By Jesse Sanchez. 

Manufacturers assess new applications and evolving market dynamics across the industry. 

At industry events the size and scale of World of Concrete (WOC), product displays are only part of the story. For many manufacturers, the show serves as a real-time assessment of where the market is heading and how their strategies must evolve. In this CoatingsCoffeeShop® interview sponsored by Tremco, Eric Pearman and Greg Wilkerson of Roof Saver (Blocksom Co) explained how that evaluation is shaping their presence on the show floor. 

Eric noted how companies are using the event to balance short-term priorities with long-term planning. “We have a presence in both industries,” Eric said, adding that the team is evaluating future product opportunities while maintaining relationships with customers across multiple sectors. That dual focus reflects a broader effort to stay aligned with shifting demand while continuing to serve existing markets. 

That strategy is anchored in their current product offering. At the show, the companies are emphasizing sediment and erosion control, particularly an inlet filtration system designed to sit above storm drain grates and prevent debris from entering drainage systems. Beyond that core solution, their work spans building envelope moisture management, floor care and acoustic applications, often delivered through partnerships or white-label production. 

Flexibility in manufacturing remains a key differentiator. By producing nonwoven textiles and fabricating them into a range of forms, the companies can adapt materials to meet specific application requirements. As Greg explained, “We've been known historically for our customization of our products.” He added, “The shows have also provided us avenues of customization that we can do based on the application or the use of the material.” 

While erosion control is the immediate focus, both leaders pointed to continued development in adjacent areas, including acoustics and moisture management. Products are actively being developed, with a potential curb inlet solution among those in progress, though no formal announcements have been made. 

At the same time, broader market forces are influencing how those decisions are made. Eric pointed to ongoing consolidation across contractors, manufacturers and distribution channels, much of it driven by private equity investment. As companies merge and scale, traditional roles within the industry are becoming less defined, with businesses increasingly operating as both partners and competitors depending on the context. This shift is reshaping relationships throughout the supply chain, creating both operational challenges and new opportunities. 

For Greg, those changes reinforce the importance of adaptability. As consolidation alters the competitive landscape, gaps can emerge in underserved markets. Greg noted, “Because of the consolidation, it gives us opportunities that we didn't perceive before because in that consolidation, sometimes the reorganization that goes on leaves on the table applications or markets that were not served as well.” By tracking those shifts and refining how their materials are applied, the companies are positioning themselves to respond to an industry that continues to change in both structure and demand. 

Watch the full interview to learn more about how material innovation, customization and industry consolidation are shaping product development and market strategy across the construction industry!

By Emma Peterson. 

How putting off repairs can dramatically increase long-term infrastructure costs. 

In a new episode of Roofing Road Trips®, Karen Edwards got the chance to talk to Rick Johnson. Rick is a regional sales manager at Tremco CPG covering the mid-Atlantic region. Prior to joining Tremco, he spent a decade working as a restoration contractor.  

When we asked him about the common misstep he sees building owners and facility managers make, he pointed to deferring of maintenance. What does Rick mean by this? He used sports stadiums, as an example, "Stadiums tend to need repair and restoration regularly, and most professional stadiums get replaced every 20-25 years. But what we’re seeing is people deferring maintenance and even replacement because money is tight. But what they don’t realize is how much deferring that maintenance will cost them over time.” 

How much does it cost? Rick used a car oil change as a metaphor, “A regular oil change will cost you $50-$100 depending on your vehicle. And it’s something you do regularly that might seem annoying or like something that could be put off. But if you put it off you risk blowing your engine. And if the engine blows, that’s $8,000-$10,000 minimum.” 

How does this analogy translate to infrastructure? Regular maintenance is the oil change and the risk of blowing the engine is a catastrophic collapse. Rick explained:  

Over time, corrosion begins to attack the rebar of these facilities. This is where regular seal maintenance, often in the form of reinforcement, is key. If you don't maintain it and the corrosion continues unaddressed, it expands, which causes the concrete to further crack and start to delaminate, where pieces will pop out of it. When this happens, suddenly you’re looking at repairs that are 10%-20% more costly than maintenance. And if it goes unaddressed beyond that point, you’re risking a collapsing structure. 

