IRE Recap
2022 International Roofing Expo in New Orleans, Louisiana
by Marcus Dodson, publisher
The International Roofing Expo® (IRE) headed to New Orleans, Louisiana, for its much-anticipated annual show in early February 2022 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. Attendees got a first-hand look at the newest tools, technologies, and resources available to professionals in the roofing industry. The trade show was buzzing with excitement as roofing contractors, superintendents, foremen, architects, designers, estimators, building owners, facility managers, specifiers, CEOs, and general managers came together to learn about new tools, connect with each other, and have a great time. It was so exciting to gather in person and celebrate all that the roofing industry has to offer.
At this year’s event, attendees meandered through more than 325 manufacturers and suppliers on the trade show floor. There was an incredible amount of multi-dimensional products, services, and technologies available for attendees to learn about, from a variety of exhibiting companies. The trade show floor was alive with interactive demonstrations of products, best practices, and educational sessions. Live product demonstrations and exhibitor product clinics allowed registered attendees to watch and listen as key suppliers provided educational solutions for challenges that the roofing industry faces today.
As usual, the Metal Marketplace was a popular spot for attendees to gather and learn about the latest cutting-edge metal products, designs, building concepts, tools, and services from metal roofing manufacturers. The Business and Technology Pavilion returned to the IRE once again, and there was a unique focus on post-pandemic technology and business practices. New tools and resources that help business owners run their companies better, faster, and safer were featured. These included mobile, wireless, and web-based programs for insurance, finance, credit, estimating, labor, weather, and more.
An exciting Windows and Siding Pavilion was dedicated to the products and services for exterior contractors. The Product Showcases Pavilion featured some of the best products and services the industry has to offer, as well as new technology. Visitors to this pavilion were also able to vote for the best new residential and commercial products, as well as the best in show products.
National Women in Roofing hosted a one-day conference for National Women in Roofing Day with a diverse set of activities for those involved in the association. Professional, like-minded, good-spirited women from all facets of the roofing industry came together to experience insight, inspiration, and fun. Sessions covered topics including business development, communications, career development, recruitment, roofing technology advancements, hands-on product demonstrations, and networking. At the expo, popular sessions returned once again, including fall protection training and leadership classes.
After a full day of networking and learning, IRE attendees joined together at the Welcome Party at Mardi Gras World to enjoy beer, wine, sodas, and hors d’oeuvres while listening to live music and dancing. The Welcome Party was an excellent opportunity to network with colleagues, meet up with old friends, and make new connections.
It was another fantastic year for the must-attend roofing industry event. Attendees left New Orleans with the tips, tricks, and tools needed to bring continued success to the roofing industry in 2021. Next year, join us as IRE heads to the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, from March 7-9, 2023.
