By Dani Sheehan. 

Sometimes the most meaningful product innovations come in the smallest design changes. 

Innovation isn’t always about creating an entirely new product. Sometimes it’s about rethinking how existing products perform on the job. During a live demonstration at the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2026, KARNAK highlighted not only the performance of Karna-Seal 671, but the practical packaging improvements designed to make repairs safer and more efficient in the field. 

“It’s a dangerous job roofing,” said John McDermott, vice president of sales for KARNAK, as he demonstrated the company’s 100% silicone repair solution. “We all want to come home safe.” 

Roof leaks don’t wait for blue skies and nice weather. Often, the most critical repairs occur in active rain, with standing water or under urgent temporary conditions. John showcased Karna-Seal 671’s ability to be applied directly underwater, creating an immediate watertight repair while explaining why silicone-specific repair solutions have become increasingly important. “The only thing that will stick to silicone is silicone,” John explained. “You can’t use any of our other repair products, or anybody else’s repair products, so we developed the 671. 

You can see during the demo just how well Karna-Seal works. Working on a submerged repair, John reinforced the split with fabric and left the product to cure, immediately creating a watertight seal as soon as it’s applied. 

One of the most practical parts of the demonstration was Karna-Seal 671’s new packaging. Rather than requiring service technicians to carry buckets while climbing ladders, the new pouch design can be stored easily in a backpack, helping crews maintain proper points of contact during roof access. And because technicians can squeeze excess air from the pouch before resealing it, the moisture-cure product stays usable longer in the field. It’s a small design change, but one rooted in a larger industry conversation about reducing preventable injuries, improving technician mobility and making field repairs more efficient. 

After 93 years in business, KARNAK continues to show that the best product innovations come from listening to contractors in the field. Something as simple as redesigning the packaging is helping contractors work safer, move smarter and respond with more confidence in every repair. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

KARNAK is helping move roof maintenance from a reactive service to a strategic growth driver for contractors. 

Across the industry, maintenance is creating new entry points into commercial roofing, strengthening relationships with building owners and helping contractors build more resilient, diversified businesses. 

This shift is being driven by evolving roof systems, economic pressures and a growing emphasis on extending roof life through restoration. Industry insights continue to show that building owners are increasingly choosing restoration as a cost-effective, less disruptive alternative to replacement when conditions allow. 

“There’s so many people that are new to roofing that are getting into the maintenance side first,” said Chris Huettig of KARNAK in a recent interview on The Coffee Shops™ sound stage. “That steppingstone to get into commercial roofing and repair is what they need, and they need to know which products do what.” 

Compared to full replacements, repair work often requires lower upfront investment, shorter timelines and quicker decision-making. It also allows time to gain hands-on experience with different systems while building trust with customers. If you can respond quickly, diagnose issues accurately and deliver reliable repairs, you’ll be the one who gets the call when bigger projects arise. 

Education is defining the next generation 

As more contractors enter the maintenance space, one thing is becoming increasingly clear: success depends on technical knowledge. Roofing systems today are more complex than ever, and repairs are no longer one-size-fits-all. Different substrates, membranes and coatings require specific approaches, and applying the wrong product or technique can lead to premature failure. “We need to be more technically sound getting these kinds of systems and products applied correctly so that they last and they have value,” John McDermott of KARNAK added.  

The push for education is being driven across the industry, including through organizations like the Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA), where manufacturers like KARNAK are actively working to bring contractors into the conversation. By expanding contractor involvement, RCMA is helping bridge the gap between product development, technical standards and real-world application. The goal is to ensure that as coatings and restoration systems continue to grow in popularity, they are installed and repaired correctly, so they deliver long-term performance. 

Practical innovation on the roof 

Solutions like Karna-Seal 671 are examples of how manufacturers are responding to the evolution of roofing systems and system-specific solutions. Silicone coatings, for example, have seen widespread adoption across commercial roofing, creating a new set of challenges. “Over the last decade there’s been 10 million gallons of silicone coating applied in the U.S. on commercial roofs every year. So, there’s just a lot more of that out there. You have to have a really good repair component for silicone because nothing else will stick to it,” John shared. 

