Sharing knowledge and technology

By Emma Peterson. 

As KARNAK celebrates their 90th anniversary, learn how they continue to build powerful contractor relationships and innovative tools. 

From its origins with Martin Jelin in 1933, the KARNAK Corporation has been known for innovative products and outstanding customer service. Over the decades they have been trailblazers. In 1987 they were the first in the industry to receive a UL Class-A rating for an Aluminum Reflective Coating. Family-owned and run for three generations, they are now coming up on their 90th anniversary!  

While at the International Roofing Expo (IRE), Lauren White caught up with Chris Huettig, their technical director, and John McDermott, their vice president of sales for North America to talk about their accomplishments. John shared what they brought to the show to present, their 671 Karna-Seal. He elaborated, “This is a brand new innovation. Over the last 10 years, there's been between six to ten million gallons of silicone coating being applied to roofs across America. And there's become a huge need for repairing  silicone roofs that have been around  for a while.” The challenge for most folks  is typically finding a low VOC repair material that will easily adhere to the original silicone coating, which is where 671 Karna-Seal comes in. Chris added, “This fills the need for a product because only silicone will stick to silicone. Contractors that stop by our booth are happy we came out with it because they know the quality of our products and the need for this type of product.” 

Beyond showcasing their new product, the duo talked about how they come to trade shows to build relationships and celebrate the industry. John, who has been attending IRE for over two decades now, described it, “We've noticed, especially in the last 10 years, that people are really here for knowledge. They really want to learn more. They want to be here, they want to see the hands on. So, we're just hoping to develop relationships with those high-quality contractors.” 

Check out the full interview to see the 671 Karna-Seal in action and hear more from Chris and John.