By Emma Peterson. 

A conversation with SPFA’s Lisa Smith on how SPFA empowers contractors and members through education, resources, events and more. 

Founded in 1987, the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) is a national 501(c)6 trade association. Their mission is to provide support to contractors, manufacturers, distributors and other professionals that work with spray polyurethane foam. They pursue this mission in a variety of ways, from curating technical resources to organizing certification sessions. To learn more about SPFA, we sat down with Lisa Smith, director of member engagement, for a Coatings Cast™ all about how SPFA brings the industry together.  

A great example of SPFA bringing the industry together was their annual convention. Lisa dove into a bit of what makes this show so special:  

I don't think there's anything better than meeting somebody face-to-face. Even if you've talked to them on the phone, face-to-face meetings are so much better. It really creates a good connection. And so many of our members are spread out; this show really brings everyone physically together to make those emotional and business connections.  

In addition to creating unique and important networking opportunities, the show also showcases the variety of resources SPFA offers to their members. For example, the 2026 show not only had networking opportunities and education sessions during the event, but also a pre-convention field exam/certification program and an extensive trade show floor to explore! 

At the end of the day, SPFA’s convention is a great example of how they bring the industry together and how they uplift professionals. As Lisa put it, “Our contractors and members are the heart of SPFA. And the convention is a great way for us to meet them in person and find out what they need help with and where they’d like to see the organization go.”  

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording to learn more about how SPFA unites and supports the spray polyurethane industry. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Expand into the industrial market and see why spray foam roofing addresses the insulation challenge on wastewater digesters. 

As wastewater treatment facilities continue to prioritize efficiency, sustainability and long-term performance, more operators are turning to spray foam roofing (SPF) as a solution for insulating and protecting digester systems. This growing application represents an opportunity to expand services into a highly specialized and increasingly in-demand market. 

The role of digesters in water treatment 

Digesters are a critical component of wastewater treatment plants. These large concrete tanks, often capped with metal or floating lids, create a controlled environment where bacteria break down organic material to cleanse water. For this biological process to work efficiently, consistent internal temperatures are essential. 

Heat loss through concrete and metal surfaces can significantly reduce digester performance, leading to lower gas production, higher energy demands and reduced system efficiency. Maintaining thermal stability is one of the biggest challenges facility operators face.  

Why spray foam works 

Digester lids themselves present a unique insulation challenge. Many are circular and curved in design, often constructed from stainless steel with structural ribs that add strength while allowing the lid to move with changes in gas pressure inside the tank. This makes it difficult for traditional systems to fit properly or seal effectively. Gaps, seams and rigid materials can struggle to conform to the contours of the lid and its ribbed framework. Spray foam, however, expands and adheres directly to the surface, conforming to curved shapes and irregular details while creating a continuous, sealed insulation layer across the entire structure. 

Spray foam roofing systems are uniquely suited to address the challenges digesters present: 

• Seamless insulation: SPF creates a continuous, monolithic insulation layer that minimizes thermal bridging and air leakage. 
• Superior thermal control: High-density roofing foam helps maintain the elevated temperatures required for bacterial activity. 
• Moisture and chemical resistance: When paired with protective coatings, spray foam helps shield digester lids from moisture, gases and harsh environmental conditions. 
• Precision application: SPF can be applied to complex shapes, domed lids and moving components where traditional insulation systems fall short. 

In many wastewater treatment plants, the methane generated during digestion can be captured and reused to power plant operations. Better insulation directly supports this goal by improving digestion efficiency and reducing the need for supplemental energy from fossil fuels. 

These projects demand: 

• A strong understanding of material selection and thickness control 
• Familiarity with industrial safety requirements
• Experience working around active facilities with strict protocols 
• Proper training to ensure consistent application and system performance 

Certification and training 

As spray foam applications continue to expand into specialized areas like digester insulation, proper training and certification is critical. Facility owners and engineers want assurance that contractors understand not only how to spray foam, but also how to do so safely, consistently and in demanding industrial environments. 

