By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

ICAA and CIMA are bringing building science concepts into the field, helping contractors better understand how heat, air and moisture interact to improve building performance.

Building science has become one of the most important topics in modern construction, but for many contractors and installers, the challenge isn't understanding the theory, it's knowing how to apply it on the jobsite. That is why the Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA) and the Cellulose Insulation Manufacturers Association (CIMA) are continuing their educational webinar series focused on connecting building science principles with real-world installation practices.

On Thursday, July 16, industry professionals will have the opportunity to participate in “Introduction to Building Science,” a free 20-minute webinar for ICAA members that explores the fundamentals of building envelope optimization and high-performance insulation systems. The webinar is the second installment in a three-part educational series designed to help contractors move beyond simple R-value discussions and develop a more complete understanding of how building systems work together.

As building codes evolve and owners demand higher-performing structures, understanding the relationship between heat transfer, air movement and moisture management has become critical. According to the webinar description, participants will learn how these forces behave within the building envelope and how those interactions impact material selection, thermal performance, durability and occupant comfort. The program emphasizes viewing the structure as an interconnected system rather than a collection of individual components.

Leading the discussion is Aaron Davenport, technical director for Greenfiber, who brings more than two decades of experience as both a homebuilder and building materials executive. His background includes product development, green building initiatives, team collaboration and launching innovative construction products throughout North America. He has also been a licensed homebuilder in Florida for more than 20 years and has developed extensive expertise in building science applications.

The focus on practical application makes this educational series especially valuable for contractors looking to improve installation quality and overall building performance. While building science concepts can sometimes feel academic, their impact is felt every day in energy efficiency, moisture control, occupant comfort and long-term durability. Understanding how insulation interacts with other building systems can help contractors deliver better outcomes for customers while reducing the risk of performance issues down the road.

This type of education also highlights a growing trend across the construction industry: the increasing importance of workforce training. Whether working in roofing, insulation, coatings, metal construction or exterior building products, today's contractors are being asked to understand how entire building systems perform together. Organizations like ICAA and CIMA are helping professionals stay ahead of those expectations by offering targeted educational opportunities that translate directly to the field.

For contractors, architects, consultants and building professionals interested in strengthening their understanding of building science fundamentals, this webinar offers a concise but practical learning opportunity that can be immediately applied to future projects. The session takes place on July 16 from 1:00 to 1:20 p.m. ET.

To register for the webinar and learn more about educational opportunities from the Insulation Contractors Association of America, visit ICAA at www.insulate.org. To stay informed about insulation, building envelope and construction industry education, visit the industry directories and resources available through The Coffee Shops™, where contractors can connect with manufacturers, associations and training programs that support building performance excellence.

By Heidi J. Ellsworth.

Rising energy costs demand immediate action.

Electricity and natural gas prices are projected to rise sharply over the next several years as data centers and electrification accelerate demand for power. Families and small businesses will feel the impact. The Coffee Shops™ are a proud partner of the Insulation Contractors Association of America and strongly encourage insulation contractors to join industry leaders in Washington, D.C., to help lead the energy affordability conversation. 

Congress is actively searching for solutions that can stabilize costs, protect consumers and strengthen grid reliability. The insulation industry has a proven answer: reduce demand through stronger building energy efficiency policies. Insulation remains one of the fastest and most cost effective ways to lower energy bills, improve housing affordability and deliver measurable energy savings without waiting years for new power generation to come online. 

Now is the time to make that case directly to lawmakers. 

Join us in Washington: Help lead the energy affordability conversation 

Congressional Advocacy Day | May 12 and 13, 2026 | Washington, D.C. 

Board Members from the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) and ICAA, along with other industry leaders, will gather in Washington, D.C., on Wednesday, May 13, for a coordinated Congressional Advocacy Day. Your presence demonstrates the economic strength of our industry and reinforces the critical role insulation plays in lowering energy costs across America. 

Advocacy schedule 

Tuesday, May 12 

6:00 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. 
Policy briefing and reception 
Location TBD, Washington, D.C. 

Wednesday, May 13 

10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. 
Meetings with members of Congress and staff 

ICAA and the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association will schedule meetings and prepare all briefing materials to ensure you are fully prepared and supported. Your role is simple but powerful: show up and tell our story. 

Decisions being made in Congress will shape the future of energy policy, housing affordability and our industry. With energy demand rising and affordability under pressure, policymakers need practical solutions that work now. Your voice matters. 

There is no fee to participate in the Advocacy Day events. Attendees are responsible for hotel and travel expenses. Additional information, including a negotiated rate at the host hotel, will be shared soon. 

Please confirm your participation by Friday, April 10. 

Register today.

ICAA delivers personalized services and programs for insulation professionals across the country.  

The Coffee Shops™, the award-winning online communities where the industries meet for technologies, safety, information and education for the construction trades of roofing, metal, coatings and outdoor living, are pleased to welcome Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA) into their community. 

ICAA has been representing insulation contractors and suppliers for over 40 years. Their mission is to develop and execute programs that advance the careers of their members. These programs include:  

• Networking opportunities: While ICAA offers a variety of networking opportunities throughout the year, their hallmark event is their annual trade show, which connects insulation contractors with “the industry’s leading manufacturers and suppliers." 
• Compliance assistance: Through a partnership with Federated Insurance, one of the largest mutual insurance companies in the nation, ICAA members can get exceptional insurance coverage for their business. Further, they receive personalized support if they encounter OSHA inspections and citations.  
• News updates: ICAA publishes a bi-monthly magazine, called the Insulation Contractors Report, that keeps members up to date with the latest technical resources and industry news. They also have access to the ICAA online archive of educational and compliance resources (which includes SPF resources) 
• Training sessions: From workplace safety to federal regulations and more, ICAA has online training programs to help their members grow their knowledge. They also offer a special program for health and safety training called the ICAA Gateway Online Training for SPF Helpers. 
• Marketing solutions: ICAA provides their members with marketing and lead generation solutions in the form of their Buyers Guide, contractor locator database and ICAA qualification program.  
• Safety resources: Ensure the safety of your team and the longevity of your business with ICAA’s safety and health resources! From checklists to model programs, they provide everything you need to keep your company happy and healthy.  
• Industry advocacy: Make your voice heard through ICAA’s industry advocacy actions. This organization acts as a collective voice advocating for insulation professionals at all levels of government.  

At the end of the day, if you are an insulation professional, ICAA is the place to be.  

The Coffee Shops are proud to welcome Insulation Contractors Association of America (ICAA)!