Not only is Karna-Seal 671 compatible with silicone coatings, but it also offers excellent adhesion across multiple substrates. KARNAK now also offers Karna-Seal in two-liter pouches and caulk tubes in addition to their two and a half gallon buckets. Transporting materials onto a roof, often while climbing ladders or navigating tight access points, requires solutions that are easy to carry and quick to use. This thoughtful change in packaging helps crews stay mobile and perform more effectively on each project. 

Partnering with manufacturers like KARNAK and investing in training to deliver consistent quality will position your business for any changing market conditions. Because increasingly, growth in roofing isn’t starting with tear-off. It’s starting with maintenance.  

By Jenny Yu. 

Industry experts discuss how education, financial considerations and specification strategies are shaping the coatings market. 

As interest in roof restoration continues to grow, contractors and manufacturers are finding new ways to explain the value of coatings to building owners and design professionals. 

In this CoatingsCast™ episode, Megan Ellsworth spoke with Chris McDonald of Multi Roof Maintenance along with Chris Huettig and John McDermott of KARNAK about trends shaping the coatings market and how contractors can position restoration solutions for more sales. 

Educating property owners 

One of the biggest challenges contractors face is helping building owners understand that roof coatings aren’t just temporary fixes but long-term investments when a roof is in fair condition.  

“You’ve got to have the right attitude. It's not a ‘have to.’ It's actually an investment; an enhancement,” Chris Huettig said, adding that coming prepared with mockups and samples can help illustrate coating’s benefits. “At the end of the day, you’re problem solving for the building owner. So, think about all the problems the building owner may have and have answers for each of those related to what you're doing by putting on a coating restoration system.” 

Chris McDonald noted that another effective way to explain the value of coatings is through financial considerations, particularly when it comes to how restoration projects may be classified for taxes. “Coating the roof could be considered a CAM, a common area maintenance, during tax season rather than a capital expense, like a full re-roofing would be,” Chris explained. “With a CAM, it's considered maintenance work, and it gets billed back to the tenant.” 

Partnering with specifiers 

Beyond selling to building owners, the panelists emphasized the importance of establishing positive relationships with specifiers.  

“It's been rather impactful for us to get our product specified first. You always have a better chance of landing a job if you are the basis of design, of course,” John McDermott shared. “And sometimes they have a monitor there all the time, which is wonderful. It reduces our liability and ensures that we get the job done properly.” 

Chris McDonald agreed, saying, “Everybody wants a smooth job. My job is to make the specifier’s life easy.” Chris Huettig added, “Relationships like that go tenfold, because once you teach them the value of your coating, they're branching out and hitting all their projects throughout the country.” 

Read the first article in this series or Listen to the podcast episode to learn more about how educating property owners and specifiers can help expand your coatings business. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Learn how to provide a lasting solution on a leaky metal roof. 

Metal roofs are known for durability, but over time can begin to show signs of wear, from oxidation and corrosion to failed seams and compromised fasteners. Restoring these roofs requires a full system approach designed to stop corrosion, reinforce the substrate and protect the roof long term. 

In a recent field demonstration, Chris Huettig, technical director at KARNAK, walked through a complete metal roof restoration process, highlighting how KARNAK 404 Corrosion Proof Base Coat and 501 Elasto-Brite work together to deliver durable, energy-efficient performance.  

Step one: Preparation 

As shown in the demonstration, successful metal roof restoration starts with thorough surface preparation. This step is often underestimated, but it plays a critical role in coating adhesion and long-term durability. 

The roof was prepared using: 

• Mechanical abrasion tools, including scrapers and wire brushes 
• Drill-mounted wire brushing to address oxidation 
• KARNAK 799 Wash and Prep Rooftop, used to clean the surface and remove contaminants 
• Power washing to rinse away loosened debris 

Step two: Repairs and sealing 

Once the surface was clean and dry, sealants were applied to address common metal roof problem areas such as seams and laps, fasteners, transitions and penetrations. These repairs ensure the system functions as a waterproofing solution. 

