Roof Restoration Benchmark Report quantifies what contractors have long believed — restoration is often the smarter business decision.

APOC, a leading manufacturer of liquid-applied roof restoration solutions, announced findings from a new benchmark study that provides data validating the performance and profitability of roof restoration compared to traditional reroofing methods.

While experienced contractors have long thought that restoration could be the more profitable path when conditions allow, actual data to support this has been limited — until now. APOC’s latest research changes that.

Developed in partnership with Cotney Consulting Group, the study analyzed 118 commercial roofing projects and compared restoration methods with traditional reroofing approaches across key performance indicators including profitability, labor efficiency, time to completion and margin strength. The findings showcase a shift in how contractors can approach project delivery in an increasingly constrained labor and cost environment.

“At a time when contractors are under pressure to do more with less, this research provides clear, quantifiable evidence that restoration is not just a viable alternative, but it’s often the smarter business decision,” said Johnny Walker, national technical manager, APOC. “At APOC, we’ve always believed in the power of restoration, when viable. Now we can show contractors exactly why it makes sense to their bottom line.”

Key findings from the APOC Roof Restoration Index include:

• Significantly higher profit productivity: Restoration projects generated approximately 85% higher gross profit per crew day — due to smaller crew sizes and fewer days needed to complete a job — compared to reroofing benchmarks, with average returns of ~$8,000 per crew day versus ~$4,300.
• Major time savings: Restoration projects averaged ~8 crew days for a 30,000 SF roof, compared to 13 for recovery and up to 30 for tear-off, enabling faster project turnover and increased annual capacity.
• Improved labor efficiency: Restoration required up to 85% less labor intensity than tear-off methods and could be completed with crews approximately one-third smaller.
• Stronger, more consistent margins: Restoration delivered average gross margins around 43%, with typical ranges between 30%–60%, outperforming many reroofing scenarios.

The study further demonstrates that restoration minimizes operational disruption for building owners, reduces project risk and supports scalability across a wide range of commercial roof sizes.

As labor shortages persist and project backlogs grow, APOC’s research positions restoration as a strategic move for contractors seeking to improve efficiency, increase profitability and remain competitive in a rapidly evolving market. Industry estimates suggest that 30–50% of roofs** that are ultimately reroofed may instead be viable candidates for restoration, representing a significant potential market opportunity based on contractor evaluation patterns and field experience.

“I’ve been in this industry for over 40 years, and most of that time it’s been widely accepted that restoration is the more profitable path, when the roof supports it,” said John Kenney, research consultant, Cotney. “But widely accepted and proven are two different things. This study closes that gap. Finish faster, run a smaller crew, keep more margin. That’s not theory anymore, now we can show you the numbers.”

The Roof Restoration Benchmark Report is part of APOC’s broader commitment to innovation, education and industry leadership, equipping professionals with the tools, training and insights needed to maximize performance in the field.

To learn more about APOC’s roof restoration research and solutions, download the restoration report.

*Modeled benchmark based on anonymized contractor performance data and measured crew-day benchmarks; applies when the roof is a valid restoration candidate; not a guarantee of results.

** Estimate based on structured industry assessment, contractor decision patterns and commercial roofing field experience; not derived from a statistically sampled industry dataset. 

About APOC

APOC is part of the ICP Group and is a premier manufacturer of commercial and residential roofing, construction and maintenance products that maximize productivity, performance and energy efficiency. Based in Tampa, Florida, in business since 1913 and with 18 manufacturing plants in the United States, APOC is a global supplier of full-system, liquid-applied roof restoration products with local support and customer service. For more information, visit www.APOC.com.

About ICP

ICP Group is a leading specialty chemical manufacturer in North America and provides coatings, adhesives and sealants globally. With operations headquartered in Andover, Massachusetts, and multiple manufacturing facilities around the world, ICP serves multiple end markets, including building materials, specialty construction and sports surfaces. ICP is privately held and manufactures products under several recognized specialty groups. For more information, visit www.ICPGroup.com.

ICP is a portfolio company of Audax Private Equity.

