offers HRA as a cornerstone for waterproofing plaza and amenity decks to green and blue roof applications, supported by Polyglass Uncured Neoprene Flashing for flexible detailing at walls, penetrations and drains.

Drizone Dek assemblies also integrate newly approved partner components — DuPont™ Styrofoam™ Brand XPS insulation and Belgard Commercial pavers and pedestals — creating spec-ready systems that reduce ambiguity and ensure long-term performance.

A typical Drizone Dek assembly may include: structural concrete → PG 100 primer → Polyglass HRA → Mapeseal LMR Fabric reinforcement → Polyglass HRA → Polyglass' protective Membranes → Mapedrain HS Plus/HSW → DuPont™ Styrofoam™ Brand XPS insulation → Belgard pedestal system → Belgard pavers. A full cutaway rendering and technical details are available for design teams.

Example of Drizone™ Dek System using new products

Advancing the Seal the Envelope™ promise

Drizone is the latest expression of Polyglass’ Seal the Envelope promise to provide holistic solutions across all six sides of the building envelope. By grouping solutions into application-based systems, Drizone extends that commitment to commercial environments where compatibility and coordination across multiple components and transitions are critical.

Industry impact

“Drizone is about how we are continuing to expand our Seal the Envelope approach into commercial projects, by delivering assemblies that address real-world design conditions with proven products, new technologies and trusted partner components,” said Mark Franciosi, director of technical services at Polyglass.

Through Drizone Commercial Systems, Polyglass is simplifying specification. With the launch of Drizone Dek, HRA membranes are aligned with approved insulation and wide range of overburden options to enhance any architectural style. This system-first approach helps project teams deliver durable, serviceable decks and terraces with confidence.

Bring Drizone to your next project

Drizone systems, application matrices and technical data are available now. For project-specific guidance or pricing, contact Polyglass or visit the Drizone Commercial Systems page for details.

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, Polyglassprovides quality products and adds value through innovation. For more information about the premium products and services offered by Po yglass, call 800.222.9782 or visit polyglass.us.

By Dani Sheehan. 

From self-adhered membranes to fire-resistant systems and cool roof solutions, Polyglass is reshaping what contractors can expect from a manufacturer. 

Commercial projects come down to three priorities: safety, performance and meeting customer expectations. In a recent CoatingsCoffeeShop® Lunch & Learn, Ali Spingler and Kelsey Archer from Polyglass shared how the company is addressing these priorities with technologies designed to make low-slope roofing more reliable, more versatile and more profitable for contractors. 

Safer installations with ADESO self-adhered membranes 

Our industry is always looking for ways to make jobsites safer without sacrificing efficiency. Polyglass’s patented ADESO® self-adhered technology improves installation methods, bonds stronger over time and offers flexibility in hybrid systems. Ali explained why this has become such a defining innovation for Polyglass: “Our self-adhered technology is not peel and stick, this is a science-backed, patented program where it’s going to adhere more over time... One of the things that has set it apart has been being able to remove that open flame or the hot mop on a roof.” 

Stronger fire protection with burn shield technology 

Polyglass’s XFR line with Burn Shield™ technology takes fire safety further by resisting both flame spread and wind-driven embers – a critical distinction in wildfire-prone regions and WUI zones. As Kelsey shared, this was a direct response to contractor and community needs: “After all these wildfires in the western part of the U.S., they realize that these products are working... it uses burn shield technology that’s patented with Polyglass. It meets several different code,s and it truly is ember resistant.” 

Energy efficiency that lasts 

Energy codes continue to tighten, but not every solution can balance reflectivity with durability. Polyglass’s Polyfresko® cap sheet with CURE™ technology solves this with a high solar reflectance index (SRI) rating and granule-locking innovation that helps the roof perform longer with less maintenance. Ali emphasized the dual advantage: “Not only are you getting an SRI of 96, you’re also locking in those granules so you basically have zero granular loss... Polyglass can meet programs like LEED, Title 24 and Miami21 to help you deliver the energy efficient roof that’s being required.” 

