By Emma Peterson. 

A conversation with SPFA’s Lisa Smith on how SPFA empowers contractors and members through education, resources, events and more. 

Founded in 1987, the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) is a national 501(c)6 trade association. Their mission is to provide support to contractors, manufacturers, distributors and other professionals that work with spray polyurethane foam. They pursue this mission in a variety of ways, from curating technical resources to organizing certification sessions. To learn more about SPFA, we sat down with Lisa Smith, director of member engagement, for a Coatings Cast™ all about how SPFA brings the industry together.  

A great example of SPFA bringing the industry together was their annual convention. Lisa dove into a bit of what makes this show so special:  

I don't think there's anything better than meeting somebody face-to-face. Even if you've talked to them on the phone, face-to-face meetings are so much better. It really creates a good connection. And so many of our members are spread out; this show really brings everyone physically together to make those emotional and business connections.  

In addition to creating unique and important networking opportunities, the show also showcases the variety of resources SPFA offers to their members. For example, the 2026 show not only had networking opportunities and education sessions during the event, but also a pre-convention field exam/certification program and an extensive trade show floor to explore! 

At the end of the day, SPFA’s convention is a great example of how they bring the industry together and how they uplift professionals. As Lisa put it, “Our contractors and members are the heart of SPFA. And the convention is a great way for us to meet them in person and find out what they need help with and where they’d like to see the organization go.”  

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording to learn more about how SPFA unites and supports the spray polyurethane industry. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Expand into the industrial market and see why spray foam roofing addresses the insulation challenge on wastewater digesters. 

As wastewater treatment facilities continue to prioritize efficiency, sustainability and long-term performance, more operators are turning to spray foam roofing (SPF) as a solution for insulating and protecting digester systems. This growing application represents an opportunity to expand services into a highly specialized and increasingly in-demand market. 

The role of digesters in water treatment 

Digesters are a critical component of wastewater treatment plants. These large concrete tanks, often capped with metal or floating lids, create a controlled environment where bacteria break down organic material to cleanse water. For this biological process to work efficiently, consistent internal temperatures are essential. 

Heat loss through concrete and metal surfaces can significantly reduce digester performance, leading to lower gas production, higher energy demands and reduced system efficiency. Maintaining thermal stability is one of the biggest challenges facility operators face.  

Why spray foam works 

Digester lids themselves present a unique insulation challenge. Many are circular and curved in design, often constructed from stainless steel with structural ribs that add strength while allowing the lid to move with changes in gas pressure inside the tank. This makes it difficult for traditional systems to fit properly or seal effectively. Gaps, seams and rigid materials can struggle to conform to the contours of the lid and its ribbed framework. Spray foam, however, expands and adheres directly to the surface, conforming to curved shapes and irregular details while creating a continuous, sealed insulation layer across the entire structure. 

Spray foam roofing systems are uniquely suited to address the challenges digesters present: 

• Seamless insulation: SPF creates a continuous, monolithic insulation layer that minimizes thermal bridging and air leakage. 
• Superior thermal control: High-density roofing foam helps maintain the elevated temperatures required for bacterial activity. 
• Moisture and chemical resistance: When paired with protective coatings, spray foam helps shield digester lids from moisture, gases and harsh environmental conditions. 
• Precision application: SPF can be applied to complex shapes, domed lids and moving components where traditional insulation systems fall short. 

In many wastewater treatment plants, the methane generated during digestion can be captured and reused to power plant operations. Better insulation directly supports this goal by improving digestion efficiency and reducing the need for supplemental energy from fossil fuels. 

These projects demand: 

• A strong understanding of material selection and thickness control 
• Familiarity with industrial safety requirements
• Experience working around active facilities with strict protocols 
• Proper training to ensure consistent application and system performance 

Certification and training 

As spray foam applications continue to expand into specialized areas like digester insulation, proper training and certification is critical. Facility owners and engineers want assurance that contractors understand not only how to spray foam, but also how to do so safely, consistently and in demanding industrial environments. 

Working with established manufacturers such as General Coatings Manufacturing Corp gives you access to proven spray foam and coating systems designed for durability in challenging applications. Manufacturer-backed training and technical support can be an important complement to formal certification through organizations like the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), helping you apply systems correctly and confidently in the field. 

