By Dani Sheehan. 

Coatings may get the credit, but sealants are what make the system work. 

As more roofs reach the end of their warranty periods, building owners are looking for ways to extend roof life without paying for a full tear-off. In a recent CoatingsCast™ episode, UNIFLEX® Product Manager Chris Underwood introduces their newest spray-applied sealant, a product that can improve consistency, speed and labor efficiency on the job. 

The role of sealants in long-term performance 

“A roof sealant is a flexible, waterproof barrier applied to gaps, seams and penetrations,” Chris explained. These are the most vulnerable points in any system and are often the first places failures occur. Sealants “prevent leaks, protect against UV and weathering and ultimately extend the life of the roof,” Chris continued. 

Part of their ability to prevent leaks is not just in the waterproof barrier they create, but in how they handle the movement and stress that can happen across the roof every day. Chris emphasized that performance comes down to flexibility. “These have excellent elongation. They move very well with the roof,” he said, which helps maintain a tight seal as the building expands and contracts. And they don’t break down with long exposure to moisture and sun, further reinforcing the durability of the overall system after restoration. 

A smarter way to apply 

Most crews still apply sealants by hand, which takes a considerable amount of time. On a large roof, that labor adds up fast. It also opens the door for inconsistencies, especially when different crew members are working across the same surface. Chris shared that it was because of feedback from contractors that they decided to change how their product was applied. 

By introducing their Sprayable One Flash™ sealant, UNIFLEX has made it possible to: 

• Cover more area in less time 
• Apply a more uniform layer across the roof 
• Cut down on labor during surface preparation 

With sprayable sealants, you’re no longer trading quality for efficiency. You’re getting both: the waterproofing, flexibility and durability you need, with a faster way to install it. 

Listen to the full podcast episode to learn more about how this product can save countless hours and labor on your next restoration job.

By Dani Sheehan. 

Jamie Atkins reflects on building a career in the trades and his time with Sherwin-Williams Roofing Solutions. 

After 35 years with Sherwin-Williams® and the last six supporting UNIFLEX® and Kool Seal® as assistant product manager, Jamie Atkins is preparing for retirement and reflecting on a career that has mirrored the evolution of the trades themselves. 

For Jamie, longevity didn’t come from standing still. It came from improvement. “I could always see the movement toward better systems and better people,” he says. “Compared to 35 years ago, it’s better. And the company really tries to vet changes before making them.” The steady commitment to progress is what has kept him with Sherwin-Williams throughout his career. 

Lessons learned along the way 

“The trades are one of the best options right now,” Jamie says. “A lot of this work can’t be replaced by AI. You need a physical person there, making decisions in real time.” Over the decades, Jamie has worked across roles that taught him the value of accountability, communication and understanding how systems actually function. One of his most formative experiences came early in his career while working in a warehouse, where reducing shortages became a daily focus. “We made huge improvements just by holding people accountable and following up,” he shares. “It showed me the importance of investing time in what matters. In the long run, it pays off.” 

This also shaped how Jamie approached leadership and collaboration. A quote from a former boss stayed with him throughout his career: “There are no easy jobs.” The lesson, he explains, was about perspective. “It’s always easy to say what someone else should do,” he says. “But when you understand their job, you realize there’s usually a reason things happen the way they do.” 

The evolution of products and technologies 

As the industry evolved, so did the tools supporting it. When Jamie started in 1990, orders were handwritten, fax machines were essential and early internal email systems were just emerging. Over time, desktops gave way to laptops, remote work became possible and communication multiplied across platforms.  

While technology made work more flexible and efficient, Jamie notes that it also introduced new challenges. “You walk into the office now and you have emails, Teams messages, texts and phone calls,” he says. “Finding information can actually be harder than it used to be.” Still, Jamie sees technology as an enabler, not a replacement for people.  

During his time with UNIFLEX and Kool Seal, Jamie watched coatings technology evolve as silicone gained traction, and urethanes became increasingly prominent. Innovation, he notes, is constant, but meaningful progress requires thoughtful decision making, especially as certification requirements grow more complex. 

Paving the way for what’s next 

As retirement approaches, Jamie is most excited about reclaiming personal time – traveling, spending time with family and stepping away from day-to-day problem solving. When asked what advice he would give to the next generation entering the trades, Jamie keeps it simple and practical: understand the process before trying to improve it. “Things can almost always be done better,” he says. “But you have to take the time to understand how they actually work first.” He also encourages patience in an era of instant gratification. New systems often take longer at first, but they catch mistakes and create long-term value, something Jamie has seen repeatedly throughout his career.  

