Top Things to See and Do at IRE 2022

By Karen L. Edwards, RCS Editor. 

Sometimes you can’t see everything at the IRE, so we’ve compiled a top 10 list for you to help make the most of your time at the show. 

If you’re headed to the International Roofing Expo in New Orleans February 1 – 3, 2022, there are many cools and exciting events, products, classes and more to attend. It’s just not possible to be in all places at one time so the crew here at RCS wanted to give you a little bit of help with what we think are the can’t-miss opportunities at this year’s show.  

Product innovations 

Watts Removal Products – This is like the magic eraser for roofing contractors. It works on brick, stone, concrete, metal, painted surfaces, plastic and acrylics. It removes graffiti, rust stains, paint overspray, adhesive and more. They even have a unique partnership with Sherwin-Williams that ensures the product won’t void any warranties. Visit them and get a demo in the Sherwin-Williams booth 1831.  

Geocel Phantom™ – Speaking of Sherwin-Williams, you need to see their innovative Geocel Phantom roof sealant while you’re in booth 1831. The product features six translucent, customizable colors that allow any panel color to shine through and blend with the surface for a great look and superior protection – saving you time and money. 

FlashCo – While their prefabricated accessories aren’t new, they have rolled out some new programs that can save you time and frustration. The FlashCo Edge takes the confusion out of getting flashing and accessories. Simply send them your list and they take care of the rest. See them in booth 1845 to learn how they can help you save time and labor! 

PABCO Cascade™ Signature Cut Shingles – An asphalt shingle that complements historical style? PABCO’s unique and distinguished Cascade diamond-shaped shingle is the perfect choice for historical-style homes. The exclusive U.S. patented design has a style that honors a home’s heritage. Stop by booth 2031 to see the beauty of these shingles for yourself.  

Jobba – This powerful roofing technology platform is designed to help commercial roofing contractors and larger community roofers generate new business, build stronger customer relationships, and save valuable time by automating manual processes. They make it easy to grow your service department with their recently released customer portal that streamlines communications between you and your clients. Visit them and get a demo in booth 719. 

TAMKO Edge™ – The TAMKO Edge has raised the bar when it comes to contractor rewards programs. They have opened it to non-certified TAMKO contractors who are now eligible for cash rewards. They have also expanded the rewards for certified contractors. Be sure to visit booth 3129 to learn how to take advantage of this new program enhancement. 

Can’t-miss events 

Coffee Conversations Live – From the RCS Sound Stage on the show floor, you won’t want to miss the conversations happening in booth 249. Hear from leading industry professionals about what’s hot in roofing and what’s coming in 2022. Stop by February 1 and 2 at 1 p.m. CT to join in.  

Roofing Alliance Student Competition – See the future of the roofing industry in action as five teams compete in the oral presentation portion of the competition on Wednesday, February 2 at 8 a.m. The Four Points Sheraton Hotel located on Bourbon Street in New Orleans is the project for this year’s competition. Finalists include teams from California Polytechnic University, Clemson University, Colorado State University, Texas A&M University and the University of Florida.  

First-time attendees reception – Sponsored by your friends at RoofersCoffeeShop, the first-time attendees’ reception is a friendly event to meet people, network and learn how to maximize your attendance at the IRE. Immediately following the event is the much-loved welcome party. Both events are being held at Mardi Gras World and begin at 5:30 p.m. on February 1.  

Future workforce educational panel – Don’t miss this session featuring contractors who are also members of the Roofing Technology Think Tank (RT3) as they share how they are creating a pipeline for the future workforce of the roofing industry. From multi-organizational apprenticeship programs to working with youth from schools who don’t want to pursue college to getting involved in the community and developing in-house training opportunities, these contractors will share what they are doing, how they got started and tips for success.  

Be part of industry research 

Each year for the past four years, the RoofersCoffeeShop crew has conducted a survey and developed a trends report that shows what is happening in the roofing industry. This year’s survey is sponsored by our friends at Beacon. It’s easy to participate.! We ask about 20 questions that provide insight into materials, labor challenges, hiring practices, technology and more.  

While you’re at IRE, swing by the RCS booth 249 and pick up a card with a QR code link to the survey. The first 100 respondents get a $10 Amazon gift card and EVERYONE who completes the survey receives $50 toward RCS Classified ads.  

Get the full scoop on what’s happening at IRE and access discounted rates at our IRE 2022 countdown page, sponsored by Leister.