By Dani Sheehan. 

Contractors looking to differentiate in 2026 are finding new opportunities in spray polyurethane foam (SPF) roofing systems that solve challenges traditional systems can’t always address. 

For contractors looking to grow their commercial capabilities, spray polyurethane foam (SPF) can be more than another system to offer. It can become a strategic service line that opens the door to restoration work, complex reroofing projects and energy-focused upgrades. 

Why spray foam stands out 

Many roof systems perform well on straightforward projects. But not every roof is straightforward. Buildings with multiple penetrations, rooftop equipment, irregular layouts or curved structures often create labor-intensive installation challenges for conventional materials. 

Because the material is spray-applied and fully adhered, SPF conforms to the substrate and creates a seamless surface across transitions, penetrations and hard-to-detail areas. Instead of cutting and fitting around every obstacle, you can create a continuous insulated roofing system that helps simplify difficult applications. 

As Will Lorenz of General Coatings Manufacturing Corp shared during a live soundstage interview at the International Roofing Expo (IRE) 2026, “The more difficult the building is, the more it’s a perfect fit for spray foam.” 

A smart path for recover and restoration projects 

As more commercial roofs age, owners are increasingly interested in restoration and recover options that preserve existing assets. In many cases, a full tear-off may not be necessary if the substrate remains sound. 

Spray foam can help you answer restoration demand by adding insulation, improving waterproofing performance and renewing aging roof systems without the cost and disruption of removing the entire roof assembly. 

For owners, that can mean: 

• Reduced landfill waste from tear-offs 
• Lower disruption to occupied buildings 
• Faster project timelines 
• Improved thermal performance 
• Extended roof service life 

Training is what turns opportunity into profit 

Spray foam roofing is not a plug-and-play category. Successful installation requires an understanding of proportioning equipment, spray technique, substrate conditions, weather variables and coating application standards. Industry associations such as the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) and Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) continue to play an important role in advancing best practices, education and professionalism across the category. 

Manufacturers matter too. Contractors entering or expanding in SPF need partners who can provide product guidance, jobsite support, inspections and warranty pathways. As Will explained, “People install it and make it a roof.” Quality materials matter, but quality outcomes depend on trained contractors backed by responsive manufacturers. 

General Coatings is available to help you evaluate opportunities, choose the right coating systems, troubleshoot field conditions and build long-term confidence in SPF installations. If you want to expand their commercial offerings, improve margins and solve more complex problems for your customers, spray foam may be one of the smartest additions to the toolbox. 

Learn how General Coatings can help build your business with spray foam! 

By Jesse Sanchez. 

A recent school roof overhaul highlights safety, sustainability and seamless execution by a top-rated contractor. 

When South Park Elementary School faced the daunting task of replacing its roof in time for the new school year, Strong Contractors Inc. stepped up to deliver — with precision, speed and environmental foresight. 

The Colorado-based commercial roofing company, led on this project by Matteo Mazzullo-Revel, tackled a more than 40,000-square-foot roof overhaul at the school’s 3100 Hollywood Dr. location using spray polyurethane foam (SPF). The complex installation, completed in just 17 days, showcases the firm’s ability to solve logistical challenges under pressure — especially with multiple HVAC penetrations complicating the layout. 

“Every HVAC unit had to be meticulously masked to avoid overspray,” said Mazzullo-Revel, a SPFA PCP Certified Master Installer. The intricate setup demanded both technical expertise and tight coordination, made tougher by a hard deadline to finish before students returned. 

The project employed Gaco Low GWP F2780 foam, GacoFlex S2000 silicone and anti-slip #6 white granules. These materials formed a monolithic system — a seamless roofing approach that enhances durability, particularly in environments riddled with roof penetrations like vents and HVAC mounts. The granules also aid in ongoing maintenance, offering safe footing for technicians accessing the roof. 

Beyond the technical aspects, Strong Contractors ensured compliance with OSHA fall protection standards and brought in a third-party safety consultant, resulting in zero incidents — no small feat on a job of this size and scope. 

Environmentally, the SPF system offered a major plus: it allowed the team to build over the existing roof, diverting tons of waste from local landfills — an increasingly important consideration in public works projects. 