The foundation: 404 Corrosion Proof Base Coat 

Designed specifically for metal roofs, 404 is an acrylic base coat formulated with rust inhibitors to help prevent future corrosion. This is a critical feature for aging metal systems, where untreated oxidation can continue spreading beneath a finish coat. 

The finish coat: Protection, reflectivity and energy performance 

Once the roof is repaired, cleaned and primed with a base coat, the finish coat becomes the first line of defense against the elements. KARNAK 501 Elasto-Brite performs in tough commercial environmental: 

• ASTM D6083 Type I compliant, meeting industry standards for acrylic coatings 
• Bright, highly reflective white surface 
• Energy Star rated for cool roof performance 
• Elastomeric properties to handle rooftop movement, temperature swings and long-term weather exposure 
• UV protection that slows degradation of the underlying roof system 

Together, 404 and 501 create a restoration solution that addresses metal’s biggest threat, corrosion, and protects the system from UV, heat and environmental exposure. This layered approach reduces the risk of premature failure and delivers predictable performance. 

Watch the video to learn more about KARNAK’s solutions, each designed to provide long-term performance through system-based restoration.

By Jenny Yu.  

Industry experts explain how service and maintenance departments lay the foundation for scalable roofing businesses. 

In a recent CoatingsTalk™, Megan Ellsworth spoke with Chris Huettig, vice president of technical services at KARNAK, and Tracey Donels, founder of Service First Solutions, to talk about the importance of forming strong service and maintenance departments. 

After 15 years as a contractor, Tracey decided to utilize his experience to provide coaching, training and consulting for commercial roofers. “We help people grow by focusing on operations first and sales second,” Tracey stated. When working with clients, Service First Solutions prioritizes the development of a robust service and maintenance department. “No one can put on a perfect roof. The thing that gets us started in business are those small jobs that can help us build the trust and the relationships with those customers going forward.” 

Chris, with over 30 years of experience in the industry, agreed with Tracey's approach. “If you're putting on new roofs, you're going to have to service your own roof, so you have to be efficient and have a group that's able to handle those,” he said. “A maintenance program builds your company out, balances it out.”  

According to Chris, simply having a service crew isn’t enough. You also have to know how to sell it as part of your business offerings. “When you’re selling maintenance to building owners, it can sound like something they don’t really need,” he said. “If you frame it as more of an asset protection program, it sets a whole new table. It’s more meaningful to a building owner.” 

Tracey echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of clarity when communicating maintenance programs with building owners. “If you’re going to go out there and sell your services, you have to know what you’re going to offer,” he said. Tracey noted that many contractors confuse inspections with true preventive maintenance. “Preventive maintenance actually has some maintenance, whether it’s cleaning the debris, clearing gutters, making some minor repairs.” 

Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about how dedicated maintenance programs create repeat business, reduce costs for building owners and scale your business. 

By Emma Peterson. 

CRCA is hosting an all-day event celebrating and uplifting Chicagoland Women in Roofing!  

The Chicago Roofing Contractors Association (CRCA) was the first roofing contractor association formed in the U.S. with roots dating back to the 1870s. Originally created as an effort to rebuild the city in the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire in 1871, the CRCA has continued to operate, switching their focus to “unite those engaged in the roofing and waterproofing industry in Illinois and beyond.” 

To achieve this mission, they have created a suite of education programs, informational resources and networking opportunities designed to elevate their members’ careers and improve the overall roofing industry. A great example of this is their upcoming event, Women Raising the Roofs: Chicago Style!  

Planned for Thursday, March 5, 2026, in Oak Brook, Illinois, this event is run by one of the CRCA’s committees – Chicagoland Women in Roofing (CWIR) – and promises a full day of education, networking and empowerment! The day kicks off at 8:30 a.m. CT with a keynote breakfast. Sponsored by the National Women in Roofing (NWIR) Northern Illinois Council, this keynote will focus on navigating recognition and self-advocacy in a professional setting.  

