Newsletters – Everkem Diversified Products

Partnership Spotlight: Nu-HVAC Sales

Jodie Eiler — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:20:17 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

Building STRONG Connections

Everkem Diversified Products is pleased to announce a new partnership with Nu–HVAC, who will now represent Everkem’s product lines across Texas and Louisiana.

Nu–HVAC is a trusted manufacturer’s representative agency serving the HVAC and Plumbing industries. Led by Isaiah Nunez, who brings more than 25 years of HVAC industry experience, the Nu–HVAC team is known for strong industry relationships, technical product knowledge, and responsive customer support. Their portfolio includes quality manufacturers that support HVAC wholesalers, contractors, and distribution partners throughout the region.

Through this partnership, Everkem customers in Texas and Louisiana will gain enhanced access to Everkem’s silicones, foam sealants, and firestopping products. By combining Nu–HVAC’s regional presence with Everkem’s product portfolio, customers can expect stronger local support, improved product availability, and faster response to distributor and contractor needs.

Everkem and Nu–HVAC look forward to supporting distributors and contractors throughout the region with reliable products and responsive service.

Meet the Nu-Hvac Team:

Isaiah Nunez – President

isaiah@nuhvac.com · 915-996-8833

Austin Ruiz – Houston & Rio Grande Valley

austin@nuhvac.com · 480-200-4643

Jason Cole – Dallas-Fort Worth & Oklahoma

jason@nuhvac.com · 903-439-8124

Rico Espinoza – Inside Sales Support

rico@nuhvac.com · 210-906-4363

Sarah Bray – Admin/Ops

ops@nuhvac.com · 214-717-2908

Michael O’Keaffe – Dallas-Fort Worth & West Texas

michael@nuhvac.com · 214-717-2908

Louisiana Territory

sales@nuhvac.com · 210-906-4363

General Contact

sales@nuhvac.com · 210-906-4363

Stay tuned for upcoming “Caulk Talk” editions, where we’ll introduce more of our newest and long-term partners. Our network is skilled in the craft of caulk, and we LOVE to brag about it! Here is our talented roster of sales reps, scheduled to be featured in upcoming Everkem publications:

Additional Sales Rep Partners:

Areas Served:

Oklahoma

North Carolina and South Carolina

Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, and Wisconsin

Illinois

Connecticut, Massachusetts,
Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont

Pennsylvania, New Jersey,
Delaware, Maryland,
and Virginia

Florida

Texas and Louisiana

“It’s a true adage that the sum of what we can do together in the busy world of sealants and adhesives is GREATER with our partners than what Everkem can do on our own.”

– Jason Lynch, President & Owner | Everkem

Building STRONG Connections

Everkem Diversified Products is pleased to announce a new partnership with Nu–HVAC, who will now represent Everkem’s product lines across Texas and Louisiana.

Everkem and Nu–HVAC look forward to supporting distributors and contractors throughout the region with reliable products and responsive service.

Meet the Nu-Hvac Team:

Isaiah Nunez – President

isaiah@nuhvac.com · 915-996-8833

Austin Ruiz – Houston & Rio Grande Valley

austin@nuhvac.com · 480-200-4643

Jason Cole – Dallas-Fort Worth & Oklahoma

jason@nuhvac.com · 903-439-8124

Rico Espinoza – Inside Sales Support

rico@nuhvac.com · 210-906-4363

Sarah Bray – Admin/Ops

ops@nuhvac.com · 214-717-2908

Michael O’Keaffe – Dallas-Fort Worth & West Texas

michael@nuhvac.com · 214-717-2908

Louisiana Territory

sales@nuhvac.com · 210-906-4363

General Contact

sales@nuhvac.com · 210-906-4363

Additional Sales Rep Partners:

“It’s a true adage that the sum of what we can do together in the busy world of sealants and adhesives is GREATER with our partners than what Everkem can do on our own.”