This isn’t Strong Contractors’ first time in the spotlight. The firm, co-owned by a husband-and-wife team, has earned recognition from Gaco as a top applicator in 2023 and 2024 and landed on the Inc. 5000 list for its rapid growth. Their past work includes high-profile government and education projects across Colorado, including an expansive slate of roofing for Pueblo School District 60 in 2024. 

Learn more about how Strong Contractors is shaping the future of sustainable roofing, this job is just the start!

By Jenny Yu.  

The 2026 SPFA Convention and Expo brought together contractors and manufacturers to focus on education and growth. 

The Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA) 2026 Convention and Expo brought the spray foam industry together, drawing nearly 2,300 attendees and 106 exhibitors to Las Vegas for several days of education, networking and innovation. From a bustling trade show floor to hands-on certification opportunities, the event highlighted a growing industry focused on quality, safety and workforce development. 

Attendees from The Coffee Shops™ team noted the strong turnout and energy across the event. “The trade show floor was very busy,” said Karen Edwards. “We had a good number of folks in attendance, some already doing spray foam roofing and others who wanted to add it to their offerings.” Educational sessions and panels gave contractors the chance to learn directly from experienced professionals and explore new opportunities in spray foam systems. 

A consistent theme throughout the event was the importance of training and certification. “We’re seeing a lot of growth in spray foam, but there was a clear theme that kept emerging, and that was the need for training and certification,” Karen added. That focus was reflected in the numbers, with 130 field exams and 229 written exams conducted on-site through SPFA’s Professional Certification Program, reinforcing the industry’s commitment to higher standards. 

For many attendees, education extended beyond application techniques. “Education is very necessary,” shared Alberto Torres. “Not only to learn how to apply systems, but also to learn the codes depending on different states.” Live demonstrations of spray rigs and equipment further underscored the technical expertise required to succeed in the field. 

The sense of community was equally strong, especially among seasoned professionals mentoring newcomers. Matthew Ramirez observed, “Contractors that have been here for a long time are welcoming and introducing new people into the industry, making sure they get the certifications and resources they need to be successful. They’re the future.” 

The event also celebrated excellence in the field, with new industry awards recognizing leadership, innovation and advocacy, alongside the National Industry Excellence Awards showcasing standout projects across building enclosure, roofing and specialty applications. 

With strong attendance, increased certification activity and a clear focus on education, SPFA 2026 demonstrated the industry’s continued momentum and commitment to raising the bar. 

Learn more about the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance and their work to advance spray foam roofing!

By Emma Peterson. 

General Coatings is sending two lucky SPFA Convention and Expo attendees down the yellow brick road while they’re in Vegas this year! 

It might not be the Emerald City, but Las Vegas does have “buildings as tall as Quoxwood trees” and “wonders like [you’ve] never seen.” And this year, it will also have the 2026 Spray Polyurethane Foam Association (SPFA)’s annual convention and expo! With educational breakout sessions, two-days of expo hall, certification activities, networking and more, this is the industry’s #1 event for spray foam pros. And General Coatings wants to help make your time there just a little more magical.  

If you’re in the spray foam industry, you probably already know about The Las Vegas Entertainment Center. It is one of the biggest success stories for spray foam and roof coatings, showcasing the adaptability and performance of these types of products. And, thanks to General Coatings, you can experience the magic of the venue for yourself while in Vegas for the SPFA show!  

General Coatings is running a giveaway for two lucky professionals to visit the “merry old land of Oz” at The Las Vegas Entertainment Center. This is more than just a screening of the Wizard of Oz, it is an immersive experience. Thanks to the 160,000 square foot screen, you will be able to watch the tornado swirl around you, step into Munchkinland and truly be transported “somewhere over the rainbow.”  

And you don’t have to tap your heels three times to enter this giveaway! Here’s how it works:  

• Fill out the giveaway form
• Two winners will each receive four tickets  
• Show options: Tuesday or Wednesday evening  
• Giveaway closes Saturday, March 21  
• Digital tickets distributed Monday, March 23 

If you are heading to SPFA, this is your chance to turn your conference week into an epic night out with your team, customers or family. 

Enter General Coating's giveaway for your chance to see Dorothy, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, the Scarecrow and the Wizard like you've never seen them before.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Ready for a week of education, certification and high-impact networking? Join professionals from across the country in Las Vegas from March 22-25!

