By Pli-Dek. 

Protecting concrete from moisture intrusion helps extend the life of structures and prevent costly repairs. 

Concrete may appear durable, but moisture can cause serious deterioration over time. When water seeps into small pores and hairline cracks, it gradually weakens the material and can lead to surface damage, structural problems and costly repairs. From stained patios to deteriorating balconies and walkways, the effects of moisture intrusion are common across residential and commercial properties.  

That is why waterproofing is a critical step in protecting concrete surfaces. Solutions from Pli-Dek help contractors and property owners defend concrete against long-term water damage, extending the life of structures while maintaining a clean, durable finish. 

The impact of water on concrete 

Water exposure can significantly deteriorate concrete, not only affecting its appearance but also compromising its strength. You may have observed surface damage on sidewalks or aging mortar, where the concrete erodes and exposes the underlying materials. In severe cases, water can rapidly degrade concrete, though it typically takes a few years for noticeable damage to appear. Visible surface damage often indicates deeper issues within the wall or floor's structural integrity. To maintain the strength and aesthetic appeal of concrete projects, waterproofing is key. Additionally, waterproofing protects the rebar within concrete from rust and erosion. 

Additional benefits of waterproofing concrete 

• Prevents mold and mildew: By keeping moisture out, waterproofing safeguards the structural integrity and health of your walls and floors, preventing mold and mildew growth. 
• Reduces maintenance costs: Waterproof structures are easier to maintain and require less cleanup after heavy rain or flooding. Routine maintenance is simplified, as waterproofing keeps surfaces clean and intact. 

Things to do before waterproofing concrete 

• Clean and dry the surface: Ensure the surface is free from dirt, old paint or floor coverings. Use a scraper to remove any residues and sweep thoroughly. For stubborn grime, use a mix of warm water and soap to scrub the area, rinsing afterward. Allow the surface to dry completely. 
• Patch holes: Use a hydraulic expanding concrete mix to patch any holes. Allow the patches to cure for at least 24 hours before proceeding. 
• Protect adjacent areas: Use tape to cover items extending onto the floor or walls, such as stairs or electrical boxes, to prevent them from being affected during the waterproofing process. 

The importance of quality materials 

Using high-quality waterproofing products is crucial to avoid wasting time and money on inferior materials that may fail prematurely. At Pli-Dek, we bring over 50 years of experience in manufacturing and applying various waterproofing systems. 

Original article and photo source: Pli-Dek

By Jesse Sanchez. 

The Pli-Dek team highlights hands-on waterproofing training and ongoing field support nationwide. 

Training and long-term support were the focus of this episode of CoatingsCast™, where Karen Edwards spoke with Bob Yglesias and Miles Yglesias of Pli-Dek about the company’s approach to educating contractors on waterproofing systems. 

The father-and-son duo emphasized that training extends well beyond classroom instruction. Their sessions, which introduce contractors to Pli-Dek’s deck coating and waterproofing systems, are designed to prepare installers for real-world applications on plaza decks, balconies and parking structures. But according to Bob, the commitment does not end when the formal presentation concludes. “Training doesn’t stop after our in-house training,” he said. “When these contractors get jobs, we promise them that we’re going to be on site.” 

Bob, who has worked in deck coatings since 1982, said field support is critical because small details can determine long-term system performance. Waterproofing assemblies must account for foot traffic, vehicle loads, expansion and contraction and regional climate conditions. Ensuring proper installation during a contractor’s first project helps reduce risk and build confidence. 

Miles added that many roofing contractors already bring relevant experience to waterproofing, particularly in flashing and fluid-applied systems. However, transitioning from roofing to deck waterproofing requires additional instruction and oversight. “To be able to apply the waterproofing correctly takes not only just the training, but also to build a relationship and continue that training once it goes out into the real world,” he said. 

As Pli-Dek continues expanding beyond its West Coast origins into regions such as Florida and Texas, the company is adapting training to address varying climate challenges, including humidity, salt air and high-wind events. That adaptability, Bob said, depends on maintaining trust with contractors. “If we’re going to tell a contractor to do something, we’re going to make sure it works,” he said. “They have a lot of trust in us, and we will never do anything to mess that up.” That’s because effective waterproofing relies not only on strong product performance, but also on continued education and trusted field partnerships. 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the interview to learn more about Pli-Dek training and education opportunities!

