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. 

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 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.

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 Dani Sheehan. 

With its unmatched traction and grip during installation, TUFF-GRIP™ reinforces APOC’s commitment to safety and high-performance underlayment technology. 

Contractors have relied on APOC’s synthetic underlayment for years under the well-known Gator-Skin™ name. Today, that same trusted performance has a new name: APOC TUFF-GRIP™ 30. While the name has changed, APOC still delivers the strongest, most dependable synthetic underlayment for steep-slope roofing. 

Built on advanced material science and decades of field-tested innovation, TUFF-GRIP 30 is engineered to outperform in the areas that matter most: safety, durability, weather protection and installation efficiency. 

What sets TUFF-GRIP 30 apart? 

1 – TUFF-GRIP coating technology: A proprietary coating helps the underlayment securely grip the roof deck even before fasteners are applied for easier positioning, safer footing and less material slippage on steeper slopes. 

2 – High-traction walkability: The reinforced surface delivers outstanding slip resistance, helping you work confidently on wet, slick or angled decks. Fewer slips and better control lead to improved productivity and safer installations. 

3 – All-temperature, all-weather flexibility: Built to stay flexible from -40°F to 240°F, TUFF-GRIP 30 holds its performance in extreme cold, blazing heat and everything in between. 

4 – Premium weather and moisture protection: The tough synthetic construction forms a reliable barrier against moisture and wind-driven rain helping protect the roof system throughout the installation. 

5 – Long UV exposure window: With up to 90 days of UV resistance, this underlayment offers peace of mind when weather delays happen, or projects take longer than expected. 

6 – Light but tough construction: It’s engineered to resist tears, punctures and stretching, yet remains lightweight and easy to handle, reducing fatigue and speeding up the installation. 

7 – Broader, more efficient coverage: A 48-inch width means fewer passes on the roof, faster dry in and improved jobsite efficiency. 

8 – Backed by a 30-year limited warranty: You can install TUFF-GRIP knowing it’s built for staying power and supported by long-term assurance. 

APOC’s newly named TUFF-GRIP 30 is a clear statement about the product’s unmatched traction and premium protection. You can trust that the durability, reliability and performance you counted on with Gator-Skin hasn’t gone anywhere. Keep your crew safer and your roofing systems protected with TUFF-GRIP 30.

Industry leaders share insights on the trends and challenges shaping the coatings industry. 

The Coffee Shops™, the award-winning websites where the industries meet for technology, information and everyday business, announce the 2026 Influencers for CoatingsCoffeeShop®.    

On a monthly basis, Influencers contribute expert perspectives on the issues driving the coatings industry forward, including training, business diversification through coatings, the future of labor and technology, sustainability and more. CoatingsCoffeeShop shares these viewpoints through interviews, videos and articles. Representing every segment of the coatings industry, from contractors and associations to manufacturers and service providers, these Influencers are featured throughout the website, promoted across social media and included in the weekly eNews, Week in Coatings. 

“Our goal is to spotlight our Influencers and the expertise they bring from the coatings industry while addressing the real-world challenges professionals face every day,” said The Coffee Shops’ President and CEO Heidi J. Ellsworth. “We are proud to share their knowledge and remain committed to supporting industry growth by promoting these exceptional Influencers.” 

We are proud to announce the following 2026 CoatingsCoffeeShop Influencers: 

• John Kenney – Cotney Consulting Group 
• Johnny Walker – ICP 
• Greg Hlavaty – Western Colloid 
• Shawn Morgan – KPost Roofing & Waterproofing 
• Joe Sorrentino – Joe Sorrentino LLC
• Adrian Hilton – Service First Solutions 
• Ryan Blad – 838 Coatings 
• Will Lorenz – General Coatings 
• Greg Serevetas – USA General Contractors Corp. 
• Lisa Irby – Thomas Roofing 
• Iver Ahens – Campany Roofing 

Find more information on the 2026 CCS Influencers.

About The Coffee Shops 

Award-winning websites and online communities make up The Coffee Shops. Starting with RoofersCoffeeShop, which launched in 2002, the growth of the sites has been explosive for the construction trades of roofing, metal, coatings and their customers. Currently featuring four Coffee Shops, RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop®, CoatingsCoffeeShop®, OutdoorCoffeeShop™ and their sister site AskARoofer™, all the sites are committed to advocating for the construction trades by supplying consistent information, education and communication avenues for all contractors, while promoting positive growth, education and success of construction industries overall. The Coffee Shops also feature strong microsites with RoofersCoffeeShop.ca, RoofersCoffeeShop.uk and En Español. Visitors to the site continue to find excellent opportunities for sharing information while participating in important ongoing conversations concerning new technologies, safety and overall construction information and education. The Coffee Shops are “Where the Industries Meet!” For more information, visit www.thecoffeeshops.online. 

