Walls & Ceilings 'If Walls Could Talk'

Artificial intelligence can save contractors time, but relying on unverified technical information can create serious risks for building performance and liability. Tom Harris of PUR Consulting discusses how AI-generated answers can mislead contractors on spray foam applications, building science and installation requirements. Harris urges contractors to consult qualified experts, verify technical...

A-Squared Marketing CEO Anna Anderson says wall and ceiling contractors should avoid letting marketing slow down late in the year and instead work the leads, customers and projects already in their databases. Focusing on reviews, referrals, search and AI visibility, and marketing performance can help contractors finish 2026 strong and build momentum for 2027.

As data center construction and conversions accelerate, roofing contractors can find opportunities in new roofs, restoration, repairs and long-term maintenance. Because even minor leaks can threaten costly operations, contractors must meet heightened technical, safety and security requirements while helping owners protect uptime.

Anna Anderson of A-Squared Marketing says contractors need greater marketing transparency to understand what every dollar produces in leads and revenue. Tracking lead sources, cost per lead and return on investment can help contractors identify underperforming channels and make smarter marketing decisions.

AI is improving efficiency across construction businesses, and Trent Cotney expects AI-powered robots to begin handling repetitive jobsite tasks sooner than many contractors anticipate. As robotics advances, contractors will need policies addressing safety, liability, cybersecurity, privacy and the verification of AI-generated information.

Armstrong World Industries President and CEO Mark Hershey plans to build on the company’s strengths in acoustics, manufacturing and customer service while expanding its architectural capabilities. His strategy combines acquisitions, labor-saving products and energy-efficient ceiling solutions designed to give architects greater freedom while making ambitious designs practical for contractors.

Trent Cotney highlighted immigration enforcement, insurance payment disputes and proprietary technologies as major issues contractors should have on their radar. He encouraged employers to maintain proper I-9 procedures, reconsider contracts that rely entirely on insurance proceeds and plan for future warranty obligations tied to proprietary systems. His broader message was that contractors are be...

The Google Local Services Ads interface is changing. Here’s how contractors can prepare their profiles, documentation and marketing support before the transition reaches them.

Nick Harmon joins Editor John Wyatt for a conversation that ends with an unexpected honor. Harmon learns he has been named the 2026 Walls & Ceilings Leadership Award winner, recognizing his passion for the industry and the relationships he has built throughout the drywall community. Read more about the 2026 Leadership Award Winner

ICAA 2026 heads to Dallas Sept. 16-19 with its largest-ever trade show and an education program focused on the challenges insulation contractors face every day. Executive Director Michael Kwart previews sessions covering AI-powered estimating, worker classification, spray foam safety, contracts, financial health and more.

A practical look at installing continuous insulation behind stucco — covering code requirements, water management, thermal bridging, and proper attachment. Learn how to build durable, energy-efficient stucco walls that keep moisture out and performance in. Tina Cannedy is a Materials Science Engineer with more than 30 years of building envelope expertise, specializing in continuous insulation syst...

Family-run contracting businesses often start with built-in trust, but blurred roles and boundaries can create challenges as they grow. Jill Bloom and The Glo Group CEO Melissa Chapman discuss how clearer responsibilities, shared goals and healthy boundaries can strengthen both the business and family relationships.

Construction projects face increasing risks from community opposition, government intervention and evolving scopes. Trent Cotney discusses how suspension, termination and change-order provisions, combined with thorough daily reports, can help contractors protect their businesses.

Strategic Response Partners CEO Steve Slepcevic joins Walls & Ceilings Executive Director Jill Bloom to discuss lessons from disaster response and why contractors are uniquely equipped to help when emergencies strike. From family preparedness and backup communications to medical training and cross-training crews, he shares practical ways contractors can prepare before a crisis occurs.

A-Squared Marketing CEO Anna Anderson discusses how to learn why AI-ready websites and PageSpeed scores now matter more than ever for contractors.

Contractors are facing a rapidly evolving legal landscape, and understanding today's risks is more important than ever. Trent Cotney breaks down the industry's biggest concerns, including payment clauses, insurance restrictions, OSHA enforcement, reputation management and contract indemnity. Tune in for practical insights that can help your business reduce risk, improve resilience and stay ahead o...

Editor John Wyatt sits down with spray polyurethane foam consultant Tom Harris to discuss why winning insulation projects is about more than offering the lowest price. Harris explains how contractors can build trust by educating customers, specifying tested and code-compliant products, and using building science, code references, and third-party data to support their recommendations. Learn practic...

Recorded at BUILD26 in New Orleans, Walls & Ceilings Editor John Wyatt interviews Mike Taylor of Liddle Brothers, the magazine's March cover star. Taylor discusses the company's expertise in historic plaster restoration, its expansion into modern exterior cladding and acoustical plaster systems, and the importance of training the next generation of skilled craftsmen. He also reflects on the fa...

Executive Director Jill Bloom and attorney Trent Cotney discuss the legal and business challenges contractors are raising at industry events, including contract language, insurance changes, OSHA enforcement and reputation management. Cotney encourages contractors to strengthen contracts, diversify beyond insurance work and stay proactive to reduce risk and position their businesses for long-term s...

Marketing metrics like website traffic and social media growth may look impressive, but they don't always drive business results. In this episode, Anna Anderson, CEO of A Squared, explains the six key performance indicators every roofing contractor should track to generate better leads, improve marketing ROI, and build long-term growth.

Trust remains one of the most valuable assets a contracting company can build. In this episode, Anna Anderson shares strategies for leveraging community relationships, industry recognition, certifications and earned media to enhance reputation, improve visibility and create sustainable business growth.

Trent Cotney joins Jill Bloom to discuss the employment challenges roofing contractors face today, including documentation, employee handbooks, terminations and severance agreements, and how proper policies can help reduce legal risk.

In this episode of “If Walls Could Talk,” W&C Editor John Wyatt sits down with Tom Harris of Tom Harris PUR Consulting to discuss why strong partnerships are essential for long-term success in the spray foam industry. Harris explains how building relationships with code officials, HVAC professionals, and other industry partners can help contractors reduce liability, improve project outcomes, g...

At BUILD 26, Walls & Ceilings Editor John Wyatt interviewed Jason and Yamila Bertoniere of Jason Bertoniere Inc. about their ongoing restoration of a historic New Orleans residence featured in "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button". The project involves extensive plaster restoration, careful phased construction, and modern techniques designed to preserve the home's original character. The discu...

In this episode, Doug Kramer reflects on PolyCon’s rise from a startup to an emerging industry leader in spray foam roofing and insulation. He explains how innovation, customer-focused culture, and long-standing industry relationships are helping the company expand during a challenging supply chain environment. Kramer also shares insights into the growing awareness of spray foam technology and why...