From packed aisles and live demonstrations to soundstage interviews and meaningful conversations, WOC 2026 showcased the innovation and heart of the industry. 

World of Concrete (WOC) 2026 defined the scale and energy of the construction trades coming together this year. Our crew had the unique opportunity to be present at both the International Roofing Expo (IRE) and World of Concrete, moving between two massive shows, two soundstages and countless conversations. Here’s a closer look at how it went and what it means to capture the stories that matter most to the industry. 

For Heidi J. Ellsworth, president and CEO of The Coffee Shops™, the week was all about participation: 

We were able to really tell the stories of those in this industry through interviews on the floor, live conversations on our soundstage and just through all the activities that we participated in, from National Women in Roofing Day to Roof Coating Manufacturers Association (RCMA) meeting, ROOFPAC, Roofing Alliance Student Competition and RT3 panel. I feel that we not only told the stories, but we participated in a way that really helps to elevate the industry.  

It was a truly spectacular week, and big shout out to Informa and NRCA for everything that they do to make this show such a success.  

Experiencing the scale and energy 

Moving between both shows gave the crew a front-row seat to the size, diversity and momentum of the construction and coatings industries. Dani Sheehan, content strategist, described the experience of opening day at WOC: 

Day one, when everything opened, Camden and I had the chance to walk the show floor and people were literally shoulder to shoulder. You couldn’t move; it felt like a school of fish just moving through the crowd, but the energy was palpable. It was so cool to see it, to witness it and to watch as that energy carried into conversations and demonstrations with our partners. 

World of Concrete offered the opportunity to explore new dimensions of familiar brands. Dani and Camden highlighted time spent with manufacturers and coatings experts: 

Our first interview of the day was Sika. Learning about all their wall coatings and the trainings they lead was really interesting – it was a part of their business I was unfamiliar with. Then, we got to hang out in the outdoor demonstration area with our friends from ICP Group. APF Polymer Surfaces and Pli-Dek were there showing us some amazing decorative floor coatings. It was almost hard to get to the interview because so many people were at the demo. We loved engaging in these conversations and having the chance to ask them questions in real time. 

Bringing the industry together 

While much of her week centered around IRE, Karen Edwards, COO of The Coffee Shops, had some time to experience WOC firsthand, emphasizing that whether our crew is on the soundstage or walking the show floor, the mission remained the same: 

In the last two hours of the show, I was able to go over to WOC with Heidi, visit some existing customers, talk to some new customers and really see the size and breadth of the show. It’s really impressive and incredible. We’ve been using the tagline recently, ‘Your industry, Your stories,’ and that’s our goal, really, is to focus on the industry, telling the stories, having those conversations, sharing those interviews and uplifting the entire industry. 

For Karol Weyman, product and business development director, WOC was unlike anything she had experienced before: 

World of Concrete did not disappoint — it was the largest show I’ve attended in my career. CoatingsCoffeeShop™ was located right in the lobby, and we had an incredible number of people stop by to share their stories. The passion across the industry was contagious. My role at the show was to oversee the booth and serve as a soundstage host, which gave me the opportunity to connect with contractors who have been in the industry for over 40 years, as well as manufacturers, distributors and service providers who are truly committed to supporting and advancing the industry. We also attended several outstanding charity-focused events, which reinforced one clear takeaway: this is an industry that genuinely values giving back and paying it forward. 

Evelyn Witterholt, content developer, shared a similar sentiment: 

World of Concrete lives up to its name, both in size and impact. It was our first time exhibiting at WOC and being positioned in the lobby meant we got to be on the frontlines of this incredible show. We got to meet people from all sectors of the industry, many of which were excited to talk to us about their businesses. With three indoor halls and two outdoor exhibits, there was plenty of exploring to do at the show. I particularly enjoyed watching the concrete double disc trowel agility course competition. I can't wait to see what WOC 2027 has in store! 

Training, competition and innovation 

From outdoor exhibits to emerging technology, innovation was everywhere. Megan Ellsworth, multimedia director, was struck by how much hands-on learning and competition took place throughout the event: 

There was the brick layer competition, and that was super fun to watch all the brick laying teams competing out in the bronze lot exhibit area working so hard to get every brick laid right.

