OCS Influencer John Kenney says that, as more clients prioritize responsible design, the contractors who can confidently guide those conversations become more trusted.

In the outdoor living and pool space, sustainability has moved well beyond a talking point. It’s showing up in how projects are designed, how systems are installed and how clients make decisions. Homeowners and property owners are asking different questions today. They’re not just focused on how something looks when it’s finished — they want to know how it performs over time, what it costs to maintain and how it impacts water and energy use. 

From where I sit, this shift isn’t surprising. Every part of construction is moving in this direction. The contractors who recognize it early and adjust their approach are the ones who will stay ahead. 

One of the biggest areas where this is playing out is water management. Pools, irrigation systems and landscaping all rely heavily on water, and in many regions, that resource is becoming more closely monitored and more expensive. Contractors who understand how to design systems that use water efficiently are already setting themselves apart. 

That starts with smarter irrigation. Traditional systems often overwater because they’re not calibrated to actual conditions. Today’s systems can be designed with zoning, timing and controls that match the specific needs of the landscape. Drip irrigation, moisture sensors and programmable controllers all help reduce waste while keeping outdoor spaces healthy. 

Pools are seeing similar changes. Variable-speed pumps, automated controls and improved filtration systems allow pool owners to manage water circulation and energy use more efficiently than ever before. These aren’t just upgrades for the sake of technology — they directly impact operating costs. When contractors can explain that clearly, it shifts the conversation from price to long-term value. 

Material selection is another area where sustainability is becoming more visible. Clients are paying closer attention to what goes into their projects. That includes everything from decking materials and hardscape products to finishes and structural components. Durability plays a big role here. Materials that last longer and require less maintenance reduce the need for future replacement, which is one of the simplest ways to improve sustainability. 

Energy efficiency is also becoming part of the design conversation. Outdoor lighting, heating systems and water features all contribute to overall energy use. LED lighting, efficient heaters and smart automation systems allow these features to perform well without excessive consumption. Again, this isn’t about adding complexity — it’s about making better choices upfront that pay off over time. 

But one of the most important shifts isn’t in the products or systems themselves. It’s in how contractors communicate with clients. Sustainability doesn’t need to be presented as a separate feature. It should be part of the overall project discussion. When you talk about durability, you’re talking about sustainability. When you talk about lower operating costs, you’re talking about sustainability. When you design a system that performs efficiently year after year, that’s sustainability in practice. 

The contractors who do this well don’t overcomplicate it. They don’t rely on buzzwords or try to sell sustainability as an add-on. They incorporate it into their design and build processes. They explain the long-term impact in practical terms — water savings, energy efficiency, reduced maintenance — and let the client see the value. 

There’s also a business advantage to this approach. As more clients prioritize responsible design, contractors who can confidently guide those conversations become more trusted. They’re not just installing a project — they’re helping clients make informed decisions about how their outdoor space will function for years to come. 

Like any shift in the industry, this one comes with a learning curve. New systems, new materials and new expectations require contractors to stay informed and adapt. But the fundamentals remain the same. Good planning, quality installation and clear communication still drive successful projects. 

Sustainability is simply adding another layer to that process. 

And the contractors who embrace it as part of their everyday work — not as a separate initiative — are the ones who will continue to grow as the market evolves. 

OCS Influencer John Kenney says the businesses that handle the busy season best are the ones that prepared in advance.

For contractors in the outdoor living and pool industry, spring doesn’t ease in slowly. It arrives all at once. The weather breaks, homeowners start thinking about backyard projects and suddenly the phones begin ringing. Estimates stack up, installation schedules fill quickly and crews move from quiet winter weeks into full production mode almost overnight.

That seasonal surge can be a great opportunity, but it can also expose weaknesses in a company’s operations. I’ve spent most of my career working with contractors across the construction industry, and one pattern shows up again and again. The businesses that handle the busy season best are the ones that prepared for it weeks earlier. Spring success isn’t just about demand; it’s about readiness.