By APOC. 

Go into the warm months prepared with these easy tips for setting roof systems up for success this summer.  

In general, it is advised to conduct two inspections on a roof a year, one in the spring and one in the fall as the weather shifts again. As a rule of thumb, if your roof experiences a drastic shift in conditions, it’s a good idea to get up there and make sure everything is working properly. As the weather takes a turn towards hot, make sure to proactively inspect your roof and make sure the correct repairs and maintenance are done. 

Ensuring that this is taken care of before the warm months has multiple benefits. First, it makes sure the roof is strong going into a season where UV damage and other factors can exacerbate any existing issues. This helps extend the overall lifespan of the roof. Working on it early also keeps costs from rising too high as it minimizes the possibility of emergency repairs. 

The first step to this roofing spring cleaning is a preventative maintenance inspection. This is a visual overview and record of the state of the roof. Check out these 7 places that APOC identified to give special attention to during this process.  

1 - Roof membranes and flashings 

Ensure all flashing membranes are in good condition. Check for signs of stress, cracking, splitting, wrinkles, blisters, etc. Remove any foreign matter such as balls, shoes, tools, branches, oils, chemicals, liquid or other objects. Then, clean the roof membrane and closely inspect for signs of physical damage. 

2 - Gutters, drains and scuppers  

Because these are the main avenues that rainwater travels off the roof surface and is directed away from the building, it is crucial that these areas are inspected and maintained. Clean and remove any debris clogging or obstructing the flow of water. Look for any sights of cracking or splitting of the membrane around the drains and scupper. If anything is noted, they must be repaired immediately. 

3 - Penetrations 

Inspect penetrations for signs of wear. Ensure that the base of the penetration remains completely sealed and attached to the roof membrane.  

4 - Pitch pans 

Check all pitch pans for shrinkage. As sealants shrink over time, water may begin to sit on the top of the pitch pan causing rust, leaks and deterioration. 

5 - Metal flashings 

Inspect all metal flashings, counter flashings, copings, seams, joints, gravel stops, edge metal and other areas to ensure they are secure and free of rust or deterioration. Any unsatisfactory conditions should be repaired as soon as possible.  

6 - Rooftop equipment and accessories 

Inspect all rooftop equipment for deterioration and areas that are prone to water penetration. This includes HVAC equipment, duct work, curbs, skylights, etc.   

7 - Expansion joints 

Check all expansion joints for deterioration, wear and defects. Check the metal components to ensure they are fully secured and free of rust. Make sure the expansion joint is still flexible and resilient. Look for any signs of cracking or splitting while manually flexing the joint.  

Original article source: APOC

By Dani Sheehan. 

Advances in chemistry, safety and building science are helping spray foam roofing outperform traditional systems. 

During a live Coffee Conversations® sponsored by Handifoam at the SprayFoam 2026 Convention and Expo, industry leaders Will Lorenz from General Coatings Manufacturing Corp and Josh Winkler of ICP Group delivered a clear message: spray foam roofing is no longer competing as an alternative system; it is evolving into a higher performing, more efficient solution designed to outperform traditional assemblies. 

Innovation driving competitive systems 

Today’s spray foam systems are being engineered for better performance, faster installs and stronger long-term value. As Will explained, “Our industry’s evolved to HFO technologies... They provide super efficiencies when you apply it. So, people are getting R-values of six to seven.” HFO (hydrofluoroolefin) blowing agents represent the latest generation of spray foam chemistry. Compared to older technologies, they deliver higher thermal performance with significantly lower environmental impact, particularly in terms of global warming potential (GWP). 

Not only do these new standards help meet increasingly stringent energy codes and sustainability expectations, but they also improve jobsite efficiency. With R-values in the range of six to seven per inch, spray foam delivers more insulating power in less thickness, reducing the need for multiple layers or additional materials. 