So, how can facility managers and owners find a balance between keeping in budget and keeping up with their infrastructure's maintenance? Rick pointed to the way the Lambeau Field (the Green Bay Packer’s home stadium) team manages their facilities:  

For probably 30 years now, they’ve done yearly maintenance where they recoat 20% of the stadium with a deck membrane, which costs anywhere from $4-$7 a square foot. And to my knowledge, this system has helped them avoid deeper issues like concrete repair, which comes with a $60-$80 per square foot price tag.  

This strategy of building a program that sections off the building is the perfect example of how to both protect your facilities and your finances. As Rick put it, “Dollars are always tight. But if you put that plan together where the build every piece of the building gets addressed every 5-6 years, you can protect that facility and even extend its life anywhere from 20-50 years while staying in budget.” 

Listen to the episode or Watch the recording to learn more about maintaining infrastructure properly.  

By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about the Vulkem® Pro Series, Tremco’s first step into the retail sealant market. 

Tremco Roofing Products has long been a leader in commercial markets for roofing and waterproofing products. With their new Vulkem® Pro Series, they are taking that expertise into the retail space for the first time! To learn more about this move, we hosted Nathon “Nate” Laws for a CoatingsCast™ episode.  

Nate was part of the team gathered a few years ago when the decision was made by Tremco to move into the retail market, and he gave some insight into the reasoning behind this move:  

For over a hundred years, Tremco's been the gold standard for premium commercial sealants, waterproofing, roofing and a lot more products that contractors know out there. And when we did market surveys and looked at feedback, we realized that creating a touchpoint for customers at retail locations was the next step.  

The name for the Vulkem® Pro Series was inspired by Tremco’s historically popular products, the Vulkem® 116 line. The goal with the Pro Series was to create a product line for the retail market that will be as popular and relied upon as the Vulkem® 116 line has been for the commercial market.  

So, what exactly is within the Vulkem® Pro Series line? It includes sealants, concrete repair products and adhesives. As Nate put it, “If you think of any commercial application, whether it’s vertical joints in a tilt up wall, a concrete floor or the seal along your window, the products in the Vulkem® Pro Series can get the job done.” At the end of the day, the Vulkem® Pro Series allows people to get commercial capabilities off the shelves of major retailers like Menard’s, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Ace and Do It Best.  

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording to learn more about the Vulkem® Pro Series. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Industry leaders explain why creating a culture of belonging benefits employees, companies and the future of roofing. 

June was Pride Month and here at The Coffee Shops™ we celebrated with a special Pride Month Coffee Conversations all about how roofing companies can create inclusive environments within their businesses and the industry overall. The episode was hosted by Heidi and Megan Ellsworth and featured Tremco’s Elise Vue and Maureen Greeves alongside National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA)’s Amy Staska.  

The episode opened with a discussion of what Pride means. Elise, who has been a part of the industry for a decade now, explained her perspective, saying, “Pride Month, for me personally, has meant an opportunity to not only share my story, but also ask friends and colleagues about themselves and to celebrate the different journeys that brought people to our industry and community.” 

And by being welcoming and opening to those different journeys through conversations, events and other support programs, we can build a stronger industry through inclusion. Amy, who first started at NRCA in 1997, has seen the importance of inclusion firsthand, explaining:  

Being welcoming and accepting is powerful just because it is the right thing to do. But it is also important for any industry that needs people badly. I used to talk to contractors about women in the industry, and they’d be talking about how desperate they were for talent but they also weren’t helping make 50% of the population feel welcome working here. And with the LGBTQ+ community, you have a similar thing. There are a whole bunch of people out there and we can bring them into our industry if we create places where people are not only comfortable to work at but feel like they are embraced. 

Maureen, a 17-year industry veteran, added to Amy’s point, “We're all starving to get people into our industry and keep them here. And the best way to retain anyone is to make them feel safe, comfortable and valued. So, when we talk about pride and inclusion and why it matters, it’s not just the right thing to do, it’s directly tied to the growth and success of our entire industry. Because when you have happy, thriving and engaged people, profits and production are going to go up.” 

Want to learn more about building a more inclusive and thriving industry? Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recording.  

By Emma Peterson. 