One of the first areas contractors should evaluate before the rush begins is scheduling. Outdoor construction projects often involve multiple stages — design work, site preparation, structural installation, finish work and sometimes ongoing maintenance. If schedules aren’t carefully planned, jobs begin to overlap, straining crews and creating delays for customers. Reviewing the spring workload early allows companies to map out realistic timelines and avoid the scramble that comes when too many projects are promised at once. 

Crew readiness is just as important. Many companies add seasonal workers or expand their teams when demand increases. That growth can be helpful, but only if those new team members understand the company’s standards and workflow. A short preseason meeting with crews to review expectations, safety practices and jobsite procedures can prevent problems once projects are underway. When everyone starts the season on the same page, production tends to run much more smoothly. 

Suppliers also play a major role in seasonal preparation. Pool equipment, outdoor materials, lighting systems and landscape components often have longer lead times once demand spikes. Contractors who coordinate with suppliers early — confirming inventory availability and delivery timelines — reduce the risk of projects stalling halfway through installation. A few proactive phone calls in late winter can save weeks of frustration once spring demand is in full swing. 

Another area that deserves attention before the busy season starts is estimating capacity. When inquiries increase, it’s easy for companies to rush through proposals to keep up. That’s where mistakes happen. Underestimating labor hours, overlooking material needs or misjudging project timelines can quickly erode profit on otherwise good jobs. Contractors who create a structured estimating process — and stick to it even when things get busy — protect both their reputation and their margins. 

Customer communication also becomes more critical as demand grows. Homeowners planning outdoor projects often want their pool or backyard space ready as soon as warm weather arrives. In reality, installation schedules depend on many factors: crew availability, weather conditions, material deliveries and the complexity of the project itself. Contractors who communicate realistic timelines early in the process tend to avoid frustration later. Clear expectations are one of the most effective tools for keeping projects — and relationships — on track. 

Spring preparation isn’t just operational. It’s also an opportunity to remind potential customers that your company is ready for the season. Sharing project photos, maintenance tips or early-season inspection reminders through your website or social media helps homeowners start thinking about outdoor improvements. When they begin researching contractors for a new installation or renovation, your company is already on their radar. 

But even the best marketing won’t make up for poor preparation behind the scenes. The outdoor living industry, much like other construction sectors, operates in cycles. Slow periods give contractors time to organize systems, review processes and strengthen their operations before demand ramps up again. Companies that use the off-season wisely are usually the ones that handle the busy season with confidence. 

In the end, the arrival of spring doesn’t create successful companies. It simply reveals which ones were ready for it. Contractors who enter the season with organized schedules, prepared crews, strong supplier relationships and disciplined estimating processes put themselves in a position to handle growth without sacrificing quality or profitability. 

For outdoor and pool professionals, the busy season will always come quickly. The real question is whether the business behind the projects is prepared to handle it. 

By John Kenney, Cotney Consulting Group.

When crews stay alert and respect the hazards that hide in daily work, they reduce injuries, build trust and keep operations moving safely.

When most people think of fall hazards, they picture roofs, scaffolds — elevated platforms. But for maintenance technicians, the most dangerous fall risks aren’t always the high ones — they’re the everyday ones. A quick ceiling tile replacement, a light fixture repair, a step onto a ladder — even a walk across a slippery floor can turn into a serious injury in seconds. 

Falls remain one of the leading causes of workplace injuries across all industries, and maintenance work sits right in the middle of that risk. The problem is simple: technicians perform high-frequency, short-duration tasks. These tasks don’t look dangerous. They seem like routine, low-risk activities. And because of that, workers let their guard down. 

Falls happen at heights you don’t expect 

A fall from six feet can be life-changing. A fall from two feet can cause a fractured wrist or spine. A fall from a ladder’s second rung is more common — and more serious — than most realize. Maintenance workers spend their days moving between rooms, climbing into ceiling spaces, stepping around obstacles and working on multi-level surfaces. None of thislooks risky. But the risk is real. 

