IRE 2026: What’s Happening at the Largest Roofing Expo
The annual International Roofing Expo® (IRE) is set to take place at the Las Vegas Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada, January 20-22, 2026.
If your business is related to roofing, siding, gutters, or the construction industry, IRE is not to be missed. It’s an opportunity to learn what’s new in roofing, including techniques in specialized training and effective business strategies, market trends, and more. It’s also a great time to network with roofers, contractors, manufacturers, and distributors.
IRE is the largest event for roofing and exteriors in North America. The annual event offers networking and educational opportunities for all those involved in the industry. Find out about the latest products and innovations, materials and suppliers, and developing technologies. It’s also a great way to connect with others in the roofing industry.
“IRE gives us the chance to meet our regular customers face to face and also talk to metal contractors looking at portable rollforming for the very first time,” says NTM Vice President Terry McGuire. “We’re innovating for contractors working in a competitive market. Our latest products, from our Z-cutter accessory to our new SSQ3 MultiPro, are designed to streamline panel production and increase ROI through better efficiency, panel quality, and operator safety.”
New Tech Machinery (NTM) will exhibit at the trade show to highlight our popular portable rollforming machines, new machine features and profiles, and more. Visit us at booth #3932.
Table of Contents
In this article, we’ll explore the following:
- What is the International Roofing Expo?
- Educational sessions
- Exhibitors
- Innovations With New Tech Machinery, Booth #3932
- Getting the most out of IRE
About the International Roofing Expo (IRE)
For over 65 years, IRE has brought together contractors, builders, manufacturers, and suppliers to discover the latest in roofing, and to learn new skills to improve their operations and businesses. It’s an opportunity to hear keynote speakers discuss the future of the industry, attend floor demos and educational classes, and learn how to improve and grow your business.
Educational Sessions
IRE features 60+ education sessions. Below are a few highlights related to metal roofing. For a full listing, click here.
Industry Outlook & Opportunities General Session
Speakers: Art Aisner, Editor-in-Chief at Roofing Contractor; Jill Bloom, Group Publisher at Roofing Contractor–BNP Media; Trent Ctney, Partn
January 20, 9:30-10:50 AM
The North American roofing industry is experiencing an exciting period of transformation and opportunity. While navigating advances in technology, workforce evolution, updated insurance standards, and changing customer expectations, the multi-billion-dollar roofing sector continues to demonstrate remarkable adaptability and innovation. Even as economic factors including tariffs, regulatory updates, and immigration policy shifts emerged in 2025, the industry has shown extraordinary resilience and maintained strong optimism about robust demand for roofing services and promising future growth prospects, according to Roofing Contractor’s comprehensive annual survey of roofers and industry stakeholders. Join us for an illuminating exploration of the key insights, emerging trends, breakthrough products, and game-changing innovations that are shaping today’s dynamic marketplace. Our panel will do a dive deep into the compelling data points that reveal exciting opportunities and provide strategic understanding of industry projections for residential and commercial roofing through 2026 and beyond. Beyond our engaging presentation of survey results, you’ll gain invaluable first-hand insights from leading industry experts who will share their perspectives on market performance and highlight the most promising opportunities to watch as we enter this new and dynamic era in the roofing industry. This is your opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and position yourself for success in an industry that continues to thrive and evolve.
Standing Seam Metal Panels
January 20, 1:45- 2:30 PM
Speakers: Jason Ayers, Sheffield Metals International; Adny Lesmeister, Sheffield Metals International; David Stubbs, Sheffield Metals International.
This clinic provides a hands-on demonstration of several common standing seam panel tie-in techniques, focusing on how multiple installation details connect in the field. Attendees will observe best-practice approaches for double-hip to ridge tie-ins, ridge-to-vented-ridge transitions, and two methods for end-capping hip and ridge conditions. Presenters will also be available to answer questions related to the demonstrated techniques as well as broader industry and installation topics.
Standing Seam Basics
January 20, 2:30 – 3:15 PM
Speaker: Tony Blue, Official Building Specialist at IRE
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense roofing clinic from someone with years of tool belt-wearing, on the job roofing experience, then stop by to see what makes these sessions so popular. Tony Blue holds nothing back as he shares tips on how to better handle the problem areas of a roof. He discusses flashing details, why standing seam is a must for your company, and how to reduce call backs.
