By Emma Peterson. 

Solve business issues with innovative management strategies like fractional executive placement. 

In 2024, Forbes Business Review contributor James Nelson wrote, “In a world that often seems saturated with industries and players, it might seem hard to stand out from the rest. While building an A level team and managing your time well may be a great start to high performance, there can also be benefits from thinking outside the box. If you take on this mindset, it could help you move to a new level in your profession and business.” But what does this out-of-the-box thinking actually look like in 2026? To find out, we hosted Kristen McAlister, the owner of Cerius Executives, for an episode of Contractor Outlook™.  

Through her work with Cerius, Kristen uses over three decades of business experience to empower professionals with practical strategies and tools needed to succeed in the long term. In her own words, she helps people “set aside titles and job descriptions so that they can really see what your company’s current problems and challenges are. Once that is done, then we help you find the right solution.” 

Cerius specializes in fractional executive placement. This is the innovative business practice of temporarily placing experienced executives into high-level positions like CEO and CFO. By doing this, companies can get crucial insights about high-level strategy and leadership without the cost of hiring a high-level executive full-time.  Kristen explained, “The whole idea is really matchmaking. We start with your company by identifying what you need. Then we find an executive that is an expert in solving that who will get your company unstuck and back to growing.” 

While this might seem a bit out-of-the-box when it comes to business strategies, it works. Kristen shared an example:  

One of my favorite stories is about an engineering construction client. His business was struggling and he was worried because he had issues in the past. A couple decades ago he had to file for bankruptcy. So, we connected him with a CFO who worked just 10 hours a month with him. And once he had that individual there, they did start whiteboarding and were able to see that the job costing was off. That’s where the problem was and from there, he was able to adjust and avoid the trap he fell into 20 years ago.  

Listen to the episode or Watch the recording to learn more about Kristen, Cerius and how they help professionals boost their businesses by thinking outside of the box.  

By Jenny Yu.  

One contractor explains why K9 Fasteners is their choice for building safer, longer-lasting outdoor structures. 

Fasteners may be small components, but their impact on long-term performance is anything but minor. In a recent episode of From the Ground Up™, host Karol Weyman sat down with Mark Petri, owner of Petri Building and Design, who shared practical, field-tested insights on why choosing the right fastener is critical for outdoor construction durability and safety, highlighting his experience with K9 Fasteners. 

Mark, who has spent decades in the building industry and now focuses on design work in Colorado, emphasized that every structural connection matters. “All those connections need to be well done,” he said, noting that many projects rely on hidden or “blind” connections where both strength and aesthetics are essential. In these cases, selecting the right structural fastener like the Huskie™ lag screw from K9 Fasteners as a reliable option helps achieve both high-quality performance and a clean finish. 

On the other hand, choosing a weaker or incompatible fastener is a common mistake in the field. “The most common mistake I see would be using what’s on site and not preparing ahead of time,” Mark said, pointing to the frequent errors such as using interior-rated fasteners like drywall screws in exterior applications, or choosing products that lack sufficient length or strength. Shortcuts and oversights like these often lead to premature failures, especially in demanding outdoor environments.  

Another important factor to consider is corrosion resistance. Outdoor structures face constant exposure to moisture, swings in temperature and construction chemicals. “We not only need the shear strength of a steel fastener, but we also need good corrosion resistance,” Mark explained. He noted that K9 Fasteners address this challenge with a zinc base coat paired with a triple ceramic coating, which helps protect against long-term corrosion and extends product life. 

Beyond durability, fastener selection also influences installation efficiency. Mark highlighted that K9 Fasteners’ coating technology improves ease of installation in dense materials, even in challenging climate areas: “They just last a lot longer, and they perform better.” 

Listen to the full podcast or Watch the recording to learn more about how K9 Fasteners has helped outdoor contractors like Petri Building and Design provide lasting solutions for their customers. Visit their website to shop now!

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Centralized sales content and analytics can help contractors strengthen close rates, improve consistency and create confident customer conversations. 

At the International Roofing Expo (IRE), conversations extended well beyond topics of technology used for production and jobsite operations. For many contractors, one of the biggest opportunities lies earlier in the customer journey; in how sales teams present information, build trust and guide homeowners through the buying process. That is where companies like Ingage are focusing their attention, positioning sales content as a tool not only for communication, but for stronger performance. 