The outdoor exhibits were my favorite – it was really cool to see big name brands like DeWalt, Makita, Milwaukee and even more! One thing that I love that is growing in the trades right now is women joining crews. There weren't many out there, but there were more than I have ever seen before, and I loved seeing that. I spoke to so many companies that were exploring the world of 3D printing, especially with concrete and that fascinated me. Quikrete was a standout in their capabilities of 3D printing with concrete, and the creations they had on display were somewhat mind-blowing. It is brilliant to see the innovations and what will be taken back home with contractors from the show and how the building trades industry grows after shows like World of Concrete. 

For our crew, World of Concrete was inspiring to participate in – listening, learning and amplifying the voices shaping what comes next. 

Check out our YouTube playlist for more insights from industry experts!

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. 

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.

By Emma Peterson. 

This month’s standout stories cover fire-rated systems, youth outreach, legal guidance and more!  

Summer has been rushing by at The Coffee Shops™ and it’s already time to look at the top articles from August 2025! One of the big topics we saw talked about this month was withstanding Mother Nature. In one article on our list, Dani Sheehan covers how Pli-Dek and fire-rated systems can protect people and property in areas at threat of wildfires. Drexel Metals also made our top list with an article sharing about how their new Defend-R Vent combines ventilation and insulation is a way that prevents ice dams from forming! Additionally, Jenny Yu wrote an article all about how edge metal keeps properties safe and secure in the face of tornadoes.  

Beyond covering how roofs are standing up to Mother Nature, this month saw three unique top articles! In number three, an article by Emma Peterson covered an exciting moment for our very own multimedia manager, Megan Ellsworth, when she was brought onto the Roofer Growth Hacks podcast to talk about building connections and growing your business through media. In the number two spot is an article from Christee Roberson (Graham Roofing) all about how National Women In Roofing (NWIR) is helping dismantle industry barriers by helping young women get their start in the trades through youth summer camps. 

And our top article of the month comes from Mary Kate Fernandez of Adams and Reese. Mary Kate is an association who is very familiar with immigration enforcement policies and has run a variety of trainings to help industry-members navigate workforce management and legal compliance in the face of shifting immigration polices. In this article, she covers nine tips for keeping your I-9 paperwork in order through mergers, acquisitions and anything else that might crop up.  

Read the August 2025 top articles! 

10 - The Coffee Shops™ welcome World of Concrete!

9 - Fire-rated solutions for the Wildland Urban Interface by Dani Sheehan 

8 - MRA hosts 4th annual fishing trip in Bigfork, Montana by MRA 

7 - Steep slopes and ice dams, beware. Defend-R Vent is here. by Drexel Metals 

6 - SRS Distribution announces expansion in Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex with the acquisition of Roadrunner Roofing Supply, Inc. 

5 - Edge metal: A structure’s shield from tornados by Jenny Yu 

4 - Make the most of your silicone roof coatings by Progressive Materials 

3 - Podcasting, marketing and roofing success by Emma Peterson 

2 - Camps for girls: Building on a proven blueprint by Christee Roberson, Graham Roofing 

1 - 9 strategic tips for I-9 compliance by Mary Kate Fernandez, Adams and Reese

By Dani Sheehan. 

Learn how Pli-Dek and fire-rated systems can help you confidently tackle WUI projects. 

Fire seasons continue to grow more intense, and as urban development edges closer to wildlands, fire-rated solutions are essential to protecting the built environment. In a recent episode of CoatingsCast®, Megan Ellsworth sits down with Adrienne Malek, VP of product management for cementitious coatings for Pli-Dek, and Jan Bagnall, the inventor of Pli-Dek, to unpack how contractors can rise to meet increasingly strict fire codes in Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) zones. 

Understanding WUI zones and what’s ahead 

“Wildland Urban Interface, it’s where our residential and commercial communities hit natural reserves, forested areas, et cetera,” shares Adrienne. “It’s the interface between nature and man.” 

As populations grow and more people choose to live outside of city centers, closer to nature and even off the grid, new homes and buildings are being constructed in areas increasingly vulnerable to wildfires. Adrienne explains that this shift, paired with more destructive fire seasons, has led to changes in California: “So, they have created a map that has now been in existence for a while that rates the severity of the fire zones based on an address, but based on what took place in January of this year and the horrific fires that happened in LA county and the Palisades, Governor Newsom is now expanding these zones.” 