Tremco’s Vulkem® Pro Series delivers sealants, adhesives and concrete repair solutions for any jobsite challenge. 

Tremco® has established a name for itself among both professional contractors and DIY-enthusiasts for their high-quality and innovative products. Further, they are known for effectively simplifying product use across multiple applications, providing comprehensive offerings that can be used on any project you may encounter.  

A great example of their commitment to efficiency and customer satisfaction is the Vulkem® Pro Series. This product line is incredibly versatile with top-performing sealants, superior bond adhesives and durable concrete repair solutions. 

1 – The sealants 

Tremco’s Vulkem® Pro Series sealants were designed for every job. They come with incredible features and benefits, such as self-leveling, flexibility, waterproofing and high temperature thresholds. In the Vulkem® Pro Series, there are five sealants: 

• Vulkem® 116: This is a textured, single-component polyurethane sealant that is perfect for general uses on exterior applications such as windows, doors, expansion joints and masonry. 
• Vulkem® 45 SSL: Another single-component polyurethane sealant, this product is semi-self-leveling and is especially suited to sealing concrete expansion joints. 
• Vulkem® MAX: Designed for use with dynamic joints, this hybrid polymer sealer is “a permanently flexible, 100% waterproof, weather- and UV-resistant seal for perimeter caulking.” 
• Vulkem® SIL: 100% silicone, clear and non-sealant. It is ideal for waterproofing and weatherproofing windows and doors. 

2 – The adhesives  

Vulkem® Pro Series also includes a rapid and exceptional bond strength adhesive. Perfect for even the most demanding project as it provides long-lasting, all-weather durability. Tremco’s Vulkem® Pro Series adhesive is:  

• Vulkem® Grip: Engineered with hybrid polymer technology, this adhesive provides instant grab and reliable bonding to a variety of substrates, eliminating the need for fasteners or clamps. It is also resistant to UV, weather and aging while providing a lasting, durable bond. 

3 – The concrete repair 

And rounding out the Vulkem® Pro Series is their heavy-duty concrete repair products. From high-strength microfiber resurfacers to easy-flowing, self-leveling underlayments, the Vulkem® Pro Series has everything you could need when it comes to concrete:  

• Vulkem™ Cure & Seal: This water-based pure acrylic coating is non-yellowing and water-based. It aids in curing fresh concrete and cement-based mortars, along with sealing and protecting concrete. 
• Vulkem™ Microfiber Resurfacer: A cement-based mortar that features polymers for superior bonding, making this product ideal for resurfacing old, spalled and damaged concrete surfaces to restore them to a new appearance. Designed for weather resistance, it withstands harsh winter conditions, including freezing and thawing, and features microfiber technology to reduce cracking. 
• Vulkem™ Non-Sag Sealant: A multi-purpose non-sag polyurethane sealant that works for both vertical and horizontal construction applications. It is 100% waterproof, weather/aging resistant and remains flexible throughout its entire lifespan. 
• Vulkem™ Self-Leveling Floor Underlayment: Designed for preparing and leveling concrete, solid hardwoods, exposure plywoods and OSB equivalent subfloors prior to installation of floor coverings, this underlayment is free-flowing, cement-based and self-leveling.  
• Vulkem™ Self-Leveling Sealant: This self-leveling polyurethane sealant provides exceptional all-weather durability and flexibility, while providing exceptional wear and tear resistance in high traffic areas. It is paintable with latex paints and rain-ready in 2 hours.  

With this suite of products in your toolbox, you can enter each job site confidently and ready to tackle whatever challenges might come your way.  

Learn more about the Vulkem line.

Por Alberto Torres. 

Desde estrategias de negocio hasta innovación, estos fueron los favoritos de nuestros lectores. 

Cada mes en RoofersCoffeeShop®en español compartimos los artículos más leídos. Junio no fue la excepción con este artículo, “Un socio, tres pilares para el éxito,” donde APOC compartió los tres pilares que ellos ofrecen a contratistas para hacer crecer sus conocimientos y negocios. Estos programas educativos como: Contractor Pro Program, Los Programas de Garantia y Certified Applicator Program son herramientas que han ayudado a contratistas a elevar sus negocios. 