As seasoned professionals like Jamie prepare to retire, their experience highlights what the trades offer: careers built on problem-solving, adaptability and real-world impact. For Jamie, the message is clear: The trades aren’t just where he built his career; they’re where the next generation can build theirs, too. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

UNIFLEX® emphasizes education, safety and hands-on guidance as contractors expand into urethane systems. 

UNIFLEX® and Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions are reinforcing the role of training and jobsite support as polyurethane coatings become a more prominent part of commercial roofing strategies. During this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth spoke with Chris Underwood, product manager for UNIFLEX and CoolSeal, and Jamie Atkins, assistant product manager for UNIFLEX, about how education, safety and hands-on guidance support the successful use of urethane systems such as Urethane 88. 

Chris said polyurethane coatings demand a higher level of preparation than more familiar coating types, particularly when it comes to safety. He noted, “You want to make sure you have the proper equipment when you’re handling it.” He emphasized that crews must take protective measures seriously, stating that “any exposed flesh should be covered” and that the materials “can be very dangerous if you don’t use them properly.” 

From an application perspective, Chris said urethane systems are flexible and familiar for experienced crews. “It can be sprayed or it can be rolled on,” he said, adding that application methods are “almost in the same manner as you would apply a silicone coating.” That similarity can help ease the transition for contractors who are expanding into polyurethane systems for the first time. 

To ensure contractors are prepared, UNIFLEX has integrated formal education into its product strategy. “We call it UNIFLEX University,” Chris shared. He explained that the program introduces contractors to UNIFLEX products while providing the training needed to qualify for warranties. He added, “The urethane is a part of that course, and you’ll get trained on that.” 

Training support extends beyond formal programs and into how contractors access products and guidance in the field. Jamie pointed to UNIFLEX’s distribution model as part of that hands-on support structure. “UNIFLEX products are sold exclusively through Sherwin-Williams stores,” he said, noting that local access helps contractors get the resources and assistance they need as they apply polyurethane systems on active jobsites and evaluate roof conditions before installation. 

After installation, UNIFLEX emphasizes continuity and reduced ongoing burden for contractors and building owners alike. Jamie framed post-application value in terms of long-term performance and fewer return visits. “You’re going to apply a product that is going to last for a long time and you’re not going to need to worry about getting back up there for a while,” he said, focusing how durability and proper application help minimize follow-up issues after the job is complete. 

By pairing structured training with jobsite and post-installation assistance, UNIFLEX aims to help contractors adopt polyurethane coatings with confidence while delivering long-term value to building owners. 

Learn more about UNIFLEX training resources and contractor support for polyurethane coating systems!

By Emma Peterson. 

Diving into Uniflex’s roof sealant products with Chris Underwood.  

In a new episode of CoatingsCast™, host Megan Ellsworth sat down with Chris Underwood from UNIFLEX®. Their conversation centered on UNIFLEX’s new product – the Sprayable One Flash™ sealant. Chris shared a bit about what a sealant like this does on the roof:  

When we're talking about roof sealants, we’re really talking about flexible waterproof coatings that are applied to roof gaps, seams and penetrations (like vents, flashing and pipes). This creates a barrier that both prevents leaks and protects against UV rays and weathering, overall extending the roof’s lifespan and improving the building’s energy efficiency. 

This new sprayable product is the next generation of the existing UNIFLEX One Flash™ sealant. The original One Flash sealant is known for providing a durable, weather-resistant seal for multiple types of substrates without the need for fabric reinforcement.  

The main difference between the new product is that it's sprayable! Chris went into more detail, sharing, “This is a variation of our current one flash product that we have. The product that we have now is applied with a brush and maybe a back roller. What our R&D team did with this was reduce the viscosity to a consistency that would allow it to be sprayed without sacrificing quality.”  

Why take the time to make an already incredible product sprayable? Efficiency. Chris explained, “Our new sprayable One Flash product saves a tremendous amount of time...Not only does it not require fabric for installation (like our previous one flash product), it also saves labor, as you no longer need to take the time to scoop it out, brush it and then back roll it. You simply spray it to around 60 mils and you’re done.”  

Listen to the whole conversation or Watch the recording to learn more about UNIFLEX and their new Sprayable One Flash sealant. 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

UNIFLEX® sees polyurethane coatings gaining traction as contractors target higher-end commercial and specialty facilities. 