Watch the full Lunch & Learn episode to discover how Polyglass is helping contractors reimagine what’s possible in low-slope roofing.  

You could win lunch on us when you send a photo of you and/or your team watching the Lunch & Learn! And one lucky viewer will receive an RCS Box of Love!

In this RoofersCoffeeShop Lunch & Learn, Ali Spingler & Kelsey Archer join us to explore the latest advancements in construction and design. From cutting-edge technologies like ADESO self-adhered membranes and Burn Shield fire safety features to energy-saving solutions such as CURE Technology and Kool Roof systems, this session showcases the innovations reshaping low-slope roofing. The team also dives into versatile installation options like Modifleece and PolyVap SA S, highlighting time-saving benefits and durability. Finally, they share how Polyglass empowers contractors through robust customer support to strengthen roofing skills, maximize jobsite performance and reimagine contractors' expectations from their manufacturers. 

Be sure to take a photo of your team enjoying this Lunch & Learn and submit your photo here or email us. We will select a winner each month to win a pizza lunch!

Once you've finished watching, don't forget to test your knowledge by taking the fun, interactive quiz and be sure to hang your completion certificate in your work area!

Download the Learning Guide.

Watch the Lunch & Learn below or on YouTube.

Join us live from Winter Haven, Florida for a special CoatingsTalk (RLW) hosted at the Polyglass Polyschool hands-on training facility! In this dynamic session, we're diving into the power of education, training and workforce development in roofing—straight from the source. Hear from industry leaders, technical experts and contractors as they explore how hands-on learning opportunities like Polyschool are building better crews, stronger businesses and higher profitability. Whether you're watching in-person or tuning in online, this is your front-row seat to roofing education in action.

Read the transcript.

Listen to the podcast.

Watch on YouTube.

By Dani Sheehan. 

Real demos. Real feedback. Real results. This education-first approach to roofing could be the answer to workforce shortages and performance gaps. 

The right training can make or break your crew’s performance. That’s why Polyglass has built Polyschool, a dedicated, hands-on education hub that teaches more than just product knowledge. In a special live edition of CoatingsTalk™ from the Polyschool facility in Winter Haven, Florida, a panel of Polyglass experts and educators shared how immersive learning is shaping the future of roofing. 

“The objective of Polyschool is to share best practices and really train on the Polyglass products, but also share best practices on installation, thoughts, ideas, new innovative products,” shared Marie Ferrer, national technical training manager at Polyglass. Their overall goal is to educate anyone who comes across their products and do it in a meaningful way. 

At the heart of Polyschool is a hands-on, interactive philosophy Ferrer calls “tell-show-do-apply.” Rather than sit through hours of lectures or slide decks, attendees are up on the roof, applying materials and receiving real-time feedback.  

Allie Spangler, district sales manager for Southwest Florida, emphasized that Polyschool has become a natural extension of the sales process. “In many cases, there’s only one of us out on the road. So having the ability to bring customers here, give them access to the full product lineup, let them touch and install the products – it's invaluable,” she shared. 

“We’re constantly rolling out new products. If you don’t know how to install them correctly, they won’t perform the way they should. Training is critical, not optional,” Kelsey Archer, Polyglass sales representative echoed. 

Polyschool is also playing a key role in workforce development, adding opportunities amidst the well-known labor shortage. “Cross-training is essential,” Marie explained. “We don’t just teach roofing; we cover waterproofing, wall systems, the entire building envelope. That kind of well-rounded knowledge makes a crew more adaptable, more valuable.” Allie also sees it as an opportunity to retain your crew, saying, “As humans, we want to learn and be challenged. Polyschool provides that environment. When every day brings something new, it helps keep people engaged and invested in their work.” 

Curious to see it in action? The live webinar also featured hands-on demos by Henry Rives and Gianluca Venturin, giving attendees a firsthand look at proper application techniques. 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to catch the demos and dive deeper into how education is an invaluable tool to strengthen your company.

