By Jenny Yu.  

H.B. Fuller’s adhesives provide trustworthy solutions for low-slope and metal roofing systems. 

Before the main festivities of the 2026 International Roofing Expo began, Karen Edwards had a chance to chat with Denise Tripamer, director of global marketing at H.B. Fuller, about what expo attendees could expect from the longtime commercial roofing manufacturer.  

“We are the largest adhesives company in the world, and we have a lot of roofing solutions for adhered roof systems, from low-slope to metal roof systems,” Denise explained. "This year, we're really focused on innovation, speed and ease for the roofing contractor.” 

With so many issues impacting the roofing industry, H.B. Fuller aims to be a reliable partner for contractors. “Even with labor shortage situations happening right now in the industry, we want to make sure that our adhesives are easy to use, safer for the contractor to be on the roof,” Denise said. “We want to make sure that we're putting out a good quality product so that the roof system will last for a long time and prevent those leaks.”  

In addition to adhesives, H.B. Fuller also offers cutting-edge equipment for adhesive applications. “Sprayers allow you to have greater coverage on a roof faster while creating a more consistent application,” Denise stated. 

At their IRE booth, H.B. Fuller technical experts showcased the company’s newest offering, Millennium PG-1 EF ECO2, a low-rise urethane foam designed with a patented propellant formulation. They also hosted their first exhibitor-presented seminar on innovations for low-slope roofs with speed and ease.  

Denise spoke to the importance of such training, saying, “You want to make sure that you're following those proper protocols and standards and following the instructions to have the best product performance.” But contractors are never on their own, as Denise added, “Our team of experts is always available for help on a roof job to make sure that things are adhering and performing the way that we expect them to.” 

Watch the interview to learn more about H.B. Fuller’s newest innovations for 2026!

By Jenny Yu.  

H.B. Fuller showcases Millennium PG-1 EF ECO₂ at IRE 2026. 

At the 2026 International Roofing Expo, Lauren White of The Coffee Shops™ spoke with Porter Temple from H.B. Fuller about the manufacturer’s newest products and industry trend insights.  

The main product Porter highlighted was the Millennium PG-1 EF ECO₂. With the “EF” standing for “equipment free,” the PG-1 EF ECO₂ is thoughtfully engineered to be convenient, portable and flexible. “The nozzle is just an easy twist. You can do it without a tool — just the twist of a hand — and it switches between ribbon and spatter spray applications, which makes it easier for use in adhering fleece-back membranes,” Porter explained. “It provides a cleaner look, and it’s easy to transport.” 

Furthermore, the PG-1 EF ECO₂ is H.B. Fuller’s newest formulation, engineered with the environment in mind. “There’s no HFC’s in the blowing agents. It’s made of naturally sourced atmospheric gases, and it makes less garbage in landfills, so it’s much better for the environment,” Porter said. “It’s a product we can take to market and be proud of while also making sure we’re taking care of the planet.” 

At the show, the company was able to share the innovative product with new customers as well as hear feedback from existing ones. “We’re receiving very positive feedback, especially from contractors who have already used it in the field,” Porter shared, noting the learning curve that comes with the growing presence of adhesives in the market. “Adhesives in roofing are still relatively new in the grand scheme of roofing. We’re starting to see a lot more.” 

Porter also highlighted the talented H.B. Fuller service team and their dedication to helping field professionals through pull tests, job starts and contractor training. “We aim to provide a robust service within the field to keep contractors moving forward, keep crews educated and working together so that we can all be better within the industry.” Porter shared. 

By providing such comprehensive, attentive service, H.B. Fuller intends to lead the industry to new heights. “We like to collaborate with our contractors and our OEM partners and try to be the best that we can be to provide great roofing products within the industry,” Porter said. 

Watch the interview to learn more about H.B. Fuller’s roofing products and industry leadership.

By Emma Peterson. 

Join The Coffee Shops™ crew and our industry partners in Sacramento for four days of education, innovation and industry connection. 