– Jason Lynch, President & Owner | Everkem

Product Spotlight: Our Electrical Product Line

Jodie Eiler — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 17:17:38 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

Elevating Your Electrical Projects with High-Performance Products

Electrical professionals know that the right sealant or adhesive can make all the difference in protecting wiring and conduits while preventing costly system failures and safety hazards. At Everkem Diversified Products, we provide top-tier electrical solutions that meet the rigorous demands of modern installations. Whether sealing conduit penetrations, firestopping electrical systems, or insulating gaps, our comprehensive product line is designed for performance, reliability, and ease of use.

Why Choose Everkem?

With years of industry experience, Everkem has built a reputation for producing high-quality sealants, adhesives, foams, and firestopping solutions that keep electrical systems running smoothly. Our products are trusted by distributors, contractors, and master distributors who demand durability, compliance, and efficiency in every application.

Built for Every Application

Firestopping Solutions for Electrical Applications

Preventing the spread of fire and smoke is critical in electrical installations, especially where conduits, cables, and raceways penetrate walls and floors. Everkem’s firestopping products help maintain compliance with building codes and safety regulations while providing reliable, easy-to-install solutions for electrical systems.

Firestop-814+

Industry Advisory: Supply Chain Updates

Jodie Eiler — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 21:57:29 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

Although the Middle East conflict is too new to fully understand the long-term economic effects, early indicators of global material shortages and rising prices due to the current closure of the Strait of Hormuz sparks serious concern for supply chain disruptions.

While the conflict is only 3 weeks in, fuel prices have surged globally and as a result, many upstream international raw material suppliers in Asia and Europe have announced significant increases with the warning of potential supply disruptions due to the conflict.

2 major domestic suppliers announce sizeable increases associated with the manufacturing and transportation of materials

The majority of chemicals used in the manufacture of sealants and adhesives are intimately tied to the energy and petrochemical markets, and as of this week, we have had 2 major domestic suppliers announce sizeable increases citing the continued escalation in costs associated with the manufacturing and transportation of materials with an effective date of April 1^st, 2026. Many other suppliers have announced immediate increases on resins, polymer dispersions, specialized polymers, solvents and additives with some raw materials surging as high 30%.

As we head into the busier spring months, market volatility is expected to continue into April and May with a strong possibility of significant spillover effects. As a result, we are working diligently to proactively secure materials with hopes of outpacing and minimizing future cost increases and we will do our best to avoid potential disruptions. We will continue to monitor the situation and keep you informed with updates about any additional delays or increases as more information is made available.

We remain committed to providing you with reliable supply of our high-quality sealants and adhesives backed by industry leading service and support. The intent of this industry advisory is to keep you posted with the most current information impacting our industry to ensure your success in navigating the competitive landscape. We appreciate the confidence you hold in Everkem to partner with you through these turbulent times and thank you for your investment of trust in us.

If you have any questions or need assistance, do not hesitate to contact your Everkem sales or customer service representative at 1-800-638-3160 or through our online contact form here.

Thank you for your continued trust and partnership.

Jason’s Welcome

Jodie Eiler — Mon, 30 Mar 2026 21:55:47 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

Welcome to Everkem’s 1st Quarter of 2026 edition of the Caulk Talk newsletter – where we talk about all things caulk, sealants, adhesives, and construction chemical products.

In this issue, we’re looking ahead to Everkem’s 2026 plans and breaking down key insights from IBS trade show. We’re also covering supply chain considerations tied to Middle East conflict, highlighting our electrical product line, and recognizing one of our valued sales rep partnerships.

Raising the Bar in 2026: Everkem Hits the Ground Running

While 2025 was a great year for internal growth, with investments in equipment, process improvements, and team development, we are ready to show the world what Everkem is truly capable of in 2026. This year is about more than growth. It is about fine tuning our service, strengthening our relationships, and putting in the work to earn our spot at the top while raising the bar as your hardest working, most responsive, and most reliable vendor partner.

We strive to deliver value through the unique chemistry of quality products and human reliability. When we say we will do whatever it takes to serve our customers, we mean it. In 2026, we look forward to proving that through every order, every phone call, and every follow up that defines the Everkem Experience.