By Lauren White.  

There’s no voodoo involved when talking about cool surfaces at the CRRC Annual Meeting.  

Between ghost tours, vampire apothecaries and beignets, the Big Easy hosted the Cool Roof Rating Council (CRRC) annual meeting. From June 10-12, 2025, members of the CRRC, committee members, sponsors and interested individuals ventured south to New Orleans, Louisiana to talk about Cool Surfaces in Action.  

Day 1 - Committee meeting day  

After breakfast, handshakes and hello’s, the technical committee kicked off the day with roll call, minute approvals and proposed revisions and changes. George Daisy with DOW and the chair of the CRRC technical committee; Sarah Schneider, CRRC deputy director; and Stacey Weister, CRRC senior technical manager presented throughout the morning.  

About 40 people in person and a handful via Zoom convened for the first half of the day making decisions about definition edits and procedural changes to five-point reflectance test updates and insights on the program manual digitization project. 

After the lunch break, the educational committee meeting started both in person and via Zoom for those who couldn’t travel this week. Kurt Shickman, an interested individual and the educational committee chair; Audrey McGarrell, CRRC communications manager; and Iona Isachsen, Smart Surfaces Coalition shared:  

• Project updates and timelines for completion  
• Downloads and resources information  
• Cool surfaces lesson plan status update  

At the end of the day, the floor opened up for anyone to talk about new business, ask questions and for updates on ongoing projects and discuss future priorities and projects.  

Day 2 - Annual meeting time 

This year, about 70 people, ranging from roofing contractors and interested individuals to manufacturers and research and academic professionals, convened to hear updates, ask questions and learn about new initiatives happening across the nation.   

Sponsors for the event include: Ace Laboratories as a platinum sponsor; Duro-Last, 3M, Climate Reserve, PRI, MACOMA as gold sponsors; IKO, DOW, Atlas, Siplast, Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions, RoofersCoffeeShop® as silver sponsors; Topps Products and R&D Services as bronze sponsors. 

Attendees represented a range of professionals from state energy offices, laboratories, distributors, codes and compliance divisions and universities. Some companies in attendance included: Sherwin-Williams, General Coatings, Western Colloid, Polyglass, 3M, ACE Laboratories, Hawaii State Energy Office, National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA), CertainTeed, National Coil Coatings Association, among others.  

A common theme throughout updates and presentations during the day was expanding reach and education. The CRRC continues to grow and while most members are located in the United States, there are now members in India and Australia. They also continue to broaden their reach through podcasts and webinars, speaking and showcasing at trade shows, publishing new resources, building up their social media – go follow them on LinkedIn, Instagram and Threads – and more! The morning was full of committee information and updates. 

Looking ahead, their goals are to continue to educate building contractors, increase code and program references, make cool surface research more accessible, and also improve and grow existing rating programs.  

Marty Hastings Award   

The 2025 recipient of the Marty Hastings Award is Kurt Shickman who has been a member of the CRRC for over a decade and has held multiple leadership roles throughout the years. The Marty Hastings Award was started in 2011 to honor Marty Hastings, a longtime CRRC board member and contributor. The recipient of this award is someone who makes great contributions to the CRRC and their efforts. In addition to the award, a monetary donation is made to a charity of the recipient’s choice. Kurt chose to donate to the Environmental and Energy Study Institute (EESI), Future Climate Leaders Scholarship. The EESI is a nonprofit offering science-based education to policymakers and the public, aiming to build a sustainable, resilient future through solutions to climate, energy and environmental challenges. This donation will go to fund scholarships and other academic support programs for students at historically black colleges.  

