In this episode of If Walls Could Talk, Walls & Ceilings Editor John Wyatt speaks with Tom Harris about ratio monitoring in spray foam insulation and how it's reshaping quality control in the industry. While this technology offers real-time verification and reporting of chemical ratios, it complements but doesn’t replace the need for skilled, attentive installation.

Industry leaders Jill Bloom, Anna Anderson, and Josey Parks explore how AI is rapidly transforming the construction and roofing industries, from automating customer interactions to streamlining operations and sales. They emphasize that contractors who adopt AI tools now—like chatbots, CRMs, and lead-matching platforms—will gain a major competitive edge over those relying on outdated systems.

AI-generated summaries of search results are here to stay, making marketing your roofing company a challenge. Anna Anderson, CEO of Art Unlimited, is here to provide the latest updates and information on successfully navigating digital marketing on search engines.

Held at Margaritaville Lake Resort, the TLPCA convention gathered construction leaders to celebrate innovation, honor veteran contributions, and address workforce and labor issues. Mike Griffin received a Lifetime Achievement Award, while Trey Harris led impactful fundraising for industry education.

Billy Downs, president of Ford’s Garage, shares how his people-first leadership philosophy, rooted in his “Hospitality Wheel” concept, continues to drive business success and meaningful customer experiences.

At the FRSA convention, construction law expert Trent Cotney emphasized the legal risks prime contractors face due to subcontractor actions, highlighting the importance of strong contracts, job site oversight, and thorough documentation. He also addressed growing concerns over ICE job site raids, urging contractors to prioritize compliance and support for their crews while advocating for more efficient labor policies.

WC Legal Insights Expert Trent Cotney said he’s seeing increased immigration enforcement in unexpected places in Florida. From major busts in Tallahassee with more than 100 arrests, to smaller enforcement pushes on the highway, construction companies are at high risk for attention from federal and local authorities.

Roofing contractors should be aware of high-volume areas for ICE enforcement and know their rights, says Cotney, who said he’s seeing increased immigration enforcement across Florida.

“The administration has made it very clear what its position on the border is,” he explained. “We’ve seen an uptick in ICE enforcement in construction and not just in “Blue” states, it’s been in “Red” states equally.”

Even companies that are fully compliant with I-9 documentation can still fall under scrutiny for having employees that face deportation, Cotney said. With the help of local authorities, ICE agents are targeting at the jobsite, at familiar intersections, and even where materials are being picked up. Listen to the full conversation here.