Then, at 9:45 a.m., there will be a variety of hands-on learning opportunities for attendees thanks to sponsors KARNAK Corporation, Raincoat Roofing, TORI Construction LLC and York Flashings! These include:  

• Harness and rope safety 
• Building enclosure: roof-to-wall transitions 
• Roof types and components 
• Ladder safety 

After a break for lunch, the day continues with an empowerment activity (at 12:45 p.m.), an expert panel discussion (1:30 p.m.) and a raffle (2:30 p.m.). Closing out the event is a networking cocktail party sponsored by GAF and the M. W. Powell Company. Registration is only $40 for CRCA members and $60 for non-members.  

Get registered for CRCA’s CWIR for Women Raising the Roofs: Chicago Style!

By Dani Sheehan. 

Get the same trusted silicone formula, just packaged to help reduce waste, improve crew productivity and simplify everyday roof repair work. 

Crews don’t want to wrestle with oversized buckets for small repairs, waste material at the end of the day or slow down production with unnecessary cleanup. So, KARNAK is making roof maintenance more efficient with new packaging options for 671 Karna-Seal to give you more control over how you use this trusted repair sealant.  

Known for its single-component, moisture-curing, 100% silicone formulation, 671 Karna-Seal delivers excellent UV resistance, flexibility and tensile strength while resisting weathering, chalking, cracking and hardening. Now, it’s available in two-liter pouches and 10.1-ounce caulk tubes, in addition to traditional 2.5-gallon buckets. 

Why packaging matters 

Buckets still have their place on larger projects but for targeted repairs, punch-list items and routine maintenance, smaller packaging can make a big difference. With pouches and caulk tubes, contractors can: 

• Reduce material waste by using only what’s needed for the repair 
• Save time with faster setup, application and cleanup 
• Lower labor costs by keeping crews moving efficiently 
• Improve jobsite cleanliness with fewer spills and less leftover product 

Designed for targeted repairs and maintenance 

The new packaging options make 671 Karna-Seal especially well-suited for: 

• Flashing and detail work 
• Small leaks and emergency repairs 
• Routine maintenance programs 
• Touch-ups between larger restoration phases 

The 10.1-ounce caulk tubes are ideal for quick, precise applications using standard caulking guns, while the two-liter pouches offer higher output without committing to a full bucket. Both formats are easier to handle on ladders, lifts and rooftops. 

Pouches and tubes also help extend the usable shelf life after opening, minimize partially used containers and reduce disposal costs and product loss. 

Try it on the jobsite 

KARNAK is giving contractors a hands-on way to experience the efficiency of its updated 671 Karna-Seal packaging. As part of a limited giveaway, you can receive a free 10.1-ounce caulk tube of 671 Karna-Seal and see firsthand how the smaller format, cleaner repairs on real jobsites. 

Smarter packaging. Same proven performance. Built for the way contractors work today. Claim your free tube and learn more about 671 Karna-Seal!

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

This year’s conversations reflected continued growth in roof coatings as building owners seek sustainable, cost-effective solutions and contractors look for ways to diversify their businesses.

CoatingsCoffeeShop® was proud to be a part of the Roof Coating Manufacturer Association (RCMA) 2026 meeting in Las Vegas. As an RCMA partner and sponsor, our team attended the event to connect with the industry, participate in educational sessions and continue our mission of supporting contractors through information, technology and collaboration. 

With Megan Ellsworth moderating a key panel discussion, CoatingsCoffeeShop had the opportunity to engage directly with roof coating manufacturers, material suppliers, contractors and consultants who are shaping the future of roof restoration. 

The RCMA annual meeting serves as an important gathering for the roof coating industry, providing a platform for open dialogue, education and reporting on the state of the market. The 2026 meeting was proudly sponsored by Western Colloid whose continued support helps make these important industry conversations possible. 

This year’s conversations reflected continued growth in roof coatings as building owners seek sustainable, cost-effective solutions and contractors look for ways to diversify their businesses. 

Throughout the day, attendees participated in educational sessions focused on sustainability, technology, safety and profitability. One session highlighted RCMA’s Environmental Product Declaration (EPD) initiatives and how industry-wide EPDs are helping manufacturers improve transparency and consistency while supporting long-term sustainability goals. 