The Coffee Shops™ crew is putting the finishing touches on our travel plans to get to Sacramento, California March 12–15, 2026 for the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC)’s International Convention and we want to see you at our booth and soundstage, sponsored by Western Colloid!  

This year’s show is predicted to host “1,700 consultants, architects, engineers, design professionals and other experts” for four days of learning, networking and more! With national sponsors like Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, IB Roof Systems™, Johns Manville, Polyglass USA Inc., Sika Corporation, SOPREMA and Versico, this show is a must-attend for professionals in all parts of the roofing world.  

Expert-led education  

This show gives attendees a chance to learn from a variety of industry leaders and experts through their cutting-edge education sessions. Here are some of the incredible presenters that will be at this year’s show:  

• Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese will be hosting a “State of the Industry” session that will explore contract provisions and other emerging regulatory trends.  
• Darren Perry of SOPREMA has a session that discusses how low slope roofing can be enhanced in response to severe climate risks. 
• Amrize’s National Technical Manager Victor Rosenthal and Project Manager Rachael DeMeio will be teaching about trends in roof re-cover applications this year. 
• Jennifer Stephan from Benchmark’s session will dive into the world of Refrigerated Processing and Cold Storage Operations in relation to industrial roofing projects.  

Check out the full speaker list online!

An expo floor route 

The Coffee Shops crew will be on the expo floor hosting a soundstage at booth #1113! Here’s just a few of the other Coffee Shops friends and partners that can be found on IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention expo floor:  

• All Weather Insulated Panels (booth #1216) 
• Anchor Products (booth #907)  
• ATAS International (booth #728)  
• BITEC Inc. (booth #1023) 
• Brava Tile (booth #208) 
• CertainTeed (booth #227)  
• General Coatings Manufacturing (booth #926) 
• H.B. Fuller (booth #113) 
• ICP Building Solutions Group (booth #133) 
• IKO Industries (booth #426) 
• Leister (booth #619) 
• Malarkey Roofing Products (booth #213) 
• MuleHide (booth #814) 
• Roof Hugger (booth #707) 
• S-5! (booth #1019) 
• Sheffield Metals International (booth #625) 
• Sherwin Williams Roofing Solutions (booth #422) 
• Tremco (booth #321) 
• USG Securock (booth #401) 
• Western Colloid (booth #923) 
• Westlake Royal Roofing Solutions (booth #433) 

Explore the full expo floor map!

Register today and make sure you stop by to say hi to us and our industry friends at the IIBEC’s 2026 International Convention!

By H.B. Fuller. 

H.B. Fuller's new Millennium Waterborne EPDM/TPO Bonding Adhesive delivers versatility and jobsite efficiency. 

Roofing crews looking to simplify installations without sacrificing performance have a new option to consider. Introducing Millennium Waterborne EPDM/TPO Bonding Adhesive: H.B. Fuller's newest product designed to deliver fast application, flexibility and long-term reliability to modern membrane roofing systems. Developed for smooth or fleece-back EPDM and TPO membranes, this water-based adhesive supports multiple application methods, making it a practical solution for both field membrane attachment and detailed flashing work. 

Contractors can apply the adhesive as a one-side wet lay-in on horizontal roof surfaces or as a two-side contact adhesive for vertical applications and flashings. This flexibility allows crews to rely on a single adhesive across different phases of a project, streamlining material selection and reducing complexity on the jobsite. 

Performance is central to the product’s design. The high-strength formulation is engineered to maintain the integrity of the installed membrane over time while delivering consistent adhesion across a wide range of approved substrates. These include wood, brick or block masonry, insulation and cover boards, giving contractors confidence when working with varied roof assemblies. 

Efficiency is another key advantage. The adhesive supports fast application using standard rollers or brushes, helping crews work efficiently with familiar tools and without specialized equipment. Its water-based formulation allows for easy cleanup and is VOC-free, supporting cleaner jobsites and simpler compliance with environmental requirements. 

Coverage rates of approximately 115–125 square feet per gallon help contractors accurately plan material usage whether applying adhesive to the substrate only or splitting coverage between the substrate and membrane for two-side applications  

Backed by H.B. Fuller’s long-standing expertise in roofing adhesives, Millennium Waterborne EPDM/TPO Bonding Adhesive offers contractors a reliable balance of performance, speed and versatility for modern EPDM and TPO roofing systems. 