Success in the spray foam industry requires more than high-quality rigs and strong crews. It demands awareness of market trends, access to the latest technology and relationships that help businesses stay competitive. That is exactly what contractors, suppliers and industry professionals will find at the SprayFoam 2026 Convention and Expo, hosted by the Spray Polyeurathane Foam Alliance (SPFA) at the Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino.

One event, endless opportunities

SprayFoam 2026 places every critical resource under one roof. The two-day expo hall offers the chance to compare products, secure equipment and material contracts and evaluate new technologies that can help define business success in 2026 and beyond. From leading suppliers to cutting-edge equipment innovators, attendees can explore solutions that directly impact productivity, profitability and long-term growth. 

For contractors looking to scale operations or improve efficiency, having face-to-face conversations provides clarity that simply cannot be matched online. If you're attending, make sure your time on the expo floor leads you to booth #106 to talk to the CoatingsCoffeeShop® crew!

Explore the entire expo map!

Deep education that drives performance

Education remains a cornerstone of the convention, with more than 50 breakout sessions covering topics from technical application to business management. This type of targeted learning helps contractors reduce risk, improve quality and position their companies as trusted experts in an increasingly competitive marketplace.

Whether attendees are refining installation practices, strengthening safety programs or improving operational strategy, the sessions are designed to deliver practical takeaways that can be implemented immediately.

Check out the full education schedule.

Networking that moves businesses forward

Networking at SprayFoam 2026 goes far beyond exchanging business cards. With thousands of industry professionals in attendance, the event creates an environment where meaningful relationships are formed and new opportunities emerge.

These conversations often lead to partnerships, mentorship and collaborations that support long-term success. In an industry built on trust and reputation, the value of connecting with the right people cannot be overstated.

See the different events at this year's show!

On-site certification creates immediate value

SPFA is making it easier than ever for companies to elevate their teams by offering Professional Certification Program (PCP) opportunities on location in Las Vegas. Bringing certification directly to the show allows contractors to invest in workforce development without the added time and travel typically required.

The schedule includes a VIP Field Exam Experience running March 21 through March 23, exam preparation courses on March 22 and 23, written exams available March 22 through March 25 and free field exams offered March 20 through March 23.

Thanks to financial support from the Sig Hall Memorial Fund, all field exams are free of charge. Enrollment fees are also waived for new PCP participants, allowing companies to save between $250 and $350 per person while strengthening their professional credentials.

Sign up for certification exams and preparation courses online.

Invest in your business future

Industry events are more than dates on a calendar. They are strategic investments in the future of a business. SprayFoam 2026 is the perfect example of this. Designed to bring the entire spray foam industry together, the event delivers the tools, insights and connections companies need to build momentum for the year ahead. If growth is part of your plan for the coming year, this is one event that deserves a place on your schedule.

Register, explore the full event lineup and learn more at SprayFoamShow.org.

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn how SPFA is bringing the global spray foam industry together for education, networking and more this March!  

In a new episode of CoatingsCast™, Megan Ellsworth had the chance to interview Lisa Smith, the director of member engagement for the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), about SPFA’s upcoming SprayFoam Convention and Expo! This year’s show will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from March 22-25. Lisa shared a bit about the background of the event:  

This is the largest spray foam gathering for professionals across the globe. We have visitors and exhibitors from around the world coming together to share their knowledge and to see what's new in the industry...Really, whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned expert, a contractor or supplier, this is the place to be. 

So, what does this year’s SprayFoam Convention and Expo have in store for attendees? Sunday (3/22) and Monday (3/23) will be all about the SPFA certification programs. Lisa explained, “Those first two days will be full of courses to prep people for the actual certification written and field exams.” These exams are a great way to level up your skills and differentiate yourself from competitors.  

Moving into Tuesday (3/24) and Wednesday (3/25), the show will host breakout education sessions and open the expo hall to attendees looking to explore. Lisa highlighted some of the changes they made this year to the schedule: 

For the breakout sessions, we expanded the amount that we were offering. We were originally going to have 35 sessions and we now have 50. These sessions cover everything from regulatory updates to women in spray foam...And for the first time ever we’re going to be recording the sessions! So, if you didn’t get the chance to attend one in person, look out for a link after the show; we’ll be sending the recordings to anyone registered for a full convention pass or a one-day only pass. 