Technology also played a central role in the discussions with sessions focused on roof diagnostics, measurement accuracy and tools that support smarter decision making. These conversations reinforced the importance of data and documentation in delivering successful coating projects. 

A highlight of the day was a presentation by Will Lorenz, president of General Coatings, who shared the story of using roof coatings on one of the most recognizable architectural focal points in Las Vegas. The project involved a complex sphere-shaped structure that required both spray foam and roof coatings to achieve performance, protection and long-term durability. 

Will walked attendees through the unique challenges of working on curved architecture, the importance of selecting the right materials and how application methods played a critical role in the project’s success. The presentation showcased real-world problem solving and emphasized how coatings can be used creatively and effectively on complex structures when paired with proper planning and expertise.  

Another highlight of the meeting was the panel discussion titled The Competitive Edge, moderated by Megan Ellsworth of CoatingsCoffeeShop. Panelists included Josh Poole with Tremco Construction Products Group and RCMA president, Ryan Blad with 838 Coatings, Chris Huettig with KARNAK Corporation and Cody Wilson with Unicoat Industrial Roofing Corp. 

The panel explored how coatings are helping contractors grow their businesses while providing effective solutions for building owners. Panelists shared how restoration systems extend roof life, reduce disruption and offer owners alternatives to full replacement. 

A strong theme throughout the discussion was the growing number of residential roofing contractors entering the commercial market and finding roof coatings to be a natural starting point. Coatings allow contractors to expand into commercial work without the same level of labor demands, equipment investment or jobsite disruption required for full reroofing. 

As more contractors make this transition, training was emphasized as essential. Onsite training supports proper application, improves crew confidence and ensures contractors get the most from both materials and equipment. Well-trained crews deliver better performance and stronger outcomes for customers. 

The panel also addressed how coatings create opportunities for recurring revenue through maintenance programs, helping contractors build long-term relationships with building owners while stabilizing workflow. 

Equipment selection was another key topic with discussion around spray rigs, rollers and application strategies. Contractors shared the importance of aligning equipment choices with business goals and gradually introducing spraying into operations. One of the most common contractor requests discussed was the growing need for sprayable mastics to improve efficiency and consistency. 

Labor savings were identified as one of the strongest business drivers behind coatings. Compared to full replacement, coating systems can reduce crew size, shorten project timelines and improve overall productivity. 

Panelists also emphasized the importance of evaluating roof conditions honestly before recommending a coating system. Moisture testing and clear communication with building owners are essential. Coatings are not the right solution for every roofand transparency builds long-term trust. 

Cody in particular highlighted the value of working closely with manufacturer representatives during roof walks and evaluations. When contractors and manufacturers collaborate onsite, stronger diagnostics are achieved and better recommendations can be made. This partnership ultimately leads to better outcomes for building owners. 

Manufacturers shared how they continue to support contractors through onsite assistance, evaluations and technical diagnostics. This collaborative approach ensures coating systems are installed correctly and perform as intended. 

CoatingsCoffeeShop is proud to partner with RCMA and sponsor the association as part of our commitment to advancing education, communication and connection across the roof coating industry. Events like the RCMA meeting reinforce the importance of bringing the industry together to share knowledge and support contractor success. 

As the meeting concluded, one message stood out clearly, roof coatings are not simply a product category, they are a strategic solution helping contractors grow, diversify and deliver long-term value to building owners. 

For more information about the Roof Coating Manufacturer Association visit www.roofcoatings.org and for ongoing industry news, education and contractor resources visit CoatingsCoffeeShop.com. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Roof restoration has evolved into a strategic solution shaped by performance, cost and owner expectations. 

Roof restoration has reached a turning point. What was once viewed as a temporary fix or value-engineered alternative is now a strategically determined solution that is reshaping how contractors, specifiers and building owners approach roofing decisions. A recent episode of CoatingsCast™ brought together Dan King of Clarity Roof Consulting and Chris Huettig and John McDermott of KARNAK to discuss how restoration has evolved, the pressures shaping today’s projects and what contractors need to understand to stay competitive. 