Otro tema que destacó durante junio fue Marketing. En un episodio de La Voz de los Ruferos, Jason Jimenez de Gasper Roofing compartió sobre la importancia de entender el marketing como una herramienta clave para tener un negocio competitivo. En este episodio que fue grabado en el Business Building Workshop (BBW) de CertainTeed, Jason explico la importancia de seguir aprendiendo sobre marketing y crecimiento empresarial. Este contenido llamo la atención por ofrecer información relevante para profesionales que buscan mantenerse actualizados en una industria que continúa evolucionando. 

La capacitación también siguió ocupando un espacio importante entre nuestros artículos, Luis Ramos de MuleHide nos recordó en un episodio de La Voz de los Ruferos, como la importancia de seguir aprendiendo y aprovechar los recursos de fabricantes como MuleHide ponen al alcance de los contratistas para fortalecer sus negocios. Junio también nos dejó espacio para conocer historias y tendencias de las líneas de colores de shingles que TAMKO ofrece, ya que esa innovación sigue vigente y está evolucionando día con día. 

Por último, Monica Vornbrock de The GLO Group y Lorna Rojas de Tremco, miembros de National Women in Roofing (NWIR), hablaron sobre lo que vivieron en Roofing Day en Whashington, D.C. recordando a los profesionales la importancia que tiene el hacer que se escuche su voz. Esta participación fortalece a toda la industria y ayuda a impulsar decisiones que benefician a contratistas, fabricantes y trabajadores.  

Agradecemos a todos nuestros lectores por seguir haciendo de RoofersCoffeeShop® En Espanol un espacio para aprender, compartir y mantenerse informados. Si aun no has leído alguno de estos artículos, te invitamos a descubrir porque fueron los favoritos del mes de junio. 

5. Roofing Day se trata de representar a la comunidad y a la industria

4. Innovación inspirada en la naturaleza: Una apuesta audaz en la estética del roofing

3. El verdadero valor de un representante del fabricante

2. Marketing y aprendizaje

1. Un socio, tres pilares para el éxito

By Mike Bader, Tremco.  

Learn about waterproofing and building plaza and amenity decks on existing structures.  

Summer is just around the corner and one of the best ways to enjoy it is outdoors. And for those who live in cities, finding green space can be a challenge. This limited access is why many people in high-rise cities are drawn to apartments with plaza decks that offer them an outdoor oasis in the form of lush patios, swimming pools and even dog parks.  

With such a high demand, these amenity decks are a great way to add value to your building. But adding these features isn't simple, especially if you’re adding one to a structure that was not initially constructed to bear the weight or moisture that comes with added greenery and water. In this article, we’ll dive into three key considerations related to building a rooftop deck that is waterproof and structurally sound.  

1 – Managing greenery 

Whether in the form of planters, flowers or trees, new greenery on a plaza deck will introduce a significant amount of water and weight to the structure. The building owner and members of the design/build team should consult with other trades prior to adding any new vegetation to mitigate potential damage. A waterproofing specialist, such as Tremco’s technicians, can review the existing structure for proper water drainage and recommend the addition of drains, application of a waterproofing membrane or any other necessary building changes. An engineer can then assess if the structure can hold the anticipated weight. 

2 – Adding a pool or hot tub 

Swimming pools and hot tubs on plaza decks pose added waterproofing hazards due to the constant presence of water and chlorine. Drains may become clogged with debris which can add to the potential of ponding water on the deck’s surface. Facility managers should routinely check for any cracking of the finish which may indicate a waterproofing or structural concern.

Generally speaking, sealants are typically installed with a concave design. However, on the perimeter surrounding a body of water, this shape can hold the water on the surface of the sealant. A high concentration of chlorine or other chemical can damage the sealant after prolonged exposure. At this location, sealants should instead be installed flush to minimize surface water. Sealants should be inspected annually, so if you notice damage or discolored sealant, a tear out and recaulk is recommended. 

3 – Designing a dog park 

Rooftop dog parks can include pathways, large fenced-in dog runs and dedicated relief areas. While seemingly harmless and lightweight, water is needed to clean the surfaces and dispose of waste. A waterproofing specialist can help determine the necessary slope of the deck to accommodate sprinklers and other drainage systems. They will look for improperly sealed penetrations, such as those for plumbing or electrical, which could cause leaks from the added water.