About CoatingsCoffeeShop 

CoatingsCoffeeShop™ (CCS), sponsored by APOC, launched in 2023. A sister site to the other Coffee Shops, CCS is committed to delivering the education, training, news and information that helps contractors find success in the coatings industry. This unique online community focuses on all things related to coatings including roofing, construction, infrastructure and below-grade applications. CCS connects the industry suppliers, manufacturers and associations with coating contractors to ensure the continued success of the contractor as well as the continued growth of this innovative and sustainable construction solution. Learn more at www.coatingscoffeeshop.com. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Join Marlin Fishe, Bridget Wilson, Jorge Rodriguez and countless other professionals at the industry’s only tradeshow dedicated to the concrete and masonry industries 

Recently, The Coffee Shops™ partnered up with Tremco to give away a few World of Concrete Education Super Passes! These passes give attendees access to countless World of Concrete areas, activities and events, including:  

• The show floor: Education Super Passes come with access to the incredible World of Concrete trade show floor! This is a great opportunity for professionals to connect with their peers and see the newest innovations in the roofing world. The Coffee Shops crew will be there (South Hall Lobby) as well as many of our industry partners, like JobTread (N1568), Sika (S10215), Gaco (S13207) and ICP (O31609). Explore the show map!
• Education opportunities: As the name implies, attendees with Education Super Passes get access to learning sessions at the show! From talks about best business practices to technical seminars and industry certification events, World of Concrete has something to elevate every professional’s knowledge. Learn more!
• Networking events: In between education sessions and exploring the show floor, World of Concrete hosts a variety of events that will give you the opportunity to make business-boosting partnerships. Check out the whole list of events online.

So, who will be in Las Vegas, Nevada from January 19 to 22 thanks to The Coffee Shops and Tremco World of Concrete giveaway? Marlin Fishe, Bridget Wilson and Jorge Rodriguez!  

Marlin is the VP of field service for Capital Roof Care and Capital Coating; while Bridget is the president of Cardinal Roofing; and Jorge is the owner of J Rodriguez Concrete Contractors LLC. Congratulations to all three of them! 

The giveaway might be closed, but you can still get last minute passes!

By Dani Sheehan. 

Don’t miss your chance for education, innovation and industry insights at this year’s ASBA Technical Meeting! 

Contractors heading to the American Sports Builders Association (ASBA) Technical Meeting, December 2–5, 2025, in San Antonio, will find one of the most valuable technical and networking events in the sports surfacing world — and CoatingsCoffeeShop® will be right in the middle of the action. We’ll be live streaming from the California Sport Surfaces booths (#206 and #208) throughout the week, bringing conversations about innovation, materials and best practices straight to your devices. 

With more than 1,400 industry professionals, the ASBA Technical Meeting is where builders, designers, manufacturers and decision-makers come together to strengthen the future of sports facility construction. Whether you work on courts, tracks, fields or indoor surfaces, this event offers 36 education sessions packed with practical, technical takeaways you can apply immediately in the field. Certified Builders can also earn up to 12 continuing education points, making the event an important investment in your professional development. 

Additionally, contractors will find meaningful networking opportunities on the trade show floor. It’s an ideal place to connect with trusted partners like ICP Group, learn about new products and systems and explore solutions to help you deliver longer-lasting, better-performing surfaces for your projects. 

From meals and receptions to the always-popular Division Meetings, you can forge new connections and nurture existing relationships while actively impacting your work. These open discussions give you a direct voice in shaping industry guidelines and construction manuals. If you’ve ever wanted to influence standards or share field-level feedback, this is your chance. 

Whether you join us in person or tune in on the CCS YouTube channel, CoatingsCoffeeShop will be capturing the insights and innovations shaping the future of sport surface construction. Stop by booths #206 and #208 to say hello and stay connected to the conversations that matter. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Join the community of certified professionals who trust Pli-Dek systems to deliver long-lasting protection and aesthetic appeal across residential, commercial and industrial applications. 

With 2026 on the horizon, now is the time to strengthen your skill set, expand your offerings and prepare for new opportunities in waterproofing. Pli-Dek's Certified Applicator Training is your ticket into one of the most trusted waterproofing systems in the industry. This one-day course combines a classroom overview of Pli-Dek's cementitious waterproofing systems with hands-on application experience, giving you both the technical foundation and practical skills to confidently complete installations that meet code and exceed expectations. 

Whether you’re new to Pli-Dek systems or exploring waterproofing for the first time, the certification ensures your team is ready to tackle everything from balconies and rooftop decks to parking garages and pool decks.  

Expand your opportunities 

Since its inception in 1978, Pli-Dek has set the standard for durable waterproofing solutions, innovating systems that protect concrete and plywood surfaces from the harshest environmental conditions. Each system is rigorously tested to meet or exceed industry standards, making them ideal for high-fire zones, hurricane-prone areas and high-traffic applications. 

Certification also provides a pathway to ongoing partnership opportunities through ICP Building Solutions Group, giving you access to product expertise, technical support and a network of professionals committed to craftsmanship and performance. 

With upcoming sessions in Phoenix, Arizona (November 20, 2025) and at World of Concrete in Las Vegas, Nevada (January 20–22, 2026), there’s no better time to sign up and position your company for a successful year ahead.  

If you can’t make a scheduled session, Pli-Dek also offers the flexibility to host training at your own facility — just submit your request, and a sales representative will reach out to coordinate details. 

Give your team the knowledge, confidence and credibility to take on new waterproofing projects and the assurance that your installations meet the highest standards in the industry. Register today for an upcoming session and get ready to build a stronger, more competitive 2026.