Retrofit Systems with Metal Roofing
January 20, 3:15 – 4 PM
Presenters: DJ Highnote, Executive Vice President at Roof Hugger; Charlie Smith, National Revover Manager at McElroy Metal
The increasing emphasis on sustainability and building energy performance will drive greater demand for the retrofit of existing buildings. Metals sustainability and performance attributes make it the preferred choice for retrofitting existing roofs. But not all retrofits are the same. Join presenter DJ Highnote and Charlie Smith as they discuss the nuances of retrofitting over various roofing systems and facilitating the installation of photovoltaic systems.
Understanding Metal Roofing: Part 1
January 21, 8:30 – 9:30 AM
Speaker: Rob Haddock, CEO and Founder at S-5!
Often billed as “Metal Roofing 101,” this course includes technical information but is presented in a commonsense fashion that makes the art and science of metal roofing clear, concise and understandable. Topics to be covered include the history of metal roofing, metals and metallic coatings, metallurgy, galvanic activity and material selection criteria. Also discussed will be fabrication and manufacturing techniques, various seam types and panel profiles in addition to underlayments, the use and misuse of sealants, seam technologies and the principles of thermal cycling and panel anchorage. A great metal introduction for beginning and experienced building professionals. You’ll gain valuable principles and insights that apply to any metal roofing project.
The Life Cycle of Metal Roof Coatings: Selling with Sustainability
January 21, 11:15 AM – 12 PM
Speaker: Laurewn Rogers, Sustanability Marketing Manager at Sherwin-Williams
A coated metal roof offers a compelling sustainability story from start to finish, and this session will provide tools for exactly how to tell it. Learn how metal roofs can outperform traditional shingles in durability and recyclability – all with minimal waste and longer life spans. Discover how cool roof coatings, solar compatibility and regional climate benefits make metal roofing a smart choice no matter where you live. We’ll provide you with information on how to confidently sell coated metal roofs as a roofing solution that aligns with your customer’s goals.
Learning Objectives:
- Understand the full life cycle of metal roof coatings from development to use to end-of-life.
- Explore the advantages of metal roofing, including carbon footprint data, cool roof coating benefits and reduced waste.
- Debunk common myths about solar reflectivity and color.
- Learn how metal roofing supports solar panel installations.
- Gain tools to communicate the sustainability story of coated metal roofing products.
Understanding Metal Roofing: Part II
January 21, 9:45 – 10:45 AM
Speaker: Rob Haddock, CEO and Founder at S-5!
This course is an advanced building block for the metal roofing essentials covered earlier in Overview Part I. This extended course will cover the coil coating process, common and popular steep slope construction and critical details of low slope installation, in addition to curved applications and wind issues. Finally, the program delves into system design, drainage principles and system selection criteria including the principles of water-shedding and hydrostatic designs. Attendees will gain insights into trade terms and industry reference sources. You’ll gain valuable principles and insights that apply to any metal roofing project.
Standing Seam Flashing Options
January 21, 1:45 – 2:30 PM
Speaker: Tony Blue, Official Building Specialist at IRE
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense roofing clinic from someone with years of tool belt-wearing, on the job roofing experience, then stop by to see what makes these sessions so popular. Tony Blue holds nothing back as he shares tips on how to better handle the problem areas of a roof. He discusses flashing details, why standing seam is a must for your company, and how to reduce call backs.
Options for Safe Access and Working on a Metal Roof
January 21, 3:15 – 4 PM
Speaker: Tony Blue, Official Building Specialist at IRE
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense roofing clinic from someone with years of tool belt-wearing, on the job roofing experience, then stop by to see what makes these sessions so popular. Tony Blue holds nothing back as he shares tips on how to better handle the problem areas of a roof. He discusses flashing details, why standing seam is a must for your company, and how to reduce call backs.
Managing a Standing Seam Job: Install Concerns, Estimating, and Ordering
January 22, 1 – 1:45 PM
If you’re looking for a no-nonsense roofing clinic from someone with years of tool belt-wearing, on the job roofing experience, then stop by to see what makes these sessions so popular. Tony Blue holds nothing back as he shares tips on how to better handle the problem areas of a roof. He discusses flashing details, why standing seam is a must for your company, and how to reduce call backs.
Special Events
Here’s a list of some special events hosted at IRE.
