The Big Easy
International Roofing Expo Heads to New Orleans, Louisiana
by Marcus Dodson, publisher
The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, Louisiana, will be buzzing with excitement as thousands of roofing professionals join together for the International Roofing Expo® (IRE), which will be held February 1-3, 2022. Attendees can look forward to a unique opportunity to get a first-hand look at the latest trends, the newest products, and the most recent innovations in the roofing industry. The IRE is a great event for commercial and residential roofing professionals to stay abreast of market directions, trends, and cutting-edge technology.
On the Show Floor
The IRE is always a great opportunity to check out the industry’s top suppliers and manufacturers on the exhibit floor as they demonstrate a wide range of innovative and profit-driving products, services, technologies, and equipment. On display will be the following products: bitumen/asphalt, BUR, coatings, sealants, adhesives, fasteners, flashing, gutters, ladders and scaffolding, metal panels and shingles, modified bitumen, roof decks, roof hatches and doors, roof pavers, fall protection, siding and insulation, single-ply roofing, solar, spray polyurethane foam, software, tile, underlayment, vapor retarders, ventilation, waterproofing, and much more.
In the Business and Technology Pavilion attendees will find the latest software, technology, and services that will help their businesses run more efficiently and effectively. The pavilion will have the latest business solutions from lead generation tools and marketing services to project software and consulting firms.
Stop by the Metal Marketplace Pavilion on the trade show floor to find leading manufacturers supplying creative and innovative metal products, designs, building concepts, tools, and services. For those who specialize in metal, this is definitely an area that should not be missed. From metal shingles to vertical panels, attendees can learn tricks, tips, and detailed instructions from key exhibitors as they present demonstrations of their products, equipment, and materials.
The new Windows and Siding Pavilion is back again, even bigger and better. This popular pavilion will be dedicated to the products and services for exterior contractors. Whether you are looking to expand your business or already service these markets, those who explore the Windows and Siding Pavilion will find the latest and greatest exterior products and services.
Educational Opportunities
The industry’s top experts will host more than 60 education sessions at the IRE where they will impart knowledge about the best practices and the latest technologies designed to improve skills and grow businesses. Topics include general business, leadership, legal/HR, money matters, sales/service, sustainable building, technical, windows and siding, and workplace safety.
Sessions are specifically targeted to commercial, residential, and metal contractors; owners, CEOs, and general managers; superintendents and foremen; architects, designers, and consultants; salesmen and estimators; manufacturers and suppliers; and building owners and facility managers.
Special Events
National Women in Roofing (NWIR) is hosting the Fourth Annual NWIR Day on Sunday, January 30. Those who attend this dynamic event will connect, discover, and cultivate new relationships with roofing professionals. NWIR Day is the premier conference for multidisciplinary women professionals in the roofing industry to get together to learn about the latest business strategies and tactics and share their secrets to success. Be among professional, like-minded, good-spirited women from all facets of the roofing industry and experience insight, inspiration, and fun.
There will be plenty of time for discussion with colleagues and opportunities to grow professional networks and meet new peers. Educational sessions cover topics including business development, communications, career development, mentoring, recruitment, roofing technology advancements, hands-on product demonstrations, and more.
If it’s your first time attending IRE, don’t forget to attend the First-Time Attendees Reception on Tuesday, February 1, at 5:30 p.m., at Mardi Gras World. You’ll hear from the industry, including the NRCA, other attendees, manufacturers, and IRE show organizers, so you know what to expect when the doors open. The First-Time Attendees Reception was created for roofing professionals who have never attended IRE so they can make the most of all the networking events, education, exhibits, and resources at the show. The IRE Welcome Party will start immediately following the First-Time Attendees Reception.
Plan to attend this year’s Welcome Party on Tuesday, February 1, 2022, at 6:00 p.m. Mardi Gras comes to life at this year’s event, where attendees will get a behind-the-scenes look at the work that goes into creating the legendary floats and costumes. Be sure to register in advance if you wish to attend the Welcome Party.
Returning once again is the popular outdoor SRS Extreme Tailgate. It is an opportunity to take a break from the busy show floor to enjoy a beverage and relax with other contractors. The tailgate is open outside in the parking lot during show hours.
On Monday, January 31, the IRE will partner with Rebuilding Together to make critical home repairs for those in need. Plan to attend the 13th Annual Community Service Day Project and give back to the local community. This year you can participate by volunteering your time in New Orleans, donating, and sharing the project with others. This year, Rebuilding Together will adopt a local roofing project in the wake of Hurricane Ida, which hit New Orleans in September 2021 and caused major damage to the city and surrounding suburbs.
For even more information regarding registration, visit www.theroofingexpo.com or call (866) 860-1970. This year’s IRE is an unbeatable way to learn new skills, make powerful connections, and just plain have fun. We hope to see all of you in New Orleans in February.