Every day repair tasks often involve: 

• Step stools, ladders and portable platforms 
• Slippery or wet surfaces 
• Uneven floors or loose materials 
• Clutter in tight mechanical rooms 
• Dim lighting in older buildings 
• Carrying tools or equipment while climbing 

When these factors stack together, even a seasoned technician can lose footing. 

The “quick task” is the most dangerous 

You’ve seen it on every jobsite: a worker grabs the closest chair, bucket or unstable object to stand on “just for a second.” They lean too far to one side to change a tile. They climb with tools in hand instead of using a belt. They adjust a light fixture while balanced awkwardly on a ladder. 

It’s the quick, everyday tasks — the ones technicians believe they can do without thinking — that cause the most injuries. That confidence becomes complacency, and complacency is what leads to falls. 

Ladder safety must be non-negotiable 

Ladders are involved in a large percentage of maintenance-related fall injuries and the cause is rarely the ladder itself — it’s how it’s used. Reinforce these fundamentals: 

• Inspect the ladder before use 
• Use the right ladder height for the job — no leaning sideways or standing on the top steps 
• Maintain three points of contact 
• Keep tools in a belt, not hands, while climbing 
• Never place ladders on boxes, tables or uneven surfaces 
• Secure the area below from foot traffic 

A ladder is not a shortcut. It’s a piece of equipment that demands respect. 

Floors are a hidden fall hazard 

Maintenance workers frequently travel across wet, polished, dirty, uneven or obstructed floors. Plumbing repairs, restroom work, HVAC condensation and cleaning operations create slipping hazards that appear without warning. 

Simple reminders can prevent serious injuries: 

• Use caution signs and communicate wet-floor areas 
• Wear proper slip-resistant footwear 
• Keep pathways clear of tools, hoses and debris 
• Address spills or leaks immediately 
• Improve lighting where visibility is low 

The best slip-and-fall prevention strategy is solid housekeeping. A clean, organized space is a safer space. 

Working above ceiling tiles isn’t a “low-risk” task 

Accessing overhead spaces — ceiling grids, duct chases and wiring runs — often requires awkward positioning. Workers balance on ladders, reach above shoulder height and navigate around ceiling framing. All of this increases the chance of losing balance. 

Encourage technicians to: 

• Use stable, properly rated ladders or small platforms 
• Position themselves directly under the work, not at an angle 
• Keep both feet firmly planted 
• Avoid overreaching to avoid repositioning 

A few extra steps to reposition a ladder are always better than a fall. 

Make it cultural, not conditional 

The strongest maintenance programs are built on safety habits that become routine. When supervisors consistently model and enforce correct practices, crews follow suit. Encourage the use of stop-work authority: if a technician feels unsafe, they should speak up without hesitation. 

A strong safety culture sends a clear message — the company values the worker more than the task. 

Falls don’t start with the fall — They start with the setup 

Almost every fall incident has a moment before it when someone could have made a different choice. Better footing. Better lighting. The right ladder. A cleared walkway. A slower, safer approach. 

Maintenance work may be routine, but safety cannot be. Staying aware of fall hazards — especially the ones hiding in everyday tasks — is what keeps technicians protected and facilities running smoothly. 

Even the simplest repair deserves full attention. When crews stay alert and respect the hazards that hide in daily work, they reduce injuries, build trust and keep operations moving safely. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Navigating a legal landscape that is growing more complex every day.  

In a new episode of From the Ground Up™, Karol Weyman got the chance to chat with John Kenney about navigating the legal world as a contractor. John is the CEO of Cotney Consulting Group and has over 45 years of experience in the field as a contractor. He shared a bit about what his company does, saying, “We work with contractors, we get information out there, we do trainings and we help them work on their business processes.” A huge part of that work is helping contractors learn how to navigate the legal landscape; things like regulations and contracts.  

Navigating this has always been key to business success, but is more important today than ever before. Why? The world is growing more complicated. John explained, “The world is getting more and more complicated with regulations, technology and more. Really, the entire way we go about business and everything else has changed.”  