Industry Outlook & Opportunities General Session
January 20, 9:30 AM – 10:50 PM
Panelists: McKay Daniels, Trent Cotney, Jill Bloom, Mitch Henderson, Art Aisner
The North American roofing industry is experiencing an exciting period of transformation and opportunity. While navigating advances in technology, workforce evolution, updated insurance standards, and changing customer expectations, the multi-billion-dollar roofing sector continues to demonstrate remarkable adaptability and innovation. Even as economic factors including tariffs, regulatory updates, and immigration policy shifts emerged in 2025, the industry has shown extraordinary resilience and maintained strong optimism about robust demand for roofing services and promising future growth prospects, according to Roofing Contractor’s comprehensive annual survey of roofers and industry stakeholders. Join us for an illuminating exploration of the key insights, emerging trends, breakthrough products, and game-changing innovations that are shaping today’s dynamic marketplace. Our panel will do a dive deep into the compelling data points that reveal exciting opportunities and provide strategic understanding of industry projections for residential and commercial roofing through 2026 and beyond. Beyond our engaging presentation of survey results, you’ll gain invaluable first-hand insights from leading industry experts who will share their perspectives on market performance and highlight the most promising opportunities to watch as we enter this new and dynamic era in the roofing industry. This is your opportunity to stay ahead of the curve and position yourself for success in an industry that continues to thrive and evolve.
NOTE: Seating is limited to first-come, first-serve
First Timer’s Reception
January 20, 4:30 – 5 PM
First time at IRE? Let’s Deal You In! Ready to hit the jackpot at your first International Roofing Expo? Start your Vegas adventure at our exclusive First-Time Attendees Reception! This is your chance to connect with other first-timers who are just as excited as you are, build relationships that’ll benefit your business long-term, learn how to navigate IRE like a seasoned pro, and take in the Las Vegas Strip from our prime location at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Don’t miss this must-attend event to jumpstart your IRE journey and feel confident before you hit the show floor! Followed by the Welcome Party: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Welcome Party
January 20, 5 – 7 PM
Get the IRE Party started as we celebrate the opening day of the 2026 International Roofing Expo. Connect with your fellow attendees during an evening of conversation, networking fun. The IRE Welcome Party will kick off at 5:00 pm and feature drinks and appetizers.
For the full show agenda, click here.
International Roofing Expo 2026 Exhibitors
During the International Roofing Expo, hundreds of manufacturers and suppliers of roofing and exterior construction products and services will demo and showcase the latest innovations.
THE PRODUCT CATEGORIES
- Business Software and Technology Products
- Coatings, Caulks and Sealants
- Gutters and Roof Drains
- Roofing Products (Including: Single Ply, Metal Panels, Shingles, Synthetic Roofing & Flashing)
- Safety & Fall Protection
- Siding & Insulation
- Solar Panels & Products
- Tools, Equipment and Machinery
- Water Proofing, Flashing, Vapor Barriers, Underlayments and Insulation
- Windows & Doors and Skylight & Roof Windows
Innovations in Portable Rollforming with New Tech Machinery, Booth #3932
This is a remarkable year for NTM. While we’ve exhibited at IRE for over 20 years, this year we’re featuring our new SSQ3™ MultiPro Roof & Wall Panel Machine. Yes, we’ve upgraded our flagship rollformer, and portable rollforming has just gotten better, featuring our QWIKSwap™ fast-exchange tooling, increased visibility cover windows, easy maintenance external zerk fittings, and much more.
Our account managers and service managers will be on hand to answer any questions. Plus, get qualified for financing on the spot with our new machine financing portal.
We’ll also have our Mach II 5″/6″ Combo portable gutter machine that will feature an all-new tailgate with saw that attaches right to the machine.
Takeaways: Getting the Most Out of IRE
If you’re in the roofing industry, there are many opportunities for you to expand your network, education, and business just by attending the International Roofing Expo.
To get the most out of your IRE experience, here are some tips:
- Identify what you want to take away from the IRE. It’s a lot of information, so narrowing it down to what will most benefit your operation will help you get the most out of the sessions.
- Remember to bring a pen and business cards to pass out to suppliers and attendees. Also, take brochures, catalogs, and other resources from the show floor to research or contact people and products you’re interested in later.
- Visit exhibitor booths to see products in action and ask questions. Look for the floor demos.
- Use the opportunity to network with other industry professionals and suppliers to build relationships with others in your field. If you have other members of your team in attendance, you can divide and conquer.
- Take notes and match them to the takeaways you identified. Are you getting the information you need? If not, are there sessions you can attend or people you can network with to help you reach that goal?
At New Tech Machinery, we strive to help educate and inform our customers on how portable rollforming can help increase efficiency and versatility in their business. One of the best ways to find out if portable rollforming is for you is to check out roofing conventions like IRE, see the products in person, and talk to the manufacturers themselves.
If you’re considering adding a portable rollforming machine to your business, stop by New Tech Machinery’s booth #3932 during the show to talk to one of our rollforming experts! Or reach out to us on our website, email, or phone!