This year has already started strong with our exhibition at the 2026 IBS Show in Orlando, Florida. As first time exhibitors, we were not disappointed. It was a great opportunity to connect in one place with customers, sales reps, vendors, and new potential partners across the industry.

Talking caulk with more than 180 contacts in three days kept us moving, while our prize wheel, live demonstrations, and merchandise giveaways created an energy that kept the booth engaged and conversations flowing.

We also gained valuable insight from the Master Caulkologists who stopped by to share their applications, provide feedback on the products they use, and give us the opportunity to show how Everkem products support their work and drive value in the field.

A huge thank you to everyone who stopped by the booth to connect with us and see how Everkem Diversified Products is raising the bar as your premier partner for caulks, sealants, and adhesives in 2026.

The future of the jobsite looks stronger than ever. Let’s keep caulking!

Welcome to Everkem’s 1st Quarter of 2026 edition of the Caulk Talk newsletter – where we talk about all things caulk, sealants, adhesives, and construction chemical products.

Raising the Bar in 2026: Everkem Hits the Ground Running

The future of the jobsite looks stronger than ever. Let’s keep caulking!

Partnership Spotlight: Epic Sales Group

Jodie Eiler — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 19:18:17 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

Building STRONG Connections

Everkem is excited to highlight our sales partnership with Epic Sales Group, a trusted rep agency serving the HVAC/R and plumbing markets across the Mid-Atlantic and Southeast. Epic traces its history back to 1968 as the Hal Kivlan Sales Agency and, after rebranding in 2020, continues to build on decades of industry experience. The company is led by Principals Danny Hilliard, Jodi Rorke, and Cory Hooks, whose combined experience gives Epic its collaborative and approachable style. Danny, in particular, has deep North Carolina roots. A graduate of East Carolina University, he began his career at Ferguson HVAC and brings a strong local connection to our partnership in North and South Carolina, where Epic represents Everkem.

Across the Carolinas, the Epic team provides practical insight and steady, hands-on support for Everkem’s long-term growth plans. They help us build visibility, strengthen relationships, and present our products in a way that resonates with contractors and distributors.

A key part of this effort is Mike Muse, Epic’s representative for the Carolinas. Mike brings a fresh perspective and an easygoing, collaborative style. He’s steadily building relationships with distributors, HVAC and plumbing professionals, and others who value his dependable follow-through. Working alongside Mike is Everkem’s Southeast Territory Manager, Steve Johnson, continues to expand our presence with customers who expect reliable products and consistent support.

In addition to representing trusted HVAC names like Line Sets Inc., Innovative Dehumidifier Systems, and Shurtape, Epic Sales Group partners with a wide range of respected manufacturers across HVAC, plumbing, building materials, and tools. Their line card reflects a portfolio of proven, reliable brands that support contractors, distributors, and dealers with products built for performance and consistency.

As we grow our footprint in 2026, our work with Epic puts us in a strong position to reach more customers, stay aligned in the field, and keep delivering solid support throughout the region. We’re looking forward to what this partnership continues to build.

CONTACT INFO:

Additional Sales Rep Partners:

Areas Served:

Oklahoma

Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Minnesota, and Wisconsin

Illinois

Connecticut, Massachusetts,
Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont

Texas and Louisana

Pennsylvania, New Jersey,
Delaware, Maryland,
and Virginia

Florida

Texas and Louisiana

“It’s a true adage that the sum of what we can do together in the busy world of sealants and adhesives is GREATER with our partners than what Everkem can do on our own.”

– Jason Lynch, President & Owner | Everkem

Everkem is focused on expanding our Sales Representative network across North America, recognizing their vital role in our growth. In 2023 and 2024, we’ve partnered with top talent in the industry and are eager to collaborate with customer- and solution-focused agencies that share our commitment to exceptional service and support. Please reach out if you’re interested!

Building STRONG Connections

As we grow our footprint in 2026, our work with Epic puts us in a strong position to reach more customers, stay aligned in the field, and keep delivering solid support throughout the region. We’re looking forward to what this partnership continues to build.