Learn more about the Millennium Waterborne EPDM/TPO Bonding Adhesive!

By Jenny Yu.  

Industry leaders explain why long-term success depends on treating coatings as a complete roofing system. 

In a recent CoatingsCoffeeShop® Coffee Conversations®, sponsored by H.B. Fuller, Megan Ellsworth spoke with Mike Kintop, senior product manager at H.B. Fuller, and Chelsea Oesch, marketing director for TRI-BUILT® at QXO, about the misconceptions in the roof coatings industry and what success looks like going forward. 

The main misconception that the panel tackled was the idea that coatings are a simple top-coat, fix-all solution. “Coatings don't fix failing roofs,” Chelsea explained. “If we think about the late-night infomercial that pushed this myth of a one-coat miracle, like this bucket of goo is going to fix all of your problems, it’s created a bit of industry distrust between the homeowners and what is actual reality.” 

Instead, Chelsea encouraged participants to see coatings as a system that determines long-term success, rather than just a substance. “What success really looks like is a proper assessment done to the roof. Failures happen when coatings are treated like paint, and not like a system,” Chelsea said.  

Mike added, “Preparation, evaluation, priming — all those things are critical to the success of the roof, and I think we're making good progress in that direction.”  

Furthermore, Mike emphasized the importance of every person in a project’s process to cultivate that success. “Each person on the team has a role,” Mike stated. “The manufacturers have a critical role in the assessment of systems and making sure all the components are compatible. Specifiers are often engaged for non-destructive testing and other parts of the process. Contractors are involved in making sure their crews are trained. So, it's a team effort.” 

Chelsea agreed, saying, “I really feel like clear roles equals fewer failures. As a distributor, our role is to connect the dots between the contractor and the manufacturer and be that middleman that holds everything together.” 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about the potential of liquid-applied systems across the building envelope.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Collaboration, innovation and contractor engagement highlight a strong start to the year.

The Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) started the year with energy and purpose, hosting a highly successful Spring Meeting in Las Vegas, Nevada, alongside its participation at the International Roofing Expo (IRE). The week brought together manufacturers, suppliers and contractors and industry leaders for meaningful conversations focused on innovation, collaboration and the future of roof coatings.

RCMA extended appreciation to the attendees, presenters, sponsors, exhibitors, committee chairs and members whose engagement helped shape a productive event. Their continued involvement is a testament to the association’s mission to advance the roof coatings industry through technical leadership, advocacy and education.

One of the most significant announcements from the meeting was the launch of RCMA’s new Contractor Membership category, expanding the association’s reach by formally welcoming roofing contractors into the community and strengthening alignment across the entire coatings value chain. The move reflects a growing recognition that collaboration between manufacturers and applicators is essential for driving best practices, quality standards and long-term performance.

Marking the occasion, Unicoat Industrial Roofing of Bradenton, Florida, was introduced as RCMA’s first contractor member. President Cody Wilson accepted the membership certificate from RCMA President Josh Poole during the meeting, symbolizing a new chapter for the association and increased contractor representation within the organization.

Education, innovation and real-world success stories

A highlight of the Spring Meeting was an engaging panel moderated by Megan Ellsworth of CoatingsCoffeeShop®. The session brought together suppliers and contractors to discuss how roofing companies can grow their businesses by adding roof coatings and liquid-applied systems to their offerings. Delivered in a dynamic Q&A format, the panel encouraged audience participation and provided practical insights on diversification, profitability and meeting evolving building owner needs.

Attendees also heard from Will Lorenz of General Coatings, who presented a compelling project spotlight featuring the application of spray polyurethane foam and coatings on a spherical centerpiece structure in Las Vegas. The presentation demonstrated how the combined system delivered an ideal balance of durability, energy performance and long-term protection, underscoring the versatility of spray foam and coatings for complex architectural designs.

