5 ways spray adhesives can help overcome labor shortage issues

By Benjamin Whitehouse, H.B. Fuller. 

H.B. Fuller adhesive innovations are helping contractors maintain productivity and quality despite ongoing labor constraints. 

In a time when global workforce constraints are shaping roofing and construction projects, contractors are facing an increasing need to deliver high volumes of work with smaller crews and tighter schedules. Meeting these demands requires not only skilled labor, but also smarter systems that can offset the reduced manpower while maintaining quality across jobsite conditions.  

Innovations in adhesive technology are playing a critical role in helping contractors adapt. H.B. Fuller is advancing spray applied canister adhesive solutions designed to streamline installation, reduce physical strain and improve overall jobsite efficiency. By focusing on ease of use, speed and consistent performance, these systems support contractors navigating labor shortages while maintaining high standards of craftsmanship.  

The challenge: Doing more with smaller crews 

The building industry continues to face persistent labor shortages, with roofing among the hardest hit trades. Crews must complete the same — or greater — project volume with fewer workers, making installation speed and ease critical factors for success. Every hour saved on a job site can mean the difference between meeting deadlines and avoiding costly delays. And considering labor scarcity as one of the top megatrends shaping roofing practices, demand for safer installation methods, simplified workflows and reduced physical strain come into play. 

Where spray applied canister adhesives change the game 

Spray applied canister adhesives significantly reduce the labor required per square foot installed compared to traditional dip and roll adhesives, whilst still giving the same great bonding performance. How? Let’s break it down for you: 

1 - Faster installs that multiply crew productivity 

In an industry where timelines matter more than ever, installation speed is becoming a critical performance metric that influences overall project success. Independent time trials and application comparisons show spray applied systems can complete membrane installation 3.5–4 times faster than dip and roll adhesives*. This is driven by much shorter flash times — about 5–8 minutes for spray adhesives versus 15–30 minutes for pail adhesives*. 

On a real roof, this translates into: 

• More squares installed per day 
• Fewer weather-related delays 
• More projects completed in a season 

For a contractor facing labor shortages, multiplying output without adding headcount is a direct business advantage. 

2 - Reduced labor effort and increased safety 

Spray canister systems weigh far less than traditional setups and eliminate the need for continuous bending, rolling and pushing large equipment. They use ergonomic spray applicators, reducing physical strain and improving jobsite safety — critical when experienced labor is scarce. 

3 - Consistent, high-quality application 

Maintaining installation quality is harder with inexperienced crews. Spray adhesives help bridge the skills gap by delivering: 

• Precise uniform spray patterns 
• Predictable coverage rates (800–1,000 square feet per canister versus 225–300 square feet per pail*) 
• Reduced variability between installers 

This consistency supports better long-term roof performance while helping crews get up to speed quickly. 

4 - Lower jobsite overhead and streamlined logistics 

Spray adhesive systems require fewer material changeouts and significantly less storage space. On a 10,000 square feet project, contractors need around 10 canisters versus 40 pails* — a substantial reduction in handling time, staging space and jobsite clutter. 

Fewer interruptions equal smoother workflow, which is essential for small crews. 

5 - All season flexibility to maximize working days 

Spray applied adhesives designed for EPDM (Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer) and TPO (Thermoplastic Polyolefin) single-ply membranes can be applied in temperatures as low as 25°F (-4°C), giving contractors more workable days during cold months. By providing an alternative to mechanical fasteners, they also prevent thermal bridging, improving energy efficiency and building performance. 

Extended seasons mean more billable work — even with limited labor. 

How H.B. Fuller supports contractors through labor shortages 

H.B. Fuller’s innovation strategy centers on speed, ease and performance — all essential to helping contractors overcome workforce pressures. Our spray bonding systems are engineered to: 

• Increase labor efficiency by up to 60% 
• Deliver consistent, high-quality bonding 
• Reduce waste with recyclable canisters and low VOC formulations 
• Support safer, flame free application methods 
• Optimize system compatibility across TPO, EPDM and PVC membranes 

By integrating performance chemistry, recyclable packaging and ergonomic spray tools, we help contractors build more resilient workflows that require fewer skilled installers to deliver high quality results. 

Why spray applied adhesives are becoming the new standard 

With rising construction demand and shrinking labor pools, installation methods that save time and simplify work are quickly becoming best practice: 

• Faster installation 
• Less physical labor 
• Reduced jobsite complexity 
• Better productivity per crew member 
• Extended working seasons 
• Improved consistency and performance 

Labor shortages aren’t going away anytime soon, but contractors can equip their teams with tools that offset workforce constraints. Spray applied canister adhesives represent one of the most impactful advancements in single ply roofing installation, giving crews the speed, ease and reliability they need to stay competitive. 

At H.B. Fuller, we’re committed to helping contractors meet these challenges head-on with adhesive technologies designed for the realities of today’s jobsite. Because when every hour counts, the right adhesive system can make a difference. 

To get the best results, it’s essential to understand how to properly use and maintain spray applied canister adhesives. Find key maintenance tips, best practices and safety advice in our blog: Mastering Spray-Applied Canister Adhesives: Tips, Safety & Best Practices. 

*Based on Millennium Sprayable PVC Single-Ply Bonding Adhesive vs. Millennium KEE/PVC Single-Ply Bonding Adhesive and Millennium Sprayable Single-Ply Bonding Adhesive vs. Millennium Single-Ply EPDM/TPO Bonding Adhesive. These figures are based on controlled indoor conditions and may vary with product, temperature, humidity, substrate and crew experience. Contact us for full test details. 

Original article and photo source: H.B. Fuller