UNIFLEX® and Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions are seeing polyurethane roof coatings move from an emerging option to a practical solution as contractors respond to the demands of higher-end commercial and specialty facilities. During this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Megan Ellsworth spoke with Chris Underwood, product manager for UNIFLEX and CoolSeal, and Jamie Atkins, assistant product manager for UNIFLEX, about how market expectations are driving interest in urethane-based systems such as Urethane 88. 

Chris said contractors who are familiar with polyurethane coatings tend to recognize their advantages quickly. “The ones that have experience or are properly trained with urethane coatings really like them because of the durability and the adhesion properties,” he said. That response, he explained, often comes after contractors see how the material performs in more demanding environments. 

Those performance characteristics are increasingly important in complex commercial projects. Chris noted that polyurethane systems are well suited for higher-end applications tied to national and corporate accounts. “When you start looking at more commercial applications, your higher-end commercial applications where there’s going to be the need for a highly durable UV-stable solution,” he said. As a result, he added, UNIFLEX is seeing demand increase as sales teams become more involved with those accounts. 

While polyurethane coatings typically come with a higher upfront cost, Chris emphasized that the category has been building momentum for years. “Urethane has been on our roadmap for a while,” he said. He pointed out that silicone once captured much of the industry’s attention but noted that “there was an emerging technology that was coming up called urethanes,” which has continued to gain acceptance. 

Jamie said long-term appearance is often a deciding factor when contractors recommend polyurethane systems. “You want that long-lasting durability and that appearance that long-lasting appearance of a new roof that is maintained with the polyurethane,” he said.  

Material fit and long-term performance are often evaluated together when contractors consider polyurethane systems, particularly on roofs where access and repeat work are concerns. Jamie framed the value in practical terms, emphasizing reduced callbacks and extended service intervals. “You’re going to apply a product that is going to last for a long time and you’re not going to need to worry about getting back up there for a while,” he said, pointing to durability as a key factor driving contractor confidence across demanding roof conditions. 

As training expands and contractors gain confidence with application techniques, UNIFLEX expects polyurethane coatings to become a more common part of the commercial roofing landscape. Company leaders anticipate that increased familiarity with urethane systems will drive wider adoption and continued growth as contractors incorporate the technology into more commercial projects. 

Learn more about how UNIFLEX urethane systems support demanding commercial roofing applications!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

UNIFLEX® outlines how polyurethane roof coatings are reshaping expectations around longevity performance and commercial roof protection. 

UNIFLEX® and Sherwin-Williams Roofing Solutions are making a case for polyurethane roof coatings as a high-performance option for commercial contractors. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, host Megan Ellsworth sat down with Chris Underwood, product manager for UNIFLEX and CoolSeal, and Jamie Atkins, assistant product manager for UNIFLEX, to explain how the technology works. 

Chris said polyurethane coatings stand out in UNIFLEX’s lineup because they are built for demanding conditions and long-term performance. “Polyurethane coatings, they’re some of the most robust roof coatings that we have available,” he said. Within that category, he added, “Urethane 88 is our highest rated and our best roof coating.” 

He connected that positioning to measurable performance traits contractors often prioritize on commercial jobs. Chris noted, “Some of the main characteristics of polyurethane coatings are they are very durable, they last a long time, they have excellent adhesion and excellent UV stability.” That performance profile is what separates urethane from more common coating selections. “Our urethane is much more robust than that,” he said, comparing it to silicone and elastomeric options. 

Beyond strength and durability, Chris emphasized application versatility and system design as part of the appeal. Polyurethane coatings, he said, can bond to multiple surfaces and are designed to build protection through a multi-step approach. “They also do adhere to a variety of surfaces and will give excellent adhesion,” he said. He added that while silicone is typically applied as a single coat, “our urethanes come in a two-coat system.” 

Jamie framed the value in terms many contractors and owners recognize immediately: fewer return trips and more confidence in long-term roof performance. He shared, “You’re going to apply a product that is going to last for a long time and you’re not going to need to worry about getting back up there for a while.” 

That extended service expectation can shape how building owners think about long-term value, particularly on facilities where appearance and surface condition are part of the equation. Jamie said polyurethane coatings help maintain that like-new look while reducing the need for ongoing upkeep. “You want that long-lasting durability and that appearance that long-lasting appearance of a new roof,” he said, noting that the system is designed to hold up over time rather than require frequent cleaning or reapplication. 