An example of these complexities is tighter notice requirements and stricter enforcement of contract deadlines. John elaborated, “Owners and general contractors are absolutely starting to enforce these written notice clauses aggressively. And if you do miss a deadline, even by a day, you're going to lose your claim.” Another example of how John has seen the legal world of contracting shift recently is in relation to payment risk. He explained, “We're seeing longer payment cycles, increased disputes and a lot more owners pushing risk downstream.” 

So what can contractors do in response to these pressures and complexities? Clean records and responsive contracts. Because contractors are being held to higher standards than ever before, it is crucial to make sure you have a clear understanding of what you are getting into and set yourself up for success in the future. John shared a bit about how you can do this:  

Make sure you read your contracts carefully. I still see contractors agreeing to broad indemnification clauses that are dangerous because they don’t have any damage for delay provisions... Scope is another huge one, make sure that contracts define scope so all parties are on the same page... And another big one is using outdated contract templates. I see a lot of contractors using stuff that actually pertains to laws that have changed. So, if you’re working off a template from five or six years ago, make sure to get it reviewed to make sure you are covered today. 

Overall, the best legal protection is proactive reviews with legal experts. As John put it, “Contracts are living risk management documents. A lot of people don't understand this, so if yours hasn't been updated, then it's behind. And understanding everything in your contract is part of positive risk management.” 

Listen to the whole podcast or Watch the recording with John to learn more about navigating the legal world as a contractor. 

OCS Influencer John Kenney says the right tools help deliver efficiency, clarity and responsiveness in a competitive market.

Tools and technology have long shaped how outdoor and pool contractors work, but the pace of change has accelerated. What used to be optional is quickly becoming expected, and contractors who adapt thoughtfully are finding it easier to manage crews, control schedules and deliver a better client experience. The key isn’t chasing every new gadget. It’s understanding which tools actually improve how the work gets done. 

On the jobsite side, must-have tools are increasingly about consistency and efficiency. Laser levels, digital measuring tools and layout systems have reduced guesswork in pool construction, hardscapes and outdoor structures. When layouts are accurate from the start, downstream trades move faster and rework drops. Battery-powered equipment has also advanced significantly, giving crews greater flexibility without sacrificing performance. Less downtime, fewer cords and safer worksites all add up over the course of a season. 

Design technology is another area where contractors are seeing real gains. Digital design and visualization tools allow builders to show clients exactly what a finished outdoor space will look like before construction starts. That clarity reduces change orders and sets expectations early. When clients can see how features, lighting and materials work together, decisions get made faster and projects move forward with fewer surprises. 

Behind the scenes, software has become just as important as what’s happening in the field. Scheduling and project management platforms help contractors juggle weather, crew availability and material deliveries, three variables that rarely line up on their own. When schedules are in one place and updates are made in real time, crews show up prepared rather than waiting for instructions. That efficiency protects margins and keeps projects moving. 

Maintenance and service software is also gaining traction, especially for contractors offering ongoing pool and outdoor care. Digital service logs, automated reminders and mobile reporting make it easier to manage recurring work without relying on memory or paper systems. For contractors, that means fewer missed visits and better documentation. For clients, it means reliability and transparency — two things that build long-term relationships. 

Innovative technology is changing how outdoor spaces are used and maintained. Pool automation systems now manage filtration, heating, chemical balance and lighting from a single interface. Clients can monitor and adjust settings from their phones, while contractors gain remote visibility into system performance. That allows issues to be addressed before they turn into service calls or complaints. 

Lighting and water management have also become more sophisticated. Intelligent lighting systems automatically adjust brightness, color and timing, improving both aesthetics and energy efficiency. Water management tools help monitor usage, detect leaks and maintain proper levels, which is significant for both residential and commercial installations where operating costs matter. 

For contractors, the most significant benefit of smart tech isn’t novelty — it’s control. Systems that provide real-time data help diagnose problems faster and reduce unnecessary site visits. That saves labor and keeps technicians focused on productive work. It also positions contractors as long-term partners rather than one-time installers. 