CONTACT INFO:

Additional Sales Rep Partners:

“It’s a true adage that the sum of what we can do together in the busy world of sealants and adhesives is GREATER with our partners than what Everkem can do on our own.”

– Jason Lynch, President & Owner | Everkem

Team Member Spotlight: Steven Johnson

Jodie Eiler — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 19:15:39 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

I first met Steve about eleven years ago while my daughters were enrolled in the YMCA afterschool program. One afternoon, as I opened the door to enter the building, a skinny, blue-eyed young man—no more than sixteen—walked out holding a clipboard. He reached out with a firm handshake, looked me directly in the eyes, and said, “Hello, Mr. Lynch. My name is Steven Johnson, and I am the new site director for the afterschool care program. You can call me by my camp nickname, ‘Screech.’”

While the nickname brought a quick smile, I was far more impressed by his humble confidence and sincere professionalism. In that moment, I remember thinking, With the right guidance, he could make a great salesperson someday. From time to time, I asked him about his future plans and whether he had ever considered a career in sales.

Ashlyn, Steve, Emma, and Luke

In June of 2018, Steve helped us out by watching my girls for an afternoon. When he dropped them off at my office at Everkem, he asked if we were hiring. As luck would have it, we needed extra help, and Steve joined the team assisting with warehouse labor.

The newest addition to Steve’s family, baby Emma

Although Steve initially thought he was coming to Everkem for temporary, part-time warehouse work, I saw greater potential. I knew that if he proved reliable, hardworking, and eager to learn, I’d welcome the opportunity to introduce him to the world of sales. Now in his seventh year in sales and customer service, Steve has built strong customer relationships and developed a genuine passion for doing whatever it takes to deliver value.

Outside of work, Steve is deeply passionate about his walk with God and serving his church community. He also cherishes time with his wife, Ashlyn, their son Luke, their dachshund Cooper, and the newest addition to their family, daughter Emma. In his spare time, Steve continues to pursue his love of golf and is an avid fan of Auburn University athletics and Carolina Panthers football. We wish Steve and Ashlyn all the best as their family continues to grow.

Your Go-To Contact:

As Everkem’s Southeast Territory Manager, Steve is your main point of contact for all things Everkem. Whether you have questions, need support, or are requesting a quote, Steve is here to help. His goal is to make your experience seamless and exceed your expectations.

Contact Information:

Email: steven@everkemproducts.com

Office Phone: 1-800-638-3160

Cell Phone: 743-216-0922

Connect on LinkedIn: Network with Steve!

With years of experience at Everkem, Steve remains committed to supporting your needs and partnerships. Feel free to reach out anytime. He is always ready to continue serving as a trusted resource for you.

Ashlyn, Steve, Emma, and Luke

The newest addition to Steve’s family, baby Emma

Your Go-To Contact:

Contact Information:

Email: steven@everkemproducts.com

Office Phone: 1-800-638-3160

Cell Phone: 743-216-0922

Connect on LinkedIn: Network with Steve!

Code Alert: Untested Fireblocking Foam

Jodie Eiler — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 18:44:24 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

Canned insulating foam sealants have grown rapidly in popularity over the past 30 years, driven by rising energy-efficiency standards and increasingly stringent residential energy codes. They are most used to seal cavities around windows, doors, and framing joints, filling gaps and cracks that would otherwise allow unwanted air infiltration.

Why Fireblocking Matters

Although foam sealants are widely used to improve building energy performance, their flammability has made enforcement of fireblocking code requirements a major life-safety focus since the late 1990s. This focus has centered on the ongoing debate between using traditional ASTM E136 noncombustible caulks and newer, approved fireblocking foam sealants tested to a modified ASTM E814 fire standard.

