By Emma Peterson. 

Learn about the state of the outdoor industry by reading our top OCS articles for April. 

In the outdoor contracting world, April showers don’t just herald in May flowers; they usher in the busiest season of work for contractors. And here at OutdoorCoffeeShop™ (OCS), it has been a busy time for our team as we make sure that we are publishing articles and information that will help contractors succeed this summer. And, in case you’ve been too busy preparing for the upcoming busy season, we’ve made a shortlist of the top articles published in April 2026 so you can catch up quickly.  

A couple of articles on this top five list focused on products that will help contractors work more efficiently in the field. In one, Content Coordinator Dani Sheehan dove into how HandiFoam®'s Gasket Foam simultaneously simplifies the process of sealing while also improving long-term results. Dani also wrote an article about DYCO’s Pool Deck Waterborne Acrylic Stain, highlighting the product’s ability to “improve appearance while adding protection, extending the surface life, reducing maintenance needs and leaving outdoor spaces looking polished all season long.” 

Also on our shortlist is an article from Senior Content Producer Emma Peterson that focuses on making the office part of outdoor contractors’ operations more efficient. Specifically, the article explores an innovative management strategy called fractional executive placement. 

Read all of April 2026’s top articles 

5 - 2 winning SpreadRock® exterior projects by Daich Coatings 

4 - A better seal starts here by Dani Sheehan 

3 - Refresh pools and pool decks for summer by Dani Sheehan 

2 - How contractors are supporting families through partnership with Ronald McDonald House by Dani Sheehan 

1 - The importance of thinking outside the box by Emma Peterson

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!

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!