In addition, if grass or astroturf material is not properly secured to the substrate, moisture could become trapped beneath the surface. And since some waterproofing membranes break down when exposed to the chemical composition of animal waste, any extended exposure could compromise the system.  

Conclusion 

The addition of greenery, pools, hot tubs or dog parks to a plaza deck is not as simple as it might sound. It is critical that owners work with waterproofing specialists and engineers to determine any modifications needed for the proposed design. Always err on the side of caution, as bypassing this step can lead to costly water intrusion and structural issues. 

Original article and photo source: Tremco

By Emma Peterson. 

Why contractors are using the Dryvit Outsulation system for historic and heritage projects. 

Historic buildings are fundamental to preserving our cities’ culture and heritage. However, because of their age, they are often in need of renovations to make them structurally sound and safe for modern use. Historical remediation projects come with a variety of challenges, as the American Society of Civil Engineers points out, “Renovation and restoration present unique challenges over new construction projects, such as complying with preservation laws, managing hazardous materials, addressing potential rezoning concerns, as well as ensuring the availability of skilled workers.” 

But just because it’s a challenge doesn't mean it’s impossible, and Tremco CPG’s Dryvit brand has developed an exterior facade solution that makes it easier to tackle these restoration projects – the Outsulation® system.  

What is the Dryvit Outsulation system 

Dryvit Outsulation is a modern exterior insulation and finish systems (EIFS) that, as the name suggests, insulates a building from the outside. It features “continuous insulation (CI) adhered or attached to an approved substrate, a basecoat with reinforcing fiberglass mesh and an impact-resistant architectural finish.” Traditionally, the insulator used in the CI of a Dryvit Outsulation system is EPS foam, but GPS, XPS and Mineral Wool are also usable.  

Dryvit Outsulation provides maximum durability, sustainability and thermal performance for all types of climates and structures. It has been shown to lower energy costs, reduce exterior maintenance needs and keep building looking their best.   

Designing with the Dryvit Outsulation system for historic integrity 

For the restoration of aging structures, Dryvit Outsulation is an ideal system for maintaining historical integrity. This is because EIFS provide the perfect balance of design flexibility with contemporary performance. 

Versatility 

EIFS, like the Dryvit Outsulation system, are remarkably versatile when it comes to design. They can be custom shaped and finished to mimic a wide variety of materials, even the intricate details often found on 19th and 20th century buildings (like cornices, dentils and keystones). Additionally, you can choose from countless textures and colors for a Dryvit Outsulation façade, making it simple to refresh a fading coating to match the historical intent. 

Because the CI is used in the system is typically a lightweight EPS foam, they put far less weight strain on a historical structure than other options.  

Performance 

A common challenge for historic renovations is getting the structure up to modern building codes and standards. Dryvit Outsulation is great at bringing heritage buildings up to contemporary energy codes and performance expectations. The combination of CI and the air/water barrier that are installed as a part of the system reduces thermal bridging and air leakage. In fact, since 2013, many national code bodies have started requiring CI for new construction projects for its ability to increase buildings’ R-value.  

Affordability 

These days, every building project seems expensive, but historic work is especially costly since it often involves sourcing rare materials or locating specific skilled labor. By working with the Dryvit Outsulation system, you can save money on the exterior restoration without cutting any corners. Not only is the material itself more affordable than other options, using field-applied or prefabricated EIFS shortens timelines and minimizes labor costs.  

One contractor, Rob Little of Little Construction, shared the benefit of working with Dryvit on his company’s Boston Hill Center project, “You can design it anyway you want, any color you want, almost any texture you want...and get your CI requirements and durability.” 

Conclusion 

Overall, the Dryvit Outsulation system is a powerful tool to have when renovating historical or heritage structures. The CI and other components of the EIFS combine visual adaptability, high-performance and cost-effectiveness to create the perfect balance of “preserving the past and constructing for the future.” 

Learn more about preserving historical buildings with Dryvit Outsolution EIFS.

By Emma Peterson. 