And if that all wasn’t enough to keep you busy, SPFA is also coordinating a couple of affiliate events during the show. Lisa explained, “On Sunday we have the Spray Foam Magazine Contractor of the Year party. Then Monday is the Spray Foam Worldwide party. Both of these are separate registrations from your show registration. And then we are revamping our National Industry Excellence Awards on Wednesday after the exhibit hall.” 

Overall, if you operate in the spray polyurethane coatings world, you do not want to miss the 2026 SprayFoam Convention and Expo! As Lisa put it, “This is your chance to be around people who want to help your business grow. Yes, they might be your competitor, but when you’re at the show, everyone just wants to help everybody. It's such a great community and you don’t want to miss the opportunity to be a part of that.” 

Listen to the whole conversation with Lisa or Watch the episode to learn more about this year’s SprayFoam Convention and Expo! And if you haven’t, make sure to get your ticket to the show.  

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn how roofing associations are able to strengthen the industry by uniting our voices. 

Looking at the news today, it is impossible to ignore the continuous fluctuation of immigration policies in the United States. This nebulous environment has had a devastating impact on the roofing and construction industries where it is estimated that one in three workers are foreign-born. Here at The Coffee Shops™, we have heard stories from across the industry of raids and other harsh policy implementations that are harming crews and industry professionals who are just trying to do their jobs.  

But there are ways that we as an industry can come together to create a better future where borders are secure and our hardworking roofers are protected. To learn how industry leaders and associations are working towards this goal, we sat down with Will Lorenz of General Coatings for an episode of Roofing Road Trips®. 

The importance of associations 

Will is the president of General Coatings and an active member of many industry associations, such as the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), Roof Coatings Manufacturers Association (RCMA) and National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA). In each of these different facets of his professional life, immigration policy has been a huge topic of discussion, and one he has taken seriously. He shared, “The big thing is that these aren’t just local issues, they’re federal. So, to figure out how to navigate them, associations are key.”  

Why are associations so important for issues like this? As Will explained, they have the ability and resources to listen to each individual member and turn those concerns and opinions into cohesive, group action. As Will puts it, “Associations bring together contractors and manufacturers from every area to share what's important to them and what can help the economy grow so we can all work towards getting more people roofs that keep them clean and dry.” 

NRCA and the Dignity Act 

A great example of a roofing association unifying industry voices is the NRCA’s support of the Dignity Act. The Dignity Act is a bipartisan effort to create legal paths for foreign-born workers in the U.S. The bill was brought to the House of Representatives by Veronica Escobar (D-TX) and Maria Salazar (R-FL). Representative Salazar explained the goal of the Act:  

The Dignity Act of 2025 is a revolutionary bill that offers the solution to our immigration crisis: Secure the border, stop illegal immigration and provide an earned opportunity for long-term immigrants to stay here and work. No amnesty. No handouts. No citizenship. Just accountability and a path to stability for our economy and our future. 

Will added, “The Dignity Act is about people who are already here working, not people standing at the border...These are people who are good citizens, who have clean records, who are responsible and offer benefits to America because they have capabilities that we need here to keep our economy moving forward and our industry successful.”  

By publicly supporting the Dignity Act, NRCA is helping professionals like Will get their concerns heard by policymakers on a federal level. "What I really love about NRCA and the Roofing Alliance," Will stated, "is that they're committed to not only just putting on good roofs but building the industry long term with a payback mentality to help lift people up.”  

Listen to the full episode to learn more about how to make your voice heard through industry associations.

Our industry thrives because of leaders who commit their lives to perfecting their trade. Melvin Stumler, founder of Insulated Roofing Contractors, was one of those leaders. SPFA extends its deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Stumler, who passed away on January 25, 2026. 

Melvin’s dedication to the craft helped elevate the professional standards we all strive for today. By championing quality installations and fostering a culture of expertise at IRC, Melvin didn’t just build a company—he helped build the reputation of the entire spray foam roofing industry. We recognize his decades of service and the lasting footprint he leaves on our trade.

Learn more about Melvin Stumler.