The Spring Meeting was proudly sponsored by Western Colloid, whose support helped make the educational programming and industry collaboration possible.

Technical guidance supports growing metal roofing market

RCMA also unveiled Coatings Tech Note 5, a new resource dedicated to best practices for metal roof maintenance and coating applications. As metal roofing continues to gain traction for its durability and longevity, proper evaluation and coating strategies remain critical to maximizing system performance.

The tech note delivers expert recommendations on coating options such as acrylics, polyurethanes and modified asphalt, along with guidance on rust identification, seam and fastener inspections, priming, cleaning and recoat techniques. Whether addressing aging galvanized steel, Galvalume® panels or exposed fastener systems, the document is designed to help industry professionals extend roof life while improving energy efficiency.

Supplier spotlight: Innovation driving the market

The meeting also highlighted the contributions of supplier members helping move the industry forward.

H.B. Fuller, a global leader with more than 130 years of expertise in adhesives, sealants and specialty chemicals, continues to innovate across construction and clean energy markets while delivering responsive service and long-term customer partnerships.

Ravago Chemicals, serving more than 15,000 customers across 24 countries, brings creative technical solutions and a relationship-driven approach to the specialty chemical sector. With over 50 years in North America, the company remains focused on quality, sustainability and innovation.

Get involved and help shape the future of roof coatings

RCMA committees continue to address critical priorities including regulatory developments, environmental product declarations, field studies and technical standards while the Communications, Membership and Education Committee drives industry engagement and growth initiatives such as Roof Coatings Day. At the same time, RCMA’s industry-wide Environmental Product Declaration project is entering its final phase, built on the Product Category Rule published in November 2025 that establishes a 75-year expected service life, incorporates fabric systems and defines service life tiers based on dry film thickness. Draft industry-average EPDs are now in development with final data due February 28, 2026, followed by internal and external reviews.

For professionals looking to play a larger role in the industry, joining one of RCMA’s committees offers a direct path to influencing the future of roof coatings while collaborating with leading experts across the market. Now is the time to be a part of the organization advancing innovation, advocacy and technical excellence. Whether you are a manufacturer, supplier, contractor or industry professional, membership provides access to critical resources, research and a powerful network committed to elevating industry standards.

Learn more about the benefits of membership and how to join by visiting www.roofcoatings.org.

By Jenny Yu. 

Building enclosure professionals won’t want to miss out on this annual industry event!   

The International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC) is gearing up for its 2026 International Convention and Trade Show, set to take place March 12–15 in Sacramento, California, at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. This annual event draws building enclosure professionals, including roofing consultants, architects, engineers and product manufacturers, for education, networking and industry insights. Registration is now open, with early rates available through February 6, 2026.  

Attendees will find a robust program that includes educational sessions covering topics ranging from roofing, waterproofing, sustainability and codes, as well as other related topics designed to advance professional knowledge and earn continuing education hours. A two-day trade show with more than 140 exhibiting companies will spotlight the latest roofing, exterior wall and building enclosure products and services. Participants can connect with manufacturers, consultants and peers on the show floor, which also features product demonstrations and sponsored receptions. The Coffee Shops™ will be there with a sound stage sponsored by Western Colloid — be sure to stop by! 

Beyond the exhibit hall, IIBEC has arranged a wide variety of exciting activities for attendees to participate in. The schedule opens with auxiliary seminars and networking opportunities on March 12, followed by formal welcome receptions, an annual awards ceremony and specialty events such as a golf tournament and an emerging professionals reception. The convention also hosts the Excellence in Building Enclosure Consulting (EBEC) Awards on March 14, recognizing outstanding achievements in the field. 

Hotel accommodations are available in the Sacramento area to assist attendees in securing convenient lodging near the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center. IIBEC has secured official room blocks at the Hyatt Regency, Sheraton Grand Sacramento Hotel, Residence Inn and The Citizen Hotel. Early planning is encouraged, as Sacramento draws visitors from across the United States and beyond for this premier industry gathering. 