With the expansion of WUI maps in California and adoption in other states on the horizon, contractors must stay ahead of changing regulations. Adrienne continues, “It's not just, ‘Do you back up to a forest?’ It also is related to weather concerns or issues. What is the severity of the wind that comes through your area? So, if the fire sparks, how bad could this be for you? Things of that nature also are all taken into consideration when they're planning these fire zones.” 

Evolving fire standards 

When Jan launched Pli-Dek in 1979, fire testing wasn’t nearly as comprehensive as it is today. He recalled the two main ASTM tests required at the time – ASTM E119, which measures fire resistance from below the deck, and ASTM E108, which evaluates top-down exposure including a burning brand test. “For years we’ve had that rating, which was the top of the food chain,” Jan shares. 

That foundation proved critical when California introduced even more stringent testing under WUI standards in 2012. “We’ve had [the WUI] rating for 13 years now,” Jan says. “Pli-Dek has always been the pioneer in making sure testing is done right and giving it to the architects to make sure they’re covered.” 

As fire codes continue to tighten, Adrienne believes the industry will trend toward more non-combustible solutions. “Why not take the road of least resistance?” she asks. “Anything that doesn't even meet the basic criteria of a Class A or one-hour rating should never be allowed. Even in moderate-risk areas, contractors should be building to meet WUI standards.” 

Jan adds that doing the right thing now, both for safety and code compliance, benefits everyone, from architects and consultants to contractors and homeowners. He shared, “We're trying to make it good for everybody, not just for Pli-Dek, but for safety, and for the building departments and the builders.” 

Read the transcript, Listen to the podcast or Watch the webinar to learn more about successfully adapting for WUI projects. 

By Emma Peterson. 

You don’t want to miss this special CoatingsTalk where our crew will be coming to you LIVE from the roof with Pli-Dek! 

Mark your calendar for August 13, 2025, 9:00 a.m. PT (12:00 p.m. ET) because we are bringing you onto the roof with a special CoatingsTalk! Our crew will join Jan Bagnall, the VP at Pli-Dek, as he walks through the process of properly waterproofing a roof. Attendees of this special CoatingsTalk will not only get to hear Jan’s insights and tips for proper installation, but they will also get to see for themselves the power of Pli-Dek's own waterproofing system.  

This system has been designed with performance and durability in mind as it is fast-drying, fabric-reinforced and water-based. Not only does it protect everything from decks and walkways to balconies and other exposed surfaces from water, Pli-Dek's system comes with a game-changing fire resistance. This system boasts a one-hour and Class A Fire rating and a BML Listing for Decking for Wildland Urban Interface zones. Jan will not only walk attendees through these benefits and more, but he will also give a quick refresher on the installation process and common pitfalls to avoid.  

And if you’re considering adding waterproofing to your repertoire but aren’t set on it yet, Jan will talk through how it can help your team with everything from sales to consistent work. He will also share some key resources that contractors can access to get the training and support they need to succeed with waterproofing. Ultimately, whether you want to expand your offerings or refresh your existing waterproofing team’s knowledge, this episode will be full of valuable knowledge and tips. 

Register for this CoatingsTalk, happening August 13, 2025 9:00 a.m. PT (12:00 p.m. ET), now!

By Dani Sheehan.

Meet Bob and Miles Yglesia, the father-son duo leading Pli-Dek's growth on the east coast.

With over 35 years in the waterproofing industry and 25 years installing Pli-Dek systems, Bob Yglesia has seen just about everything the field can throw at a contractor. Today, he’s joined by his son Miles Yglesia in bringing that same depth of knowledge – and a fresh perspective – to Pli-Dek's growing presence on the east coast.

From jobsite to training room

Bob’s journey in deck coatings began in the early 1980s. What started as a hands-on trade quickly became his lifelong calling. He discovered Pli-Dek in the early 1990s and never looked back. “Waterproofing and deck coatings... it’s the only thing I’ve ever done,” Bob said. “Once I got ahold of Pli-Dek, that was it.”

Miles started in the industry when he was just 16, working odd jobs for his dad and learning the trade from the ground up. Over time, he worked his way to a superintendent position, helping crews navigate installation challenges before transitioning to a corporate role. Today, he balances hands-on training with innovation.  