Fireblocking Code History & Updates

Legacy Codes

Fireblocking required noncombustible materials (ASTM E136 tested)
Covered soffits, stair runs, chimneys, vent/pipe/duct penetrations

IRC Language Revision

Code changed “approved noncombustible material” → “approved material”
Opened use of ICC-evaluated fireblocking foams in wood-frame homes

ICC-ES AC546 Finalized

Foam must meet surface-burning limits (ASTM E84/UL 723)
Requires comparative fire testing (modified ASTM E814/UL 1479)

Current Practice & Verification

Only tested & documented foam ensures fireblocking integrity
Untested pink/orange foam is unsafe

Pre-2000

2006

2023

Today

Before the International Residential Code (IRC) emerged in the early 2000s, legacy building codes specified exactly which wood, insulation, drywall, and cement board materials could be used to meet fireblocking requirements for soffits, drop and cove ceilings, and the tops and bottoms of stair runs. They also mandated noncombustible materials (ASTM E136) for fireblocking around chimneys, fireplaces, and penetrations for vents, pipes, and ducts at floor and ceiling levels.

In 2006, after successful lobbying from the polyurethane foam industry, the IRC revised this language. Fireblocking Code Section R301.2.11 Item 4 was changed from “approved noncombustible material” to simply “approved material,” opening the door for ICC-evaluated and other third-party–tested fireblocking foam sealants (tested to a modified ASTM E814) to be used for fireblocking penetrations in non-rated Type V-B wood-frame residential construction.

Even with this update, state and local code officials retained discretion to decide whether to allow traditional ASTM E136 noncombustible fireblocking caulks or ICC-ES/UL-listed, ASTM E814-tested fireblocking foams. These decisions frequently drew on legacy code language as well as the underlying intent of fireblocking: to resist the free passage of flame and products of combustion.

The Risk of Untested Foam Sealants

The most popular packaging type of OCF sealant is a straw-dispensed aerosol can. After rigorously shaking the can, the installer screws on a clear plastic dispensing straw, inverts the can with the valve end down, and then presses on the plastic straw to dispense the material. This packaging option is commonplace on retail shelves and found in contractor and industrial supply houses, lumber yards, hardware stores, and big box stores.<\/p>\n

Although this dispensing option is convenient and offers improved yield over traditional caulking products, straw-dispensed foam can be messy and wasteful due to the lack of control and precision. Additionally, if the user does not dispense the whole can and the foam cures in the straw, there will have difficulty dispensing the rest of the unused can.<\/p>\n

To prevent this \u201csingle-use\u201d scenario, we recommend using the entire can upon opening and purchasing additional unused straws if available. Another option is unscrewing the straw to spray foam gun cleaner, acetone, or WD-40 through the used straw to clean out the curing foam so that the straw is clean and can be reused later. Straw-dispensed foam canisters are typically packaged in 12, 16, 20, or 24 fl oz options.<\/p>","tablet":"

Most foam sealants are highly flammable and can produce heavy smoke and toxic gases when burned. The core purpose of fireblocking requirements is to slow the movement of fire and force combustion to burn through individual framing members before it can reach adjacent cavities. This passive protection delays full fire involvement, providing critical minutes for safe egress and allowing occupants more time to escape.

"The integrity of fireblocks shall be maintained" - is the definitive code provision underscoring that fireblocking materials must perform “equal to or greater than” the burn time of the surrounding wood substrates.

Section R302.11.2 of the 2021 International Residential Code

Section R302.11.2 of the 2021 IRC: “The integrity of fireblocks shall be maintained” – is the definitive code provision underscoring that fireblocking materials must perform “equal to or greater than” the burn time of the surrounding wood substrates. Typical insulating foams are highly combustible and cannot outlast the fire exposure of the wood they are installed alongside. Any manufacturer making such claims without supporting test data cannot demonstrate the fireblocking integrity required for critical life-safety applications.

AC546 Compliance Requirements

In February 2023, the ICC-ES hearing finalized AC546 as the acceptance criteria for spray-applied foam plastics used to maintain the integrity of wood fireblocking. To comply with AC546, a foam sealant must be tested for surface-burning characteristics and demonstrate a maximum flame-spread index of 75 and a maximum smoke-developed index of 450 per ASTM E84 or UL 723. The material must also undergo comparative fire testing to prove it can maintain fireblocking integrity using ASTM E814 or UL 1479, with modified F and T ratings and the hose-stream test removed.