Adopting new tools does require discipline. Technology only works when teams are trained, and systems are used consistently. The contractors who get the most value don’t overwhelm their crews with apps. They standardize a few key tools and build processes around them. That approach keeps technology supportive instead of disruptive. 

Looking ahead, tools and technology will continue to shape how outdoor and pool businesses operate. The contractors who benefit most won’t be the ones with the most software licenses or the newest gadgets. They’ll be the ones who choose tools that align with their workflow, train their teams properly and use technology to reinforce — not replace — good construction practices. 

In a competitive market, efficiency, clarity and responsiveness matter. The right tools help deliver all three. Used correctly, technology becomes less about innovation and more about professionalism — and that’s what clients notice most. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Dive into the basics of boosting your business with industry consultant and operations expert John Kenney! 

If you haven’t already heard of John Kenney, he is the CEO of Cotney Consulting Group and a seasoned expert in contracting operations. Throughout his extensive career, John has helped contractors from across a wide variety of trades identify and resolve issues within their business practices so that their business can succeed. And you can get access to his valuable advice directly from the source by listening to his Blueprints for Success podcast!  

This podcast introduces its audience to groundbreaking ideas and practical strategies through exclusive interviews with industry leaders, innovators and mentors. This podcast was designed and planned specifically for contractors operating in outdoor living, hardscape, pool and spa, remodeling and specialty construction trades.  

Each episode promises to provide practical, experience-driven guidance and clear, actionable strategies that can be applied to real-world challenges contractors face in the field. Topics that John will be covering include but are not limited to:  

    Project estimating accuracy, cost prediction and risk management 

    Job planning and operational readiness 

    Service and maintenance profitability 

    Crew leadership and productivity 

    Scaling without losing control 

    Job cost reviews and performance metrics 

    Business planning for long-term growth 

The cherry on top? Each episode is only around 30-minutes long, making it easy to fit into your busy schedule! Make sure to tune in as John “uncovers the tools, techniques and insights that pave the way to success.”  

Listen to Blueprints for Success with John Kenney today.

Outdoor Influencers celebrate their inaugural year of giving back to the outdoor industry. 

The Coffee Shops™, the award-winning websites where the industries meet for technology, information and everyday business, announces the 2026 Influencers for OutdoorCoffeeShop™.    

Each month, Influencers respond to a topic that is relevant and timely such as business growth, sustainability and eco-friendly solutions, design inspiration and more. OCS features Influencer responses through interviews, videos and articles. These Influencers represent every corner of the outdoor living industries, including contractors, associations, distributors, manufacturers and service providers. Their contributions are showcased in dedicated sections on the website and shared on social media. 

“Our mission with OutdoorCoffeeShop is to amplify the voices of professionals shaping the outdoor living industry,” said The Coffee Shops’ President and CEO Heidi J. Ellsworth. “From landscaping to hardscapes, pools, spas and decking, these Influencers are on the frontlines, bringing insights that will strengthen businesses and elevate professionalism across the industry.” 

We are proud to announce the following 2026 OutdoorCoffeeShop Influencers: 

• Rachel Mohorn – Heritage 
• Brittany Klein – Heritage  
• John Kenney – Cotney Consulting Group 
• Trent Cotney – Adams & Reese 
• Rob Murray – IM (Intrigue Media) Landscape Growth 
• Cindy Code – Project Evergreen 
• Kristin Case – Hi-Peak Staffing Solutions 
• Garrett Harris – Sherwin-Williams 
• Julissa Chavez – SRS Building Products/Heritage 
• Amanda Gay – Brava/Aspire 
• Taylor Dahlquist – Elevated Outdoors 

Find more information on the 2025 OCS Influencers.