How fan array retrofits support comfort, safety and HVAC system longevity. 

The quality of the air we breathe is vital to our health, comfort and overall quality of life. Frank Shadpour, the principal instructor for the HVAC Systems Design and Control Program at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies, explains:  

For residential and commercial office buildings, the heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is primarily employed to ensure occupant comfort. However, in the case of a surgical suite in a hospital, the HVAC system's role is crucial in maintaining the optimal temperature, humidity, air pressure and air purity to ensure proper infection control measures required for safe patient surgeries. The more advanced the building, the more intricate the HVAC design and control systems. 

So, how do you make sure the HVAC in your building is keeping the interior environment healthy and safe? Proactive maintenance and care. This approach also has the added benefit of saving the building owner money in the long run. In fact, WTI PureAir, a subsidiary of Tremco Roofing, estimates that restoring and maintaining an HVAC system can lead to “as much as 70% cost avoidance compared to new equipment costs.” 

One of the most impactful forms of proactive maintenance for keeping HVAC systems healthy and building owner wallets happy are fan array retrofits. A fan array retrofit is a mechanical upgrade that transfers an existing HVAC system’s workload from one large fan to several smaller fans. This is beneficial for a variety of reasons:  

• Increased reliability: Because you have multiple fans instead of relying on just one, a fan array retrofit minimizes the risk of downtime. Tremco explains, “Even if a fan within the wall malfunctions, the remaining fans persist, preventing interruptions to essential HVAC functions.” 
• Simplified maintenance: After installing a fan array retrofit, maintenance will be easier and more cost effective, because technicians will be able to repair individual fans as needed without shutting down the whole system. This enables deferred maintenance scheduling and eliminates downtime and associated costs. 
• Versatile design: By moving away from the one large fan design, engineers can tailor HVAC fan configurations to each project's needs, allowing for optimization of space and performance.  
• Improved efficiency: With multiple fans, you can run them at different speeds based on demand. This leads to significant energy savings as it ensures conditioned air is reaching its destination efficiently. Further, this helps avoid “maximum-capacity operations that also accelerate mechanical wear.” 

Overall, when it comes to HVAC, operational reliability is key. Without proper HVAC systems, you run the risk of harming not only a building, but also the health of its occupants. That’s why retrofits like fan arrays are such important investments. 

Learn more about fan array retrofits and building HVAC systems that will perform for years to come.

By Emma Peterson. 

Industry experts break down what roof restorations are and why they are growing popular now. 

Roof restoration has grown to be the go-to alternative for traditional tear-offs and replacements. To help people learn more about what defines a restoration project and the key standards that guide a successful restoration project, the Roof Coating Manufactures Association (RCMA) recently sponsored a Coffee Conversation® on the topic. In the episode, Megan Ellsworth sat down with an expert panel that included Josh Poole from Tremco, Cody Wilson of Uni Roofing and James Santiago from Benchmark. 

Josh opened the conversation by defining what a roof restoration is, explaining, “I would define it as the process of extending the service life of an existing roof. And generally, that's going to feature a roof coating or some type of a liquid-applied roofing product.” As for why the fluid-applied restoration market has taken a while to grow in popularity, it all has to do with a misunderstanding of what coatings are. Cody explained:  

A lot of people used to think restoration meant temporary repair. And it really isn’t; we’re not just painting your roof and calling it a day. When a contractor restores a roof, there’s a lot of prep work that goes into it, from assessment of the existing structure to repairs that need to be done beforehand to make sure that this roof is tight and ready to go. 

James shared a bit more about what these preparation tasks might look like, saying, “The first step is always determining if a roof is a good candidate for restoration. Here, good contractors will do things like perform infrared scans determine the attachment of the existing system.” And, as the industry has finally begun to realize, when these proper preparation steps are taken, coatings can be a powerful option for aging roofs. As Josh added: 

Restoration has really established itself as a viable solution that truly performs for the customer or the end user at the end of the day. It can typically be done at a fraction of the cost of replacement, it minimizes disruption to the building beneath it, requires minimal contractor labor/equipment and has a number of sustainability benefits including reduction in landfill material and greenhouse gases. 

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the episode to learn more about liquid-applied roof restoration and its benefits.