AC546 Testing Requirements Breakdown

Test Category	Standard	Required Criteria	What It Verifies	Required for AC546 Compliance
Surface-Burning Characteristics	ASTM E84 / UL 723	Flame spread index ≤ 75 Smoke developed index ≤ 450	Limits flame spread and smoke production when exposed to fire	Yes
Comparative Fire Resistance Testing	ASTM E814 / UL 1479	Modified F and T ratings Hose-stream test removed	Demonstrates material can maintain fireblocking integrity comparable to surrounding wood framing	Yes
ICC-ES Evaluation Report or 3rd-Party ER	ICC-ES AC546	Successful completion of both surface-burning and comparative fire tests	Confirms suitability of foam plastics for maintaining wood fireblocking integrity	Yes
Product Identification	Manufacturer documentation	Clear product name, model, and traceability	Allows inspectors to verify installed material matches tested product	Yes
Installation Instructions	Manufacturer documentation	Instructions consistent with tested conditions	Ensures field installation matches tested performance	Yes
Foam Color	Visual identification only	Pink, orange, or other	No performance or compliance validation	No

Documentation & Verification

As part of the quality documentation and validation required for proper inspection and enforcement of the foam sealants that have met the fireblocking code requirements of AC546, manufacturers of the foam fireblocking sealants should provide an ICC-ES evaluation report or 3rd party testing report that includes basic information including product description, installation procedures, and identification information.

A foam sealant bearing a UL marking for Flame Spread characteristics for ASTM E84 / UL 723 is not the acceptance criteria for a foam fireblocking sealant.

For a fireblocking foam to comply with the IRC fireblocking code requirements for section R302.11.2 item 4, the product must have a UL classified ASTM E84 / UL 723 Surface Buring Characteristics listing or similar 3rd party tested documentation and an ICC-ES evaluation report or (3rd party ER testing report) validating the foam plastic materials comparative fire resistance testing.

Selling, using, or allowing a pink or orange colored foam without proper testing documentation is a risky and negligent decision that could potentially affect the outcome of a human life. Furthermore, a foam sealant bearing a UL marking for Flame Spread characteristics for ASTM E84/ UL 723 is not the acceptance criteria for a foam fireblocking sealant without the ICC-ES or 3rd party Comparative Fire Testing Documentation needed to validate the foam sealant has the fireblocking integrity to resist the passage of flame and free products of combustion. Without this evidence or testing documentation, the material is just a pink or orange colored foam plastic that could potentially accelerate the fire rather than inhibit the spread of fire to other areas of the building.

Click here to view the full UL Solutions Evaluation Report for our FlameTech FB Fireblock Foam.

Life-Safety Implications

Single-family, wood-frame residential fires account for a significant number of fatalities, and every second is critical for safe egress. Using the proper materials as passive fire protection and meeting fireblocking code requirements is essential to ensuring minimum life-safety standards. Verifying manufacturer claims and confirming materials with testing documentation provides basic assurance that our buildings comply with code and contribute to fire safety and fireblocking integrity for future generations.

Everkem Diversified Products offers a premier line of fireblocking caulks and foam sealants, tested to meet and exceed building code requirements while maintaining the fireblocking integrity specified by the International Residential Code.

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT FIREBLOCKING FOAM SEALANTS?

Why Fireblocking Matters

Fireblocking Code History & Updates

Legacy Codes

Fireblocking required noncombustible materials (ASTM E136 tested)
Covered soffits, stair runs, chimneys, vent/pipe/duct penetrations

IRC Language Revision

Code changed “approved noncombustible material” → “approved material”
Opened use of ICC-evaluated fireblocking foams in wood-frame homes

ICC-ES AC546 Finalized

Foam must meet surface-burning limits (ASTM E84/UL 723)
Requires comparative fire testing (modified ASTM E814/UL 1479)

Current Practice & Verification

Only tested & documented foam ensures fireblocking integrity
Untested pink/orange foam is unsafe

Pre-2000

2006

2023

Today

The Risk of Untested Foam Sealants

"The integrity of fireblocks shall be maintained" - is the definitive code provision underscoring that fireblocking materials must perform “equal to or greater than” the burn time of the surrounding wood substrates.