Advantages on the roof include: 

• Simplified detailing around penetrations and irregular surfaces 
• Reduced system weight compared to multi-layer assemblies 
• Greater flexibility in recover and retrofit applications 

Compared to traditional multi-layer assemblies that require boards, fasteners and membranes, spray foam systems are delivering higher thermal performance with fewer materials, fewer installation steps and fewer opportunities for failure. 

Indoor air quality and sustainability 

As spray foam expands into more interior applications, expectations around health, safety and environmental performance are rising. Josh highlighted how manufacturers are responding: “All the manufacturers are looking at lower VOC ratings... certifying that nothing harmful is being added in the indoor air environment.” Lower VOC formulations are especially important in tighter, more energy-efficient buildings, where air exchange is limited. Once cured, these products help ensure that insulation systems do not compromise indoor air quality.  

Just as importantly, building owners are measuring system performance by more than upfront cost alone. Indoor air quality, energy efficiency and lifecycle durability are becoming key differentiators that spray foam can support. Spray foam contributes to long-term performance by: 

• Reducing heating and cooling demand through superior insulation and air sealing 
• Extending roof lifecycles when paired with coatings and maintenance 
• Supporting recover systems that minimize tear-off waste 

Fire safety and code compliance 

As building codes evolve, particularly in wildfire-prone regions like California, spray foam manufacturers are proving that high-performance systems do not have to come at the expense of safety or design flexibility. Will explained how spray foam fits as part of the complete assembly when reducing fire risk: “We protect [the spray foam] with coatings...And we put it behind prescriptive thermal barriers. What we want to do is open up the design so that people can take advantage of putting insulation in and then use the right coating systems.” Intumescent and protective coatings are engineered to expand when exposed to heat, forming a protective layer that slows flame spread and enhances occupant safety. 

Smarter, tighter buildings 

Perhaps the biggest way spray foam is beginning to outperform traditional systems is through a fundamental shift in building science. Through initiatives supported by the Spray Foam Coalition, we’re starting to gain traction: “There's a smart way to build. There are smart products. There are manufacturers who support the fact that we don't always have to put on more insulation. We just design it, put in better products, work with the right manufacturers so the systems really perform and they outperform other insulation materials,” Will emphasized. 

Air leakage remains one of the biggest drivers of energy loss in buildings. However, spray foam acts as both an insulator and an air barrier. As Josh trains the contractors he works with: “Seal it tight, ventilate right.” The idea is simple, but powerful: 

• Create a tight building envelope by sealing gaps and penetrations 
• Use mechanical systems to manage airflow and ventilation intentionally 

Will and Josh’s message was clear: the future of spray foam roofing is about innovation. From next-generation chemistry and healthier indoor environments to fire-safe assemblies and smarter building design, spray foam is evolving to outperform traditional roofing systems at every level. 

Listen to the full Coffee Conversations to learn how to use spray foam to build higher-performing and longer-lasting systems.

By Jenny Yu. 

APOC’s Tuff-Grip™ system is designed for improved traction, faster installation and enhanced durability. 

As roofing systems continue to evolve, underlayment remains a critical component in ensuring long-term performance and protection. In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards met with members of the APOC team to learn about the company’s latest innovation: Tuff-Grip™, a next-generation synthetic underlayment designed to improve installation efficiency and jobsite safety.  

According to Gregg Malanga, product manager for APOC waterproofing and underlayment products, selecting the right underlayment depends on weather, region and roof design. “If you’re in South Florida, you have lots of heavy wind-driven rain, so you’re looking at two layers of an underlayment, something that’s heavier-duty like a peel-and-stick product,” Gregg explained. “In New Jersey, you might opt for a single layer of lightweight synthetic underlayment with an asphalt shingle on top and ice dam protection.” 

Building on its earlier synthetic product called Gator-Skin™, APOC continues to invest in this market segment with Tuff-Grip. “Synthetic is a growing portion of the market, Tuff-Grip is the second generation of [Gator-Skin],” Gregg stated. “We want to continue to make product entries into that market.” 

