Raising the roof with cutting-edge tech

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Uncover innovative roofing technologies and expanding contractor roles from this leading industry manufacturer. 

At the 2024 FRSA Annual Convention, Heidi J. Ellsworth had a chance to speak with Thomas Garjulo, the technical sales rep at Sika, on our sound stage sponsored by Beacon. The two talk about the buzzing show floor and what’s new with ﷟HYPERLINK "https://www.rooferscoffeeshop.com/directory/sika-corporation"S, a leading building envelope materials manufacturer.. 

Thomas starts by discussing the company's pride in offering diverse roofing solutions, from their longstanding single-ply PVC membrane to the American Hydrotech hot fluid-applied system and the innovative Sika RoofPro cold fluid-applied waterproofing membrane. "We have a little bit of everything depending on what you're looking for in the roofing space," Thomas notes. 

A key theme in the conversation is the evolving role of roofing contractors. Thomas shares, “We’re seeing more of the commercial roofing contractors expand into the waterproofing space. They’re already on the project for a roofing scope and are asking themselves ‘Why are we walking off the project when we could pick up wall waterproofing or windows or below grade?’” Sika is dedicated to helping their customers grow their business and provide them with the right tools to do so. This trend is bolstered by Sika's strategic acquisition of Master Builders Solutions, enhancing their capabilities in the building envelope and restoration sectors. 

One of the standout innovations discussed is Sika's new Conductive Primer. “This fluid-applied primer with a nanofiber in it and that fiber reacts to the high voltage. So, if there’s a breach in your membrane it’ll go off and that just adds another layer of quality control for both the contractor and the owner,” Thomas shares. 

According to Thomas, Sika is committed to ongoing innovation and rigorous testing of their assemblies, particularly in meeting stringent standards like the Florida building code for wind uplift resistance. Contractors are reportedly enthusiastic about the new technologies, appreciating the added assurance they bring to their projects. 

To learn more about Sika’s cutting-edge products and services, watch the full interview below!