As more commercial stakeholders push for longer-lasting solutions that reduce repeat labor and maintenance disruptions, UNIFLEX expects polyurethane coatings to remain a growing part of the coatings conversation. 

Listen to the podcast to learn more about UNIFLEX polyurethane coatings and how urethane 88 fits into long-term roof performance strategies!

By Dani Sheehan. 

Meet the diverse needs of your commercial roofing projects without sacrificing performance or aesthetics with this silicone roof coating. 

Contractors have long trusted UNIFLEX® Silicone44™ Rubberized Silicone Roof Coating for its strength, flexibility and ability to stand up to ponding water. Beyond the reflective white coating, UNIFLEX has worked to expand its Silicone44 color options to include tan, yellow, black, blue and medium gray. This range of colors allows you to bring both function and design flexibility to your commercial projects. 

Why color matters on the roof 

Different colors can serve different purposes: 

• Aesthetics and design: In some projects, the roof is visible from above or from surrounding buildings. Offering a tan or gray option can better match the overall look of the structure, aligning with architectural preferences. 
• Climate considerations: Darker colors absorb more heat from the sun, which can actually benefit buildings in colder climates where additional warmth is an advantage for energy efficiency. 
• Safety and visibility: Bright colors, like safety yellow, provide clear walkways on the roof, helping guide maintenance personnel and reducing potential risks. 

Same trusted performance, more flexibility 

No matter the color, contractors can count on Silicone44 Rubberized Silicone Color Roof Coating to deliver the same premium features they already know: 

• 315% elongation for flexibility and crack resistance 
• 250 PSI tensile strength for durability 
• UV resistance for long-term protection 
• Ponding water resistance for reliable performance in flat and low-slope systems 

By adding more colors, UNIFLEX has opened the door to new possibilities. Whether it’s blending in with an existing roofline, improving safety on the jobsite or tailoring performance to the climate, you have the option to meet your project’s needs. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

With the right surface preparation, primer and coating system, single-ply roofs can be restored into high-performing, monolithic systems that last decades longer. 

Single-ply roofing systems are among the most common low-slope solutions across the country. Lightweight, waterproof and relatively easy to install, these membranes offer contractors a reliable option that can be applied mechanically or with adhesives. But as durable as they are, single-ply systems come with their own set of challenges over time, making roof restoration an essential part of extending their service life. 

Why restoration matters 

Single-ply membranes inevitably break down. Over time, the material can become brittle and lose elasticity. According to Jamie Atkins from UNIFLEX, this usually shows up as shrinkage, especially at the seams, allowing moisture to get trapped under the system. 

Moisture intrusion can drastically shorten the roof’s lifespan if not addressed. However, “Single ply is very conducive to applying liquid-applied coatings – whether it’s silicone, acrylic or urethane,” shares Jamie. “What that does is extend the life of the roof 10-20 years. And if you’re using a white coating, now you’ve got increased reflectivity on top of it.” 

Non-negotiables before restoration 

Before any restoration work begins, you need to run a moisture survey. This diagnostic step uses tools such as infrared scanners, nuclear meters or electrical impedance to measure the amount of moisture trapped beneath the membrane. Even small pockets of hidden moisture can compromise adhesion and lead to premature failure of the coating system. “We don’t even want to talk to a contractor until they’ve done this moisture survey,” Jamie stresses.  

The next critical step is an adhesion test, which evaluates how well a coating will bond to the existing membrane. Contractors typically apply a small sample of the selected coating, allow it to cure and then pull-test it to measure bond strength. This ensures that once the full system is applied, it won’t peel, blister or delaminate under real-world conditions. 

Together, these tests confirm whether the roof is a viable candidate for restoration. Skipping them can result in costly callbacks or even a complete system failure. 

Choosing the right products 

Surface preparation matters just as much as product selection. Primers help create the right conditions for restoration success. Jamie explains, “There are two types of primers that are used. Rinse primers, especially for EPDM, which clean off the material and prepare it for the topcoat, and adhesion promoter primers, which prepare the surface for a stronger bond.” 

When it comes time to select a coating, performance factors and regional climate both come into play. 

• Silicone: Excels in elasticity, UV stability, high-temperature resistance, water resistance and flexibility. Ideal for areas with extreme sun or temperature swings. 
• Acrylic: Cost-effective and reflective, though less elastic than silicone. 
• Urethane: Known for superior strength, durability and adhesion. 