One of the key differentiators of Tuff-Grip is its focus on contractor safety and ease of installation. Gregg highlighted both the product’s lightweight design and improved surface traction. “It’s easier to install because these rolls are much wider and lighter. It goes down about 33% quicker than traditional felt products,” Gregg said. “There’s a top surface which is very walkable, and there’s a coating on the bottom that gives it some grip.” These functions help the material lay flat and reduce the risk of slipping.  

Developing Tuff-Grip was a collaborative effort that invited contractor feedback. “We were constantly sending contractors the product, getting feedback and listening to any issues. If there were any issues, we addressed them right away,” Gregg shared, noting the importance of such collaboration. “You need to listen to the person who's installing the product and get that feedback. It's ultra critical.” 

Read the first article in this series or Listen to the podcast to learn more about Tuff-Grip! 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Whether contractors are looking to improve margins, deliver stronger warranties or expand their knowledge, APOC’s three pillars provide a clear framework for success. 

For decades, APOC has worked alongside contractors to understand what drives success in the field. That perspective has shaped an approach that focuses on the bigger picture: how roofing systems are specified, installed, protected and supported over their full life cycle. 

By aligning business growth with proven systems and practical education, APOC has built a framework that helps you navigate today’s challenges while staying agile for the future. This framework is rooted in three guiding principles designed to support you at every stage of your business. 

1 – Profit: Turning product loyalty into growth 

APOC’s Contractor Pro Program was created to reward contractors for the work they’re already doing while providing tools to help them grow. The program offers tangible financial benefits, including reward points, business support opportunities and access to exclusive resources. More importantly, it reflects APOC’s belief that contractors should benefit directly from their product expertise and brand loyalty. 

Rather than focusing solely on rebates, APOC positions profit as a long-term partnership with their contractors. You’re encouraged to deepen your knowledge, engage with the brand and leverage APOC’s support to improve efficiency and strengthen relationships with your own customers. 

2 – Protection: Confidence beyond the roof 

Protection is one of the most critical promises a contractor makes to a customer. APOC supports that promise with clear, structured warranty offerings that protect both the building owner and the installer. APOC’s warranty programs emphasize proper system design, quality materials and correct installation. They tie warranty eligibility to best practices and certified installation to help you: 

• Clearly explain warranty coverage to customers 
• Reduce long-term risk and callbacks 
• Deliver systems that perform as intended 

3 – Progress: Education to move the needle 

APOC’s Certified Applicator Program is designed to support your growth through hands-on training, technical knowledge and professional recognition. You gain: 

• A deeper understanding of roof restoration systems 
• Best practices for installation and jobsite success 
• Credentials that differentiate your business in a competitive market 

APOC doesn’t want education to be a barrier. They make training accessible and focused on real-world applications to help you sharpen your skills and expand your offerings to elevate the standard of work across the industry. 

APOC’s guiding principles reflect their mission to help contractors do what they do best: build quality roofs and thriving businesses. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

There’s never been a better opportunity to see how the right foundation can elevate every project you take on. 

With a full lineup of roof underlayments and roof tile adhesives designed specifically for contractors, APOC is making it easier to build durable, high-performing systems while rewarding the professionals who trust their products every day. 

The foundation of a better roof 

Roof underlayments act as a vital barrier that protects the entire roof system. APOC’s underlayments are engineered to serve as water-resistant or waterproof base layers, helping shield structures from moisture intrusion while enhancing long-term durability and performance. 

Whether you’re working on tile, metal or steep-slope applications, APOC offers a complete portfolio of solutions to meet the demands of the job, including: 

• Tile systems: Weather-Armor FT3 
• Metal roofing: Weather-Armor HT2 and HT3 
• Ice and water protection: Weather-Armor SB1 
• Synthetic options: Weather-Armor CX-L Hybrid, Tuff-Grip 30 and 15 
• Traditional felts: #30 Tuff-Felt Premium, #30 Felt, #15 Felt 

From advanced synthetics to time-tested asphalt-saturated felts, each product is built to perform. APOC’s Tuff-Felt Premium underlayments, for example, feature heavy-weight reinforcements that boost tensile strength and help prevent tearing during installation. And APOC’s True-Breathe™ Technology allows vapor to escape while keeping water out, helping maintain a balanced roofing system and reducing the risk of trapped moisture. 