Working with established manufacturers such as General Coatings Manufacturing Corp gives you access to proven spray foam and coating systems designed for durability in challenging applications. Manufacturer-backed training and technical support can be an important complement to formal certification through organizations like the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), helping you apply systems correctly and confidently in the field. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Contractors looking to differentiate in 2026 are finding new opportunities in spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing systems that solve challenges traditional systems can’t always address. 

For contractors looking to grow their commercial capabilities, spray polyurethane foam (SPF) can be more than another system to offer. It can become a strategic service line that opens the door to restoration work, complex reroofing projects and energy-focused upgrades. 

Why spray foam stands out 

Many roof systems perform well on straightforward projects. But not every roof is straightforward. Buildings with multiple penetrations, rooftop equipment, irregular layouts or curved structures often create labor-intensive installation challenges for conventional materials. 

Because the material is spray-applied and fully adhered, SPF conforms to the substrate and creates a seamless surface across transitions, penetrations and hard-to-detail areas. Instead of cutting and fitting around every obstacle, you can create a continuous insulated roofing system that helps simplify difficult applications. 

As Will Lorenz of General Coatings Manufacturing Corp shared during a live soundstage interview at the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2026, “The more difficult the building is, the more it’s a perfect fit for spray foam.” 

A smart path for recover and restoration projects 

As more commercial roofs age, owners are increasingly interested in restoration and recover options that preserve existing assets. In many cases, a full tear-off may not be necessary if the substrate remains sound. 

Spray foam can help you answer restoration demand by adding insulation, improving waterproofing performance and renewing aging roof systems without the cost and disruption of removing the entire roof assembly. 

For owners, that can mean: 

• Reduced landfill waste from tear-offs 
• Lower disruption to occupied buildings 
• Faster project timelines 
• Improved thermal performance 
• Extended roof service life 

Training is what turns opportunity into profit 

Spray foam roofing is not a plug-and-play category. Successful installation requires an understanding of proportioning equipment, spray technique, substrate conditions, weather variables and coating application standards. Industry associations such as the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) and Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) continue to play an important role in advancing best practices, education and professionalism across the category. 

Manufacturers matter too. Contractors entering or expanding in SPF need partners who can provide product guidance, jobsite support, inspections and warranty pathways. As Will explained, “People install it and make it a roof.” Quality materials matter, but quality outcomes depend on trained contractors backed by responsive manufacturers. 

General Coatings is available to help you evaluate opportunities, choose the right coating systems, troubleshoot field conditions and build long-term confidence in SPF installations. If you want to expand their commercial offerings, improve margins and solve more complex problems for your customers, spray foam may be one of the smartest additions to the toolbox. 

Learn how General Coatings can help build your business with spray foam! 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

A recent school roof overhaul highlights safety, sustainability and seamless execution by a top-rated contractor. 

When South Park Elementary School faced the daunting task of replacing its roof in time for the new school year, Strong Contractors Inc. stepped up to deliver — with precision, speed and environmental foresight. 

The Colorado-based commercial roofing company, led on this project by Matteo Mazzullo-Revel, tackled a more than 40,000-square-foot roof overhaul at the school’s 3100 Hollywood Dr. location using spray polyurethane foam (SPF). The complex installation, completed in just 17 days, showcases the firm’s ability to solve logistical challenges under pressure — especially with multiple HVAC penetrations complicating the layout. 

“Every HVAC unit had to be meticulously masked to avoid overspray,” said Mazzullo-Revel, a SPFA PCP Certified Master Installer. The intricate setup demanded both technical expertise and tight coordination, made tougher by a hard deadline to finish before students returned. 

The project employed Gaco Low GWP F2780 foam, GacoFlex S2000 silicone and anti-slip #6 white granules. These materials formed a monolithic system — a seamless roofing approach that enhances durability, particularly in environments riddled with roof penetrations like vents and HVAC mounts. The granules also aid in ongoing maintenance, offering safe footing for technicians accessing the roof. 