Cool guest presentations about cool surfaces  

Adopting cool roofs in historically cool climates  

Julia Nassar, senior energy and climate planner for The Metropolitan Area Planning Council (MAPC) for Greater Boston shared about “Expanding Cool Roof Awareness and Adoption in Metro-Boston.” MAPC is a regional planning agency serving the people who live and work in the 101 cities and towns of the Metropolitan Boston region. According to Julia, the frequency and severity of extreme heat events in historically cooler regions like New England where aging housing stock, low AC prevalence and limited heat-risk awareness leaves residents ill-prepared. MAPC’s Cool Roofs Initiative is a project aimed at expanding the awareness and adoption of cool roofs to help reduce heat and energy demand. Their goal is to promote the adoption of cools roofs in the Metro Mayors (16 cities making up the inner core of Boston) region through developing support tools and resources. 

Through the Cool Roof’s Initiative, they developed tools and resources to raise awareness among building owners, contractors and policymakers in Metro-Boston. Julia shared a variety of resources available, including: 

• Cool roof self-assessment: 11 question assessment to help people determine if a cool roof is right for a property  
• Cool roof suitability tool – Interactive map that allows users to identify opportunities for cool roof retrofits. 
• An Educational Toolkit that’s translated into five different languages  
• Market analysis of cool roof potential 

Data and climate action and heat mitigation  

Douglas Melnick, chief sustainability officer for the city of San Antonio, about heat mitigation efforts and ongoing research efforts in San Antonio. As the sixth largest city in the U.S. with 17% of the population identified as low income, rising temperatures are affecting more people, costing more and having major negative impacts. San Antonio saw a record high of 117 degrees Fahrenheit in 2024! According to Douglas, “Extreme heat is here and it’s only going to continue to get more severe as we see an increase in temperatures because of human-caused climate change.”  

During his presentation, “SA Climate Ready and Cool Neighborhoods: A Data-driven Approach to Climate Action and Heat Mitigation,” Douglas shared about the Urban Heat Mitigation Program that the City of San Antonio launched in 2024. Following an extensive mapping process, the City’s Office of Sustainability launched a Cool Neighborhood Program in four target areas to concentrate layered heat mitigation activities in conjunction with ongoing research. Based on the research, 73% of people shared that they were interested in cooler roofs as a strategy to mitigate heat. When cool roofs were installed on homes there was a significant 7.3% energy use reduction and a 10.1-degree reduction. The Cool Pavement Program started in 2023 and as of this year they’re on track to install 22.35 miles of cool pavement. Possible materials being tested are: GAF Streetbond – Durashield, SealMaster – SolarPave, GuardTop – Iron.    

Albedo management  

I learned a new term during this presentation: albedo. Albedo is the Latin word for “whiteness” or “lightness” and is the measure of how reflective a surface is. “Shine On: Recognizing Local and Global Benefits of Albedo Management” was presented by members from Climate Resolve. Bryn Moncelsi, deputy director, and Selena Melgoza, senior climate solutions analyst shared details about the Shine On Initiative, which was launched to recognize the full range of benefits of cool surfaces to spur broader deployment. A nonprofit based in Los Angeles, California, Climate Resolve’s mission is to champion equitable climate solutions. As of January 2015, Climate Resolve passed LA’s Cool Roof Ordinance and Rebate requiring all new and replacement roofs to be a cool roof. They were the first major city to establish a cool roof ordinance, and 10 years later, over 18 million square feet of cool roofing materials have been installed.  

While cool streets are still in the pilot phase, they continue to work with the community and industry partners to reach widespread adoption. According to Climate Resolve, 40% of asphalt cover radiates heat all day and night, making it crucial to cool these surfaces not only for people accessing the streets but also to curb the urban heat island effect. As part of their pilot they have installed cool materials in a variety of city blocks, outdoor basketball courts and have seen a heat differential as high as 12 degrees Fahrenheit. While it’s still gaining traction, to date there have been 182 lane miles installed and they’re looking forward to more adoption and installation in the future.  

This is my second year attending the CRRC Annual Meeting, and I learned just as much this year as I did last year in Las Vegas! It’s pretty incredible to be in the same room as other like-minded people from around the world who are working towards a more sustainable future. We write a lot on The Coffee Shops about sustainability and green initiatives, and the work the CRRC is doing is vitally important. I continue to be impressed with the brilliant minds who are helping the world stay cool.