Get more for your work 

To make your work even more rewarding, APOC is currently offering double points on all featured underlayments through its Contractor Pro Rewards Program. 

Built with contractors in mind, the program is designed to grow alongside your business, offering: 

• Tiered rewards that scale with your purchases 
• Industry-leading training opportunities 
• Access to a wide range of incentives 

From prepaid Visa gift cards to tools, electronics, travel and event tickets, the rewards are as enjoyable as the finished project. 

At the end of the day, roofing is about trust – in your crew, your process and the materials you install. With a full system of underlayments engineered for performance, speed and reliability, you can trust in APOC to deliver the solutions you count on from the deck up. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Adhesive technologies like Polyset® are helping contractors meet evolving roofing demands without sacrificing performance, now with the backing of APOC®. 

Polyset® roofing adhesives earned their place on job sites by being faster, cleaner and more reliable products to secure tile and insulation without adding unnecessary penetrations or labor time. Now, with PolySet officially joining the APOC® professional product portfolio, you gain easier access to trusted adhesive technology backed by a broader, contractor-focused brand. 

A brief history of Polyset 

Polyset was built around a simple idea: roofing adhesives should work as hard as the crew using them. Long before sustainability mandates and labor shortages became industry-wide challenges, Polyset pressurized foam adhesive systems were already helping crews move faster while delivering strong, durable bonds. 

Since becoming part of ICP Group in 2016, Polyset has continued to evolve, especially in response to changing codes, performance expectations and environmental regulations. One of the brand’s most significant milestones came with the early adoption of hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) technology. 

In March 2024, Polyset roofing adhesives officially joined the APOC professional portfolio, creating a more comprehensive offering for commercial and residential roofing contractors. The move brought Polyset’s proven adhesive systems under the APOC name, alongside a wide range of roof coatings, sealants and construction products already trusted in the field. 

For contractors, the benefits are practical: 

• One cohesive brand portfolio for roofing and waterproofing needs 
• Consistent performance standards across adhesives, coatings and accessories 
• Simplified product selection that aligns with evolving code requirements 

Importantly, the brand transition does not impact Polyset product formulations, testing or approvals. What you will notice is updated branding and packaging that clearly identifies products as part of the APOC Polyset roofing adhesives family. 

The next generation of tile adhesives 

As part of the brand’s continued evolution, APOC Polyset AH-160 has now transitioned to an HFO blowing agent, ensuring compliance with the industry-wide phase-out of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) as of December 31, 2024. This reformulation maintains the same performance contractors expect, while aligning with lower-GWP requirements. 

To support safe and proper use in the field, APOC has introduced clearly labeled packaging, including prominent HFO identifiers, neon green warning bands to prevent mixing and updated disposable kits. These visual cues help you quickly identify compatible materials and avoid costly jobsite errors. 

By bringing Polyset under the APOC umbrella, you gain access to a proven adhesive system backed by a brand committed to innovation and jobsite efficiency.

By Jenny Yu.  

Industry experts discuss recent insurance shifts in Florida and what this means for the roof restoration market. 

In a recent CoatingsCoffeeShop® Coffee Conversations, sponsored by APOC, Megan Ellsworth spoke with industry leaders Johnny Walker, national technical manager of APOC, and John Kenney, CEO of Cotney Consulting Group, about the biggest changes in the roof restoration market right now.  

Today, the industry faces insurance-based challenges, starting in Florida and slowly spreading throughout the nation. Between hurricane exposure, litigation issues and claims activity, insurance companies in Florida have been trying to reduce risk with roofs as a major focus. “Insurance has tightened eligibility requirements, especially around roof aging,” John explained. “From a contractor perspective, that creates confusion because a roof may still be structurally sound and restorable, but once it crosses a certain age or threshold, the insurance companies are looking at them differently and causing a lot of havoc within the marketplace.” 