A wide range of sponsorship packages are still available, each including prominent recognition and unique opportunities for memorable convention engagement. Current sponsors include Carlisle, Elevate™, GAF, Johns Manville, Polyglass, Sika, SOPREMA and Versico Roofing Systems (platinum sponsors); Anchor Products, H.B. Fuller, IB Roof Systems™ and USG Securock® Brand (gold sponsors); and Georgia-Pacific Building Products.   

Register today to secure early registration and explore the latest developments in roofing, waterproofing and building enclosure design!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Building enclosure professionals across the industry are making plans to gather in Sacramento, California, March 12–15, 2026.

Hosted by the International Institute of Building Enclosure Consultants (IIBEC), the annual IIBEC International Convention & Trade Show brings together consultants, contractors, manufacturers and service providers focused on roofing, waterproofing and total building enclosure performance. With more than 20 education sessions and a trade show featuring over 140 manufacturers and service providers, the event delivers valuable insight, technical expertise and meaningful industry connection.

The convention runs Thursday, March 12 through Sunday, March 15, with the auxiliary seminar taking place on Thursday and the trade show floor openi on both Friday, March 13 and Saturday, March 14. From education to exhibits to networking, the week is designed to help professionals strengthen their knowledge and expand their relationships.

One of the featured moments of the week will be the opening ceremony and keynote presentation on Friday, March 13 from 1:30 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. Attendees will hear from Brett Culp, an award-winning documentary filmmaker and keynote speaker, presenting Superhero Leadership in Uncertain Times. His message focuses on purpose-driven leadership, authenticity and service during moments of change, offering inspiration that resonates far beyond the conference hall.

Throughout the convention, attendees will also have the opportunity to connect during a full schedule of networking events including the RCI-IIBEC Foundation golf tournament, welcome reception, regional meetings, trade show receptions, awards ceremony, emerging professionals networking event, foundation live auction and the President’s Annual Banquet. These gatherings create valuable opportunities to build relationships that strengthen careers and businesses long after the event concludes.

The trade show floor will once again feature leading manufacturers and service providers supporting the building enclosure industry. RoofersCoffeeShop is proud to have partners participating as sponsors at the conference, including Carlisle Construction Materials, Elevate, GAF, Johns Manville, Sika, SOPREMA, Versico Roofing Systems, Anchor Products, H.B. Fuller, IB Roof Systems and USG. Their continued involvement reflects a shared commitment to education, innovation and long-term industry advancement.

Adding to the energy of the event, The Coffee Shops™ will once again host a full sound stage on the trade show floor sponsored by Western Colloid, interviewing consultants, contractors and exhibitors throughout the conference. These live conversations will spotlight industry trends, real-world challenges and the voices shaping the future of the building enclosure and roofing communities.

Overall, the 2026 IIBEC International Convention & Trade Show delivers a powerful combination of education, innovation and connection in one place. Whether your focus is technical expertise, professional development or expanding your industry network, this event offers insight and opportunity at every level.

And time is running out to take advantage of early registration pricing. The early registration deadline is February 6, 2026, and once it passes, rates are set to increase. Hotel rooms at the official convention hotels are also filling quickly, making now the best time to finalize travel plans.

Register now to secure early pricing, book your hotel before availability is gone and join building enclosure professionals from across the country in Sacramento. Be part of the conversations shaping the future of the industry.

By Jenny Yu.  

The 2026 SPRI Annual Conference’s education sessions are primed to help members focus on what matters most in 2026. 

It’s conference and expo season, and just around the corner is the Single Ply Roofing Industry’s (SPRI) 44th annual conference! The 2026 SPRI Annual Conference and Business Meeting takes place February 13-15, 2026, at the Loews Ventana Canyon Resort in Tucson, Arizona, and is sure to provide invaluable information for attendees to thrive in the year ahead. 

The 44th SPRI Annual Conference and Business Meeting’s theme is “Accomplish more with less stress.” Members will engage in educational sessions, explore the newest solutions and develop key connections with one another. Designed to promote innovation and share expertise, the conference is a must for leaders looking to make significant leaps for their business this year.  

Below is an outline of the educational sessions that are sure to prepare you for a successful 2026. 