About OutdoorCoffeeShop 

OutdoorCoffeeShop™ (OCS) is a community and resource hub for professionals in the outdoor space to share ideas, tell stories, research, find learning opportunities and offer help. OCS is the one of many websites under the umbrella of The Coffee Shops (thecoffeeshops.online), which went online in 2002.  OCS is the latest online community for contractors specializing in hardscape, pool and water features, decking and flooring, landscaping and outdoor living. Like the other Coffee Shops, OCS delivers award-winning content, education and information with a focus on outdoor living that will build professionalism and networking opportunities. We are the place where the industry meets!  For more information, visit www.outdoorcoffeeshop.com. 

About The Coffee Shops 

Award-winning websites and online communities make up The Coffee Shops. Starting with RoofersCoffeeShop, which launched in 2002, the growth of the sites has been explosive for the construction trades of roofing, metal, coatings and their customers. Currently featuring four Coffee Shops, RoofersCoffeeShop, MetalCoffeeShop®, CoatingsCoffeeShop®, OutdoorCoffeeShop™ and their sister site AskARoofer™, all the sites are committed to advocating for the construction trades by supplying consistent information, education and communication avenues for all contractors, while promoting positive growth, education and success of construction industries overall. The Coffee Shops also feature strong microsites with RoofersCoffeeShop.ca, RoofersCoffeeShop.uk and En Español. Visitors to the site continue to find excellent opportunities for sharing information while participating in important ongoing conversations concerning new technologies, safety and overall construction information and education. The Coffee Shops are “Where the Industries Meet!” For more information, visit www.thecoffeeshops.online. 

OCS Influencer John Kenney says the contractors that succeed this year will be the ones who understand where the market is headed and prepare their teams, systems and partners accordingly.

The outdoor living and pool market continues to mature, and that maturity is changing how contractors need to think about design, delivery and long-term service. This isn’t just about new products or aesthetics. It’s about how customers are using their spaces, how expectations are rising and how contractors position themselves to stay profitable while meeting those expectations. 

One of the clearest trends heading into this year is the continued demand for fully integrated outdoor environments. Clients aren’t just asking for a pool or patio anymore. They’re asking for complete spaces that function as extensions of the home or commercial property. Kitchens, shade structures, fire features, lighting and water elements are being designed together rather than added later. That shift puts pressure on contractors to coordinate better, plan earlier and understand how multiple trades interact within a single project footprint. 

Design flexibility is also becoming a differentiator. Clean lines and modern materials remain popular, but clients want spaces that feel customized rather than catalog-driven. That means more variation in finishes, textures and layouts, along with greater attention to how spaces are used day-to-day. Contractors who can translate lifestyle conversations into practical designs will separate themselves quickly from competitors still selling one-size-fits-all solutions. 

From an operational standpoint, labor and scheduling will continue to challenge the industry. Outdoor projects are inherently weather-dependent, and as scopes grow more complex, delays compound more quickly. Contractors who tighten preconstruction planning, material lead times, sequencing and subcontractor coordination will protect margins better than those who rely on field adjustments. The work hasn’t gotten harder, but the tolerance for inefficiency has dropped. 

Suppliers and manufacturers are also evolving to support this shift. We’re seeing more prefabricated components, modular systems and integrated product lines designed to reduce field labor and installation variability. For contractors, this means less time improvising on site and more time focusing on execution and quality control. Those who stay informed on product advancements and maintain strong supplier relationships will gain a real advantage during peak season. 

Service models are changing as well. More outdoor and pool professionals are expanding into maintenance, seasonal inspections and long-term care programs. That’s not just about recurring revenue. It’s about staying connected to the client after installation and protecting the original investment. Contractors who treat service as a core offering, not an afterthought, are better positioned to smooth out seasonal swings and build long-term relationships. 

Technology continues to play a role, but not in the way many expect. The most significant gains aren’t coming from flashy software. They’re coming from better communication tools, scheduling platforms and documentation systems that reduce confusion between the office and the field. Precise drawings, accurate measurements and documented changes prevent costly rework and keep projects moving. Technology that supports discipline, not distraction, is where the real value lies. 