“It’s not about reading from a manual,” Miles shared. “I like to show contractors what actually works in the field – from the tools that make a difference to tricks that save time. That real-world knowledge is what sticks.”

Pli-Dek's Certified Applicator Training

Bob and Miles recently hosted Pli-Dek's first Certified Applicator Training in Florida, welcoming nearly 70 contractors. While the classroom offered a solid foundation, both emphasized that on-site support is where real growth happens.

“Once you learn the tips and tricks and become a certified contractor, it’s far from being over,” Bob explained. “We promise them – we'll be there on the job. That next level of support is where the system really clicks.” Bob works hard to get to know the needs of the contractors he meets to create an ongoing relationship where they feel comfortable coming to him to solve problems.

Adapting to east coast challenges

Moving operations from the West Coast to Florida hasn’t been without its hurdles. According to Bob, the climate and construction differences demand new solutions. “What we’re seeing out here is a whole different ball game,” he explained. “On the West Coast, you can put a system down and not worry. Out here, with the humidity and variable conditions, it’s a constant evolution. We’re committed to finding those solutions.”

Miles agrees – and sees his role as one that bridges innovation with practical application. “If it’s going to get innovative, it’s going to start with the younger generation in the industry,” he shared. “I like to test things in-house, try new ideas when no one’s looking – because that’s how we stay ahead.”

For Bob and Miles, their approach is hands-on, grounded in decades of experience and focused on making contractors’ lives easier. “It’s exciting,” Miles shared. “To take what I’ve learned from all those early mornings and jobsite problem-solving and share it with other applicators – it just feels like the right next step.”

Become a Certified Applicator with Pli-Dek and gain real-world insights from employees like Bob and Miles Yglesia – because craftsmanship is a legacy worth passing down.

By Emma Peterson. 

Here’s what we’ve been talking about at The Coffee Shops™ this month! 

In the industry, March often feels like a preparation month as we all look forward to a new construction season and the business that comes with that. As we look back at the top articles of the month, we can see some of that come through in The Coffee Shops’ readers’ interest in innovative roofing products and changing regulations.  

In one article, Reed Hitchcock, Asphalt Roofing Manufacturers Association (ARMA) vice president, shares his thoughts about Florida’s Insurance Commissioner, Michael Yaworsky’s comments on the future of asphalt shingles in the state. In another article, Attic Breeze announced the Florida Building Code (FBC)’s approval of their attic fan and ventilation solutions for use in High-velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ). Coffee Shops’ writer Jesse Sanchez’s article on TUBOS' 5-inch vent pipe extension also made our list this month! 

When it comes to talk of regulation shifts and changes, our number four spot was taken by Dani Sheehan’s article, “What you need to know about ICE on the jobsite.” In the article, Dani highlights one of our Coffee Conversations where industry legal expert Trent Cotney of Adams and Reese LLP shares his thoughts about how contractors can navigate the current and constantly changing immigration enforcement actions occurring. Also on the topic of changing regulations, an article about California’s SB 721 mandate by Emma Peterson also made our top five list. The article explains Dr. Xiaomeng (George) Ge’s, a senior condition evaluation engineer, thoughts on the new mandate and how products from roofing companies like Pli-Dek fit into the picture. 

Read all the top articles from March 

Five honorable mentions to check out: 

10 - Attic Breeze expands FBC-approved ventilation solutions for High-velocity Hurricane Zones 

9 - Work smarter not harder with the relaunch of Roofing Passport! by Emma Peterson 

8 - Roofers’ choice: Tubos' 5-inch vent extension earns top honors by Jesse Sanchez 

7 - Rhino Roofers take home the gold! by Trevor Underwood 

6 - A Canadian partnership built to last: Madge Custom Roofing and IKO Industries by Emma Peterson 

And our official March Top 5 list! 

5 - Duro-Last's dedication to growth, quality and connections by Emma Peterson 

4 - What you need to know about ICE on the jobsite by Dani Sheehan 

3 - Elevate announces 2025 Master Contractor Award recipients 

2 - Asphalt shingles have provided an effective, affordable and versatile roofing solution for decades by Reed Hitchcock 

1 - Breaking down California’s balcony inspection law by Emma Peterson