One of the clearest changes in the restoration market is the move from product-driven decisions to system-based thinking. Early skepticism around coatings performance has given way to deeper understanding of surface prep, compatibility and long-term behavior. Dan explained, “[Restoration work] has matured over time to where we are now, which is really understanding how materials interact and what steps we need to take in order to deliver something that works.” The industry is no longer asking if restoration works; it’s asking how to deliver it correctly. 

“The relative value of coating systems versus membrane systems got a big boost,” Dan added, pointing to material availability and price pressures during COVID. These supply chain disruptions and cost volatility changed owner psychology. Replacement-first thinking was suddenly less predictable, more expensive and harder to schedule, allowing restoration to shift from a short-term workaround to a risk management strategy.  

Another major evolution is that owners are increasingly prioritizing solutions that keep their buildings open, minimize on-site disruption and shorten project timelines. “They want a roof that’s dry. It’s going to perform, and then they want you gone,” shared Chris. If you’re navigating labor shortages, restoration also aligns with operational realities: smaller crews, faster turnarounds and fewer logistical hurdles that allow you to scale work without overextending resources. 

“We’ve gotten so much more interest – questions, need for training, need for specifications – coming directly from the specifier market,” shared John. Today, specifiers are actively seeking better data, clearer systems and stronger documentation to support owner decisions. 

Listen to the full podcast episode to learn more about the role of specifiers in highlighting roof restoration in today’s evolving market.

By Jenny Yu.  

Accelerate your business success at this year’s four-day event. 

The 2026 Carolinas Mid-Winter Roofing Expo returns to the Durham Convention Center in Durham, North Carolina, from February 16-19, 2026, bringing one of the Southeast’s largest regional roofing trade shows to contractors, manufacturers, suppliers and industry professionals. Hosted by the Carolinas Roofing & Sheet Metal Contractors Association (CRSMCA), the multi-day event features nearly 100 exhibiting companies showcasing the latest roofing technology, safety tools, equipment and industry services. 

Attendees can expect an energized atmosphere where networking and product innovation drive the conversation. On Wednesday, February 18, keynote speaker Mike Metcalf, Jr., of D.E.C.K. Leadership will take the wheel. A NASCAR pit-crew coach, Mike will present “12 Second Culture,” a presentation that will inspire leaders to run their crews like a cockpit, prioritizing efficiency, teamwork and kindness. 

Wednesday is also Trade Show Day, where exhibitors will offer exciting hands-on demonstrations of the latest technological trends. One demonstration to pencil into your calendar is “Mastering TPO Hand Welding” with Johns Manville at 1:45 p.m. Pull up to booth #311 to learn the best practices of hand welding TPO membranes from their team of technical experts! 

Alongside the bustling exhibition floor, CRSMCA’s expo includes educational opportunities designed for professionals at every level. Thursday, February 19, is Education Day when the learning switches to full gear. Curated sessions will deliver actionable takeaways that help businesses sharpen operations and stay ahead of evolving market demands. Here are the three educational sessions you can’t miss:  

Session 1: How to build a profitable business that you can sell or take to the bank  

• Presenter: Matt Thompson, Splash Omnimedia 
• When: Thursday, 2/19, 9:00 – 10:00 a.m. 

Session 2: PVC - The other white sheet 

• Presenter: Mary Beth Reed, GAF 
• When: Thursday, 2/19, 10:00 – 11:00 a.m. 

Session 3: Modern roofing technologies 

• Presenter: Hannah Safren, Polyglass 
• When: Thursday, 2/19, 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. 

Registration fees cover access to all education sessions, networking receptions, trade show entry and more! Sponsorship packages are still available, providing a variety of booth, advertising and branding opportunities. Sponsors include BITEC, Inc.® and KARNAK (Team Goodwill) and Petersen Aluminum Corporation (PAC), a Carlisle Architectural Metals company (Team Diamond). 

Register and learn more about the 2026 Carolinas Mid-Winter Roofing Expo!