Another trend worth watching is how contractors present themselves. Professional branding, clear proposals and transparent pricing are no longer optional. Clients investing in outdoor living spaces are educated, informed and comparison shopping. Contractors who communicate clearly, explain their process and set realistic expectations early earn trust faster and close more work. 

Looking ahead, the contractors who perform best this season won’t be the ones chasing every new trend. They’ll be the ones who understand where the market is headed and prepare their teams, systems and partners accordingly. Outdoor living and pool construction are becoming more sophisticated, not simpler. Success will belong to those who plan thoroughly, communicate clearly and deliver consistently. 

By Emma Peterson. 

Dive into the home and business owner trends that are shaping the outdoor contracting industry.  

In a new episode of From the Ground Up™, Karol Weyman hosted John Kenney for a conversation about the current state of the outdoor construction market. More specifically, John zeroed in on homeowner trends that are defining the industry.  

The conversation opened with a quick introduction of John. He is the CEO of Cotney Consulting Group and personally has over 45 years of field experience as a contractor. In his own words, “I always believe that you must actually walk in contractors’ shoes to be able to help them. So, in my consulting business, I use my own experience and the knowledge I’ve gained from that to help contractors level up their business operations.” 

This perspective makes John the perfect person to talk to about current trends and challenges in the contracting industry. The first thing he mentioned was the demand for longevity. He explained, “I'm starting to see the movement away from the idea of just getting it done and worrying about it later. Home and business owners are looking for that investment that's going to last long term.” In addition to that desire for longevity, there has also been a rise in demand for efficiency. John elaborated, “There’s been a strong push to energy efficiency, through technologies like solar, and low maintenance solutions.”  

Both of these trends can be attributed to home and business owners having more access to information about their projects than ever before. John pointed out, “With the rise of the internet, Google and AI, consumers can really do some deep dive research. They are more educated going into conversations with contractors, meaning they have a better understanding of what they want out of a project.”  

The best way to navigate these trends? Make sure you are transparent and communicative with your clients. John explained, “When it comes to homeowners, they want their timelines and project estimates to be accurate. And as they grow more knowledgeable, they’re going to have more questions. That’s why you need to emphasize transparency and open in communication in all of your operations.”  

Listen to the whole episode or Watch the recorded conversation for more insights from John.   

By Emma Peterson. 

Law and Mortar is the perfect podcast for contractors who want to learn more about operating their businesses. 

With over 100 episodes already out, Law and Mortar is the go-to podcast for information about the legal, business and safety side of the roofing industry. In the show, industry experts and leaders Trent Cotney and John Kenney dive into a variety of timely topics for contractors today.  

Trent is a partner at the Adams & Reese law firm with a specialization in roofing litigation and arbitration. He is also a member of the National Roofing Contractors Association (NRCA) as well as ten other local roofing associations across the United States. Further, he donates his time to a variety of roofing organizations (such as WCRCA and NWIR), he is a Governor-level contributor to the FRSA Educational & Research Foundation endowment program. At the end of the day, if you are looking for insights on the legal and political side of the industry, Trent is an invaluable resource. 

As for John, he has over 45 years of experience in the construction industry. He has worked as everything from roofing apprentice to estimator to VP, making him an incredible resource to learn from. Today, he is the CEO of Cotney Consulting Group; holds a Florida Roofing Contractors License and Certified Professional Roofing Contractor status; and works with industry organizations like RT3 and NWIR. John’s insights also extend beyond the United States as he works on the international level with the Canadian Roofing Contractors National Technical Committees, the Institute of Roofing in Great Britain and the International Federation for the Roofing Trade in Europe. 

The Law and Mortar podcast is your opportunity to learn from these incredible experts about what’s happening in roofing today. Recently, John and Trent have had candid discussions about immigration in construction, analyzed the impact of AI on the operations side of the industry and discussed how bills in Congress are affecting job sites. Overall, these 20-minute episodes are a great way to stay up to date on what’s happening in the industry.  

Tune in to this month’s episode of Law and Mortar.