Beyond the technical aspects, Strong Contractors ensured compliance with OSHA fall protection standards and brought in a third-party safety consultant, resulting in zero incidents — no small feat on a job of this size and scope. 

Environmentally, the SPF system offered a major plus: it allowed the team to build over the existing roof, diverting tons of waste from local landfills — an increasingly important consideration in public works projects. 

This isn’t Strong Contractors’ first time in the spotlight. The firm, co-owned by a husband-and-wife team, has earned recognition from Gaco as a top applicator in 2023 and 2024 and landed on the Inc. 5000 list for its rapid growth. Their past work includes high-profile government and education projects across Colorado, including an expansive slate of roofing for Pueblo School District 60 in 2024. 

Learn more about how Strong Contractors is shaping the future of sustainable roofing, this job is just the start!

By Emma Peterson. 

Hear from Mark Hearn of Enverge about why spray foam is more than just insulation. 

Back in March, we hosted a soundstage at the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance’s 2026 show. One of our guests was Mark Hearn from Enverge, a company we just welcomed to The Coffee Shops™ less than a month ago! In the interview, Mark, who is Enverge’s mid-Atlantic area sales manager, explained the importance of understanding that spray foam is more than just insulation, it’s an entire system.  

He explained, “Spray foam is not just an insulation component. Spray foam is really part of a system... We're not necessarily in the insulation business or the spray foam business. We're really in the building performance business.” By thinking about spray foam as a part of the larger building system, you can go beyond just building a thermally energy efficient space and also build a space that is comfortable, protective and healthy.  

The key to achieving this well-rounded result is education, something that the team at Enverge works hard to connect contractors, designers and even home and business owners to. Mark explained, “We're talking to a lot of contractors about using spray foam as a system. And those contractors then connect with the architects that they're working with, their building code officials that they're working with and even some of the homeowners to talk about using spray foam to take a building to the next level, both in terms of energy efficiency as well as air quality, comfort and safety.”  

Want to learn more about how Enverge is helping contractors install spray foam systems successfully? Check out our whole interview with Mark.

By Jenny Yu.  

The 2026 SPFA Convention and Expo brought together contractors and manufacturers to focus on education and growth. 

The Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) 2026 Convention and Expo brought the spray foam industry together, drawing nearly 2,300 attendees and 106 exhibitors to Las Vegas for several days of education, networking and innovation. From a bustling trade show floor to hands-on certification opportunities, the event highlighted a growing industry focused on quality, safety and workforce development. 

Attendees from The Coffee Shops™ team noted the strong turnout and energy across the event. “The trade show floor was very busy,” said Karen Edwards. “We had a good number of folks in attendance, some already doing spray foam roofing and others who wanted to add it to their offerings.” Educational sessions and panels gave contractors the chance to learn directly from experienced professionals and explore new opportunities in spray foam systems. 

A consistent theme throughout the event was the importance of training and certification. “We’re seeing a lot of growth in spray foam, but there was a clear theme that kept emerging, and that was the need for training and certification,” Karen added. That focus was reflected in the numbers, with 130 field exams and 229 written exams conducted on-site through SPFA’s Professional Certification Program, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to higher standards. 

For many attendees, education extended beyond application techniques. “Education is very necessary,” shared Alberto Torres. “Not only to learn how to apply systems, but also to learn the codes depending on different states.” Live demonstrations of spray rigs and equipment further underscored the technical expertise required to succeed in the field. 

The sense of community was equally strong, especially among seasoned professionals mentoring newcomers. Matthew Ramirez observed, “Contractors that have been here for a long time are welcoming and introducing new people into the industry, making sure they get the certifications and resources they need to be successful. They’re the future.” 

The event also celebrated excellence in the field, with new industry awards recognizing leadership, innovation and advocacy, alongside the National Industry Excellence Awards showcasing standout projects across building enclosure, roofing and specialty applications. 