Contractors aren’t the only ones affected by these changes in insurance policies. Johnny emphasized their impact on property owners. “It’s very costly,” Johnny lamented. “A lot of folks are living on their retirement incomes and can’t afford to pay the extra amount to have a roof torn off when it could have been restored.” 

Despite these challenges, the panelists spoke to how the industry can adapt and take this as an opportunity for advancing restoration regulations and education. 

“We have to stand up and do what's right for the industry and not be challenged by insurance companies to lead the way, which I'm seeing as a good thing,” John shared. “But the flip side is, contractors need the knowledge and discipline to properly evaluate these roofs and design restoration systems correctly. We can help move our industry along by increasing the benefits of where restoration is a value.” 

Listen to the conversation or Watch the recording to learn more about the economic and sustainability pressures impacting the roof restoration market. 

By Jenny Yu.  

The Durham-based event combined networking, product innovation and a NASCAR-inspired experience. 

The 2026 Carolinas Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association (CRSMCA) Mid-Winter Roofing Expo brought energy and connection to historic Durham, North Carolina, with a NASCAR-inspired theme. The annual event drew several hundred contractors and exhibitors for a day of networking, education and innovation.  

The racing theme was immediately evident with black-and-white checkered decor and a mini-NASCAR racetrack on the show floor, giving attendees a chance to test their driving skills between booth visits. “I tried it, and it was a lot harder than it looked!” Karen Edwards of The Coffee Shops™ stated.   

Karen connected with several industry partners and conducted interviews to spotlight emerging products and solutions. Conversations with representatives from APOC, Climatile and Gaco highlighted advancements in coatings, roofing systems and performance-driven technologies aimed at solving real-world challenges for contractors. Check out the playlist to watch the interviews from this year’s event.

“The exhibitors were showcasing the latest and greatest in their product offerings for contractors, while the contractors in attendance were eager to learn about what's new and what could help them make a difference in their business,” Karen shared.  

To further encourage engagement, organizers introduced a bingo-style card that invited contractors to visit each exhibitor's booth to enter a prize drawing lottery. Several enticing rewards prompted attendees to join in the fun, with most eyes on the themed prize: NASCAR tickets. 

All in all, the Mid-Winter Roofing Expo was successful, fostering meaningful conversations and connections between manufacturers and contractors.  

Learn more about the Carolinas Roofing and Sheet Metal Contractors Association and what they have in store for the rest of 2026!

By Emma Peterson. 

A look at APOC's new products and programs designed to strengthen contractor success.  

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo (IRE), our crew from The Coffee Shops™ had the opportunity to host a live soundstage in the lobby (shoutout to our friends at SRS Distribution who sponsored it!). If you weren’t able to attend the show this year or are wanting to catch up on things you missed while there, all of our soundstage interviews and videos are available on demand on our YouTube channel! 

One such video features an interview between Karen Edwards and Justin Powell, ICP Group’s executive VP of sales. Justin was at the show representing APOC, an ICP brand. Most people know APOC for their high-performance roof coatings. But their coatings are just the beginning of what they have to offer contractors. Justin shared, “We offer a complete solution for everything from applied to roof coverings. So, whether it's repair products, coatings or something else, like underlayments, we have it.” 

Speaking of underlayments, a highlight from APOC’s booth this year was their newest innovation – the APOC Tuff-Grip™ 30 Premium Synthetic Roofing Underlayment. This product is “a premium synthetic roofing underlayment engineered for maximum strength, durability and installation efficiency. Designed with high traction and slip resistance that enhances safety and productivity — even on steep slopes.” 

This new, innovative product was just one of APOC’s many exciting announcements from the show. Their team was also promoting the new APOC contractor loyalty program. Justin explained:  

We really want to support our contractors, that’s why we have a new contractor loyalty program. The really exciting thing about this loyalty program is it gets you access to all of our trainings as well as rewards throughout the year. For example, right now we have a promotion on all our repair products since it’s repair season around the country. 

To learn more about how APOC is supporting their contractors, with both products on the roof and programs off the roof, watch our full interview with Justin.