Section R302.11.2 of the 2021 International Residential Code

AC546 Compliance Requirements

AC546 Testing Requirements Breakdown

Test Category	Standard	Required Criteria	What It Verifies	Required for AC546 Compliance
Surface-Burning Characteristics	ASTM E84 / UL 723	Flame spread index ≤ 75 Smoke developed index ≤ 450	Limits flame spread and smoke production when exposed to fire	Yes
Comparative Fire Resistance Testing	ASTM E814 / UL 1479	Modified F and T ratings Hose-stream test removed	Demonstrates material can maintain fireblocking integrity comparable to surrounding wood framing	Yes
ICC-ES Evaluation Report or 3rd-Party ER	ICC-ES AC546	Successful completion of both surface-burning and comparative fire tests	Confirms suitability of foam plastics for maintaining wood fireblocking integrity	Yes
Product Identification	Manufacturer documentation	Clear product name, model, and traceability	Allows inspectors to verify installed material matches tested product	Yes
Installation Instructions	Manufacturer documentation	Instructions consistent with tested conditions	Ensures field installation matches tested performance	Yes
Foam Color	Visual identification only	Pink, orange, or other	No performance or compliance validation	No

Documentation & Verification

A foam sealant bearing a UL marking for Flame Spread characteristics for ASTM E84 / UL 723 is not the acceptance criteria for a foam fireblocking sealant.

Click here to view the full UL Solutions Evaluation Report for our FlameTech FB Fireblock Foam.

Life-Safety Implications

WANT TO LEARN MORE ABOUT FIREBLOCKING FOAM SEALANTS?

Jason’s Welcome

Jodie Eiler — Tue, 06 Jan 2026 18:37:11 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

Welcome to Everkem’s 4th Quarter of 2025 edition of the Caulk Talk newsletter – where we talk about all things caulk, sealants, adhesives, and construction chemical products.

This issue of Caulk Talk shares company updates, industry insights, and stories from the people and partnerships that keep Everkem moving forward. From the lab to the jobsite, we are focused on building better products, stronger relationships, and a safer built environment.

Everkem 2025: Built for What’s Next

Code Alert: Untested Fireblocking Foam

Team Member Spotlight: Stevem Johnson – Southeast Territory Manager

Partnership Spotlight: Epic Sales Group

Everkem 2025: Built for What’s Next

This year, we made meaningful strides in developing our team and continuing to perfect our craft of caulk manufacturing. Throughout 2025, we learned a great deal about who we are and who we need to become to rise up in a soft market and navigate an increasingly turbulent business landscape.

Beyond major investments in product testing, research and development, and mixing infrastructure, our focus extended inward. Our team leaned heavily into personal development, process improvements, stronger departmental communication, and more intentional planning and strategy.

As we enter our 24th year of business, we are grateful to remain an independently owned, made from scratch, grassroots North Carolina manufacturer. Our growth potential remains limitless, fueled by passion, creativity, and a deep commitment to serving our industry and supporting our customers’ success.

To kick off this edition, we are diving into a timely and important topic, Fireblocking Foams used in single family residential construction. We will explore building code requirements, testing standards, and what it truly means to maintain fireblocking integrity for life safety. Not all fireblocking foams are created equally and allowing orange or pink foam sealants that have not been properly tested can lead to costly callbacks or, in the worst case scenario, tragic consequences in the event of a house fire.

Welcome to Everkem’s 4th Quarter of 2025 edition of the Caulk Talk newsletter – where we talk about all things caulk, sealants, adhesives, and construction chemical products.