Speaking with Karen Edwards on the RoofersCoffeeShop® sound stage, Ingage CEO Dean Curtis said the company is built around helping contractors bring clarity and confidence to sales conversations in the home. “We help contractors create great sales content,” Dean said. “So, you think about that kitchen table conversation. How can you enable your sales team with the best possible confidence building materials for them and for the prospect?” 

That value starts with consistency. In many organizations, sales presentations can vary widely from one representative to the next, making it harder to control messaging or understand what is driving results. Ingage addresses that challenge by giving teams access to the same current materials while also providing sales leadership with visibility into how content is being used. Dean noted that this analytical layer helps move coaching beyond assumption. “The analytics givees you the evidence to say, ‘Hey, I’m doing this,’” he said. In practice, that can help leaders identify which approaches are contributing to stronger close rates and where adjustments may be needed. 

Just as importantly, the platform is built around the reality that sales conversations do not unfold in a straight line. Homeowners often arrive with their own questions, concerns and priorities, which means representatives need to adapt in the moment. “What we know about sales is there is no linear sales conversation,” Dean said. “The customer comes in with preconceived ideas. A great salesperson discovers what’s important and presents on that.” By making content easier to navigate and tailor, the platform supports a more responsive and relevant conversation. 

The discussion also pointed to a broader issue contractors are facing: adopting new technology effectively. Dean noted that implementation alone is not enough if companies have not fully examined the process the technology is meant to improve. As contractors look for ways to make the most of every lead, tools that combine consistency, flexibility and measurable insight are taking on a larger role in the sales process. 

Watch the full interviews to learn more about how centralized sales content and analytics help contractors create more consistent presentations, adapt in real time and improve close rates!

POOL DECK
Waterborne Acrylic Stain

Provides a durable and attractive walking surface while sealing and protecting from UV and pool chemicals. This self-priming and fast dry coating is a great choice for all types of pool decks as well as indoor and outdoor patios.

POOL PAINT
Waterborne Acrylic Coating

Renews, waterproofs and beautifies the interior finish of your pool. Designed for pools that need to be maintained by repainting.  Great for concrete or plaster pools, decorative ponds or water fountains.

• Chemical Resistant
• Color retention
• Fills hairline cracks
• Soap and water clean-up
• Fade Resistant

When used together, the stain penetrates or enhances the surface visually, while the coating locks everything in and protects it from wear and fading. This combination not only improves the appearance of pool decks, patios and walkways, but also extends the life of the surface by reducing cracking, peeling and maintenance needs over time.

Learn more about DYCO pool paint.

Learn more about DYCO pool deck stain.

By Dani Sheehan. 

A new drywall-to-framing solution is helping contractors improve energy efficiency, reduce callbacks and streamline installation. 

Contractors know that small gaps can turn into big problems. Air leakage, moisture intrusion and even minor inconsistencies in drywall installation can slowly chip away at a building’s performance. At the SprayFoam 2026 Convention and Expo, held March 22-25 by the Spray Polyurethane Foam Alliance (SPFA), HandiFoam® announced their latest innovation, HandiFoam Gasket Foam, designed to simplify sealing while improving long-term results. 

A smarter approach to drywall sealing 

HandiFoam Gasket Foam is a flexible, polyurethane foam sealant designed specifically to create a continuous seal between drywall and framing. Once cured, the foam compresses slightly, helping to prevent drywall bowing while maintaining a strong, lasting bond to framing materials. The result is a more consistent finish, and fewer callbacks tied to movement or gaps over time. 

Where this product really stands out is in its ability to tackle multiple challenges at once. By sealing gaps at the drywall-to-framing connection, HandiFoam Gasket Foam helps reduce: 

• Air infiltration that drives up energy costs 
• Moisture intrusion that can lead to long-term damage 
• The movement of dust and pollutants through the structure 

Gasket Foam is also UL GREENGUARD Gold Certified, giving you added confidence when working on projects with strict indoor air quality requirements. 