“At the end of the day, a lot of it comes down to economics and geography,” says Jamie. “I would argue that silicone, due to its elasticity, is a very good solution, but it depends on what the contractor or building owner is trying to accomplish.” 

Restoration of single-ply roofs offers a profitable and reliable service line – one that not only helps extend roof life but also delivers energy efficiency and peace of mind for building owners. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

UNIFLEX® is making it easier than ever to offer the highest-performing products while providing the training and certification to back you up. 

The coatings industry has seen rapid growth in recent years, and silicone has been the favorite. Its ease of application, single-coat systems and reliable performance in ponding water situations has made it an easy choice for many contractors. But as Chris Underwood of UNIFLEX® explains, urethane technology is gaining ground. 

“Urethane is one of the higher-growing technologies in the coatings industry,” Chris shared. “It’s a smaller market because it can be difficult to use and some of them have very short shelf lives. You need to be somewhat experienced or highly trained to use them, but the performance is on another level.” 

Urethane coatings deliver superior tensile strength, elongation and durability compared to other coatings, making them a great choice when you want to offer your customers the highest level of protection. However, as Chris acknowledged, they typically require more skill and experience to apply. Some are two-part systems with short pot lives, and they must be installed correctly to ensure success. 

Urethane88™ 

UNIFLEX offers Urethane88™, a single-component aliphatic moisture-curing polyurethane coating designed for exterior commercial and industrial applications. 

Key features include: 

• High solids content (98% by weight; 78% by volume) for exceptional film build 
• Durability with superior tensile strength and elongation 
• Fast cure times – to touch in one hour, recoat in four hours and full cure in 72 hours 
• Energy performance with a bright white finish 
• VOC compliant at 134.5 g/l 

Training and support 

Because urethane requires more technical know-how, UNIFLEX also provides the education you need to get started. Programs like UNIFLEX University and hands-on training with regional sales managers ensures you learn the right techniques for application and long-term success.  

“During our UNIFLEX University events, you learn how to use these products and take a test to become a certified contractor,” Chris explained. “That certification enables you to work on warranty projects, which really sets you apart.” 

Explore Urethane88 and UNIFLEX training opportunities to see how you can expand your roofing capabilities and deliver long-lasting results for your customers.

By Dani Sheehan. 

This advanced foam and coating system offers a renewable solution that extends the life of the roof. 

Sherwin-Williams Roofing Solutions is making it easier than ever to deliver dependable performance with a two-product spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing system built for longevity, efficiency and ease of application. Combining NCFI Polyurethane’s closed-cell SPF and a UNIFLEX® protective coating, this advanced system offers a seamless, fully adhered solution that protects buildings from water intrusion, thermal stress and high winds, while saving time and money during installation. 

A closer look at the advantages 

SPF roofing isn’t new, but the technology and application have evolved over the years. When installed by trained professionals, SPF forms a monolithic layer of insulation and waterproofing, filling every crack and crevice of the roof surface. Here’s what makes this system stand out: 

• Exceptional R-value: Expands to meet insulation needs and reduces energy costs over the long term. 
• Waterproof and seamless: Eliminates common leak points like seams and fasteners. 
• Self-flashing: SPF easily conforms to irregular shapes, curves and penetrations. 
• Low installed weight: Provides excellent performance without adding significant structural load. 
• Ponding water resistance: When paired with UNIFLEX Rubberized Silicone, the system can stand up to ponding water, making it ideal for low-slope and flat roofs. 

Built for ease and efficiency 

From surface preparation to the final coat, the application process is designed for control and customization: 

• Adheres to most roof substrates: Great for new construction and roof restorations – no need for tear-off in most cases. 
• Formulated for all spray equipment and spray bots: Flexible enough to match your preferred method of installation. 
• Controls slope and drainage: Apply to any angle and control thickness for better water management. 
• Reduces jobsite time and waste: Fewer materials, fewer steps and less labor. 

Long-term performance that pays off 

The NCFI SPF and UNIFLEX coating work together to form a durable and renewable roofing system that can last 20 years or more with proper maintenance, and potentially up to 40 years with routine recoating. This system has achieved the highest wind uplift ratings in the industry, is Miami-Dade approved and can help your customers earn LEED points and reduce their environmental footprint thanks to its low global warming potential (GWP). 

More seasons. More protection. This roofing system has you covered. Sold exclusively at Sherwin-Williams, learn more about how you can create a roofing system that defends against extreme weather, wind and wear.