With strong attendance, increased certification activity and a clear focus on education, SPFA 2026 demonstrated the industry’s continued momentum and commitment to raising the bar. 

Learn more about the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance and their work to advance spray foam roofing!

Join CoatingsCoffeeShop® for a live Coffee Conversations at SPFA, sponsored by HandiFoam, as we bring together industry leaders to explore the forces shaping spray foam in construction. From growth across roofing, insulation and specialty applications to emerging innovations and evolving building codes, this discussion dives into what contractors need to know now. Panelists will tackle public perception, sustainability messaging and how spray foam stacks up against competing systems. We will also look ahead at the trends set to influence installation, product development and training over the next several years, along with practical guidance for contractors ready to enter or expand in the spray foam market.

Watch the Coffee Conversation LIVE from SPFA!

By Dani Sheehan. 

A new drywall-to-framing solution is helping contractors improve energy efficiency, reduce callbacks and streamline installation. 

Contractors know that small gaps can turn into big problems. Air leakage, moisture intrusion and even minor inconsistencies in drywall installation can slowly chip away at a building’s performance. At the SprayFoam 2026 Convention and Expo, held March 22-25 by the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), HandiFoam® announced their latest innovation, HandiFoam Gasket Foam, designed to simplify sealing while improving long-term results. 

A smarter approach to drywall sealing 

HandiFoam Gasket Foam is a flexible, polyurethane foam sealant designed specifically to create a continuous seal between drywall and framing. Once cured, the foam compresses slightly, helping to prevent drywall bowing while maintaining a strong, lasting bond to framing materials. The result is a more consistent finish, and fewer callbacks tied to movement or gaps over time. 

Where this product really stands out is in its ability to tackle multiple challenges at once. By sealing gaps at the drywall-to-framing connection, HandiFoam Gasket Foam helps reduce: 

• Air infiltration that drives up energy costs 
• Moisture intrusion that can lead to long-term damage 
• The movement of dust and pollutants through the structure 

Gasket Foam is also UL GREENGUARD Gold Certified, giving you added confidence when working on projects with strict indoor air quality requirements. 

Small detail, big impact 

HandiFoam engineered this product for smooth, controlled applications, allowing for precise placement where it’s needed. This helps reduce waste and keeps your crew moving efficiently on the job site. It’s compatible with all Handi-Tool® Dispensing Units, including the new HandiFoam HT990 Dispensing Unit. The HT990 features a smooth-tip design that enhances glide and precision, making it easier to maintain consistent application even across long runs. It also fully cures in about 30 minutes at room temperature, helping you stay on schedule without sacrificing quality. 

HandiFoam Gasket Foam offers a simple way to elevate your work without overcomplicating your process. By improving sealing at a critical junction, you can deliver better-performing buildings while reducing the risk of future issues. 

Get your Gasket Foam today!

Join CoatingsCoffeeShop® for a live Coffee Conversations at SPFA, sponsored by HandiFoam, as we bring together industry leaders to explore the forces shaping spray foam in construction. From growth across roofing, insulation and specialty applications to emerging innovations and evolving building codes, this discussion dives into what contractors need to know now. Panelists will tackle public perception, sustainability messaging and how spray foam stacks up against competing systems. We will also look ahead at the trends set to influence installation, product development and training over the next several years, along with practical guidance for contractors ready to enter or expand in the spray foam market.

Get notified when this Coffee Conversation is LIVE!

CoatingsCoffeeShop® is proud to bring a leading panel of contractors together to share what they are seeing in the spray foam industry and the overall trends within commercial installations. Karen Edwards moderates this panel as they talk about new technologies, product innovations, consumer behavior and the overall economy. The panel discussion is put together as part of the 2026 SprayFoam Convention & Expo and will not only talk about current trends and challenges but also what these contractors see for the future of spray foam.

Register today!