Small detail, big impact 

HandiFoam engineered this product for smooth, controlled applications, allowing for precise placement where it’s needed. This helps reduce waste and keeps your crew moving efficiently on the job site. It’s compatible with all Handi-Tool® Dispensing Units, including the new HandiFoam HT990 Dispensing Unit. The HT990 features a smooth-tip design that enhances glide and precision, making it easier to maintain consistent application even across long runs. It also fully cures in about 30 minutes at room temperature, helping you stay on schedule without sacrificing quality. 

HandiFoam Gasket Foam offers a simple way to elevate your work without overcomplicating your process. By improving sealing at a critical junction, you can deliver better-performing buildings while reducing the risk of future issues. 

Get your Gasket Foam today!

Meet AquaStar Pool Products’ Pipeline Pump — a full featured line of pumps that take efficiency and ambiance to the next level. The Pipeline Pump is designed with an innovative hydraulic system that features a Permanent Magnet Motor (PMM), a Totally Enclosed Fan Cooled (TEFC) and a 2-1/2'' internal frame. The result of this combination? Reduced mechanical noise
and lower energy consumption that results in whisper-quiet operation without any sacrifice to water flow. Not only does this make the pool experience far more peaceful, it also saves money and creates a cleaner pool.

Experience the future of filtration with the Pipeline Pump.

By Daich Coatings.

Get a fast fix for concrete cracks with this innovative product.

SpreadRock is a big two-time winner at Kent McIntire’s house in Clarkston, Michigan. After researching products that help transform his dull, faded and stained front concrete porch, Kent liked the reviews he read on SpreadRock® Granite Stone Coating. He watched the videos and was impressed. So, he ordered the product and got to work.

Project #1

“After power washing and sealing the cracks on the front porch, I applied the primer,” says Kent. “Then I applied two coats of SpreadRock in the Brownstone color. After that dried, I used the TracSafe® Anti-Slip Sealer for two coats to finish the project.”

Project #2

The porch project was so successful that Kent went on to update an area in front of his garage doors with a trench drain. After taking a week to fix the cracks and re-grade the area to ensure proper drainage, he again repeated the steps from the front porch, using the same products.

“For both areas I used the trowel method as it allowed me to have more control of coverage as I was spreading it,” says Kent. “I troweled on about an 8-10 square-foot area at a time. Then I used a squeegee to smooth out any ridges or rough spots.”

Product review

Kent relates that the process was fairly easy for both projects. He’s pleased that the Brownstone color he selected matches the brick color on his house perfectly.

“I give the SpreadRock product 5 stars based on ease of use and final look,” says Kent. “My biggest tip is to use a trowel to spread the product and a squeegee to smooth out the trowel marks. The other thing I did that I thought was quite sensible is that I used all products from the same company. I wanted to be sure to avoid any potential unexpected chemical reactions or other incompatibilities should that arise. Using all Daich products made these two projects turn out terrific!”

GRABO, the leader in professional-grade premium power tools, will showcase its HIGH FLOW electric vacuum lifter at booth #27009 during Hardscape North America 2025 in Louisville, Kentucky, from October 22-24. Built to tackle the most porous and challenging materials, HIGH FLOW will be demonstrated alongside GRABO's complete line of electric vacuum lifters.

“At GRABO, we're constantly pushing the boundaries of what's possible in portable lifting technology,” said Nimo Rotem, GRABO co-founder and CEO. “HIGH FLOW represents our commitment to solving real-world challenges that professionals face every day. We don't just make tools — we engineer solutions that transform how work gets done on job sites.”

The HIGH FLOW sets a new benchmark in portable vacuum lifter technology with a vacuum flow rate of 1,500 liters per minute, allowing it to easily grip and lift heavy, porous materials (up to 242 pounds) that traditional lifters cannot handle. Its portable design features a smart cut foam seal and ergonomic T-handle, making it ideal for handling outdoor pavers and the most demanding hardscape materials.

