Trent Cotney

06/17/2026

I enjoyed speaking last night with my friends at the Roofing Contractors Association of Southern California on industry issues affecting contractors. Adams & Reese

06/16/2026

In Episode 112 of Law and Mortar, John Kenney and I discuss two topics that are top of mind for contractors: emerging opportunities in data center construction and the rising challenge of insurance renewals and risk management.

As data centers and warehouses continue to drive construction activity, Trent explains why contractors should capitalize on these opportunities while recognizing that market conditions can change quickly.

The conversation then shifts to one of the largest expenses facing contractors today—insurance. John shares why successful renewals begin long before policies expire and why partnering with the right insurance professionals can significantly impact both coverage and cost.

Topics include:

• The current boom in data center and warehouse construction

• Why contractors should avoid assuming today's opportunities will last forever

• Insurance renewals and proactive planning strategies

• Building effective risk management programs

• Finding insurance agents who truly understand construction and roofing

• Why coverage and expertise matter more than simply chasing the lowest price

• Updates on the upcoming FRSA 104th Convention and Expo

Whether you're evaluating new markets or preparing for your next insurance renewal, this episode provides practical advice to help protect your business and improve profitability.

Adams & Reese Cotney Consulting Group

Podcast Episode · Law & Mortar · June 12 · 12m

06/15/2026

This year's scholarship at the FRSA expo went to Mikayla Hellein, daughter of John Hellein. Proud to support the FRSA Educational and Research Foundation. Adams & Reese

06/13/2026

This vintage Malarkey Roofing Products promotional lighter likely dates to the late 1960s, with a probable date around 1967. It reflects a period when regional roofing manufacturers relied on practical advertising pieces that contractors, distributors, and salesmen would actually carry.

Malarkey Roofing traces its roots to 1956, when Herbert Malarkey began a manufacturing venture called Herbert Malarkey Paper Company. The company initially operated in saturated felt rolls before later becoming Malarkey Roofing Products. From that modest start, Malarkey grew into a recognized U.S. manufacturer of residential and commercial roofing products.

What makes this piece interesting is the logo itself. The lighter still carries the name “Herbert Malarkey Roofing Company,” tying it directly to the founder’s era and to the company’s early regional identity.

Malarkey’s later history shows how far the company traveled from those early Portland roots. It introduced important product innovations over the decades, including fiberglass mat shingles, polymer-modified roofing products, and SBS rubberized asphalt shingles. The company later expanded manufacturing beyond Oregon and ultimately became part of Holcim in 2022. In 2025, Malarkey became part of Amrize after Holcim spun off its North American operations.

This lighter is a small artifact from the company’s early growth period. It is a reminder that some of the industry’s best-known names started with founder-led companies and everyday promotional items that kept the brand in the hands of roofers.

06/12/2026

Great seeing my friends at Owens Corning Roofing at the FRSA expo.

06/11/2026

Listening to Lyle Jacobs at the FRSA business luncheon discuss the great things FRSA is doing for the industry. Adams & Reese

06/11/2026

Looking forward to speaking today on AI in roofing at the FRSA expo. Adams & Reese

06/10/2026

Discussing the latest legal, labor, and regulatory updates at the FRSA expo. # Adams & Reese

06/10/2026

Getting ready to speak on OSHA this morning at the FRSA expo. Adams & Reese

06/09/2026

Looking forward to FRSA's 104th expo this week in Orlando, FL. I will be speaking June 10 through 12 on various subjects along with Kyle Rea and Benjamin S. Briggs. Stop by and say hi at booth 900. Adams & Reese