Keynote address - Control your attention, control your life: Practical strategies for focus, freedom and fulfillment  

• Speaker: Maura Thomas 
• When: Saturday, February 14, 9:00-10:00 a.m. 
• What to expect: Attendees will learn from the attention management expert about how to eliminate the hidden drains on attention, reduce metal overload and use proven strategies to stay focused in a world designed to distract.  

Session 1 - An industry update 

• Speaker: McKay Daniels, CEO of National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) 
• When: Saturday, February 14, 10:15-11:15 a.m. 
• What to expect: An insightful exploration of the current state and future trajectory of the roofing industry, including the latest trends, challenges and innovations that are impacting roofing contractors. 

Session 2 - The view from Washington, D.C. 

• Speaker: Duane L. Musser, vice president of government relations in Washington, D.C., NRCA 
• When: Sunday, February 15, 9:00-10:00 a.m. 
• What to expect: Learn what to expect from the 119th Congress and current administration, including the latest on federal agencies, tariffs, trade actions, tax charges, workforce-related policies, federal procurement shifts and other regulatory and funding moves. 

Session 3 - Construction outlook: What’s in the mix for ‘26? 

• Speaker: Ken Simonson, chief economist of the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) 
• When: Sunday, February 15, 10:00-11:00 a.m. 
• What to expect: Explore the results from AGC’s 2026 Outlook Survey and Ken’s insights into the economy’s impact on the construction industry. Topics that will be addressed include immigration enforcement, tariffs, federal funding, regulations and more. 

SPRI is welcoming sponsors for the conference, with some levels providing free registration to conference activities. Sponsors include Anchor Products (speaker sponsor); Duro-Last®, IKO Industries and ATAS International, Inc. (silver sponsors); Carlisle Construction Materials,  H.B. Fuller and Sika Roofing & Waterproofing (gold sponsors); and Amrize (platinum sponsor). 

Register for the SPRI 2026 Conference and Business Meeting and learn more about what the weekend has in store!

By Jenny Yu.  

H.B. Fuller’s newest adhesive innovation offers an all-in-one solution. 

Across the industry, many manufacturing companies are looking to innovate and create products that are “one-stop shops” — materials and equipment that are versatile enough to be used in multiple scenarios and that meet multiple regulations to be used across the country. H.B. Fuller’s Millennium PG-1, EF ECO2 is one such product and is revolutionizing adhesives for contractors. 

In this episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Heidi J. Ellsworth spoke with Matthew Del Fiacco and Paul Terry of H.B. Fuller to discuss how the Millennium PG-1, EF ECO2, the company’s new low-rise urethane foam adhesive, was formed to address market change and trends.  

 “VOCs continue to be regulated in California, and changes to all the South Coast rules are evolving, replacing some of the exempt solvents,” Paul explained. “So, as a company, these are the areas that we're looking ahead for: what is the safer alternative? What is compliant for all the new regulations that are coming?” 

H.B. Fuller’s research and development team has focused on creating products that ensure their customers are prepared and have the tools they need to secure more jobs.  

“A product like Millennium PG-1, EF ECO2 goes through a lot of different touches, a lot of different hands in the industry,” Matt said. “It may go through a distributor and finally to a contractor and on a building owner's roof, so we need to ensure that this product is filling the needs and meeting the requirements of not only the contractor, but every stage of the process.” 

For distributors and contractors alike, Millennium PG-1, EF ECO2 is a convenient, easy-to-use product. At just around 50 grams per liter with VOC, it is solvent-free and is extremely portable. It comes with all the equipment needed, including a 25-foot hose, and is usable right out of the box.  

“There's this new wave of industry trends that we're seeing contractors wanting to reduce labor and create job site efficiency — no heavy equipment needed, safer, cleaner application,” Matt stated. “Millennium PG-1, EF ECO2 is going to help cut down on waste, recyclability — so many exciting factors with this product. I just can't help but get excited about the rollout.” 

Read the transcript or Listen to the podcast to learn more about Millennium PG-1, EF ECO2 and its versatile applications.