Everkem 2025: Built for What’s Next

Code Alert: Untested Fireblocking Foam

Team Member Spotlight: Stevem Johnson – Southeast Territory Manager

Partnership Spotlight: Epic Sales Group

Everkem 2025: Built for What’s Next

Partnership Spotlight: Howard Products & Performance Sales and Marketing Group

Jodie Eiler — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:20:00 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

Building STRONG Connections

Everkem is excited to partner with Bob Gonsch and his teams at Howard Products, Inc. and Performance Sales and Marketing Group. Both agencies bring extensive experience in the plumbing, heating, and PVF industries, representing respected brands such as IPS Corporation and Chicago Fittings, and have earned a strong reputation for their industry expertise and reliable support.

Howard Products represents Everkem in Wisconsin, Kentucky, Central Indiana, and Northern Iowa, while Performance Sales and Marketing Group covers Northwest Indiana and Illinois. Across these territories, Bob and his teams are already helping Everkem expand our presence and connect customers with the right solutions for their projects. We value the professionalism and credibility they bring to our company, and we’re enthusiastic about the growth and opportunities this new partnership will create.

CONTACT INFO:

Additional Sales Rep Partners:

Areas Served:

Oklahoma

North Carolina and South Carolina

Connecticut, Massachusetts,
Rhode Island, New Hampshire, Maine, and Vermont

Texas and Louisana

Pennsylvania, New Jersey,
Delaware, Maryland,
and Virginia

Florida

Texas and Louisiana

“It’s a true adage that the sum of what we can do together in the busy world of sealants and adhesives is GREATER with our partners than what Everkem can do on our own.”

– Jason Lynch, President & Owner | Everkem

We look forward to connecting with potential partners at the AIM/R, STAFDA, and HARDI Annual Conferences in 2025. Please reach out if you’re interested!

Building STRONG Connections

CONTACT INFO:

Additional Sales Rep Partners:

“It’s a true adage that the sum of what we can do together in the busy world of sealants and adhesives is GREATER with our partners than what Everkem can do on our own.”

– Jason Lynch, President & Owner | Everkem

We look forward to connecting with potential partners at the AIM/R, STAFDA, and HARDI Annual Conferences in 2025. Please reach out if you’re interested!

Team Member Spotlight: Ed Forrest

Jodie Eiler — Mon, 29 Sep 2025 16:15:00 +0000

Quarter 1

2026

Finding Alignment in the Everkem Story

Building a caulk manufacturing facility and creating a globally recognized sealant and adhesive brand from scratch is no easy task. The story of how Everkem came to be is one of two business partners from opposite ends of the spectrum who, through unique chemistry, unwavering stubbornness, and a “whatever it takes” attitude, managed to build something lasting. With one partner focused on manufacturing and production and the other on sales and marketing, perspectives often clashed. The result was occasional misalignment and a gap in the vision needed to maintain the pace of growth our customers expected.

In any successful organization, the right leader can bring unity to a team and alignment to a vision. At Everkem, if you look closely at the space between that proverbial rock and a hard place, you will find Ed Forrest.

Ed’s daughter Kristin, son-in-law Matthew, and oldest grandson Oliver

Ed is our Integrator and Operations and Supply Chain Manager. He originally joined us as a Supply Chain Manager, but it quickly became clear that his capabilities extended far beyond managing inventory, vendors, and purchasing. Within just a few months, Ed had mastered those responsibilities and was already asking how else he could contribute.

A voracious learner with a passion for personal development and team building, Ed is never afraid to initiate the crucial conversations that unify people and move an organization forward. His background in operations as a production and plant manager for an international printing and packaging company gave him both the experience to grasp caulk manufacturing quickly and the courage to navigate the challenges of a small business led by two partners with strong viewpoints.

Ed’s newest grandson, Carter

Since joining Everkem, Ed has been instrumental in establishing our leadership team and setting the cadence for achieving our goals. He has bridged the gap between partners, aligned our vision, and accelerated our pace of continuous improvement and growth. Always quick with a humble laugh and a big smile, Ed embodies the spirit of Everkem, and we are grateful for his leadership and commitment to our craft of caulk.

Finding Alignment in the Everkem Story

Ed’s daughter Kristin, son-in-law Matthew, and oldest grandson Oliver

Ed’s newest grandson, Carter