GRABO's professional-grade premium power tools are revolutionizing heavy-lifting equipment with a complete product line including:

• GRABO HIGH FLOW is the company's most powerful tool. It can grip the most porous materials and has a vacuum flow rate of 1,500 liters per minute.
• GRABO Pro-Lifter 20 with a smart digital pressure sensor, digital display and smart settings for both weight and pressure that can lift any slab of flat solid material.
• Nemo GRABO can grab almost any material — glass, drywall, laminated cardboard, plastic, tile, metal, wood — lifting up to 375 pounds.
• OTTOVAC is GRABO's version of the traditional cup, but made electric. The pump action is made for the way glaziers move and install glass.

Hardscape North America 2025 attendees are invited to visit GRABO booth #27009 for live product demonstrations. Experience firsthand how GRABO's cutting-edge electric vacuum lifters are transforming the heavy-lifting industry.

For more information about GRABO and its innovative power tools, visit grabo.com.

About GRABO

GRABO, by Nemo Power Tools, was founded in 2019 to provide heavy-lifting solutions with professional-grade premium power tools. With headquarters in Hong Kong and Las Vegas, the company owns and operates its manufacturing facilities, ensuring the highest quality control standards for its extensive distribution network spanning over 150 distributors across 45 countries. GRABO's mission is "To Make Heavy Lifting Made Easy" and empowers professionals and hobbyists with power tools that enhance efficiency and productivity. Learn more at grabo.com.

By Jesse Sanchez. 

Understanding adhesive behavior helps contractors prevent failures, manage costs and deliver long-term durability. 

Selecting the correct adhesive, including solutions from NORDOT® Adhesives, is one of the most consequential decisions in a synthetic turf installation, shaping not only immediate performance but long-term durability and profitability. Although adhesives represent a relatively small share of total project cost compared to base materials and labor, their role is decisive. The success or failure of an installation often comes down to how well that adhesive performs over time. 

That reality presents a clear opportunity for contractors to strengthen outcomes in the field. While cost control remains important, focusing on long-term performance allows contractors to make more informed decisions about adhesive selection. Materials that maintain their integrity after weather exposure help prevent what industry experts describe as “time bombs” which are failures that emerge later. By prioritizing durability over upfront savings, contractors can reduce callbacks, avoid premature repairs and protect both profitability and reputation. 

Real-world conditions further highlight the value of selecting the right product. Outdoor installations require adhesives that remain reliable across fluctuating temperatures, humidity and changing weather windows. Materials designed to perform consistently, even in cold or damp conditions, support smoother installation timelines and help crews maintain efficiency. Consistent application performance also strengthens the bond between turf layers, reducing the risk of seam separation, bubbling or surface distortion. 

Within this framework, evaluating adhesive performance becomes more strategic. Durability after weathering, sufficient working time and strong “green strength,” the ability to hold materials in place before full cure, serve as key indicators of quality. Adhesives with high green strength help stabilize turf during placement, minimizing movement and reducing the need for adjustments or rework. 

At the same time, the range of adhesive options gives contractors the flexibility to match products to specific jobsite needs. Newtonian liquids provide smooth flow and leveling, while thixotropic adhesives offer greater control for detailed or vertical applications. Spray systems support efficiency on larger installations, and hot melt adhesives deliver rapid bonding when speed is critical. Each option brings distinct advantages that, when properly aligned with site conditions, contribute to a more efficient installation process. 

Ultimately, successful turf installations are driven by adhesives that perform reliably in the field. Contractors who understand how different products behave under real-world conditions are better equipped to deliver durable results while maintaining strong margins and long-term client trust. 

Learn more about how the right adhesive selection improves synthetic turf performance, durability and long-term project success!

HandiFoam® Gasket Foam is a flexible, polyurethane foam sealant designed to create a durable, continuous seal between drywall and framing. Once cured, the foam compresses to help prevent drywall bowing while maintaining a strong bond to framing materials, delivering long-lasting performance and improved energy efficiency. Its controlled application allows for smooth, precise placement, making it an ideal solution for sealing gaps that can allow air, moisture and pollutants to move through the building envelope.

• Creates a durable drywall seal. 
• Stays firmly bonded to framing. 
• Polyurethane foam–based. 
• Improves energy efficiency. 

Introducing the new HT990 dispensing unit featuring a smooth-tip design for enhanced glide and precision, designed specifically for gasket foam applications. 

Get your GasketFoam today!